7/13/20; mile: 1,153; elevation: 7,113 ft.
For those of you who are Gen X-ers like me, picture one of those movies way back last century where the goofy highschooler oversleeps and is late for the final exam or the SAT or whatever. That’s what I did this morning. I guess I must have been tired from the exertion the last two days, but this is not the day to sleep in. Donner Ski Ranch awaits!
But of course, in order to get there, I need to climb. After topping off my water a short while after camp (last water until DSR), it’s time to get moving. It’s a windy morning, which is a mixed blessing. If you’re climbing and your’re warm, the wind is wonderful. But if you want to take a break; just sit and relax; you’re out of luck unless you bulk up your clothing. So, I just keep walking. The one break I take is at Tinker Knob, about 2 miles into my day. It’s not an easy climb, not well defined. But once I get there, it’s well worth it, wind be damned. It’s where I finally write my trail name on my hat and meet Han Solo.
Good thing I’m not looking for transport off of this planet, since this particular Han Solo got his trail name from being that his last name is Han and he’s been hiking solo…..I guess I’m good to continue my journey of a complete thru hike. We share some great moments on this quite famous high point in the Tahoe Basin and then continue on our quest for free beer…
Just like Tinker Knob, the rest of the trail is windy and exposed. That alone is enough motivation to keep moving. I take one break near a ski area boundary on the leeward side of the ridge behind a rock to eat some food and rest. But not too long, the clock is ticking. From here on out, the trail is mostly downhill to Donner Ski Ranch. It’s kind of amazing how a quick walk can turn into a trot, despite wearing a backpack (albeit, it’s quite empty of any food or water). But trot I do. And even run. I haven’t done this since way back in desert trying to get to the KOA campground in Acton. But it feels good. The decomposed granite is soft, the slope is in my favor and my pack is light (and I’m motivated). Miles on! Until…..
Within sight of Donner Ski Ranch and the end of this run (literally), the trail gets very rocky again. My worn-out shoes provide no protection, my worn out feet let me know. Christ, really!? Han Solo and I are together again and commiserating about the rocky trail. Misery loves company. All the way to free beer! Just as we approach the patio, I see a long-lost hiker friend, Lamb Chop. I haven’t seen her since just before I went into Big Bear, CA!
And yes, Donner Ski Ranch provides! A free 40oz beer to any PCT hiker with a permit. Why 40oz? Well, Donner Ski Ranch (and other local ski resorts) are on the old U.S. Highway 40…. Forty ounces to freedom, baby! I would have preferred a Mickey’s 40 as a nod to my old college days, but free is free. But the fun doesn’t end there! More of my hiker friends showed up including Aussie, Banquet, Bluetooth and Red Light! And then Fred the Banker showed up. Fun was had, beer and food was consumed as we tried to stay out of trouble. What could be better than this?
I had arranged for my good friend Pat (trail name: Bark!) to give me a ride down the hill to his home in Auburn, CA where Sarah could pick me and get my stinky ass home. As I waited (and consumed beer) I found that Fred was going the same direction and was waiting for his wife to come up from the foothills to get him. Bark! graciuosly offered a ride to save his wife the long drive. We all enjoyed the drive out of the mountains only to discover how hot the Sacramento Valley can be in July. Sarah got me shortly later an off to home I went.
I love being on the trail; the freedom, the lack of responsibility to anyone but me. But being home is just something special. Maybe it’s the time away that makes one appreciate what you left behind. I’m not even halfway done: Is it too early to be feeling like this?
Savior out.
I’m really looking forward to spending more time in high country this year after the snow melts.
Thank you Ron.
It’s a serious cliff hanger waiting for each installment. Keep the story coming, what an accomplishment!