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Snow and Tahoe
We tried to get a fairly early start today, to make it into Pooh
Corner for our resupply. We had about 15 miles to go. The climb
started on trail, then transitioned to snow. We lost the trail on some
switchbacks, and had some navigational problems heading to Granite
Chief. By landmarks, we were able to make it to the saddle, and had to
find the trail to the left.
The trail passed over the ridge, and under some ski lifts. We boot
skied down to a meadow, and found the trail off and on and we
traversed a slope. We passed to the right of a knob, and needed to
head to the left of an upcoming one. We could see the ridges of higher
peaks to our right. But the compass bearings were not making any
sense. After looking at the maps, I realized we had the 14 degree
declination set backwards, effectively making our bearing 28 degrees
off. Ah, now the terrain and maps make sense!
We found our way between the knobs, then along a ridge for a while
before descending to a creek. We climbed up the slopes on the right
(east) side, passing some "weekend" backpackers and dayhikers. The
trail made its way to a ridge, which was very windy and beautiful. We
passed Tinker Knob and Anderson Peak. There was a very steep traverse
along some snow which was tricky. Eventually, we started descending
toward Donner Pass.
When we made it down, we gave a call to Bill and Molly Person, who
host hikers in their Donner Lake home. Soon, we were met by Molly and
a red Subaru, and brought to their house. A quick shower, laundry
thrown in the washer, and we joined 4 other hikers and our host for
dinner. Included in the bunch were two women from WA, one of whom is
completing her last PCT section up to Ashland; a thruhiker who is
currently hiking south in a flipflop; and Bottle Rocket. We ate
delicious salad, chicken, salmon, veggies, and ice cream for dessert.
Then Molly brought us to the supermarket to stock up on snacks. I felt
so full, it was hard to shop for food. Back at the house, that
fullness translated into mild nausea. Then it became clear that I
didn't feel well at all. Other hikers were all sacked out in the
livingroom, as I lay down to calm my stomach. I absolutely hate
throwing up, so that didn't happen. DM stayed up to catch up on typing
his journal entries and uploading pictures.
Finally, in the wee hours of the morning, the delayed was inevitable.
My stomach had to get rid of any remaining food. Ugh. Back to my
sleeping bag for a little more rest, but I don't think I'll be wanting
breakfast.
- Topsy Turvy
DATAmuffin's daily rating: 7. The now-usual half-hard/half-easy day,
followed by an excellent evening with trail angels. A good day.