Journey Day 114 | PCT Day 114

Wildflowers grew tall along the trail in the Marble Mountains Wilderness.

8/8/85

Chilly morning, but I force myself out of bed and put gear up with frozen fingers. Hike for warmth, entering the Marble Mountain Wilderness almost immediately. Chill remains as I hike through woody, shaded ridge. More ridge walking, but nice mountains. Easy hiking, not warming up. Rocky hike to Fisher and Martin Lakes, two small glacial lakes.

Drop pack in rocks above Martin Lake. Sun heats up rocks, no shade. Eat lunch, take quick, invigorating dip. Then onward up rocky trail.

Come upon a lone hiker with a day pack and homemade clothes. Brother Richard is a “loner for sure,” who lives in his 16-window, customized van, has no home, tours and hikes year-round. He’d made money with a candle factory, sold it, chucked civilization seven years ago. He was a religious man, though his views were similar to mine. he was confused about our race through nature.  I explained it was almost an athletic event – speed backpacking. A lot of what I’d gained was from obstacles, pains I’d overcome. He was pleased with  my philosophy, not Jeff checking his watch two times in five minutes. We talked about many things, but his tone got old. Same old “everything is beautiful” song.

We parted and I hiked up more rocky climbs, feeling good about my hike. Climbed partway to the section’s high point, shot photos of me looking at Shasta from the point. Also Summit Lake and its cirque. From there I hiked hard, wanting to still make it far that day.

Low on water, passed on springs with cows. Seemed to take forever to descend into Marble Valley. Finally did, but missed spring on the descent.

Hiked on, strangely content, but tired of hiking. Crossed creeklet, barely running, after interesting rocks. But no choice with sun setting. Still had enough good drinking water. Strain, boil creek water. As fill canteen, see guard station. In dusk, spot a spot for camp. Stove again a problem, but get it done with multiple primings. Pig out and crash in the dark under the stars.