Journey Day 177 | PCT End Day 177

Jeff Sauer and Keith Jones flank me at the monument marking the northern end of the Pacific Crest Trail.

10/10/85

Up early, I push out over snowy pass. Jeff catches me before the last big climb, in threatening weather and clouds through snow up the ridge.  Keith catches us as the trail switchbacks gleefully down. Short stop at Hopkins Pass. Meet Jean from the Gaspe,  snow on the barren tops of his sandaled feet, as he headed south.  His attitude convinces me to abandon boots for the final time. Down I go.

Sign "4 miles to U.S. border" stuns me to reality of event about to take place. Push to monument. Keith and Jeff there, we shoot photos, celebrate, feast, read notes of other hikers inside miniature version of Washington Monument on border.

Then final miles, one last climb, up to Windy Joe Pass area. Then down to the road. Almost running, I make short work of road miles. Rain little worry. We've made it.

Jeff catches me near Highway 3. My ankle almost gives out as we hike up to lodge. Brother Bob there. Wild happiness. Call Mom. It's the anniversary of my father's death. I'm sure he's proud.

2,600 miles. From Mexico to Canada, the entire Pacific Crest Trail. From weekend backpacker to knowledgeable vet. What I have learned, only time will tell.