Journey Day 50 | PCT Day 50

Kern River, California

6/5/85

Down to Kennedy Meadows by way of Rockhouse Basin. Wasp swarms make me run portions. Nice woods to rocky meadows, where we cross creek.

Break argument, probably from fatigue or impatience with getting to Kennedy Meadows, before we finally agree. Hike final hot miles in basin to gateway.

Kern River welcomes us. We break. I take to rock, unable to swim because of infected little toe. Keith skinny dips. Water revitalizes. We take a long break, then hike the last five miles to the general store.

Just as it’s closing, buy drinks, munchies, dinner. My tent is here! We get what we need, leave big boxes and hike down near the river to camp by rocks.

Trying to raise tent. Back poles splinter. Too many rocks. Handle anger, possibly because I’m so tired or mellowed by beer. End up under the stars again. Munch cookies from home, stew, milk, etc. Crash in a good mood. We made it!

Store manager, groupies initially were unfriendly, but we eventually get into good talk with the manager, his father, as they lounge after closing. Possibly my LAPD hat was unpopular, as one suggests.