Journey Day 59 | PCT Day 59

High Sierra Near Mt. Whitney

6/14/85

Up early, wash in freezing Whitney Creek. Group scatters. Ens up Whitney. David bolts ahead. Jeff, Keith and I join Father Andrew and Chuck. As we’re preparing to leave, I realize my pack frame is broken. Latest in a series of serious adversities that so far have failed to keep me from continuing.

Jeff and Keith help rig it back together. Seems sturdy. Finally, about four hours after I rose, we’re off. With Chuck leading, we hike up ridges all day. Several involve creek fords, means off with the boots. Jeff allows me to use his second pair of boots.

Scenery continues to awe. We look back at Whitney group and realize how difficult climbing it looks. Creek ford difficulty grows as the day goes on. Final one with a rope guide.

Good talk with Father Andrew again. We cover ground to within striking distance of Forester Pass, the highest point on the PCT. Nearly above tree line, we camp in pine forest. Eat, relax, talk, admire peaks on all four sides. Early to sleep in preparation for Forester Pass after too much nightlife last night.