Journey Day 60 | PCT Day 60

Father Andrew crossing scary section near Forester Pass

6/15/85

Up and at ‘em, this fivesome makes its way through rocks and snowfields to the foot of Forester Pass, although the trail is still a bit mysterious. After a break, we cross more snow, then up the rocks to the trail. Switchbacks up side of the mountain eventually lead us to scary section, angled and covered with snow. After some study, Keith goes first and makes it, though a bit cautious with the ice axe. Throwing back the axe on a rope using a pulley method, the rope breaks and we nearly lose the axe. But it’s saved.

Father Andrew goes next and makes it, slowly and without incident. Then I. The adrenaline, danger, remove all fatigue, soreness and it’s an easy crossing. Then Chuck, obviously frightened. He makes it slowly. Then Jeff, who dumps first. Then he’s across jubilantly and we all climb to the pass, which is snowless to the top.

After photos, down we go on a steep grade covered in snow. Jeff leading, becomes stuck up to his hips. We dig him out, continue on, following footprints and our hunches.

Snow becomes water after entering our boots. Shorted legs freeze, we hike down to some trail. But it ends at a snow bank.

After a break, I climb up and find trail clear around the ridge. Down we go, through more snow, then trail as creek. After escaping snow, we break, off the trail, and eat. I have spaghetti and lemonade, others what they can muster.

Long break. Father Andrew and Chuck leave first. We agree to meet at Vidette Meadows. Our threesome leaves, more creek fords, eventually just hiking to the site. Jeff and I talk about Bowling Green, other topics and make it to camp. Keith comes later.

The beauty of the Sierras makes the toils worthwhile. Frozen lakes, melted lakes, sheer peaks, granite formations, all seem so natural. Crash quickly after dinner, tired by a tough day.