June 23 – day 53
Stayed off-trail at the Dow Villa Hotel Lone Pine mile 745.3 hiked 7 PCT + 2.5 = 9.5 miles today. Another glorious day with spectacular views. Walked out Trail Pass to the trailhead where I was picked up by trail angel Michael who took me and 3 other thruhikers down to Lone Pine. I dropped my stuff off at the Hotel and went to the Mt. Whitney restaurant for a passable burger. Later in the day there was a pool party with the dozen or so thruhikers staying here at the Hotel/Motel.
June 22 – day 52
Camped mile 738.3 hiked 26.5 miles today. I was up early to enjoy another beautiful day walking. I have only had to traverse a small amount of snow. I saw lots of my fellow thruhikers that I know. Had another gathering for an evening fire with about 15 people at the campsite. I’m about the only one going stoveless.
June 21 – day 51
Camped mile 721.8 hiked 19.6 miles today. It was solstice and Naked Hiking Day today! Met a photographer working on an assignment from Outside online magazine to document this festive occasion. The day was lovely there was a big gathering of hikers at the bridge at Monache Meadows. Arrived in the evening to a campfire made by the French Ninja and Sam. Had a lovely evening with a large group of hikers.
June 20 – day 50
Second zero today in Kennedy Meadows. I ate like an actual pig today. I’m feeling so much better than when I arrived here it practically a miracle. Did some repair on my tent and other things in preparation for leaving tomorrow.