Day 9 158.4 - 179

 Day 9 158.4 - 179. 

Wow where to begin with day nine. This was the biggest and most incredible day of the hike so far. We all had a great nights sleep and we’re up and hiking at 5:30 AM. The hiking was incredible beautiful sunrise over some really big mountains to the east. Then progressively through the morning the mountains became steeper and more rugged as we gained elevation and kept heading up up up through 7 1/2 thousand feet.


Eventually after about 8 1/2 miles we got to our first water stop of the day. The only problem with this water stop was that the spring was a long way downhill off the trail so we decided to have a nap first and then fill up with water. So after some food and nap in the sun we left our backpacks at the trail and hiked down to collect water. When Karen arrived at the water it was guarded by a rattlesnake and she had to retreat very quickly. Rock hopper made a lot of noise with his trekking poles and scared the snake away so we could fill up with water.




At this stage it was a mid day and we had about 11 miles to go on trail and then another 2 1/2 to get down to the trail head and get into town.


The afternoons miles were the most challenging we have had for the whole hike. Long long climbs that were on very narrow trails often blocked by fallen trees which we had to climb over under and along to make progress. At this stage all three of us had really empty legs and it was taking a long time to make each mile. 







Eventually we made it to the tiny little creek that was the next water source at 8 miles further on. Here we just collapsed in a heap deliriously happy that we found the water source and that it was next to trial. We just had to push on for two more miles and then it was all downhill to the trail head.


Once we made it to the junction of trail we raced downhill to the trail head, rock hopper living up to his name and flying down at top speed. At this stage we were incoherent with fatigue and were fantasizing about the idea that Rockhopper would be at the bottom and organized a lift into town for us. Sure enough as we got into the car park he had found a ride and was organizing for the all three of us. 


A retired hiker from near to LA gave us a ride to our accommodation and we took turns to use the shower and wash off the grime of the last five days. Next job was to find dinner and we ended up at the most classic bar and grill run by a great bunch of Mexican guys and ate the most amazing food, burgers and burritos and beers. At this stage the day was complete and we were really happy to be clean, fed and about to sleep in a real bed.


Part of my hike is as a fundraiser  for refugees. I would be so grateful if you can donate to my refugee fundraiser for UNHCR or share the link with others an encourage them to donate. 


https://www.teamunhcr.org.au/mike-druce

Comments

  1. BenMay 30, 2022 at 2:25 PM

    Sounds like a tough and difficult day! But you were rewarded with some liquid carb loading at the end of the day! I'm enjoying your updates. Soldier on!

    ReplyDelete

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