The Mud Tribe Goes Backcountry Skiing...

Follow along as The Mud Tribe goes backcountry skiing in Colorado, April 2008.

Janet's Cabin Backcountry Ski Trip

Take care all,

Bill

The Long Walk II - 2007

Once again, the ladies of "The Mud Tribe" are headed for the high country.

You can follow this year's adventure here!

The Long Walk II

Thanks and have a great summer!

Bill

Day 34 - The End of the Trail...

Today the ladies awoke to a beautiful sunrise - the peaks of the Whitney massif bathed in the warm morning light from the east. I was 10,000 feet below them in the Alabama Hills outside Lone Pine, photographing the peaks glowing in this wonderful light.

Here is what dawn looked like!


Mt. Whitney at dawn through the "Mobius" arch, Alabama Hills...

Shortly thereafter, they made their final breakfast on the trail and packed up their tents and gear for the last time. Careful packing was not a priority on this morning as just one thing was on their minds - "The End of the Trail".


Janet tests her new antenna...

It was bittersweet - the call of the high country was strong but the time had come to say goodbye for now and return to the familiar - families, careers, obligations.

Once on the trail, they still had several miles to go, straight down, thousands of feet until they finally reached the Whitney Portal trailhead.


Lone Pine Lake - only a couple more miles to go!

There, a group of us were patiently awaiting their arrival with Champagne, Roses, Chocolate, warm smiles and big hugs & kisses!


Our "camp" at the trailhead...

Finally, we heard the melodic strains of "She'll Be Coming 'Round the Mountain When She Comes" floating down from the trail above. Somehow we knew, we would hear them before we would see them. Sure enough, here they came...


Nana gets a big hug from me...


Janet gets a big kiss from Linda...


Lisa and Karl celebrate...


Janet, Nana and Vicki...

After we wrapped up the celebration at the portal, we all headed down to the Owens Valley and north to Bishop. There we got checked into our hotel and relaxed. Some went swimming, some sat in the hot tub, some took naps. Before dinner, we all went to the famous "Mountain Light Gallery" and were awed by the photographic work of the late Galen and Barbara Rowell.

Then we headed to the nearby Whiskey Creek restaurant and enjoyed good wine, good food and good company. The ladies told some wonderful stories from the trail. We all toasted each other and those who were also part of the journey, Sheryl, Kris and Carrie.


Dinner at Whiskey Creek...

Thanks to all who have made comments and enjoyed sharing this journal with the ladies of the "Mud Tribe".

Also, a big thanks to the ladies and Karl for sharing their wonderful photographs and stories with me so that I could put this together. It has been a lot of fun.

Day 33 - Mt. Whitney...

Today the ladies arose early and hit the trail to Whitney. It was a long night as it was windy and the coldest of the trip. (I guess their tents flapped all night!) By 7am they were packed up and on their way up to Trail Crest, el 13,600'.


Nana, Janet, Vicki and fellow hiker, Tommy hit the trail in the freezing cold...

Meanwhile, I was on the other side of Whitney, some 10,000' below in the Alabama Hills photographing the mountain at first light...


Mt. Whitney at first light...

The ladies made good time up the switchbacks that lead up the back side. Along the way, they were treated to spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.


On the way up...

Finally, they arrive at Trail Crest where they can leave their packs for the final push to the top.


Trail Crest...


Only 1.9 miles to go!!


They were not alone for this final journey...

After leaving their packs, the ladies made the final climb to the summit. Once there, they were treated to unbelievable views for 360 degrees. Although it was still quite cold and windy, the girls stuck around for a couple of hours, visiting with fellow hikers and waiting for friends from the trail to make it to the top.


Along the trail to the top...


The Whitney Hut...


Janet, Vicki and Nana celebrate on top!


Lisa celebrates on top!


Lisa signs the summit log book...

Meanwhile, Nana called me on her cell phone and reported in. It was the first time in 17 days that I had been able to speak with her. It was quite a moment. I was in Lone Pine at the time of the call so I headed back into the Alabama Hills and photographed Whitney with the girls on top. We were blessed with outstanding clouds, both for the ladies and their views and for me and my photographic efforts.


Mt. Whitney with the ladies on top! If you look really close...they are flashing all of us. Of course, you need the Hubble Telescope to see them...

After a couple of hours on top, the ladies headed back down to Trail Crest where they shouldered their packs and headed down towards Outpost Camp, their destination for the evening. This would put them into a good position for Saturday morning and the end of the trail.


These cables assisted the ladies in an especially precarious spot...


The solar toilet at Trail Camp. (Apparently REALLY STINKY!)


Their camp for the evening...

Day 32 - South of Wallace Creek to Guitar Lake...

Today was a relatively easy day for the ladies as they prepare for tomorrow's assault on Mt. Whitney. They left Wallace Creek and headed eastward to Guitar Lake, el 11,400'. This is the point where the John Muir Trail leaves the Pacific Crest Trail and heads east towards the Whitney Massif.

They stopped for lunch at Timberline Lake and enjoyed the beautiful afternoon. Then they continued on and made camp on a shelf just above Guitar Lake. After they arrived, they had an afternoon of rest and relaxation to get ready for tomorrow.


Along the trail...


Lunch at Timberline Lake...


Another view at Timberline...


Guitar Lake...

Here they reflect on what they have accomplished and the beautiful scenery they have seen and passed through. This also gave them one more day of high altitude acclimation before their climb to the top of the highest peak in the contiguous 48 states.


Karl surveys the camp...


A beautiful sunset!

Tomorrow - Mt. Whitney!

Day 31 - Tyndall Creek to South of Wallace Creek...

Today the ladies left Tyndall Creek and headed south. They were looking to position themselves in a good location for the trek to Guitar Lake, the last stop before Whitney.

There are no more passes to be crossed today and I'm sure that is welcome after this week's assaults on Muir, Mather, Pinchot, Glen and Forester Passes.


Another stream crossing - a pretty one though!

Just two more days until the ladies are scheduled to summit Mt. Whitney, el 14,496', the highest peak in the lower 48 states and the "official" end of the John Muir Trail. (why they don't include the trail to the bottom, I have no idea)

Today, they got their first look at it - towering in the distance.


Mt. Whitney, from the back side...


16.1 miles to go!


The "Mud Tribe" poses for a quick photo op...


Their camp for the evening - South of Wallace Creek...

Day 30 - Vidette Meadow to Tyndall Creek...

Today the ladies tackled the highest pass on the John Muir Trail - Forester Pass, el 13,200'. Along the way, they enjoyed commanding views of Junction Peak, a massive tower of rock that is one of the most impressive mountains in this region of the Sierras. The final approach to the pass was in outstanding mountain country - rocky, stark and impressive. The view from the top is second to none. One of the most sensational sections of the entire John Muir Trail is the initial descent on the south side of Forester. Here the path is cut into solid rock.


On the way up to Forester pass...


A glacial tarn below the pass...


Major "UFH" through the snowfields...


Finally - the top!


Looking south from the pass - a forest fire is putting up quite a bit of smoke...


Here the trail is cut into solid rock...


Looking back at Forester...

This was a long day for the ladies with a total distance covered of 12 miles with 3800' of positive elevation gain and 2500' of descent. Their destination for the evening was Tyndall Creek camp.


Tyndall Creek Camp...

Day 29 - Rae Lakes to Vidette Meadow...

The ladies left Rae Lakes and headed up and over Glen Pass, el 11,978'. The views from the top were spectacular.


On the way to Glen Pass...


Look closely - a friendly Pika!


Lisa crosses a snow-field...


The gang rests on top...

Once over the top, the ladies headed south down a steep, rocky descent towards Vidette Meadow.


Southbound...


A lovely tarn...

Along the way, they passed the junctions of the Bullfrog Lake and Kearsarge Pass trails, finally arriving at their destination for the evening, Vidette Meadow.


The camp at Vidette...crowded!

A friend of Lisa's, Karl had hiked in over Kearsarge Pass and joined up with the ladies for the push to Whitney. Carrie headed back home via the same route...

Day 28 - Woods Creek to Rae Lakes...

Today the ladies headed out from the Woods Creek camp to the Rae Lakes area. A good 2500' vertical climb was overcome but the reward was worth it. Rae Lakes are simply beautiful and make a wonderful spot to camp. Along the trail, the gals met many great people. Included were a group of guys from the Santa Barbara area. When the girls told them how long they had been on the trail and how low their food was, the guys broke open their packs and handed out all kinds of goodies. Turns out they were leaving the trail the next day and had a bunch of extra stuff. Nana commented in her personal journal, "We have run into the most incredible people who have just been so giving".


Climbing out of the Woods Creek area...


Rae Lakes...simply beautiful!


Another view...


Rae Lakes reflections...

Tomorrow, the ladies tackle Glen Pass, el 11,978'.

Day 27 - Marjorie Lake to Woods Creek...

Happy Birthday Vicki!

The ladies, Janet and Vicki adorned with birthday balloons, left Marjorie Lake and headed towards Pinchot Pass, el 12,130'. A set of steep switchbacks greeted them before the final assault. On top, they met a great group of people with whom they visited for awhile. One nice gal, Shawn, shared some extra food with them.


The Birthday Girls!


Tortillas - Yum!

After crossing Pinchot, they started a long descent (-3630') to the Woods Creek area. Nana wrote in her journal, "It was a brutal downhill day".


The south side of Pinchot Pass...

The trail descended from the stark, rocky pass to the treeline where they found meadows, wildflowers, tree-lined streams and heavily forested areas.


John Muir Trail, southbound...

At Woods Creek, they crossed an impressive suspension bridge - "The Golden Gate of the Sierra" - which leads to the campsites on the other side.


Janet, Vicki and Nana at the Woods Creek Bridge...


Another view...

They made their camp for the evening on the south side of the bridge, along the creek. At the camp, there were a group of "bear boxes", food storage lockers. Often, hikers will leave "surplus" food in the lockers for others to enjoy.

The girls took a peek and found some Tofu and some Lime Jello mix. They decided to add the Tofu to their dinner for extra protein. "Big Mistake", Nana writes in her journal. I guess it was really bad. But, they washed it down with the Lime Jello "soup" so at least they were able to get rid of most of the taste...

Day 26 - Upper Basin to Marjorie Lake...

Happy Birthday Janet!

The morning dawned with the tribe split. Nana was well down the trail, Vicki aways behind her and Janet, Lisa and Carrie still in the Upper Basin area. Janet, Carrie and Lisa headed south and found Vicki and they eventually caught up to Nana who waited for them to show their smiling faces. It was a short day for them and they arrived at Marjorie Lake by 1:30pm. An afternoon of rest and relaxation was just what the Doctor ordered. Tomorrow, they tackle Pinchot Pass, el 12,130'.


Lisa along the trail to Marjorie Lake...


John Muir Trail, southbound...


Nana sets up the camera and tripod for a shot of the lake...


The shot of the lake...

Today, the girls celebrated Janet's birthday on the trail! Hell of a way to spend it I'd say...

Day 25 - Deer Meadow to Upper Basin...

The ladies left Deer Meadow and headed uphill to the famed, "Golden Staircase", a marvel of mountain engineering - a series of switchbacks that were the last section of the JMT to be completed. These lead upward with almost 2000 feet of elevation gain in only 2.8 miles to the Palisade Valley.


The "Golden Staircase"...

After a quick rest, the ladies continued the ascent towards Mather Pass, el 12,100', the first time the JMT has crossed the el 12,000' contour.


Janet and Vicki at the top of Mather Pass...

A mountain desert landscape greets the hiker on the southern side of the pass.


South of Mather Pass...

A descent through the upper basin leads back down to the treeline and the south fork of the Kings River.


Upper Basin...

Somehow in the late afternoon, the ladies got separated. Carrie and Nana were scouting a spot to camp when Vicki apparently went right by, not seeing them. Janet arrived and asked where Vicki was. No one knew that she had sailed on down the trail. Janet took off down the trail but had no luck finding her. She came back to camp. Next, Nana saddled up her pack and headed down the trail to try and find her. Nana ended up passing Vicki without knowing it and continued until almost nightfall. She covered most of the next day's route without really knowing it. She ended up camping just a mile short of Marjorie Lake, a 15 mile day! Vicki ended up camping by herself as did Nana. All was well though as each was equipped with all the needed gear. Lisa ended up camped nearby with another group.

Day 24 - Big Pete Meadow to Deer Meadow...

The ladies left the Big Pete Meadow area this morning and headed down into Le Conte Canyon. This canyon follows the middle fork of the Kings River. They stopped at the Le Conte Ranger station and met "Ranger Dave". He demonstrated his "Mountain Maytag" clothes washing system, consisting of a bucket and plunger array that worked surprisingly well.


"Mountain Maytag..."

Along the way, the views of the river were beautiful and the waters were raging...


Kings River...

They were also treated to some wonderful meadows and small tarns...


Meadow and tarn...

They made their camp for the evening in Deer Meadow. Everyone was a bit anxious for tomorrow's challenge - The "Golden Staircase", a big uphill section of switchbacks in preparation for the ascent of Mather Pass, el 12,100'.

Day 23 - Sapphire Lake to Big Pete Meadow...

The ladies packed up and left Sapphire Lake and headed uphill towards Muir Pass. Along the way, they passed Wanda Lake, named for one of John Muir's daughters. The trail went right along the edge of the water...


Wanda lake...

Above Wanda Lake, the terrain turned more stark as they climbed higher. There were many snow patches and several tarns...


Near Muir Pass...

Finally, the ladies reached Muir Pass, el 11,955'. At the top of the pass is the famous "Muir Hut", a stone building built many years ago to provide shelter for hikers in the event of a storm, which even in mid-summer, can dump snow on the unsuspecting.


Muir Pass Survival hut...

After spending some time on the pass, the ladies headed down the other side. Along the way, they crossed several snowfields and endured a tough descent.


South of Muir Pass...

They continued south and ended up just above Big Pete Meadow where they made their camp for the evening along the river...


Camp at Big Pete Meadow...

Day 22 - Evolution Valley to Sapphire Lake...

The ladies left lower Evolution Valley and headed up and through McClure Meadows. They made a quick stop at the backcountry Ranger station located there and chatted with the Ranger. What a job!


McClure Ranger Station...

Along the way, they enjoyed beautiful meadows, tarns, wildflowers and vast walls of rock.


Beautiful Meadows...


Wildflowers and a quiet tarn...

Finally they reached Evolution Lake. Nana described the view in her personal journal as "Jaw Dropping". This is one of the most scenic areas along the whole JMT...


Evolution Lake...

Unfortunately, it was a bit crowded there with several other groups of hikers and also quite windy. So the ladies pushed on a while longer and headed up to Sapphire Lake, el 10,966' which sits above Evolution where they found things a bit quieter. It was also quite cold and the ladies hunkered down in their tents by 7pm. The alpenglow on the nearby peaks at sunset was beautiful...


Last light on the peaks...

A while later, the ladies were stirred from their tents by the light of the full moon rising between the mountains. It was a spectacular sight!


Full Moon Rising!

Day 21 - Muir Trail Ranch to Evolution Valley...

The ladies left Muir Trail Ranch with full packs and headed south. They walked through Kings Canyon and enjoyed the beautiful San Joaquin River which was still raging this late in the season. The colors were incredible though and this helped them take their minds off the loaded packs.

Carrie, a friend from Reno had hiked in from the east side of the Sierra and joined them for a few days on the trail.


San Joaquin River...

They made camp in the lower Evolution Valley and watched as a beautiful moon rose over the mountains...

Day 20 - Sallie Keyes Lakes to Muir Trail Ranch...

This morning, the ladies left the beautiful Sallie Keyes Lakes area and headed towards the remote Muir Trail Ranch. Famous for their hot springs, the Muir Trail Ranch is a family-owned guest ranch. For over 50 years they have provided a haven for individuals, families, and groups to enjoy. The Muir Trail Ranch is also one of the most popular re-supply points along the JMT. It is the last logical place to get supplies for southbound hikers on the JMT before the end at Whitney.

Getting to the ranch takes a bit of work. You can drive to within 11 miles of it from the Fresno side but then you have to take a ferry and a mule to cover that last stretch. Of course, you can hike there as well or take the easy way out and fly in by helicopter to the ranch's landing pad. (I thought about flying in and surprising the ladies once again- until I figured out how much it would cost...)


Headed for Muir Trail Ranch...

Along the way, they crossed wet meadows, went down steep switchbacks and finally arrived to find their re-supply buckets that had been mailed ahead of time.


The "Bucket Barn" at Muir Trail...

Once the ladies had collected their re-supply buckets, they made camp nearby along the South Fork of the San Joaquin River and emptied out their buckets and started sorting.


Sorting supplies...

Now they had to figure out what went and what stayed. They had to fit 14 days worth of food into bear vaults designed to hold maybe 9 days. Some critical decisions were made as to what they took. The rest was given to the ranch as surplus for some other unlucky soul who's re-supply bucket didn't make it there...

That evening, they celebrated the up-coming Birthdays of Janet and Vicki which would happen on the trail. Nana made a birthday-cheesecake that she had shipped in her re-supply bucket. They also enjoyed a couple of bottles of red wine and other assorted libations that had been stashed in their supplies. A good time was had by all!

Day 19 - Bear Creek to Sallie Keyes Lakes...

The ladies headed south, up and over Seldon Pass (el 10,900') and then down to Sallie Keyes Lakes. Their crossing of Bear Creek was not as bad as had been reported with the chilly waters coming up to about their thighs. (Brrr!)


Crossing Bear Creek...

Along the way they passed beautiful Marie Lake and the smaller, Heart Lake, another picture perfect spot in the central Sierra.


Marie Lake...


Looking back on Marie Lake from Seldon Pass...

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above photos, the thunderstorms were back this evening and the ladies were pounded by rain, wind and hail as they camped at Sallie Keyes Lakes...

Day 18 - Edison Lake to Bear Creek...

After their layover day and re-supply, the ladies left Vermilion on the 9am ferry across Lake Edison back to the trailhead. From there, they climbed dozens of switchbacks and re-joined the JMT and headed south. They went approximately 8 miles where they made camp along Bear Creek for the evening.

Along the way, they hiked through lush terrain filled with wildflowers and huge stands of aspens.


John Muir Trail, southbound through the wildflowers...


Wildflowers and waterfalls...

The gals also adopted a new member of the "Mud Tribe" at Vermilion. "Lisa", from the San Francisco Bay Area, was a solo JMT hiker that they met on the trail. They hit it off well and she officially joined the group for the push to Whitney.


The newest member of the "Mud Tribe", Lisa!

That evening, they camped along Bear Creek which they had been warned was going to be a tough water crossing.

Day 17 - Layover, Vermilion Valley Resort...

Since the last update, I have received a bulletin from the authorities in the Vermilion Valley Resort area advising to "Be On the Lookout" for a notorious gang of green mud faced women who took over the resort with a vengeance...


The "Mud Tribe"...

They were apparently last seen in the bar area creating a ruckus and generally having way too much fun!


The Ladies enjoy some fresh pies brought in by Janet and Linda...

** Updated 5pm PDT **

Nana called me this afternoon on a cell phone borrowed from another guest at the resort. They are there - they arrived on time and all is well. The telephone and computer systems at the resort are down.

Kris is ending her trip here, as was planned and Janet is re-joining the ladies for the push to Whitney.

They are planning to leave on tomorrow morning's 9am ferry and should be back on the trail by 10am.

They will try and update me from their next layover stop - Muir Trail Ranch where they are scheduled to arrive Saturday afternoon, the 5th. In the meantime, Kris will try to forward me some photos from this most recent leg of the trip so that I can add them to the appropriate journal entries. (Done!)

**********

I have been unable to get through to the ladies at Vermilion. Apparently they are having telephone problems at the resort according to a taped message I got when I called. I was getting a bit worried when I did not hear from them as scheduled. According to their web site, there is very limited cellular service in the area. (Cingular only - and I don't think any of the ladies have Cingular)

I have sent an e-mail to the resort asking them to let me know if everyone got checked in on time.

Day 16 - Silver Pass Lake to Vermilion Valley Resort...

The ladies hiked from Silver Pass Lake, 8.4 miles to Edison Lake. Along the way, they climbed some major rock sections but made good time as they had to make the 4:45pm ferry to Vermilion...


Rock stairs...


Vicki points the way...

Finally, they find a sign they have been looking for all day...


This means rest and relaxation ahead!

Day 15 - Marsh Lake to Silver Pass Lake...

The ladies left Marsh Lake and headed south. Along the way, they passed the beautiful "Lake of the Lone Indian"...


Lake of the Lone Indian...

They also re-joined the JMT near Goodale Pass...


"Gee...that signpost looks familiar..."

Along the way, they enjoyed some wonderful High Sierra flora and photographed these beautiful Wild Orchids...


Wild Orchids...

...and these old growth Redwoods...


Vicki and Kris...

They made their camp for the evening at Silver Pass Lake, el 10,350' and apparently froze their butts off. Temps in the Sierras were down below freezing this night.

**********

Janet is apparently feeling better and is planning on re-joining the group at Vermilion Valley Resort. She and Linda headed down that way a bit early with all the re-supply caches and a few other assorted goodies! I hope that they enjoyed the drive there - I hear that it is a bitch of a road! They even have a T-Shirt for sale at the resort that proclaims that "I Survived the Road to Vermilion"!

Day 14 - Fish Creek to Marsh Lake...

The ladies hiked south from Fish Creek through the canyon and up to Marsh Lake where they spent the evening. This trail is west of and basically parallels the John Muir Trail. Along the way, they found the beautiful Fish Creek Hot Springs where they took a break and enjoyed the crystal clear waters...


Fish Creek Hot Springs...


Time for a dip...

Finally, later in the afternoon, they arrived at Marsh Lake, a gem in the woods.


Marsh Lake Panoramic...


Another view...

Day 13 - Red's Meadow to Fish Creek...

When everyone is up and packing, Janet makes the decision that she will be pulling out for at least the next leg to Vermillion. This will give her shin a better chance to heal so that she can re-join the group for the push to Mt. Whitney. Linda has already made the decision that she too will not be returning to the trail. Her knees simply would not cooperate with the pounding that the route was handing out.

So, with that, we're down to three hikers for the next leg. Nana, Vicki and Kris, loaded their packs and got ready to hit the trail. Somehow, Bill managed to stuff all the gear that was going back, plus Linda and Janet into the Subaru. It was a tight fit, but he managed to do it.


Janet, Vicki, Kris, Nana and Linda...

Today's route took the ladies through an area burned in a wildfire in 1992. Their destination - Deer Creek, some 6+ miles distant. However, they got on the wrong trail and ended up at Fish Creek, 8+ miles away in the same area but somewhat west of their intended route.


"We thought it was the JMT"...

That night, they camped at Fish Creek and found the accomodations quite nice...


Fish Creek Campsite...

**********

The ladies are scheduled to have their next re-supply and layover later this week at the Vermilion Valley Resort, approximately 35 miles south of Red's. I will not be able to meet them there but will do my best to keep this journal updated as I hear from them. It might be tough to get photos from the trail but I will add them to the appropriate days as I can get them.

Stay tuned...

Day 12 - Layover, Red's Meadow...

After a night's sleep, everyone gets to relax. Janet has decided that she will rest all day, minimizing her walking time to see if her leg will heal sufficiently to allow her to continue on Saturday for the next leg south. The rest of the gang decides to explore a bit. The Devil's Postpile National Monument is only a couple of miles away. All but Janet hop into Bill's car and head over there. After a short 1/2 mile walk, the postpile becomes visible along the trail.


Devil's Postpile...

The Devils Postpile formation is a rare sight in the geologic world and ranks as one of the world’s finest examples of columnar basalt. Its columns tower 60 feet high and display an unusual symmetry.

Another wonder is in store just downstream from the Postpile at Rainbow Falls, once called “a gem unique and worthy of its name.” When the sun is overhead, a bright rainbow highlights the spectacular falls.


Rainbow Falls...

After visiting the Postpile, most of the gang heads back into Mammoth Lakes to do some grocery shopping. We've decided that the fare at the Mulehouse Cafe ain't so great and are thinking that BBQ'd steaks and chicken sound a might better. Of course, a bottle of wine or two won't hurt either.

After returning, I wandered around a bit with my macro lens and found some local flora and fauna...


Ladybug...


Queen Anne's Lace...

After a wonderful dinner, everyone settles in for the evening. Around midnight, we are all awakened by a friendly bear who decided that he wanted a closer look at our cooler parked outside the front door. Although there is no food in it (only beer, sodas and water), he still knocks it over and makes a racket. I get up and go outside, scaring him away. He decides that maybe some of the other cabins have better pickings and splits...

Now, after we all settle down, the mice start in nibbling on something in the kitchen. Needless to say, not all of us got a great night's sleep...

Day 11 - Mammoth Mountain to Red's Meadow Resort...

After breakfast on the patio, the ladies took the trolley into the town of Mammoth Lakes. Here they spilt up and some went shopping and some went to the local hospital...


Posing...


Clang, clang goes the trolley...


Janet gets her leg looked at...Ouch!

**********

The doctor tells Janet that she does not have a stress fracture. But, she does have a severe shin splint. The treatment - "STAY OFF THE LEG!" I think the diagnosis hurts more than the leg...

While Janet and Linda are at the hospital, Nana, Kris and Vicki go shopping. Nana buys a new tent as her current one is wet all the time. Vicki buys some new clothes and Kris replaces her nice sunglasses that went swimming during a water crossing. This time, she also adds a "floatie" eyeglass strap.

About this time, I arrive in town with the re-supply goodies, more booze, snacks and gear. I meet Janet at the Mammoth Mountain Resort and we head into Red's Meadow Resort to secure the cabins which we will have for the next two nights.



Red's is at the bottom of a long, deep canyon (el 7750'), literally behind Mammoth Mountain. The rest of the ladies will take the shuttle from Mammoth and arrive a bit later...


Nana's and my cabin...


The "Mulehouse Cafe"...

After everyone arrives, we all go to the cafe for dinner. We are a bit late so we miss the standard meal but settle for hamburgers and sandwiches. Ah...but dessert is homemade pie a-la-mode...Very Nice!

Before everyone heads off for bed, Nana and I head to the top of the canyon to catch sunset over the Minarets and Nana is able to make a few cell phone calls to family and friends...


Crescent moon over the Minarets...

Day 10 - Thousand Island Lake to Mammoth Mountain...

The ladies pack up and head south again towards Garnet Lake, another jewel in this part of the Sierra.


As they come around the bend, they are treated to a beautiful sight...


At the outlet to Garnet Lake, the gals stop for a rest and some lunch.


Another view from above...

Unfortunately, Linda's knees are not doing well and Janet's leg is really bothering her. She is afraid that she has suffered a stress fracture. They talk about the options and make the decision to leave the John Muir Trail and head downhill to a spot below Garnet Lake where they can pick up the Pacific Crest Trail. Here they can divert to the Agnew Meadows trailhead to catch the Mammoth Mountain Shuttle and a ride to the resort there. This will cut off several miles of trail and put them into civilization one day early.


Nana climbs a rock to make cell phone contact with me and advises of their plans...


Their "off trail" diversion takes them down a snow chute - some glissading is involved...


This route also involved a tricky water crossing. Luckily for the girls, there is another group there with ropes and a kind hand to assist...


Once on the PCT, they enter the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Not long afterwards, they make it to the trailhead and flag down a passing bus...


The Mammoth Mountain Inn...

Here they score a $500 a night condo for a mere $99. Hot baths, a great gourmet meal (that costs more than the condo!) and a good night's rest is just what the doctor ordered...

Day 9 - Layover, Thousand Island Lake...

After a good night's rest, the ladies awoke to a spectacular morning.


The perfect reflection...

They broke out the fishing gear and apparently could not go wrong. Every cast resulted in another beautiful "Lunker" for the night's dinner.


Rainbows and Browns...

During the day, the gals decided to erect a shelter for some much needed shade. Utilizing their hiking poles, ropes, ponchos, tarps, etc., they came up with the perfect spot to spend the afternoon. They found that if you soaked a bandana with "Deet" and draped it over your head, you could almost ward off the hoards of mosquitoes that were a constant.


The "Deet Tent"...

When it came time to cook their bounty of fish, the ladies found some flat, thin rocks and got them nice and hot over the campfire. Next, they poured some fresh olive oil mixed with garlic over the sizzling rocks and cooked their fish to perfection. Talk about a gourmet meal!


Afterwards, it was time for relfection and relaxation as the sun set over Banner Peak...

Day 8 - Upper Lyell Canyon to Thousand Island Lake...

The gals started the day with a wet camp.



After getting packed up, they started the climb towards Donohue Pass, 11,056'. Along the way, they encountered some snowfields and more water crossings...


Nana and Janet about to get wet again...


On the other side, the trail was quite visible as it passed through more lush greenery.


Along the way, the Yellow Bellied Marmots were a regular sight on the trail...

Once over Donohue Pass, the ladies made their way southeast towards Island Pass, their final obstacle on this long day to Thousand Island Lake where they were planning on enjoying an layover day on Tuesday.


Nana makes her way across a snowfield...


Linda and Vicki do the same...


Beautiful tarn near Island Pass...


Almost there - Banner Peak visible in the distance...


Thousand Island Lake...their camp for the next two nights...

After they made camp and settled in for the evening, the ladies were treated to a beautiful sunset over the lake with Banner Peak in the background...



Tomorrow - some rest and relaxation. Linda's knees are killing her and Janet's leg is also quite sore.

Day 7 - Tuolumne Meadows to Upper Lyell Canyon...

Refreshed from the layover day, the ladies, including their new members, are ready for the trail south. Unfortunately, Sheryl has decided to pull out due to her knee problems. After everyone is packed and ready to go, Bill gives the group a ride to the trailhead. After some morning sprinkles, the weather clears. Everyone hopes it stays that way. No one believes that it will though as the forecast is for more afternoon and evening thunderstorms.

As the group bids farewell to Bill and Sheryl, they head south into Lyell Canyon.


Nana, Kris, Sheryl, Linda, Janet and Vicki...

The first few miles were relatively level and they walked through lush meadows full of wildflowers on a well beaten path...



However, as the morning turned into afternoon, along came the usual thunderstorms. They stopped for lunch under darkening skies and Kris tried her luck with the rod and reel...



Apparently the fish weren't biting and they headed on up the canyon towards Donohue Pass and their camp for the night. After a bit, the weather cleared again and they started the climb towards blue skies.



They made camp in the upper reaches of the canyon and settled in for the evening.

Day 6 - Layover, Tuolumne Meadows...

After a nights sleep on real beds, with full bellies and clean clothes, the group heads back up to Tuolumne Meadows and gets a campsite at the campground. After everyone gets set up, folks wander and explore while taking a day off. For the new members of the group, it's one more day to get themselves acclimated to the altitude and ready for the challenges ahead on the trail.

During the day, Bill takes advantage of the light for some photographic opportunities...


The rugged peaks near Tioga Pass...


The meadows are lush and full of wildflowers...

As the afternoon wears on though, the thunderstorms appear for their daily downpour. Most of the group retreats to their tents to wait it out but Bill and Nana jump in the car to look for some sunset photo opportunities. They are not disappointed!


Tuolumne Meadows Sunset...

The sunset was simply spectacular. There were clouds, wind, rain, lightning and unbelievable color. After it's all over, it's time for bed. It will be a long day for the group tomorrow as they gear up for the week's travels - Tuolumne Meadows to Red's Meadows Resort near Mammoth Lakes, California...

Day 5 - Glen Aulin to Tuolumne Meadows...

The group awakens to more gloom with cloudy and wet conditions. After figuring out where they are, they break camp and head south towards Glen Aulin and eventually Tuolumne Meadows.


Where are we?


Near Glen Aulin, the falls are spectacular along the Tuolumne River.

As they get nearer to the end of the first week's journey, the weather starts to clear and the scenery gets more and more beautiful.


During their lunch stop...


Not much farther now...

Finally as they trudge to the end of the trail, Nana's husband Bill (Me!) steps out from behind a tree and surprises the group with cold beer, tequila, snacks and a ride to the store and grill to meet up with friends.

After finding the rest of the group, many of which will be joining The Long Walk for leg 2, they all decide to head into Lee Vining for some motel rooms, hot showers, laundry facilities and a nice restaurant meal.

A great week one was had by all. Tomorrow - a day of rest and relaxation back up at Tuolumne Meadows...

Day 4 - Matterhorn Canyon to Glen Aulin...

The ladies start the morning with some sunshine and break camp early. They are headed south through some beautiful country.


On the way to Glen Aulin...

Along the way, they struggle with several water crossings - some up to thigh deep. The water is freezing and the delays in changing out of hiking boots to water crossing shoes and back slows the ladies down.


Nana negotiates a water crossing...

And, as usual, the thunderstorms start again. One highlight of the day is when the gals come across two new fawns on the trail. They give them a wide berth so as not to disturb them.



As the day wears on and the rain gets harder, the ladies decide to camp short of Glen Aulin and find a great spot in a meadow off the trail. A large rock has a perfect overhang that allows them to set up camp out of the rain, under the out-cropping.



They settle in for the evening and will push for Tuolumne Meadows and their first taste of civilization since the start of the trip in the morning. Of course, that means cheeseburgers and beer too!

Day 3 - Benson Lake to Matterhorn Canyon...

The ladies wake to crystal clear blue skies and warming temps. Benson Lake is like glass and Nana takes time out for some photography...


Benson Lake reflections...

They take advantage of the conditions to try and dry out some of their gear on a nearby fallen tree which makes a handy rack...


Come on sunshine...

Nana and Sheryl watch an Osprey fishing on the lake before re-packing and getting ready to head south once more. Their destination today - Matterhorn Canyon.


Nana and Janet before heading out...

Soon they start the climb to Benson Pass, 10,293' where they find the view spectacular. They are also able to get out on Janet's cell phone and touch bases with family members at home. They call in some equipment orders while they can and hope they can be brought into Tuolumne Meadows later in the week during their first re-supply. Some friendly passing hikers snap a group photo before heading down the other side...



Unfortunately, Sheryl's knee is hurting bad so they have taped it up in an effort to add stability and to ease the pain. Also, as it gets later in the day, the usual afternoon thunderstorms move in and the group gets hit hard again with rain and wind.

They make camp and settle in for the evening...

Day 2 - Peeler Lake to Benson Lake...

The ladies awoke to mostly clear skies and hoped for a chance to dry out a bit. Benson Lake was some 10 miles distant so they got an early start. The trail took them through Kerrick Meadows and then climbed steadily towards Seavey Pass where they joined the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.


Sheryl and Nana along the trail - 9.9 miles to Benson Lake...


Janet along the trail...

Once over Seavey Pass, the girls again get hammered by thunderstorms with rain, wind and hail. They finally arrive at Benson Lake in the late afternoon. Benson is famous for it's beautiful sandy beach which makes a great camping spot. Unfortunately today, it's soaking wet.


Camp on the beach at Benson...

After a quick dinner, it's time to settle in for the evening. Tomorrow, they hope for some sunshine to allow them to dry out their gear...

Day 1 - The Long Walk Begins...

On Monday, July 17th, 2006, Janet, Nana and Sheryl set out from the Reno/Tahoe area and headed to Twin Lakes, outside of Bridgeport, California to start the adventure that has come to be known as "The Long Walk".

At the trailhead, the warm sunshine beckons and puffy white clouds offer a change from the boring, basic blue sky. To the west, Matterhorn Peak offers it's rocky crag as a beacon to the high country which they are about to explore.


Janet, Sheryl and Nana at the trailhead...

The first day's hike takes them uphill into the Hoover Wilderness on the northern edge of Yosemite National Park. One of their first stops is at Barney Lake - a perfect jewell in the rocks. Unfortunately, as is so common in the summertime here in the Sierra, thunderstorms are building. Those puffy white clouds from earlier are now getting dark and covering the sky. Before too long, the ladies are hiking in a downpour with lightning, hail, wind and rain. Seeking shelter among some rocks, they wait out the storm, delaying their progress to the first night's stop, Peeler Lake.


Nana changes shoes after a water crossing in the rain and hail...

Finally, shortly before nightfall, they reach Peeler Lake, some 8+ miles from the trailhead and several thousand feet higher in elevation. They set up camp in the rain and mist, settling in for the evening.