Today was going to be a big day and I was trepidatious since it would be coming off the heels of a rest day in town.

Three trucks drove by during the night, but luckily none pulled into the turn out or gave us any trouble. First(?) night as a hobo completed successfully!

I am writing this from the gravel shoulder of a pullout on a deadend road. It is 8:15 pm and I am sleeping here.

There was a rumor of pancakes at Mike’s, but we decided getting an early start was the smart choice. We were up and moving by 5:45 and watched the sun rise over the rolling foothills of the mountains we would soon climb.

B&B and I left Warner Springs Resource Center at 5:55 and began walking through the surrounding pasture. The cows were there to great us as the sun rose over the hills.

Today was a nice walk from Barrel Springs to Warner Springs, which included a stop at the famous Eagle Rock.

Putting up my tent last night and using earplugs was a good call. I was actually able to sleep, even with the wind!

I cowboy camped again last night and while the stars were beautiful, the wind was ridiculous. It was constantly blowing im my face and wipping my quilt around. Luckily, it was very cold, but needless to say I didn’t get much sleep.

I cowboy camped again and woke up in the night with stars draped across the midnight sky. The only sound was the wind rustling the brush. This campsite among the bolders was my favorite so far.

Last night I cowboy camped, which means I slept under the stars with no tent. The winds were strong so I figured I would get better sleep without my tent flapping around. I was right! I was also lucky enough to wake up around 2 AM and see the big dipper handing right above me.

Today was an early start and I was on the trail by 6:10 as the sun was coming up. There were nice purples and pinks in the sky, which was a treat as I hiked the first couple of miles. After a brief climb, I dropped down to a lowland and crossed a few creeks. There was high grass and old oak trees all around.

Surreal. To have thought about, researched, and planned for the PCT and then to be taking my first steps. My sister and her husband were kind enough to wake up at 3:30 AM and drive me from L.A. down to Campo, California, which is home to the southern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail. I am grateful to have such a supportive family and I would be lying if I said I didn’t get choked up during the first 1/4 mile as I set off. Thanks sis and everyone!