planning

Maps, guide books, online resources, retail reps etcetera how does one plan a journey greater than a weekend in length?  This is not a definitive guide.  This will be how have I done it, what I've done differently over time, and how I think I can improve on it.

Some of my starting points is why or how come, why do it.  I know many who turn a nose up on sleeping on the floor yet alone on the grass in a park so would they be interested in spending a month or even a night on the ground, in the dirt, far away from any man made structure?   Yeah, let's not go there.  Rather enter my world, I was introduced to it at a young age.  (Mom if you can find one of those first camping trip photos please add it to the comments.)  I first entered backpacking as a Weblos Scout (image hidden in May 2014 postings)  young, lacking experience,  with only 11 miles to hike, down hill over 2 nights.  It sucked.  The before and after photos show why, also buried in another post.  Though it sucked when offered to do it again, I jumped in.  A neighbor/Scout Dad offered to take a few of us up into the Wasatch and Uinta's years later.  Every trip, every hike, a learning experience.  Even carrying a wet sleeping bag for 2 days because of poor tent placement was fun, after the fact.  That trip I also decided never to share a tent again as my buddy had the tent and I got to camp first, found a spot, placed my pack there, went fishing, came back, and another tent was set where I'd wanted to be, <insert frustration comments>.  Now poor placement is my own fault, no one elses.

I did some weekend backcountry overnighters when working in Yellowstone NP with borrowed gear.  I did a few sleep under the trees in Shenandoah NP.  Shenny holds a special place as that's where the seeds of thru-hiking was planted, even though I heard about the AT while in the Everglades.  Do you see about theme yet?  Even when serving with Mercy Ships I got out hiking, maybe not camping but once on Cheju Island, Korea.

About 15 year ago, with plenty of weekend available and mountains near by I resumed hiking which lead to backpacking which lead to saving money/spending money for gear.  The seeds planted in Shenny grew into a thru-hike.  What started out as a day dream became a plan which gathered Internet searches and books.

The AT, honestly, does not need a map.  I didn't carry one.  I left the wall maps with parents and friends for them to follow.  I did carry the Appalachian Guide Book by David "AWOL" Miller so I knew when and where the next shelter, town, and water sources were.  Knowing I could cover up to 15 miles a day in the Uinta's, I placed my logical day at 15 miles a day.  I looked at resupply as being 3 to 5 days apart with an extra day in the food bag.  Truth is, on many resupply days, I walked into town with 2 or more days of food remaining.  I held this as a constant for the majority of the way since Rodeo, another hiker, had run herself short on food even before hitting the NC stateline. I carried her worry with me as a fear I'd run out too.  Mentally, I approached the AT as a series of weekends strung back to back.  Knowing the completion rate, I didn't even plan the New England section or how to get home.  Food planning, I didn't learn the gallon bag trick until after hitting Virgina.  I learned this from CT another hiker who failed the AT the year before, yet had the PCT already under his feet. CT said he put all his rations in one bag for each day this way when he got to town he knew exactly what he needed to get.  Once I started doing this, I got a handle on how much of each product I got.  Previously there were times, I had way to much oatmeal or way to many not power bars (of which I'd overload again) or a few to many pasta sides while vine bags of instant spud mix.  When I set up my meals, today for weekends, I do the same, everything for a day in one bag.  On the TRT last year I ran out of coffee because I robbed the next day's rations for coffee once or twice. Now I have a separate bag for the daily drinks, spices, and wet one wipes.

So far I've covered how I got into it, what I think I can hike in a day, and how to get a handle on my daily food.  I haven't hit which foods or how do I chose the next journey.

There are vast opinions on food, hiker nutrion, etc online.  I know being out of shape my body will consume more calories out of inefficiency.  Once in shape my body will consume less.  Initially, I'll burn 6000 calories per day, efficiency of calorie burning will hit about week 4 and at that time will drop to around 4500 per day.  With a weight budget of 2 pounds of food per day, I try to pack as much punch as possible, not only in calorie count but in nutrion and a few extra salts, not sodium.  Insert disclaimer, I AM NOT A NUTRITIONIST, I have no dietary training background.  I've found nuts and nut butters to pack a punch for me.  Peanut butter packs the most calories per ounce than any other food.  I carry sport recovery drink mixes, first to add the unusual salts back into my system, cramps suck but in hail most drastically in the backcountry, second to add flavor to pond scum water like Spooner Summit Lake on the TRT.

The problem of 2 lbs per day is I max out my calories around 2000.  I count each snack, I have 5 per day, at 2 to 300.  Dinner I look for 450 up to 600.  Breakfast is around 300.  I personally don't carry olive oil, bad experiences with that on the ships going bad in a hot cargo hold, I've never gotten over the rancid smell of it.  Also carrying oil is begging for a messy impossible mess to happen in the ruck.  If you look at my AT prep entries one will find an entry with a resupply lain out. That entry still holds solid, even before the gallon bag trick.  The gallon bag trick helps so that come resupply day, I don't have to lay everything out before deciding what I need.  This journey, I've chosen to repackage Mountain House meals from the big cans as I purchased them on sale over the last year.  I scooped 2 cups into vacuum seal/boil in bags.  Meal prep is easy, add water, hot or cold, and wait, longer if cold.  Stirring is essential to avoid dry clumps which tend to be more prevalent with hot water soaks. 

Coffee in the mornings is either hot or chug (cold).  The difference is whether I have enough fuel and or time.  With the alcohol stoves, I plan 10 minutes to boil 16 ounces of water at 2 ounces of fuel used.  For a weekend trip, that's a no brainer, I carry 8 ounces.  The canister stoves the time to boil is around 6 minutes or less depending on my flame setting.  I typically get 10 per can, I however have not pushed that limit and have and stack of partials and home.  Reading Backpacking magazine highlights fresh coffee via drip or French press, not my style. I also don't want to know the weight of the packs carried by the BM's writers. I tried the Folger coffee like tea bags in the past and would rather suffer without.  Starbucks instant is my go to.  I do carry an 8 oz sized bottle which makes good for chug and tend to drink mixes.  Call that a luxury item if you will.  I had a 500 ml Nalgene on the AT, weight wise way to heavy now.

Town stops, or for the PCT, camp stores are where the calorie deficits get balanced out.  I can devastate an AYCE (all you can eat restaurant)  I'm surprised they don't charge thru-hikers double.  The convenience stores (c-stores) offer calorie filling ice cream, candy bars, and nutritional supplements known as fruit at elevated prices.

Funny, the first leg of the TRT and the AT, I hardly ate.  The second leg of the TRT I ate and ate big, I guess 'cuz I was already in shape for the hike.  I ponder will the lack of hunger effect me this time?

The more one reads, the better.  Even better than reading is getting face to face with someone who is experienced, even if they hiked a different trail than the one being planned. I met a LASH (long @$$ section hiker) for coffee and picked his brain for tips, tricks, etc before leaving for the AT.  However, his hiking style was not mine and on the trail I found myself reverting back to my known comfort.  Some of his advice held true on nuances of that trail: don't pet dogs (if like dogs but don't have one of my own) as they run through poison ivy; every other person is hiking for a cause, this got old fast (Puzzle, yes this is a dig on you but, some how I found another reason to befriend you; GAMER get back on the trail and hike not for Wounded Warriors but for you); shelters are for the social and for the sharing of germs (if someone gets the abundance of brown blazing avoid them and  the privy, move on); finally, don't over plan it, let the trail flow.

Maps and spread sheets; there are several good resources like Craig's PCT Planner and PostHoler's websites that will provide estimated resupply points per one's variable hiking time over the terrain of several different hiking trails.  PostHoler offers the PCT, the AT, and a few others.  Craig's is only the PCT.  Most PCT planners base themselves off of HalfMile Maps.  Each trail has a different preferred set of maps,.  My two cents, include finding out who the standard is and commit to that standard supplementing into it with additional info.  One of my TRT mistakes was I cross referenced one work into another of which each work had different milage between the same points, Arugh! All my PCT miles are from HalfMile.

My miles per day are based on 15 miles per day with 3000 ft elevation gain/loss.  Over such terrain I average 2 miles per hour with a 40lb pack.  Note average, not dedicated, no min or max.  The AT threw some curve balls.  Pennsylvania is flat even in the North however, the flat was map flat, not realistically flat.  The rocks in PA all stand at pointy side up for everyone to dance upon.  The rocks of PA ate my time.  Yet, in Virginia's roller coater region which is 13 miles plus up and down, none over 500 ft change, was side walk hiking, easy to move. I think I cleared a 20 mile day with an hour at the Bear's Den Hostel that day.

The PCT is not the AT.  The PCT is not the AT.  The PCT is not the AT.  That repeat is intentional.  The guide books, forums, and other thru-hikers make it clear.  Anything therefore is fair game, even mileage.  Many say if you did 15's on the AT 20's won't be an issue.  I'm game.

For me, knowing my hiking style is my plan.  I know by the second or thrid day the trail is already off plan.  The plan is mainly for the ground crew at home.  For me it helps to see the miles beyond the map as to figure out the resources, mail drop resupply, etc.  In the Uinta's, many fish, I dont.  Side excursions play into the plan.  What's cool near by?  What's a gota see? What's a detour for a resource that might not be in the next block of trail miles?  Not planned, for this year's hike until late June after my vacation time was approved, is the Solar Eclipse.  I picked Oregon for August last year after meeting PCT'rs on the TRT.  Their advice helped me choose, easy, beautiful, kind weather.

Kind weather, I'll have rain gear mainly for the chilly times and wind. Oregon is said to be dry (ish) in August. The tent is is a shelter from the crawlies.  Beatles, not the band, are weird, ants a nuance, and mosquitoes, blood sucking, they are the only sound I know that penetrate ear plugs which add to their blood suck.  The hiking sticks for the arm stretches, my hands swell while hiking, this helps alleviate that.

Get back on tack, TRAIN.

What would I do differently?  Get a gym membership and stick to a healthy plan, put a limit on much processed food.  I'll get a better food dehydration unit so I can create my own meals, or even ask friends if they want to help prepare meals for drying.  Though I cooked for years on the ships, I've lost that signature touch.  I'll explore other places for camping/backcountry when the Uinta's fill with snow.  Differently, may be throw in with a Meet Up group or two (against my will, also I like the solitude) to meet and see how others do what I do too.  Differently, schedule my panic day for a week before take off day to avoid last minute grabs... disable auto complete so that im responsible for my errors and not that he vice for very rating what I write.

Hike on, hike wise.

ready or not

Ready or not, this is my last day of work for a while.  I'm taking a break from the chaos of commuting to work, to church,  to other things of life for a simpler way.  The way of a thru-hiker is simple;  eat, sleep, get water, hike, repeat, and sometimes not in that order.

My resupply boxes of food were sent out a week ago and await my arrival in key locations along the PCT in Oregon.  Theses also included sets of maps and luxury items (q-tips).  Clean ears are luxurious after a week, doctors may say q-tips aren't the way to go.  I wonder how many have thru-hiked.

I'm still tossed up on which stove to take and I don't want to pack extra weight.  However a quick hot drink is also a luxury for me and soothing way to relax on the trail.  Therefore the canister stove is winning out for speed and convenience over the alcohol fueled Flat Cat Gear stove/windscreen.  Don't get me wrong I still love the alcohol stove as it does help me to slow down and gather my thoughts.

Maps and maps and maps, my sets were ordered, since I don't have a laser printer for the write in rain paper, from http://www.yogisbooks.com of the Half HalfMile map set.  This set is down load able from https://www.pctmap.net/maps/ These are set upon the Nat Geo Maps mention in another post.  For work, I made a map for everyone to see how far I've gotten.  JP will get a daily ping from my Personal Locator Beacon to pin where I'm at.  The progress will be slower than other PCT hikers as I'm an office jockey by day and weekend warrior by weekend.  My folks, too, have an outline of the journey.  Honestly, I can't wait until the traditional burning of the itinerary yet, I've got to keep pace as vacation is not forever.

I sit enjoying the view from Sunset Coffee in Sandy.  This view is simple, the coffee honestly okay.  The view and almost quietness helped me many a day to plan this journey.  Haze fills the valley with distance reminders to be fire wise.  Fire wise also plays into which stove, alcohol is easy to knock and spash... not good.

Many hikers take an image of their gear neatly lain out.  Truth of the mater it's seldom that neat.  It's staged.  I keep my gear in a bin in the off season.  I kept the quilt stored loosely in a big cotton pillow case on the top shelf.  Some is gear I use daily which makes the gear list essential for packing.  Not wanting to become TRAIN Wreck (see April 2014).  I've been careful to keep an eye out for last minute grab and toss into the pile.  I will pack a meal or two for the train ride to Oregon.

A few things I'll be grateful to be a way from... 24/7 connectivity to the internet, road construction (how can road construction be a 13 month a year thing?), and negative news.  Negative news for me will be rain is in the forecast or a posting of fire closures.  Hence one reason I got my ham radio license, so I can interact with others as possible to find out details and add a social aspect outside the hiking community.

Somethings I am looking forward to... The last time I was in Oregon was in '98 as as missionary with http://mercyships.org on the m/v Caribbean Mercy (since retired) we left Coos Bay for LA and ultimately Nicaragua after Hurricane Mitch wiped out a region we'd worked in that same year.  I look forward to beginning another Strategic Life Goal.  Don't ask if it was a result of 'what's it book/movie' (bug off response entered here).  I heard about the PCT long before then while investigating the Appalachian Trail and started looking at it while reading Trail Journals.  Since being back about the my job (I quit to hike the AT ), I realized quiting and returning again is out of the financial question, I broke the PCT into vacation able do able sections.  I did a hike 50 mile section of the PCT when I did the Tahoe Rim Trail last summer.  I'm excited to see a different part and much longer part in a short while.

Along with all the preparation, some other things happen.  I shocked many at work while helping one neighbor loose a bet with another when I let the gal who cut the locks off tend to remove my ungainly goatee.  I donated my hair, which measured up to 15 inches braided to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths program.  I haven't worn my hair this short in close to 10 years.  With the commitment to finishing the PCT in 10 years I doubt I'll regrow it for donation again if I head grey.  The folks at work had another so hard time with the short hair and clean chin. Okay, not such a hard time rather many did double takes and still came back for a lingering look.  The head receptionist  (no longer her title as she does so much more than that) even chased me to get a new ID photo taken.

Just a few more days...

Ready or not, I'm committed and this is my crazy.

Loops in the Uinta's

I wrote this a while ago.  I thought I lost it.  Read on...

I chased myself out of the office on Friday, weekend plans in hand.  I've got two weekends between now and my vacation time where I can camp both Friday and Saturday nights.  Granted these aren't long enough for a decent shakedown but, I'll take em.

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I drew up the plan and an alternate incase I felt the High Uinta's snow pack was too much.  I email them to my folks so that they know where I am.  Over the years I've gotten more detailed. Do you know National Geographic makes quad maps available on line? copy and paste natgeomaps.com into a browser.  You'll need to look for pdf-quads quad maps and zoom in.  These maps are more detailed than the regional ones they produce.

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I lucked out finding a parking spot at Crystal Lake Trailhead.  This are is 90 minutes away barring any traffic issues.  Most people head to a few spots like Island Lake, Long Lake, and Cliff Lake.  I looped towards Duck Lake. When I did this loop last summer Weir Lake didn't have many people at it.

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Watching the sun, I found a rock shelf of several hundred feet and several layers.  The trail dips below it.  I went on it and found a wide easy spot to lay down.  I also found a spot to fix a Mountain House meal a few yards away.  The Uinta's filled with areas like this that don't show up on many maps.  One must take care when bushwacking to skirt around these, typically found in the upper basins, in the lower areas as the trails skirt them already.

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My spot was about 1/2 miles from Weir Lake, wide open sky.  Though I have my tent, I used it as a pillow instead.  The forecast this weekend, hot in the valleys, cool in the higher elevations, clear skies all around.  A bonus, no moon.  Perfect cowboy camping weather.  I fixed my bed, made supper, and wandered with my tea.  A hundred yards down, a waterfall from the creek beside me.  Ah, my lullaby.

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As expected, a chilly breeze all night.  The quilt performance second only to a sleeping bag.  The tent as a pillow, not so satisfactory.  I watched the Big Dipper pour into the Little Dipper.  The Milkyway galaxy dominant in the sky less the haze from forest fires drifting here.

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I took my time breaking camp, even making a hot coffee, a true treat for me.  My time here isn't about miles, it's about gear.  Of which I forgot my handheld ham radio, not a critical peice.  I decided later, I'll take one I can recharge by USB though vastly under powered to hit any distant repeater.  The one I had planned with a yagi antenna can hit the repeaters on the Wasatch.  Yes, that's over many people's heads, please see the tab about ham radio.  The item I'm most concerned with is the new pack and my fuel choice.  I'm planning on using Esbit tabs as they can be shipped via surface mail.  What I've found is, the buggers are a bit finicky to light in a breeze.  They require direct flame to start.  The bonus is, partial ones can be lit again.

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For the day, I looped to Duck Lake, up to Island Lake, up to Smith Morehouse Pass.  I dropped the ruck there while I headed towards Big Elk Lake.  Along the way is a view that looks over this region.  The higher elevations took on new effort.  Postholing I didn't do, the soft snow shuffle I did, thwarted by choppy melt off and going up hill.  I faced this all day above 10,000 feet.

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Upon my return to Island Lake junction, I went to Long Lake.  Ate lunch there while airing my feet and drying my shoes.  I dipped towards the trailhead to bounce up to Cliff Lake.

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After Cliff Lake the trail became a blurred under the snow yet visible via several terrain features.  The one time I got way off, I aimed high on Mt Watson, where upon looking down after a bit saw my destination lake.

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I'm camped yet upon the rocks, the campsites near Clyde Lake are a bit too wet or too close to the water.  Up here, being next to water is cold.  The elevation is just under 10,500 feet.  Clear and cool again, fire smoke drifts on the horizon.   I found a spot and sat a long while.

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I did eventually go for a wander up to Divide Lakes and around.  I didn't see any place more satisfying than where I plunked down eariler.  This whole area is a combination of fir trees, scrub fir, lichen, and rocks mixed with some other stuff.  The elevation I'm at is on the border of the tree line.  Funny in the Whites on New Hampshire tree line is about 3500 feet and if the trees are shorter than 8 feet tall.  I've seen in a few areas where tree line dips to 9,500 feet in Utah.

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Upon my return to the pack, refilled my water, and set about making camp.  The day hikers long since passed. The sun went behind Mt Watson around 7pm.  I've watched the shadow chase over the forest below and crossing the Mirror Lake Highway.  I know of at least 5 occupied campsites up here.  Not even crowded.  I wonder how may are packed round Cliff Lake tonight.

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I know this is a long post.  One weekend trip's worth.

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On Sunday morning I woke thinking the cool night had decreased the air in my pad, nope, I'd slid off it.  The stars over night were incredible.  If you can get to a Dark Sky region on a moonless clear night, do it.  

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Just before the sun hit the mountain, I got up, a little frost on my sleeping quilt. I made coffee while brushing off the cool of the morning.  I turned the quilt into the sun.

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I made my way to the Notch, chatting with a couple other campers along the way.  I got up there and chose not to descend into the other basin, rather I looked for a view while leaving my pack for a while.  I wish I'd taken my long-sleeved shirt with me the few hundred yard I wandered, a touch chilly in the shade. 

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Back at the pack, I spotted mountain goats coming down the mountain.  A moment later other goats with tiny kids leapt across the path disappearing just as fast.

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I took my time making the the 3 odd miles to the car slowly.  The parking lot just as full as Friday.  I watched people load up for their hikes.  I pondered some of the gear people take, then again each hikes their own hike and I brush away the thought.

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I drive not directly home but over to some other areas.  The snow is still patchy elsewhere up in the Uinta's.  Spring definitely is here.  Soon hoards of mosquitoes will feast upon us, and like that they'll be gone while we hike and fish on.

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I've realised I've hike the Uinta's close to 10 years now, less a trip or two in Boy Scouts.  I am fascinated by their ruggedness and and the same time their gentleness.

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Hike on, hike wise 

Duchense River and Naturalist Basin

10 years ago when I got back into backpacking I had late 80's gear and a parcel of other gear.  I also photocopied a map to use.  I came out on the Highline Trail to Rocky Sea Pass went south tying into the Duchense.  That trip I walked myself off of my map.  This weekend I decided to do the reverse of most of it.  I camped at the confluence of the North and East Forks of the Duchense at the bridge, a place i noted then it would be good for camping.  I came up past Pinto Lake, cut over to Four Lakes Basin, then up to the Highline.  For some reason everytime I pass the Pinto Lake cut off on the Highline the trail drags.  I got a second wind when I came to the Naturalist Basin trail.   I forced myself to take short breaks to drink water.  I found a spot that I'd identified as a good spot on a different trip.

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My last few rucks are about tying in other trips into new trips.

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Last weekend I was at Crystal Lake area.  I tied in my Smith Morehouse trip of last year with one I did in the fall of 2013 of going to the Notch.

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Right now I'm comfortable, no mosquitoes, and full.  When I got here I was wiped.  After an hour of resting and airing out my quilt, I headed over to the upper basin.

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The upper basins in the Uinta's seem to stretch for miles with intermittent clusters of trees, rock bands, and wide open sky.  This one is split with a narrow section above Jordan Lake.  I chose not to check out the west basin.

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Got back and fixed a Knorr side with a pack of tuna.  I'd have tea but I ran out so I had a few packets of hot cider.  Both satisfied me.  With low mosquitoe population I didn't need to pace or wander about.

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I've got my tiny Baofeng UV-3R cranked up listening not to any hams but to country music sine it was the first station that came up.  I listened to 162.550 which is the area'vs weather frequency.  Mostly cloudy tonight, expect late day rain on Sunday.  Perfect for me.  I've got 9 miles to the car since I parked at Mirror Lake and not the main trailhead for this area.

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Love it up here, wish I could stay longer yet, I know I've got a great hike ahead of me shortly.

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Hike on, hike wise.

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Post hike notes.  I reflect on this hike of a few weekends ago, what amazing country I live near.  I research other destinations and know there are other place just as grand in neighboring states.  One thing I am reminded of as I hike is the frailty of the wilderness.  Please aim to minimize impact of the visit to the wild aggressive by promoting "Leave No Trace" by taking only pictures, leaving only foot prints, and sharing with others by not broadcasting one's presence.  Also be situationaly aware of what is around.  Here is a link to current wild fires burning... https://maps.nwcg.gov

There is a lot we can do and even more that we can do that we should not so that others can enjoy the experience too.

I did it, White Pine pt 2

The nap wasn't so much as a snooze, rather a ponder of a safe way to reach the pass into the lake.  I was on the edge of a little ravine so I followed that up.  I looked for the least likely spots of slides and rollers.  I spotted someone else's track from the previous day cutting across the basin.  I headed that direction.  I cut a switchback or two of my own and joined the traverse to the pass.

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Okay, this altitude got me huffing along with the slope.  I confirm, I am in shape.  The way down will be a combination of shuffle and butt slide.

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I tracked through the pass.  Standing on 7 to 10 feet of snow.  Shuffled to a view of the lake, it's bathed in snow with splinter of turquoise at the edges.  The lake is covered with more snow then I've seen at this time years last. I explored up high not going to the lake always aware of my surroundings.  I was actually closer to the lake at my lunch spot.

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Backcountry skiers this is the place for a while longer.  If you want to play, come. 

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As I began to examine my route down, a gal was on my tracks as they joined the lower basin.  I head down, chatting it up for a bit with her.  With her and everyone I passed within reach of the lake, I let them know to keep an eye up hill and exercise caution when things begin to move.  It's not a mater of if, it's when.  As the sun warms the slopes the danger increases.  I doubt it's refreezing over night, now.  PS I was out of the danger zone by 1:15.

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The first time here years ago, I had roller balls, yeah not fun and not a smart day.  Since then, I've made a point for this time of year to get up and down early from any snowy slope.

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By the time I reached the trees, I passed 5 others.  By the time I got a mile beyond, another half dozen excluding a couple who turned back for the reflection off the sun began to become a bother.

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The further down I went the less info I gave.  At the trail split for White and Red Pine, the day hikers and families gathered.  I spoke with one couple who turned back at the next trail split of Red Pine for the sloppiness of the snow.

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My recommendation for the next two weeks; go early and turn back as the snow softens or choose a different trail set.  There are lots of snow free trails in the Wasatch.  Some trails are in the front country while others are at the lower elevations of the backcountry.

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Never push one's safety.  If one becomes disabled, they put others in danger.  This is the thought that kept crossing my mind as I made my way across the snow fields.  I have no formal training.  I am an experienced hiker who chooses to err on safety than to push my limits.

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I mentioned using my hand as a guage for angles, I may explore this in a different post.

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Gangster on a mountain? Sure, ever have a sunburnt mouth?  Who makes sunscreen for the roof of the mouth?  Let me know in the comments.

White Pine Lake

At this time of year when I approach White Pine Lake, it's about 50/50 if I actually get to the lake.  I'm sitting within 100 meters of the dam on a boulder for lunch.  I traversed a major snow field to get here.

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Behind me is the actual trail, buried under snow.  The trail as it exits the trees is about a mile of exposure, open to tumbling rock, snow rollers (roller balls), and wet sluf avalanches.  Red Baldy from the Valley looked pretty clear of snow which gave indication the trail could be safe.  Err, yeah, no! Not yet.  A few rollers, cartoon like, have come down since I got here.  These didn't quite across the trail or path I would have taken but, why chance it.  The day is warming up and the danger is increassing.  Evidence of activity from yesterday can be seen in the photo.

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The glare off the phone made it hard to see if I got this image smartly.

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I do like this boulder field and basin.  This area reminds me how small I am in the grand scheme of things.  It also reminds me that humans can impact the landscape.  Just on the other side of this mountain is Snowbird Ski resort.  They've changed their section of mountain from pristine to less than something.  I'd love to see this canyon designated as wilderness to protect it.

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As I sit here and as one may read this, if I'm within 100 meters of the dam why don't I go there?  Easy, I've got a deep ravine before the face.  The dam is actually small and is part of someone's water rights, which may have held this area up in the past from becoming wilderness to my understanding.  The slope is such if one made an 'L' with one hand, from the top joint to the thumb tip is the approximate slope.  The slope the trail crosses  below is the angle appropriate tip of the finger to tip of the thumb.  Both slopes today are yeah, no's.

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I think I'll just nap a little longer.  I've already put hot noodles and tea away from lunch.

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Anyone up form some spring time sledding?   We may have two more weeks of this snow up here.

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Hike wise and leave no trace of your travels.

Last minute overnighter

Three o'clock rolled up at work.  Without a plan for the evening, I checked the weather, 50's for an overnight low at Snowbird.  Not having been to Lake Blanche for a while I decided to rush home, grab the rick, and head up.

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A brief detour  to grab hard bread and fresh Smart Water bottles,  I was almost on my way.  I emailed my HOA on a stinky issue and spoke with two of my neighbors about it.  I hope this issue is cleaned up quickly.

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Mill B South parking area over flowed to the hignway.  I tugged on the new ULA-EQUIPMENT pack with Utah Red material.  I can't mis-place it now.  I headed up, thinking I am out of shape, I checked the photo time stamps of when. I left and arrived at LB's dam, 1 and a half hours.  This is a quick day hiker's time.  I'd passed a small group of Scouts and two gals struggling with not so over burdened packs.  Plenty of day hikers headed down.  The gals made it just at sunset.  They said this hike took them 4 hours, yikes.

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I found a spot to cowboy camp under the stars.  The half moon providing restless sleep for a while, I knew.

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I set a pot of water to boil on an alcohol stove powered by tabs, while setting camp.  Tonight, soupy pasta sides with Esbit flavoring, yuck.  I've got to store these Esbit fuel tabs elsewhere.  Egyptian licorice tea for my warm drink, ah refreshing with a hint of Esbit.

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I hope everyone I  the Valley caught the fire in the sky like sunset.  From the rocky outcroppings, the sun reflected off the Great Salt Lake.  I haven't seen such a glorious water sunset since my sailing days with Mercy Ships.  Sundial Peak glowed as well.

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Sleeping regularly in a hammock taught me to enjoy sleeping on my back.  Due to the bight moon, I rolled over a few times and a few times I rotated off my ground sheet.  Snowbird's low was spot on.  With a 3/4 Thermarest and a 20 degree quilt, I slept soundly, only my shoulders got chilly as I did not snug up the top.

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I rolled over a few times for night photos.  I doubt they're any good.  When the sun hit the top of the Sundial, I popped out of my cocoon.  Breaking camp in 5 minutes.  I took my pack to the day use area to brew coffee.  2 packs of Starbucks instant is too strong for 10 oz water.  This too had a hint of Esbit.  1 Esbit tab brought the lake water to a roaring boil.

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Taking my coffee for a wander, I caught the reflections of fresh light on the peak on the water. Over night ice quickly melting.  Yes, it was cool enough to support some ice growth near other ice that was present. The Scouts were out fishing, catching fish not much bigger than my phone.

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I spotted a few things that chafe me.  Graffiti tags on the rocks, what the hell?  This area sees hundreds of people on a warm summer day, why screw it up for others.  Next sloppy campsites.  Leave no trace principles are huge for me.  Sloppy campsites include fire rings, strewn gear, and trash.  These are unsigjtly.  I doubt these pervs will clean up their mess much before leaving.  There fire ring will attract more fire rings and the trash, rodents which will bother others.

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I've tried to attach photos to emailed blog posts before and they don't quite work.  I'll tray again.

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Funny story, on my way up, I reached around, grabbed my water, opening it I proceed to spray myself.  I'd grabbed sparkling water not bottled regular water, bawha.  No matter, I let it fizz for a moment, enjoyed the refreshing liquid coat my throat.  I then wiped up my fizzy hands and trekking poles.

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As I sit, now 10 am, lands of day hikers are cresting the dam and seeing the reflection off the lake.  The sounds of awe Echo with each hiker.

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Enjoy, hike wise and hike smart.

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Conglomeration

I sit at one of my favorite Wasatch lakes, Red Pine, sipping hot licorice and mint tea brewed over a hastily made alcohol stove and windscreen.  I recognize it's days later than when I last left the Uinta's. So here's the rundown.
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I chose to leave Red Castle earlier than planned due to the cool of the night.  I essentially had a summer kit that did not include room for the cooler temps of 4 am.  Cold I was not.  Prepared I was however the forecast also called for rain the last time I checked, over Tuesday.  I met a few hiking in who said the forecast now included snow.  Yeah, no.  So I am glad I bailed.  Red Castle is worth a 3 hour drive and 5 hour hike in to see.  I've posted a few photos on my Flickr site and will post more.
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Wednesday I took off to hike the Butler Fork Loop.  It's 8 miles, more if you add detours to Dog Lake, Reynolds Peak, Mill A, and others. I took off towards Reynolds and tagged Dog Lake.  I quickly wrapped around the basin and into Mill A.  Sometimes I'll add Mt Raymond, this time I chose not to, instead I added Maxfield Basin.  I noted some of the under brush beginning to change colors and most of the grass is dry.  A few groves of aspen show black speckles on their leaves.  I ponder, will this be a short color season and an early winter if this is happening in August which normally doesn't start till September?
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On my way down (Butler Loop), near the first/last trail junction I happened into a moose a bit too close for comfort.  The under brush and willows are still thick enough not to see far in this particular spot weaving along the creek.  Since he owns this area I gave wide berth as I detoured around him.
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I will give complements to the Forest Service's trail crews for making some improvements to the trails this summer. They've worked on sections of the Desolation Trail in Butler Fork, towards Desolation Lake, Mill A, above Maxfield Basin, and others.  They've leveled out, added switchbacks, attempted to narrow the ever widening paths, as well as do general trail management.  Please respect their work and do not create any new trails, cut switchbacks, add carins, etc.  The Forest Service does not have the manpower nor the resources to effectively police and steward.  Please if you see something a miss, report it.  If you see someone doing something not right, be strategic in saying something to them.  If you see trash, take it out. Or a switchback being cut, block it with a few branches.  Our public lands are all of our responsibility, not just a few persons.
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A chilly wind crosses Red Pine.  I know weather is moving in for tomorrow.  This might be the last time I get up here before snow fall.  The Salt Lake Tribune calls this place one of Salt Lake's top hiking destinations.  It's easy to see why with groves of aspens and evergreens, the alpine lake within an easy reach of the Valley, surrounded by towering granite mountains.  All that and a moderate hike for most people.
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Hike on!

Vacation Hike, Red Castle

Sitting on the wooden bridge over Smith Creek, I looked to the butte in front of me.  Nearly 7 years ago I sat here.  I worked for a different company and consecutively had 3 days off there.  Today, I'm on vacation having taken one week to complete a thru-hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail I decided a low elevation gain, multi day hike would be nice.
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Every basin in the Uinta's are unique and many also share similar features.  One common feature is the long hike in around meadows up a stream.  The horse manure isn't a feature but is present along with flies and mosquitoes. I'm very fortunate to have only one Uinta's hike with the mosquitoes this summer.  Another feature these hikes share is a large upper basin with a series of small lakes.
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What sets this hike apart from the rest is the dominant feature is a 12,000ft tall mountain of red and green cliffs that looks like an imposing fortress.  Another feature is the elevation gain is gradual except for one spot when one actually turns towards the moutain and goes up a short series of switchbacks before resuming a follow the meadow course.
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I got up from my own bed this morning at my usual work time and was on the road by my usual work time.  All of this is an hour later than if I were getting up to ruck the Uinta's on a normal weekend. A weekend ruck is worth loosing sleep over.
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The trailhead was packed.  The trail was busy with folks headed out. There's a few campers up here.  The archery season just began and a few elk hunters are making camp for their season.  Fishing is a big deal up here and as I type, the fish are jumping.  A good chill is in the air.  Who knew late August is fall in the mountains while the city is still suffering from summer's heat?
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This method of blog delivery does not allow me to post images.  If I did you'd me making plans to get here before it gets too cold.  Hopefully I won't be too cold tonight.  I did a quick gear swap after I got home.  I'm using the Gossamer Gear Mariposa pack. With this pack the frame sheet is a sit pad or in my case a 3/4 Lenght Z-rest sleeping pad.  I also ditched the bag liner, more for convenience than anything.  I didn't check my lighter, that just died.  I tossed the matches but made sure I had a striker and fiero rod.  I did grab the Fireant stove and a few cotton balls.  I think I'm set but 11,000 feet is different than last week's 9,000. Even if I get chilled I can always use my rain gear as an extra layer.
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Hike on.
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PS the sky is amazingly clear.  I wanted to cowboy camp under the stars.  I'll be in my tent instead.

Red Castle, day 2, base camp

The night was a bit chilly then again I did do a quick gear swap of the pad and left the sleeping bag liner home.  I lay in bed until the sun peaked the horizon.  At that moment I leaped to my feet, took a few photos of the sun on the lake and moutain.  I made hot coffee using an esbit tablet in the Fireant.  I continued to enjoy the morning.
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I readied myself for a day hike, leaving everything else in the tent.  I wrapped around to Smith's Fork.  Making my way along I heard an awful sound on the wind.  This trail scuttle along the westside avoiding the meadows.  At an over look, I saw the ruckus, sheep, about 100 head.
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As the trail topped out, I took a break with the valley below and the basin behind.  There were no lakes in the valley, just them noisy sheep and their shepherds.
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I decided to follow the trail up through the basin.  I began to follow a faint trail above the Smith's Pass Lake.  I paused often for the altitude approached 12,000.
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The pass s sprawling, no steep portions, no tricky approaches, etc.  I found a big rock and took a nap.  I did look at the map whike up there, too.  The Highline Trail connects about a mile south. This end is the top of one of the basins I've planned a hike into.  I was amazed by the vast openness of what I saw including the cliff faced mountains next to scree slopes.
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Noticing building clouds I took off.  It's funny how down goes so much faster than up. A hint of rain loomed. I got to my camp long before any sprinkles and a little wind.
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I played a bit with my camera settings and some of the programmed filters.  Why didn't I do that on top?  The dramatic setting really pops the mood of the clouds and lake. I might have gone overboard with using it this afternoon.
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I tried my fiero rod into some old camp coals, no go.  I tried it into cotton balls, works to good.  Now I know, fibrous materials is what it takes to get this thing to work.  I did get my lighter to work one more time for dinner.
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I'm sitting by the glassy lake.  A few fishermen work their fly lines a ways up. Crazy beautiful.
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The clouds are still present, no longer building with the day.  Last night the weather broke and I had Milkyway deluxe above me.  I ponder if tonight will be the same?
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Hike On!

Day 7, exit day

As the sun set last night I chose to pack down the tent to sleep under the sky.  A full moon rose over head to wash out all but the brightest of stars.  I awoke at first light, sat up wrapping myself up I the quilt until the alarm sang.  Yes, even though time holds nothing g out here, I still like to get moving early and to do that I set something to remind myself to get moving.
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I was packed by 7 am sitting by the lake watching light dance on high trees.  Shortly after on the trail.
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The trail moved quickly mostly down with some up as I went through the Heavenly Ski Resort area.  I reflected that most of the zones were similar across the region.  The last place I saw the changers on such a regular basis was in the Smokies, where the zones moved with altitude.  I couldn't place how or why the zones here change.
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I hit NV hwy 207.  I was done.  My TRT hike came to a close at a pretty unassuming road crossing.  I hike up to the restaurant on Tramway. Ate a burger then another adventure began.
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Catching the buses weren't an issue.  Like clock work, on time, and expected.  At my last stop I noticed a little sign taped to the bench, "runs only on weekends"  I was suck.  How now do I get from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City without hitching?  Hitching in CA is not allowed.  I don't know all the rules but I know here would not be the time to find out about the wrong ones.
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I walked a bock or two to the out fitters. This area is known as the Y in South Lake Tahoe.  The out fitters had a list of Trail Angels helping out PCT hikers.  May be one would help me all the way or at least to Tahoma where buses resume.  Short of a dozen calls later on a dying phone  battery, I made contact with one willing to take me all the way.
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1/2 later I threw my pack into the back of his pickup truck.  An avid hiker himself he noticed hikers needing rides so he started picking them up, eventually he let his name be added to the list of Trail Angels.  The time flew by and I noticed we were passing my stop.  All he asked for in exchange was a photo of me and my pack.
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The TRT'S taught me loads when it comes to trip planning that the AT did not.  Alot of my preparation cane from the AT.  This one definitely taught me more about transportation than anything else when it comes to resupply and trail logistics.  These will definitely be considered in the future.
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I've noticed also on this trip, every other day someone has done something for me.  A package of beef jerky, a jug of water, today I asked specifically for the item and someone went out of their way for me.  It wasn't for the lack of planning that this happened, I just failed to consider not all buses run everyday, something us urbanites take for granted.
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I forgot to mention.  On the way down from Star Lake there aren't very many camp able sites.  If you read this consider going from South Camp right though to Star Lake.  PS it's a dry section.
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I sit as light fades not at a campsite rather at a hostel in Kings Beach.  No moon or stars for me tonight.  A hot shower came and passed already.  Another fast tip, always carry your own soap especially if you might hostel it. I had just enough in my backpack.
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I still have time off so where to hike now?  I hope this read is enjoyable.  Please let me know how I can improve your reading enjoyment.
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Hike on!

Day 5, Freel Meadows

Rising early, I caught reflections on the water of Showers Lake.  I tend to like the reflection photos better than any other kind for lakes.  The stillness of the day surrounds me in those moments.  I also jumped up to a nearby view point a hundred feet away from my camp, wow a great view right into the rising sun.
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The PCT section hiker caught up to me.  He thought he had another hour to hike.  I could easily played him last night, nah, I'm to nice.
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2 miles south the TRT splits to the north from the PCT.  One day I'll be back at this same spot.  In this meadow a lone cabin sets surrounded by rolling canyon walls.
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2 miles north is Round Lake.  Still early enough I caught reflections photos.  Score, two lakes today with reflections.  These would be the only lakes.  The rest are meadows and some views.
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At Big Meadows trailhead I sat to tend my feet, let the useless solar panel catch some rays, and eat lunch.  While there, a fellow pulled in and recognized me from Richardson Lake.  He asked if there was anything I needed, beer, batteries,  jalapeño chips.  I forgot to get water at Big Meadows as two horses stood in the creek so, water.  This is now my third trail magic of this trip.  Water, something that simple can go along way.
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I bounded up Grass Lake trail to the top.  It's 1,000 feet over 2 1/2 miles.  Not an issue even while carrying 3 litters of water.  This section from Grass Lake to Star Lake is dry, we'll almost. Near the top, a few meadows dot the landscape, it began to sprinkle.  Meanwhile at the bottom of my pack is all my rain gear and none of my gear is in plastic bags.  I pulled out my clear ground sheet, wrapping myself pack up, I made way.
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The AT got me use to hiking in rain.  Rain gear is used on laundry day, as dry clothes around camp, or for regulating body heat on cold days.  Only in extreme cases did one don rain gear while it rained.  The rain didn't get heavy, yet.
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At one view, I rested and checked/sent messages.  The view included South Tahoe's airport.
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As I made way over Freel Pass and Meadows, I coukd easily see why people in the spring got lost.  The trail follows no natural contour or meadow, or ridge line.  Freel Meadows, itself, has a small stream in it.  I could hear it running but did not see a trail to it.
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At one view a tent popped up.  I chatted with the couple there.  They were counterclockwise hikers too.  As I finished a quick snack the rain returned.   Okay, ridgeline, rain, tent, okay I hoped the weather would break for their safety.  Indeed 2 hours later the sky cleared.
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For another 1/2 hour I hiked with my plastic wrapper on.  The ridges cloaked in mystery.  It was just neat.
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I walked through the land of Bonanza.  The juniper pines doted with large rocks.  I think they filmed the 50's pioneer TV series is near by.
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I found the place where another hike told me water would be along the path to Anderson's Pass.  I'd say half a mile south of the next path.  This isn't an ideal camp setting for the land is not flat. Oh where is that hammock of mine?  I will say the spring is untouched.  I still filtered, for garda and I don't want to be friends.
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Tomorrow will be a near zero.  I'll hit Star Lake by 10 am where I'll kick back the rest of the day, possibly two nights.
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Being off the grid is fun, relaxing, and refreshing.  To be away from the hustle and bustle of daily commuter life can do wonders.  My feet carry me to the next spot along the way.  Short miles like today's 16 or yesterday's long 16, it doesn't matter, life is listening to the breeze, the screech of a hawk, or spying a deer before it sees you.
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The sky cleared, I ponder as I write day light left, do I drop the tent and sleep under the sky?  Maybe tomorrow.
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Hike on!

Day 6, Star Lake

I chose to call it quits at Star Lake. I've got 10 miles down hill to do from here so it's a good place to say 6 were enough for the day by 10:30.  I wouldn't says it's a place worth bragging about.  It is nice in a territory that looks more like the south west.
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I made my best time getting out of camp this morning not a lot to see where I camped last night.  As soon as I got on the trail, I did a quick inventory of the aches and pains.  Sure enough they were all accounted for, it would be a good hike.
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The Freel area is different than the other regions of the TRT more for the granite sand soil and the less dense trees.
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I noticed it clouding up this afternoon so I put up my tent.  I really want one night of sleeping under the stars however that darn moon is so bright. The question now is, rain again this afternoon and then clearing up or something different?
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My Goal Zero Nomad 7 solar panel is not recharging the Goal Zero battery I brought, even in full sun.  I'll use it as a writing surface this evening for my journalling.  I need something that is light, will work in partial sun, and that doesn't need to be constantly watched for charging. The ability to be hung from my pack is a must.
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I am running at 35% battery now so this may be the as entry from the trail. It's just nice to unplug for a whike.
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Hike on!

Day 4, to Showers Lake

The stars at Aloha Lake burst beyond the heavens once the moon set.  I slept half in, half out after that. Orion, the constellation rose in the east.
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I got going early and loved seeing new light dance across this big lake.  Once I cleared the lower section it was moving time however my right shoe dig into my tendon making going slow.
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At Echo Chalet I got a Mountain Topper panni sanwhich, essentially a ruben.  Downed two gatoraids, and an ice cream.
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Water was a concern as the section from Echo to Showers Lake is said to be dry.  I filled up at the bottom of some meadows and kept crossing trivial streams from then on severe mile or so.  Ha, I carried up to 2 litters the entire way.  No worry, I'd rather have more water than not
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The basin before Shower, is the Horse Shoe.  This is across between Utah's Albion Basin and Day's Fork with a ruggedness I've not seen before towards the bottom.  Absolutely breath taking in kind.
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I arrived at Showers with about 1 1/2 hours of day light left and set about camp.  I haven't seen to many PCT'rs  today.  I did see more than enough  weekenders heading up towards Desolation.
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Another great day of hiking.
PS I grabbed some cardboard at Echo and that did what I needed to but I forgot to take a known hot spot so now another limp maker.  I'll have  a roll of tape on my right foot by the time this is over.
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Over, if I can I hear Star Lake is amazing.  I may take a low mile day and enjoy the scenery.  Rain is forecasted on Saturday and I have more than ample food for the extra day.
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Hike On!
How's that for a Monday?  Oh yeah, it was a 12 hour day from start to finish.

Day 3, mind blowing scenery

Everyone was on the trail by 7.  I trailed the Scout Troop until the border of Desolation Wilderness then I lost them.  I made miles, my focus get over Dick's Pass, 12 miles away.
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Just inside the wilderness area I spied some large red granite mountains and pondered will I cross them?  As I write I have one to my Northeast.
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The trail went up and down, mostly up.  I rounded the Velma Lakes, originally one of my planned stops in the rough drafts.  Before long I rounded a few more lakes and stopped short of Dick's Lake.  Where I ate first luch of two side candy bars.
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I refilled a little water at the lake, leaving my pack at the junction.  When I returned i struck up a conversation with two day hikers.  I trailed behind them but saw them sitting at the pass.  More on that in a moment.  The trail made some long easy switchbacks 1380 feet over 2 milrs.  The Wasatch grade is 1,000 per 1 miles.  Wow, what a sight.  At the top it leveled out.  I asked the day hikers if I could join them for second lunch.  A few minutes late the guy jumped up, checked nature's fridge, and came back with 2 beers.  She wanted to split  one so he offered me the other.  If you see a beer show up in my social media feed, that's why.  We chatted a bit longer before they took off for a work function, locals.  This is their backyard and I a visitor.
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I stood I'm awe for a few more minutes then started down into another mind blow of scenery.  This is why I am crazy and love to hike, these rewards are amazing, the IPA helped a little, too.  These mountains have no pattern, just everywhere.  The Wasatch and the Uinta's have main canyons and side canyons with bowls at the top.  These look like wave blown by confused winds.
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I pushed miles and went beyond my goal of the day.  I'm thankful for this season without bugs, a little chilly but so.  I chatted with a bloke from North London, uk.  Gave hike some water tips for going into Tahoe City.  I did the ups and downs over another shallow pass to drop into the huge alpine lake I spied from on top the Pass.  Walking right into glare around Heater Lake, a beauty to see. And into Aloha.
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I looked for a sheltered spot dorm the wind, few and far between as this lake is surrounded by white granite and the red granite mountain to my northeast.
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I set camp, washed up but, not the socks.  Hips hurt from carrying  6 days of food.  I am not eating everything but, am making sure breakfast and dinner get consumed every day.  The SoBo section hiker will join later at this campsite.  He arrived just after sunset and ran up to Mosquito Pass the the north.  Clear skies and a big moon, delightful for a night hike.  This guy is getting his trails worth of extra views.
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The tea's getting cold and the phone is showing more light on me than day is. The stars are soon to show through the light of a near full moon.
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Hike on!

Day 2, Wild Flowers

I made my way up to Twin Peaks Pass.  I started up to the summit however turned back just shy of the peak as the quality of the rock didn't excite me.  The faint trail also ran dangerously close for my comfort so I stayed farther a way from it.
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I encountered the PCT treat way for the first time shortly after I got back to my pack.  My heart raced as I thought of future plans.  I'm not planning this section for 3 or 4 years , but to be on the actual PCT.  It wasn't anything different from what I've seen in this region so far.
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A mile later I saw two 20 somethings looking at the map wide open.  They weren't lost rather not hikers with rather large packs and an unconventional piece of equipment,  he had a samurai sword.  I've seen some darnist things but this?  I moved on.
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I met a PCT section hiker who's doing chunks at a time.  She gave me some info on the water beyond Richardson Lake.  Dry for 12 miles unless you like mud puddles.
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I ate luch at Barker Pass Trailhead with 2 foreigners hiking the PCT.  They won't finish with the time left.  No mater it's the adventure.  Just as they left, some Jeep guys pulled up.  I decided to stay a few more minutes.  One of the fellas went back and got a bag of spicy jerky for me.  Guess what I added to dinner?  They were up for some good country road four wheeling.
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I busted out some miles filling my water at a good flowing stream.  I pushed th 6 miles to Richardson thinking I had a set od switchbacks.  Like my AT style I stopped for a break within half a mile of the lake and there were no switchbacks.
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I immediately, at Richardson Lake, walked in to a Scout troop up for a 50 mile section of the TRT headed my way.  Also another later starter.  I found a quiet alcove between two big stumps, like 20 foot tall and 3 plus foot diameter big.  The ground looks soft and again, I've rocked my tent down.
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I set about my camp chores. Ate dinner cold with a small handful of shredded jerry which added a nice kick.  Washed myself and my rinsed my socks.  Since my socks a little most at this time, I've got them on my shoulders for a little body heat drying, chilly but comfortable just after sunset.  A clear sky will give me a little star view.  Oh yeah, I saw two clear meteors last might and some that may have been.
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Every field I went through, every once there was water in the area had wild flowers.  Pink, purple, yellow the areas I walked danced with them.
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For as many people are here it's quiet.  I'll sleep really good and will pass the Scouts sometime tomorrow.  One of their leaders said they'd be gone by 7.  Will it happen?  I'll be having my coffee then.
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Hike On!

Arrival Day

While my friends were cutting z's I got on the road.  I knew every mile extra I made on the trail would be less for tomorrow.  I caught a photo of the sunrise through a solitary tree at the Wendover rest stop.  Minutes later I entered  the Pacific time zone.
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The drive went uneventful as it should.  I found the Mount Rose Hwy south of Reno and shortly there after I was in TRT territory.  I picked up my Wilderness permit as CA requires for the Desolation Wilderness everyone register.  A little bit of construction traffic through the chaos that is Lake Tahoe and I was at my trailhead.
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I filled my water container with some bottled water I brought with, readied myself, and was off. Up, up, and away!  I headed up a draw to Page Meadows and around to Ward Creek. I shaved a few miles off tomorrow which is good as my first 2 will be up, up and ridgeline.  Then down, up, and down.
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I will embrace the up, for if there were no up, there would be no down, or at least the TRT would look a whole lot different.  With no up, where would the mountain tops be?
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I'm enjoying the gentle rolling sound of Ward Creek and the company of non-biting flying things.
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Hike On!
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PS I hope my sky view will let me see a bit of the meteors shower, the moon however is rising
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Tip: Tahoe area camping, use a hammock or a free standing tent.  I've rocked down my tent pegs.  Not even msr ground hog stakes hold.
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Tip #2: mountain house Spaghetti rehydrates with cold water
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Tips #3: check that your stove & canister work before leaving. I finally got this BRS micro stove to work for my tea.  The TOAKS to 450ml is a dream come true.

Hiker to Trail

I hung a thumb bum sign at my desk, 'hiker to trail' subheading, 'I need to finish what I started.'  The last week's been a rush with the Expo, getting my gear finalized, and double checking my menu.  Last night I fired off the itinerary to the folks.  I knew I had a few weeks off this month originally planned for some Uinta's backpacking trips.  I'll keep them in mind for September.  King's Peak still has a sign on it, saying come to my Summit.
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I haven't talked this leg up with too many folks.  I'm kinda embarrassed by not completing the TRT in one go but, I look back and realized attitudes play a huge part of finishing.  Not only finishing, attitudes are a big part of the enjoyment of the journey.  The fact that I met conditions I planned for yet had never encountered before was interesting twist as well.
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I might not meet any PCT thru-hikers in the Desolation Wilderness, this will be a bummer but I will get to see some mountains of incredible awesomeness.  I wonder just how bad the mosquitoes will be? Ryder Lake bad?  Eh so, I've pretreated my clothes and have plenty of repellent.  What of the bears?  I hope not.  Not all of my 6 1/2 days of food fit into the Ursack.  Unless told, I won't carry a bear bagging cord.  It's not the weight rather the inconvenience, last time I did not see any descent trees to hang food from.
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I sit enjoying the evening.  Half of the fun is rushing so that the last day is not a rush.  Early to rise to see the sunrise in the mirror.
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Hike on!

Reviews

This is a disclaimer piece on why I write about gear and this piece talks a lot about gear and something I got to participate in over the weekend.
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A quick question at work drew me into looking at my own work schedule,  as I logged into one of the many side programs we use, I saw I had Thursday and Friday off.  Ops, who cares, I'll use the Paid Time Off another time.  While at work, I asked a friend for her boy friend's number, since he wasn't at work that day.  A few text messages later, I had instructions on how to get into one of Salt Lake's finest and largest conventions, the Outdoor Retailer Exposition.  My friend's boy friend who is also my friend helps run Emberlit/Merkware.  I've reviewed the Fire Ant titanium firebox stove while last on the Tahoe Rim Trail several months ago.
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A kid in a candy store with a small allowance, is what I thought as I waited outside the Salt Palace near the tents set up on Abravano Hall's lawn, part of the Expo.  "Every square inch of space is used" my friend stated.  He wasn't kidding from the very entrance to a massive complex of temporary venue tents across South Temple (street).
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I saw Tom Hennessey pedaling his hammocks.  I had to let him know I finished the AT since I got my hammock from him at Trail Days in Damascus VA two summers ago.  I let him record a quick testimonial video for promo.  His hammocks are bomb proof, meaning very durable. However they are not the lightest on the market, they will hold up to and last beyond the AT thru-hike.
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We hit Sawyer Filter's booth a moment later. They've helped start an initiative to certify the claims made by the water filter industry on the water quality of their products.  One would have thought this was done a long time ago.  Sawyer is updating their back flush method to a small threaded ring that screws onto the original Sawyer filter and on to a clean squeeze bag.  These rings are available on line at Sawyer's website and on Amazon.
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Half a dozen stops and finally at the Emberlit booth, fitting for their bushcraft image, lodgepole framed table and merchandise board.  I doubt it was half the size of a small booth at any given restaurant. Even though this day was the last day of the show, people wandered by.  After a quick intro to the his business partner, we were off to check out the novelty items.  My friend is rather out going with an eye for like minded camping style outdoor gear.  Though he'd rather carry a 45lbs pack 5 miles in, and I a 15 lbs pack 20 miles in, the quality of gear must meet high standards of durability.  It's were one puts the objectives of the outings to be.  Hence when I lay out my reviews I state what my intention of to be.  For example search for my review of the Fire Ant stove.
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As we wandered through the halls and ballrooms pushing beyond capacity, I noticed a lot of water sport focus.  The paddle board industry continues to increase.  I could only imagine what Jordanel (sp) Reservoir looked like earlier this week, a second location of the show just beyond Park City.  We didn't pass through the mountain bike area, nor the rock climing/mountaineering areas.  We hit a few knife manufacturers and titanium gear places.  We did stumble upon Disk Golf.  I haven't thrown for a few years but still have a full set of disks from when I lived a block from one of the disk golf parks.  He got two sets of three disks, a starter pack, for him and his girl.  If she's reading this I hope I'm not spoiling a surprise.
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I enjoyed the wander.  I can say it's nice to play with the gear I can see on line.  I didn't see any, or recognize any, yet to be released gear. I was under the impression this Expo was no photography allowed.  There were a few items I pondered on 'how does that work' that I got to see how that works.  I didn't see Zpacks or ULA-equipment, two cottage manufacturers of light weight gear for long distance hikers.  I did get to play with a few pieces from TOAKS Titanium.  I'll do a review of the 450ml pot in a few weeks.  I did get to see CRKT'S knife dispay.  They make a tiny spork that is available nationwide in outdoor displays.  What caught my attention is a lightweight folding knife that is spring less, 1 1/2 inch blade, at an ounce.  It seemed like for every ultra-light knife I picked up, my friend picked up a medium sized hunting knife.  A style I'll carry for when this ultra-light phase phases out.
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Honestly there is a lot of gear on the market that is not at this show for the expanse of the market.  The little guys who are at this show have something that can be upscaled to meet the needs of the larger markets.  Head to your local out fitters and look for Emberlit's fire box stoves, you'll find them.  Look for other little guys who are making head way into the larger markets,  you'll find them.  Sometimes it starts as a hobby that catches, sometimes it's an idea that is developing over and over a rough road.
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As the show closed, I helped the fellas at Emberlit pack down.  We hit sushi afterwards where I got to know a friend of theirs from Rocky Mountain Bushcraft.  He told me of the rough road of making his name known when the big dogs slight handed him over and over.  Cover Yourself and protect what you know, we're two pieces of wisdom he imparted.  Rocky Mountain Bushcraft released a set of Wilderness Guides covering Medicinal Plants of the Rockies and another on Edible Plants of the Rockies that are worth taking with as they're on study waterproof paper.
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My intention is to hike and write about hiking.  When I write about a piece of gear, it's because I'm using it now or am using something similar.  I've paid full cost or have a 'work for trade' agreement.  In the photography forums on can easily find threads talking about 'turn and burns' which is photography given without editing.  One can find threads talking of people just starting out giving away photos for publicity, aka work for trade.  I fought hard to get feedback on images I presented.  I busted hard to make sure my name was on work I did for publicity.  I fought and fought for expectations of what people wanted and for what I wanted as a result of doing.   I lost on all fronts to the point I pulled the batteries out of all camera bodies and flashes.  I shelved my passion at the time with a big exclamation of disappointment and a sinless finger salute.  I covered myself and made known the expections, still got burned in ugly ways. The first thing I do if I obtain a piece for review is establish expections.  What do you expect from me.  I'm not only protection the provider, I'm laying out my expections.  If it's a product sample, I'll try it and write a little on it.  If it's gear, I'll put it through my paces including some new be mis-use of it.  I give my raw feedback.  I don't have an editor.  I'm not staffed or paid.  This a hobby.  I write and I hike for they are fun.  I'll say too, I wouldn't mind recouping my costs.
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Now back to the story.
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As we unloaded the van at the office I noticed a shelf of prototypes, dozens would be an exaggeration of the few.  Emberlit tests and tests setting out their expectations for what they want to achieve then modifing the piece to achieve the expectation. Their work on the market is 99% perfect.  On the end sits an unreleased model.  My friend stated earlier that some of these are being used in under-developed lands with great efficiency, an unintended positive humanitarian result, inadvertently fighting human trafficking.  The users are gathering less wood and other burn able material thus limiting their time away from the safety of the village.
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I've got some other things to tackle in the next few days.  I do want to give on last shout out to Emberlit, thanks for the opportunity to hang out over the weekend.
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If one is looking for a gram weanie stove where fires are not banned, check out the Emberlit Ti Fireant.  I tossed it into my 750ml last night and it does fit without my lid on it.  Don't forget the spoon half of the sprongs for eating utensil.
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Hike On!

Smith and Morehouse Loop

Gently flowing water through the trees of the Smith and Morehouse creek lulls me into a peaceful state of mind. I over look a small meadow shadowed by rounded cliff canyon walls full of aspen and fir trees.  The mosquitoes are surprisingly few and I'm able to enjoy my supper and tea without their company.
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In my rush from work to trail, I picked up my pack. Upon arrival at the trailhead something key for future enjoyment is missing.  Your supposed to put the camera in the ruck not next to it.  Therefore what photos I do take this weekend will be few and with the cell phone.
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This past week was my birthday.  Even though I know she's gone, I still anticipate a cheesy card from my big sister.  Many wished me well via social media.  Next year I think I'll say ahead of time, open up the cheesiest sayings you can. For those who said a little extra, thanks.
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My weekend may be a short hike.  When I say this, I mean under 30.  By the time I hit the top part of this loop I'll break 100 miles of backpacking for the summer not counting the TRT hike (s).  Yes, hikes,  I'm heading back shortly to finish the second half which may be a driver in obtaining this 100 mile goal for the year.  Now with this I am behind on the 300 mile hiking goal I've held for 10 years.  We all have 'our crazy,' this is mine.  Why? I can't describe adequately what I see and here surrounding me.  Even if I could, part of the beauty is the effort it takes to get out and do it.  Much like the gym regulars who bench press 350 for warm ups  (exaggeration) 10 miles a day was rough for me at first backpacking.  It takes time to work up to the miles.
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Time to shift focus.
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Night came and went with a bright Moon overhead.  An early morning runner trotted past around 6, I thought he was a deer.  I took my time getting up.  The sun did not grace this canyon until later, by then I turned left at the first junction and headed towards the pass.
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I met a scattering of Scouts who'd gone up and over to Island Lake the day before.  The trail  is a trace of carins and some treadway.  There would be not 'i' blaze anywhere on my loop today.
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The pass resumed normal trail as I dove into the ever popular Island Lake region.  A group gathered for some cliff jumping.  I continued to Long Lake and around to Duck Lake.  Near Duck Lake, I chat with a Grand Dad out with the youngsters showing them how to backpack.  We start swapping Uinta's stories before he realises he needs to catch up to his group.  With 20lb on his back I'm sure he caught them quickly.
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Once this spur loop completed itself, it was back up to the pass.  The map showed trail.  The junction sign read Big Elk route.  Route it was. Up and over following some carins. The Trail had a natural predictability to it through meadows and rocky areas.  I stopped for a while over looking Fire Lake and the basins below.  I saw one other couple up this direction.
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At Big Elk, I followed a spur to the trailhead.  This is not a road for cars, 4 wheel, high clearance vehicles only.  Back up I went.  The final 1/4 mile a toss up between the Whites and Mt Olympus.
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The map again showed trail up to the pass.  What I experienced is bush waking following gps directions.  Even without the gps I would have gone up and then looked for the trail either by orienteering or looking for the carins. The route not very nice until I cleared the trees.  Once clear of the trees, the carins resumed predictably.  Up and over I went to Erickson Basin. From the pass i coukd see my my destination below.  Topping out was at 6pm.
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Hunger and sore wandering feet made the call as I arrived at South Erickson Lake.  Looking at the map, I'm an easy 1/2 day hike out or 6 ish miles.  I searched for a camp with a side view and no dead fall tree, then set camp.
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Tonight Spaghetti and mint tea.  Mountain House meals may as well be called Mountain Gas meals.  What am I doing wrong in preparing them?  Add boiling water and let soak.  No big deal breaker on the extra scent.
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It's very quiet as I watch the rocky slope reflect changing light upon reflection of the lake before me.  Quiet even on the mosquito side of things.  Every where I went today the wild flowers were blooming.  Even here I see carpets of wild flowers. No fish are jumping so if you are reading this thinking about wetting a line, visit to see yet don't expect a bite.
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Looking though a few cell phone images, I clear will say I capture the essence but not the full beauty.  Tomorrow should be an easy hike out.
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And as I reach for my headlamp, I find my battery.  That's okay, the cellphone camera cannot capture the depth of beauty up here.  As I head to the lake one more time, the fish are rising, not junping, all over.  It's lovely to sit without a jacket thinking about all the variety of trail conditions here.
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One thing that strikes me is few people will go the extra mile.  They so miss out.  If your pack is so heavy you don't want to explore after you set camp, it's too heavy.  Ditch the axe, the camp stool, the bottle of xxx, etc. The Uinta's want to reward the extra miler.
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With few mosquitoes, I kept the tent  screen wide open.  At some point in the night I decided to half lay in the tent and half lay out of it to view the stars.  A good choice I made.  I half slept while trying to recognize the constellations.  I thought about Google Sky however, I'm without service in the mountains and doubt it would do any good.  As high and clear as it was haze from fires obscured the blackness of night, the Milkyway barely shone through.
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I took an easy time getting ready which means packed and ready to go within 1/2 hour of waking up.  I made a hot coffee and sat by the waters edge.  The lake mirrors the shore with such precision may be one could use it as a mirror to shave with.
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At the first trail junction, I chose to take a detour to East Shingle Lake.  A quick mile of down, up, down, and down.  I entered into a small Lake with fish actively pursuing bugs on the water.  I sat for a while then returned to the junction.
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At North Erickson Lake, I sat again.  Fish jumping at this lake too.  I took in the surrounding sparse trees and rock that makes up the Erickson Basin.  There's hardly a place in the Uinta's that could be called like another place.  Even though the two Erickson Lakes are but 1/2 mile apart they seem very different.
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I made quick time down some 5 miles of trail thinking, strawberry milkshake.  A few breaks later I did arrive at the car.  McD's or the local burger drive in in Kamas?  I chose Kamas.
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The place in Kamas was packed, one could not tell how bad it smells over the waving smells of burgers and fries.  Lots of people coming down from the Uinta's filled the joint.  It took a while for the shake and a bit longer for the burger.  No worries, no one was in a hurry and the staff moved quickly.  It was the best burger I've had in a while.
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It's hard to say how far I went only that I went over 25. Several of the places I visited proves that one can find solitude on a busy holiday weekend.
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I've got something pre-scheduled for next weekend.  If I go out, I'll hit a local day hike.  What's a day hike?
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Hike On!

Brown Duck Mountain Loop

I've camped at Atwine and Kidney lakes several times yet, never have tied the two together in the form of a loop.  While it is slow at work, I look at several trails I can do as over nighters then I cyber hike the using Google maps, a little bit of research goes a long ways.  This is one of those hikes I planned.  Initially I wanted to do it in August but the itch got to me this weekend.  I sent off the itinerary to the folks via email.
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Last weekend hike kinda put a rush on the hike a little with driving to the trail in the morning.  This weekend I took off straight from work for Moon Lake, the trailhead.  I put two or three miles in before sunset and found a spot in the lodgepole pines just flat enough for me.  Under the watchful eye of a momma moose, I ate two candy bars.  Between thoughts of standing dead trees falling and mom deciding I was to close, I actually slept really well.
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I got on the trail at 7 am.  Made Brown Duck Lake my breakfast spot a few hours later.  I shuffled past Kidney Lake and spotted my old campsites.  Got 3/4rds the way up Tworoose Pass before I realized I didn't see the lake.  Then I remembered that Lake is off the trail. The pass is well wooded and no views.  When you look at a Flickr set of mine there is one for Brown Duck Region, those images are up a spur trail from Tworoose Pass.
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Down into Squaw Basin I went and into unfamiliar territory. I got happy feet for exploring new territory. Excitement over rode the nerves I expected.   The trail from  here to Clements Lake would be lightly used.  I found a spur that is on the National Geo map but not on any others.  It saved me close to 500 foot loss/gain in elevation. This short cut lead through some amazing meadows and views of rock cliffs above.  I am amazed at how much water was along this route.
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Clements Pass is awesome high alpine meadows that goes on and on.  At the top is a huge pond! After a detour to look out into another basin, I came back to the trail sign and ate lunch.  I wanted a hot luch since I didn't get much chow the night before, with the wind, I hunkered down and ate some dry fruit, a power bar, and drank some powdered drink mix.
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Dropping into East Basin is nothing spectacular, may be the fishing is good.  My goal, get over that pass.  This became  a mind game as I got closer the pass seemed to get farther away.  If you look for East Pass on Google Maps, it wrong, it's closer to the east end than through  the boulder field.  I hit the trail with awe, honestly, I didn't have to go up that stinking boulder field.  The switchbacks head into some trees about half way up and doesn't come out.  The rough part literally is 1/4 of a mile, the rest is forest.  The top was heavily forested, too with no views. The views came with the initial climb.
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Not so far a long from the pass, I meet two guys on horse back.  They asked what was farther down.  'A pass,' I replied.  They turned around for a meadow not so far back.  I continued on.  At Clement's Lake I took another break to consider my options.  I was there within an easy day hike to the car, I could go to Brown Duck Lake and be out early in the day, or draw something in between.
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I went with in between.  There aren't very many campsites at Atwine Lake.  I considered the dead fall in my selection.  I haven't camped within shoe throwing distance of a campfire ring since the AT.  I am tonight.  I haven't seen any rodent signs, big or small.  I set camp, fixed my super, swatted a few mosquitoes.  The mosquitoes are present but, not bothering.
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As evening sets in, the fish started to jump.  I haven't identified what they are going after.  Several years back, I held up here on night as the previous night at a higher elevation was a bit nippy, I listened to the fish jump.  When I got home I got a lightweight fishing kit.  In Boy Scouts I broke a fishing rod tip in the trees on the trail so no more rods that extend higher than the pack.  I don't have that lightweight kit with me now.  If I did, this blog wouldn't be in writing phase now.  I did catch the colors of the sky...
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I'm sitting at Brown Duck Lake thinking.  Yesterday at this time, I sat here too.  I look to my right and see a mountain with snow just under the ridgeline. I can honestly say, I hiked around that mountain.  Sure it's not that big of deal for one who can do 30 plus miles.  It's a bit bigger for me as a planned 30 miles in a 2 day weekend was a barrier, both physically and mentally.
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Physically included the shape I'm in and what I carry.  I've worked up to the 30 miles by doing a few 20's and extra.  I've worked up the gear by looking at what I really need to be comfortable  while not carrying excess.  An example of excess is 2 pairs of hiking  socks or a towel when my bandana will do.  My luxury item this weekend is my sit pad which doubles as my back sheet for the pack I'm using.  I could use a different on that doubles as a sleeping pad.  Last night I rolled over, grabbed my pad and heard a hissing sound.  I thought, great now I have a hole in my pad.  Actually, I'd grabbed the valve.  I slept the rest of the night on a less than ideally inflated pad.  The other pad I'm referring to isn't as comfy but, has no worries to deflation.
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Mentally, on the long multi-day, week long plus, doing 30 miles every 2 days is expected.  Okay, 45 to 60 per 5 days plus is normal.  There one isn't worried about drive time to and from the trailheads.  It's less about getting from point A to B and more of getting through the mundane.  Yesterday, I walked a lot of same type forested miles crossing similar meadows for a few enchanting views.
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It's 9 am, I've got 2 1/2 hours down and 3 hour drive ahead.  The fish are still jumping.  I woke up to jumping fish at 6:30 pared with great morning colors.  I treated myself to a hot coffee while getting ready to move out.
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The rest of the day holds getting home, cleaning gear, thinking about the week ahead, and possibly start looking at next weekend.  If I ruck next weekend I'll hit 100 miles backpacking for the summer which I set as a goal for this year excluding any thru-hike attempts.
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Hike on!
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Footnote
Forest hiking often involves looking out for rock and root alike. Dodging the occasional pile of fly attractor or moving around streams.  Forest trails are mark with a 'i' notched into the trees.  On a seldom use trail the tread way might be over grown.  Often remains of a trail can be followed by looking for trimmed low branches or fallen trees cut to allow for passage.
Meadow hiking may clip a corner of a meadow or go right through it.  The later of the two is fun as sometimes a trail will not be there.  One may see a pile of rocks, a carin, somewhere in the middle or far side, sometimes not.  On the larger, one may need to guess where the trail re-enters the forest by looking for the 'i'.  The meadows may include: marshy areas, streams, or nice comfortable grass to walk on.  In the right time of year an abundance of wild flowers are present.  In the early dawn and late evening wildlife like deer or moose may be present along the edges.

Ryder Lake in Mosquitovile

Watching the weather all week for the weekend made me long for the mountains.  Last weekend I did the Brighton-Alta loop adding a few of my favorite detours.  This time I wanted more.  A random note, in a random note book, caught my attention, Ryder Lake.  I grabbed my Hiking the High Uinta's book.  I'd hiked Christmas Meadows before, noting not to do all three basins at one shot on a 3 day weekend.  Ok, easy, I won't.  I'll do all three as an overnighter.  Na, I wont.  The last basin takes a bit more time.  I also recall, the pack I had then, it tips the scale at 45lbs.  Good memories, I recorded I the trail guide.  It was 9:30 before I finalised my plan and emailed the folks.
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This morning the alarm clock sounded before my weekday time.  Made a coffee and was shortly on the road.  I couldn't remember how to tie the Mirror Lake Highway I to Evanston WY so I went up and over via Mirror Lake.  I want to say uneventful but, a mountain goat and a few deer added to the sightseeing.
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I made it to the trailhead by 7:30 and got underway by 7:45.  I encountered my share number of Boy Scouts.  Multiple groups and different packing styles.  A troop that's got it together with few things hanging off the pack has a leader who is experienced.  The poor kids the look more like the Beverly Hillbillies truck, I feels sorry for as I wonder how many times they've stopped to retie gear back on.  If you're a Scout leader in the greater Salt Lake region and want someone to come do a shake down for your group message me.  I'd like to come help make the young men's (and ladies') over nighters a bit more enjoyable.
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I did a few gear swaps for this weekend.  I'm using an older Gossamer Gear Mariposa pack since my weight is under 20 lbs with food and water.  This is a wet trail so I only need to carry a little. I'm using Evernew Ti's Appalachian Cook set which is a litter 450ml pot with collapsible alcohol/twig stove.  I've used it a few times when I was playing with gear before my AT Journey. For my spoon I grabbed something out of the drawer. This pack loads differently.  The shelter gets stuffed in a big side pocket.  The other side has 2 pockets.  The top one I use for the cook kit, the lower for water.  I stuff my quilt in first for the main compartment and set the food bag on top.  Everything else ets shoved in and around the food bag. Only a few items go in the big back stretchy pocket, like the map and bug spray.  The only thing swinging besides my legs is my water hose with the filter on the end.
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I detoured to Kermashu Lake.  2 miles off my main route. This trail has seen better days, not abused, more like forgotten. It has some ups, some wet meadows, and a lot of downed trees.  I chose not to find my old campsite.  I took a few photos and moved on.

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I got to my destination around 3:45.  Found an initial spot then realized someone had spilt oats near by and something else by a fire pit that attracts huge number of flies.  I moved a quarter of a mile a way. I don't have the best view but I will have a night sky view and a little of the lake.  A quick walk around the lake and I noticed a large number of campfire pits.  I thought this lake had a permanent fire ban within 1/4 of a mile.  Also a group is camped right on the trail between the lake and a waterfall.  You don't want to know what kind of flower I found shorty there after.  There is a lot of dead standing trees.  Campsite selection is crucial for everyone up here. So far just me and them.  Since it's still early, I'll say a few more show up by night fall.
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You know how I hate wind, I'm liking the wind for now as it's keeping the local residents away from me. I doubt it will let up.  Wet weather is due to hit tomorrow afternoon. For now it's a bit warm up here.  I wonder what the night will bring.
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The fellas across the lake made little noise last night.  Within my shelter I put my head near the doorway with the flaps pulled back.  I enjoyed watching the Big Dipper rotate around the North Star. Sleeping loosely covered the temp didn't bother me til the morning chill. I watched the sun hit the tops of the mountains and bemoaned getting up due to the presence of mosquitoes.  I made motion when the ball of furry hit my tent.
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I didn't aim for 20 minutes to gone less coffee and privy.  I did make good time and the lack of mosquitoes was nice.  Once ready for the day I pulled out breakfast of oatmeal and a coffee oacket.  I found an 8 ounce sized nalgene recently and went for a cold one.  Alcohol stoves take to long to heat water just for a drink.
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I followed a likely route up to McPherson Lake.  I crossed several, err, many seasonal ponds.  Stared eye to eye with a few monster bucks in velvet. Oh, what beauties they are even at 100 yards.
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It's around 9:20 at McPherson's where I'm enjoying second breakfast after exploring the lower portion of upper Middle Basin.  The last trip here I explored the upper part and see no reason to tromp up there.  Here's to another cup of chug (cold instant coffee) and the sound of seasonal waterfalls with a nice breeze.
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I followed the water down after looking into the upper basin.  There were a few natural waterfalls which made good photos. I took time watching my step so I did not have to down climb, only step down.
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I didn't take many photos after I hit Ryder Lake as it's mostly forest trail and some meadows.
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When I got back to the trailhead, I checked the signage.  Sure enough the whole basin has a permanent fire ban.  Most of the High Uinta's have fire restrictions.  Please folks the Forest Service cannot baby sit the users of the backcountry, it is up to us to manage ourselves accordingly.  Please practice good Leave No Trace methods.  I know a campfire is nice and is a good social experience for the backcountry but it leaves a scar on the land that many do not try to hide.  With the number of 'established' fire rings it sure felt crowded up there.  Please take only photos, make only memories, and leave only well buried privy stuff.  I'd rather not know someone was there until I read a trip report or saw a photo.  In order for the wilderness to be around for the next generation, this generation must take responsibility for managing and preserving it.  End rant.
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The drive home went uneventful.  A knock on the door was a pleasant surprise by the little ones.  Their Mom offered me a plate of baked chicken for supper. I love my neighbors.  Thank you, it hit the spot for this hungry hiker.
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Besides a little hiker hobble and a twang of sunburn on my arms, this was a good hike.
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Hike On!