The little voice inside

I had such trouble yesterday trying to figure out where Dave and Team Far Sight spend their evening. Typically, using the PCT half mile maps and the SPOT google maps it is not too difficult to pinpoint their location.

The phone rang tonight at 7:00. Dave, Zero, and Fire Marshall are in Mammoth! Zero's tooth issue became such an issue on the trail. He was experiencing pain, not being able to eat much, and was getting dizzy.

They hiked off the trail, out Bishop Pass, to a Ranger Station. They had left a note on the trail stating that they had a hiker who needed medical attention and that they would wait at the Ranger Station for help. Not too long after getting there the Ranger and friends showed up. Amongst the friends were a nurse and a doctor. The doctor just happened to have antibiotics with him that he gave to Zero. They then gave them a ride to Mammoth. Zero went right to a dentist.

Dave checked into a hotel to get a shower and sleep. He is really enjoying the majesty of the scenery, but he is really worn out. His comment was "I'm feeling 50". The routine of the hiking & packing, and the rough travel are wearing on him.

They have been hiking over a pass a day, about 10 miles each day. Their plan sets them up in the tree line just before the pass, typically around 8000 feet. They head out early in the day while the snow is hard. That helps them create steps. Travel is about one mile per hour. By the time they are coming down the other side the sun has warmed the snow, making downhill travel easier. The passes are about 12,000 feet. The push on through the next valley, to the tree line, getting ready for the next day's pass climb.

Although last night I thought they had made it to mile 846, they left the trail at mile 832. They will get to the post office tomorrow where packages I mailed should already be there. They will resupply and then give me a call. I'll find out if I need to mail additional supplies to Mammoth. They will also let me know their next plans. Dave wants to get back on the trail as soon as possible and keep moving forward. He's concerned about falling further behind. He will be sending home his crampons (actually, Sarah Hess's crampons - thanks Sarah!). They have not used them once. His ice axe will probably find it's way home too because it's not getting used. Dave is looking for weight to get off his back (and maybe leave a little room for extra food).

Although Dave had 4 days of food left which would have gotten them to their next resupply location, Fire Marshall was down to to days. They need to make sure that they have enough food and room for it all! Hopefully Dave will send home his SD card (I've sent him a replacement). I can't wait to see these beautiful images he's been describing to me and then share them with all of you. More tomorrow.

Trail Angel Jane