Recovery week

Wednesday, September 29th, Dave is recovering at Big Bear. We plan on heading down to Duarte tomorrow afternoon.

Dave will be studying the elevation gain/losses in the last 412 miles of the PCT. Although he is not anxious to be getting that pack on his back again, he does want to hike what he can.

The current plan being looked at is to get Dave back on the trail at Echo Lake on Monday, October 4th. It is just a plan, so things can change. As plans are finalized, we'll update everyone. You may even seen more pictures by this weekend, I just need to get them from Dave and upload them.

Dave has a 3 to 4 inch beard that is wavy, which makes him look like this picture of an old German man we have on our wall here at Big Bear. I'll add that to the pictures.

Other than that, all is well with Dave. His feet are sore but feeling better. His sciatic nerve is giving him problems, but I've got him on a Vitamin "I" routine to see if it can reduce the swelling.

Happy Birthday to Dave's Mom, Ginger!!!! We love you!

Trail Angel Jane

Back in the States - Seattle

It was a long day waiting for Dave to call, Sunday, September 26th. He's had a day of traveling. He got on a bus in Manning Park, Canada, at 11:10 am. He got into Vancouver around 3:30 this afternoon. He went through Customs around 4:30, and then bought an Amtrak ticket to get to Seattle. While Dave was looking for an Amtrak train, his Amtrak bus was loading passengers and getting ready to depart, without Dave. An employee saw him and mentioned the bus. Dave got on with only a few moments to spare. He's currently traveling on that bus to Seattle.

Dave wanted to get a flight out tonight to Ontario Airport or Los Angeles Airport, however there were no flights (unless you count the flight from Seattle leaving at 11:30, stopping in Chicago, then stopping in Phoenix, then arriving in Ontario at 11:00 tomorrow morning.

He decided to stay the night and get a flight out in the morning. Dave will be staying at the Motel 6 near the airport. He'll then get a Southwest flight out at 10:00 am tomorrow morning, arriving at the Ontario Airport at 1:55 tomorrow afternoon.

We'll then head directly up to Big Bear where Dave will rest, eat well, watch sports and news. His spirits brightened when I mentioned that the Monday Night Football Game is the Packers vs Bears!! It'll be great having him home!

Happy Birthday Katie!!

Trail Angel Jane

Manning Park, British Columbia, Canada

Today, Saturday September 25th, Dave walked into Manning Park. He still has no cell phone service, but he called me using a calling card.

He is tired, worn out, and has a head cold. He is coming home. He's asked me to pick him up at the Ontario Airport (if we can find him a good flight) and take him directly up to Big Bear for some rest and relaxation. We are not sure how he is going to get to Seattle, but he'll work on that tomorrow. Tonight he was going to eat, shower, and sleep.

What about the 412 miles left in California? That is still unknown. Dave feels he's really done what he set out to do. He has hiked the hardest, coldest, and wettest parts of the PCT. Most of the PCT Through Hikers I've met have skipped parts of the trail here and there for many different reasons. We'll get Dave rested and see what the remainder of the year will bring for him.

Trail Angel Jane

Where were you when Dave crossed into Canada??

Saturday, September 25th at 9:31 am Pacific Time, Dave sent a Spot showing him on the United States - Canadian boarder! He's made it! What were you doing when Dave crossed into Canada? Check out Google Map:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=49.00031,-120.80203&ll=49.00031,-120.80203&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

The weather report for Manning Park shows rain, which I'm sure Dave is sick of! I've looked at Echo Lake to Castella weather and it is sunny and warm for the next week at least. Dave will be happy to be back in California with our sunny weather!

Look for at least one more update today when he makes it to Manning Park, British Columbia, Canada!!!

Trail Angel Jane

Update to last night's Blog

Dave's Spot did come in around 7:00 last night, September 24th. I am up at Big Bear, and for some strange reason, I did not receive it until 10:30 pm. I thought I had better AT&T reception here! It is just good to know that he is still with his friends. Check out Dave's Spot:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3YQ93/48.92585/-120.76688

I'll be keeping my phone close to me today, because when Dave gets into Canada he'll make his plans to get to Sacramento and will need to let me know so that I can meet him with some resupplies for Echo Lake (near Lake Tahoe).

Trail Angel Jane

Hopkins Lake - 6 miles from Canada

Dave's Spot has not yet come in tonight, however Team Far Sight's Spot did. Tonight, Friday September 24th, the guys are camping just above Hopkins Lake at PCT mile 2648.5. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section L page 7.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

The Canadian boarder is at PCT mile 2654. I'm glad I'm not a betting girl because I would have lost last nights bet. The guys hiked 22 miles today. Dave only has 15 miles to hike tomorrow to make it into Canada and to Manning Park. He's planning on spending the evening in Canada and then Sunday working on getting to Sacramento via Seattle.

Trail Angel Jane

Mt. Baker & Okanogan National Forests

Dave's Spot came in tonight at 7:13 pacific time, Thursday September 23rd. He is camping at PCT mile 2624.5, at cross roads of the National Forest Developed Roads 700, 500, and 5400. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section L page 4.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also see his location from Dave's Spot:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3Y0mY/48.72142/\-120.66998

The guys hiked 16 miles today. Tomorrow Dave will encounter many climbs up and down, all between 6000 and 7000 feet.

Dave could make it to Canada by Saturday, but if I were a betting girl I'd have to predict Sunday. Should we start a pool??

I've not yet seen Team Far Sight's Spot tonight, but I'm sure they are close to camp.

Trail Angel Jane

Milestone 2600 passed today!! Okanogan National Forest

Dave's Spot came in today at 6:30 this evening, Tuesday September 22nd. He is camping at PCT mile 2608.5 and hiked 21 miles today! See PCT Half Mile map Washington section L page 2.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can see his Spot at Google Maps:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3Xch1/48.61779/\-120.75749

He had been up in elevation around 7000 feet today, but ended up camping at just under 5000 feet. Tomorrow he'll go down in elevation to 4200 feet and then end the day around 7000 feet. You can look at page 10 and 11 of the Half Mile map and see just what the next few days until Dave makes his way into Canada.

It does look like he'll get into Manning Park this Sunday, September 26th.

Happy Birthday to Dave's brother Steve!!

Trail Angel Jane

Nearing Hwy 20, aka Rainy Pass

Dave's Spot came in tonight, September 21st, at 5:45 pm. It shows the guys camping at PCT mile 2587.5. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section K page 15.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

They hiked 13.5 miles today. Dave had mentioned that this was tough hiking so he knew the miles per day would slow down. Zero and Fire Marshall's Spots came in just about the same time. It's good that they are staying together

I also forgot to mention that Stehekin, small as it was, had the correct type of fuel that he would need. This is the first spot in all of Washington that carried this fuel. This would be the one location that he received a package of fuel that I sent! Better late than never!

Zero had been planning on hiking into Canada with Dave, but his parents were unable to locate his passport. Dave has his passport card which will not let him fly. I went to the post office to overnight his passport to him. I was told that it would take 3 to 5 business days to get it to Manning Park. Because of this, I did not mail it. If it takes 5 business days, Dave will already be back in the States. His plan is to get a bus or train from Vancouver to Seattle. Hopefully he'll meet up with Zero in Seattle or in Sacramento so they can finish the 412 miles together.

Trail Angel Jane

Stehekin, Washington

Dave did get into Stehekin, Washington yesterday and spent the night there with Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead. Tonight they will get a bus ride back to the trail head at PCT mile 2574.

There is no cell phone reception, but Dave was able to purchase a calling card for the satellite phone that is available to hikers from the National Forest Service. He called around 10:45 am, but I was on a conference call, so he left a message. Then he called back around 2:30 pm. I could hear him perfectly, but he could not hear me. He did say it was storming, and that it may be interfering with his call. He tried back two more times.

He said that they are staying a place where you can only get to by boat or plane (or hiking!), The people staying at Lake Shilon were trying to get away from civilization, where Dave and the guys were trying to find civilization!

Three days ago, Dave had 5 encounters with different bears. All, thankfully, uneventful. They have had deer in their camp. It really is in the middle of nowhere!

When they got off the trail yesterday, they took a bus ride (in an old red bus) to Steheiken. When they tried to pay for their bus fair, they found that it was already paid for by some tourists. When in town, they went to a bakery and others bought them pastries. Dave said that this adventure has shown him that there are many thoughtful and kind people in this world.

All Dave's packages arrived, including the Canadian Whiskey that I had recently sent. Bad news is that the Whiskey bottle must have opened somewhere along the way - there was no liquid in it!! Good news is that Dave has food and fuel!

I will be overnighting Dave's passport to him. He found that in order to fly out of Canada, he'll need more than his passport card. If he doesn't get the passport in time, he'll take a bus to Seattle and fly out from there. At this point, it looks like Zero will be traveling with him, sticking together so they can hike the California section together (412 miles). Zero's feet have gotten pretty sore and he figured why hike 60 miles off the trail when he can save that for the California section!

Dave figures he'll be in Canada in 5 to 6 days. This portion of the trail has been pretty difficult. The elevation changes have been very dramatic. The rain has not made it easier.

Good news on the weather, it looks like our hikers will be having some nice weather. Thursday is the only day with rain in the forecast (besides tonight!). It'll be nice for them to be dry for a bit!

Dave also mentioned that he had not hit his Spot the last two nights because of rain and last night being in a building. He most likely won't hit his Spot tonight because he'll be at the trail head.

Here is an invite to anyone in the LA area - Dave wants to hike from Baden Powell to Little Jimmy (approximately 7 miles) upon his return. When Dave was hiking that location here in the San Gabriel Mountains, there was a PCT reroute in place. Most PCT hikers went around Baden Powell, as did Dave. He now that wants to go back and hike that section now that it is open. He wants to get a group together to hike this section with him. Are you interested? This will take place on a weekend and we'll end the hike with a BBQ. (or should I say a CigarBQ!). As we get closer to Dave finishing the 412 mile stretch in California we'll set a date. I'll be providing more information about the hike, but you can let me know if you are interested in hiking with Dave!

Trail Angel Jane

Stekehin?

It's 8:00 pm, Sunday September 19th and I've not seen a Spot for either Dave or Team Far Sight. I know that Dave has had trouble with his (could be his batteries). If the guys made the 14 mile hike into Stehekin, then Zero would not hit his Spot. I'll keep watching.

I tracked the last package that I had sent to Dave (their celebration Whiskey) to Stehekin. The Postal Service attempted to deliver the package to the Stehekin Post Office, and it was taken back to Wenatchee. They have left a signature card at Stehekin, but I know that there is no way Dave would take time to go to Wenatchee. These smaller Post Offices are only open a few hours, but I'm surprised that packages are not delivered to them. I'll call them in the morning.

Trail Angel Jane

Wenatchee National Forest

Dave's Spot once again did not come in. Team Far Sight's Spot did come in and it looks like they are all camping at PCT mile 2560. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section K page 11.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also look at the Google Map from Team Far Sight:

http://www.teamfarsight.org/

The guys hiked 22 miles today. They are on track for hitting the Canadian border on September 22nd. I had planned a weekend away with some girl friends, but it looks like I'll be picking Dave up in Sacramento instead.

If you look at Google maps and look at the map via satellite you'll see that there is a lot of snow. I'm sure that the satellite is not real time, but I do know that they will be hiking through snow. I'll be interested to find out just how much snow there is. With the rain, the snow could be causing some issues.

I'm expecting the guys to get into their last Washington resupply town tomorrow. I've told Dave to find a pay phone if his cell doesn't work. We'll see what the town of Stehekin has in store for the guys.

Trail Angel Jane

Around Milk Lake Glacier

Dave's Spot came in early today - around 5:30 - Friday September 17th. The guys are camping at PCT mile 2538. The guys hiked 12 miles today. Check out the PCT Half Mile map Washington Section K page 8.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Since the guys were trying to hike 20 miles per day, I did some investigating. They have had constant rain. Today they also hiked from 5,500 feet, up to 6,400 feet, down to 3,700 feet and back up to 6,000 feet. With all that elevation gain and all the rain, it only figures that the guys would find a good spot to camp for the night. They may have been surprised with a hut that provided them extra shelter.

Another theory is that the guys realized that they would not make it into Stehekin until Sunday and the Post Office would be closed. They may have decided to take some easy days and get into town on Monday. We'll find out soon enough.

The best news is that next week they should have sunshine. That would be a great way to finish the hiking into Canada.

Trail Angel Jane

Update on Dave's location September 17th

Dave's Spot came in this morning at 7:37 am. I'm gathering that due to rain last night, the Spot was signaled this morning. Let's hope that means they are having some respite from the rain. The Spot confirmed that they camped last night at PCT mile 2526. Today they will be hiking close to and around Milk Lake Glacier. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section K page 7.

The guys plan is to hike approximately 20 miles each day. There is a water crossing at PCT mile 2547 where a bridge had washed out. My guess is that the guys will hike to the water crossing and camp there tonight. It is always safer to cross water early in the morning when the water is cold and flowing slower. As the day warms, the water moves more rapidly, being more dangerous to cross.

I had originally thought that the guys would get into Stehekin tomorrow, but it looks like it will be Sunday. They may need to stay until Monday to get their packages from the Post Office.

Trail Angel Jane

Mt. Baker National Forest near Kennedy Peak

Dave's Spot once again did not come in. Thankfully he's hiking with Zero and Fire Marshall who have their Spots fully functional.

Tonight Team Far Sight's Spot came in just prior to 8:00 pm, Thursday September 16th. They are at PCT mile 2526, having walked 21 miles today. They are due west of Kennedy Peak. Check out the PCT Half Mile map Washington Section K page 7. If all is going well, they are with Redhead too.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can check out the Google Map from Team Far Sight's Spot - just click on Tracking the Team:

http://www.teamfarsight.org/

Another two days and we may hear from them again.

Trail Angel Jane

Skykomish Peak - past PCT mile 2500!

Dave's Spot did not come in once again tonight. I know, however, that he is meeting up each night with Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead. Team Far Sight's Spot came in just prior to 8:00 pm tonight, Wednesday, September 15th. They are camping at PCT mile 1505, near Skykomish Peak. 23 miles today is great for the type of terrain they are walking in. Check out the PCT Half Mile maps Washington Section K page 4.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

I've sent a surprise package of Canadian Whiskey to Dave at his final resupply location just prior to getting to the boarder. If the package arrives in one piece, the boys will have the chance to celebrate this milestone!

I've also sent off two additional packages to some California resupply locations for the very last leg of Dave's trip. I was told at the Post Office today that after a package arrives, the Post Office holds on to it for 15 days and then sends it back. I've got 4 other boxes ready to go, but don't want to get them in the mail too soon. Timing is everything! I've also put fuel in each package, so they all need to go ground, which takes at least a week. I may have to call some of these resupply locations, either post offices or stores, and make sure they hold on to the packages. I don't want Dave getting to any location without his resupplies. I've gotten tracking numbers and will keep a watch on them.

Tomorrow will be mostly cloudy, but rain follows for the next few days. They may have some sun on Sunday as they leave Stehekin, Washington (yes, the last resupply location that they should get to on Saturday at PCT mile 2574). I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Dave will get more than the Whiskey at this resupply!

Trail Angel Jane

Skykomish & Lake Valhalla

Dave called this morning as he was 2 miles from the road that leads into Skykomish. He was tired, but looking forward to getting into town, resupplying, and getting back on the trail.

We were concerned, because the last to resupply locations did not have Dave's packages. We knew that one package I had sent to Skykomish was at the Dinsmore's. I had mailed another package from Wisconsin and sent it to the Post Office. Sure enough, that package was not there today. That means Dave has no fuel. He said that he'd go through the food that I had sent, his left overs, and then would figure out the fuel issue. On a good note, Washington allows campfires lower in elevation than California and even Oregon. He'll be able to make campfires when its not raining. Zero did receive the package of fuel that I sent him last week from California.

Dave did let me know that all four guys are still together. He was hiking near Zero today. But all four, Dave, Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead meet up each night a their predetermined spot.

The Spot came in tonight around 7:00 at PCT mile 2482, at the north end of Lake Valhalla. They now have less than 200 miles to Canada. Dave mentioned that the guys wanted to do a bit of "celebrating" at the boarder. I found some Canadian Whiskey and will get it overnighted to them for their last stop. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section K page 1.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Dave was excited to relay his first bear story. As he was walking along the trail he saw a bear charging toward the trail. This was an adolescence bear. When the bear got about 15 feet from Dave it must have realized that he was there and the bear turned around and ran away. No drama. He also said that they had minimal rain today and that he could finally see Washington. He was amazed at just how beautiful the state is!

Just over a week until Dave crosses into Canada and I get to see him again. I'm packing boxes this week to send between Echo Lake and Castella. I've decided that I'll work with the Post Office to track each package!

Trail Angel Jane

Lake Susan Jane

Dave's Spot didn't come in tonight. I did check Team Far Sight's Spot and it came in at 7:40. They are camping at PCT mile 2471.5 at Lake Susan Jane.

Check out PCT Half Mile map Washington Section J page 7

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Check out Team Far Sight's Spot:

http://www.teamfarsight.org/ (under tracking)

They are about 4 miles from town, Skykomish, WA. I was thinking they'd get into town today, but traveling is staying at 20 miles per day due to the terrain. They have encountered hills - or should I say mountains. Tomorrow should be downhill into town. They can pick up their resupplies and then get back on the trail or take a much needed day of rest.

Hopefully I'll hear from Dave tomorrow and remind him to push the button on his Spot - he must have been so very tired today to forget to push it or too tired to let it sit long enough.

Trail Angel Jane

Ridge above Hyas Lake

Dave's Spot came in about 7:30 tonight, Sunday, September 12th. He is camping at PCT mile 2451 which is on a ridge above Hyas Lake. You can check out PCT Half Mile map California Section J page 5.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also see Dave's Spot on Google Maps:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=47.56367,-121.13397&ll=47.56367,-121.13397&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

The weather said that it was going to rain all day. I'm hoping Dave will have better hiking weather tomorrow.

Zero and Fire Marshall's Spot came in about 6:45. They are camping at the same spot that Dave is at. I'm hoping that they are still camping with Redhead too.

I may hear from Dave tomorrow if he has cell service (or maybe a pay phone). I'm just hoping that he receives some resupplies.

Trail Angel Jane

Cooper River - Wenatchee National Forest

Dave's Spot came in at 7:50, Saturday September 11th. He hiked 21 miles today, camping near Cooper River. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section J page 3.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also see his Google Map from his Spot:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=47.50034,-121.23904&ll=47.50034,-121.23904&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

Although it looks it's rained most of today, Dave should have been able to set up his tent without rain. Rain should start again around 1:00 am and rain most of tomorrow. Monday the rain should let up, but he'll be heading into Skykomish to see if he's received any resupply boxes. So far, Washington has been swallowing his resupplies!!


Team Far Sight (Zero and Fire Marshall) and Readhead are all camping with Dave at Cooper River. All Spots came in at the same location. Looks like they had some switchbacks today!

Our hikers hiked uphill at first (elevation 5300 ft to 6000 ft). Then the trail took them downhill to 3200 feet, and once more up to 5600 feet. Tomorrow will start out with downhill going from 5600 feet to 3000 feet, then back up to 5600 feet and ending around 4000 feet. All that will be done in the rain. I'm hoping the trail is not too slippery, especially for Zero.

Trail Angel Jane

Ridge Lake

Dave's Spot came in tonight, September 10th, around 7:00 pm. He is camping at the south end of Ridge Lake at PCT mile 2410.

I had the chance to talk to Dave again this morning. He told me that he needed to buy some food to resupply and then he and the guys would be off. Since they would get a late start, he did not expect to hike too many miles. Looks like they did just over 9 miles. See PCT Half Mile map Washington Section J page 1.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Here is Dave's Google Map from his Spot:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=47.46261,-121.3676&ll=47.46261,-121.3676&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

Thanks to Orange Pacer for getting us the information on the Chevron Station. I passed this on to Dave this morning. He had already looked at each package in that cooler! No packages.

My cousin Kris got me in touch with her cousin Ben who lives near Seattle. He lives too far to ask him to drive to Dave with fuel (5 1/2 round trip drive), but Ben did have some suggestions. He has a friend who will be driving past Snoqualmie Pass tomorrow and could bring Dave fuel, but Dave needed to get back on the trail today. Ben's other thought was that at Dave's next resupply location, there is a little store with camping supplies. I called the store/gas station at Ben's suggestion and sure enough, they have the fuel there for purchase. The Dinsmore's Hiker Haven is also at that location. They should also have a package that I had sent early on. My suggestion to Dave was to call them and ask them to open the box to see if there was fuel in it.

Today may be my last call from Dave until he reaches Canada. He's been told that cell signals are rare in this area. I told him to watch out for payphones! We need to hear from him because we are curious about his adventures.

Team Far Sight (Zero and Fire Marshall) and Redhead are all with Dave at Ridge Lake. Their goal is to hike to the Canadian Border together. Dave will continue 8 miles to Manning Park and then take a bus to the Vancouver airport. Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead will stop at the border, hike 20 miles to the nearest road, get a hitch to the Amtrak station, and get a ride to Sacramento. At least, this is the current plan. As I've found out on this Adventure, plans change all the time!

13 - 14 days until CANADA!!!!!

(if Dave hikes 20 miles each day - then another 400 miles in California)

Trail Angel Jane

Snoqualmie Pass, WA

Tonight Dave called in with only 4 miles to go until he got into Snoqualmie Pass. We had a chance to talk about the previous days.

First, I had thought Dave camped the other night with Boy Scouts (bad cell phone reception). He really camped with the Cowboys. There were two couples, Master Chef and his wife McNaughton and Sawblade with his wife Pink. Dave named them all. They introduced him to McNaughton whisky, now Dave's favorite (although I think anything out of the ordinary on the trail could be considered his favorite!).

The night Dave and the guys met up was at a shelter / cabin like structure. It had 4 walls and a wood burning stove. Dave was the first one there, but by the end of the night there were 8 hikers staying there. Everyone needed to get out of the rain.

Last night they camped on or just off of a road. Dave estimated they did 22 miles yesterday, and about the same today. He hasn't seen much of Washington due to the fog and rain.

Dave talked about the Trail Magic. He and Zero were hiking together and were wet and cold. Out of nowhere they found a guy "Not Phil's Dad" who was out hunting. Hunting season (I believe bow hunting) just started. Not Phil's Dad had a tent up, with extra hot cocoa, chili and hot dogs that he shared with Dave and Zero. Not Phil's Dad is truly contributing to the Trail Magic! He is called Not Phil's Dad because pf his son, "Not Phil". Not Phil hiked the PCT last year.

Dave said that he would hike for miles and miles and miles and miles with no water... and as he approaches these small towns he finds rivers. You would think that with all this rain there would be ample water locations!

Dave also talked about the climbing up hills and down hills, the cold, and the rain. The sad thing is that he couldn't see much of what he was hiking due to the rain and fog. His quote tonight is "I"m sure Washington is a beautiful State, if I could see it!". He ran into two hunters who agreed that Washington was beautiful. They call the rain "liquid sunshine". Dave said it would be more beautiful if it were moonshine! Although he's miserable, he does have quite a sense of humor! Someone told him that Washington has a lot of old growth. Dave commented that all he needs to do is look at a mirror to see old growth!

He feels that he is getting used to the rain, or at least learning to cope with it. After two days, his goal is to find some sort of shelter to dry off and get warm. Things are so wet that his skin is getting loose (that could be weight loss too). He has a stone bruise on his food and his hip is really sore from his backpack, but these are minor and he knows he can push past this.

Dave's resupplies did not show up at the Chevron station. I sent his food from Wisconsin. Ground takes much longer than I had thought. He'll be able to purchase food here at least. The package I sent to Zero with clothing did show up. Zero also had some spare fuel that he is sharing with Dave. I've got a call into the next resupply location to see if he has his packages there. If not, we've got a few plans. We know someone who knows someone in Seattle. If needed, we'll send some resupplies for Monday. It is very frustrating to spend time purchasing, packing, and mailing items that don't get to him in time. I guess this week I'll start mailing packages to the California stops to insure that they are waiting for him! I, personally, will be thankful when this resupplying is over!!

I gave Dave the forecast for the next 5 days. No matter what I said, scattered showers, partly cloudy, sun, etc, his reply was, that means rain. There is just no let up of these showers. The temp may hit the high 50s, but averages high 40's. There is just not enough sun to warm things up.

Dave was walking through a forest today socked in with fog. The sun was trying to peak through, but all it did was make the fog look green.

It was nice talking to Dave even though spirits were dampened by not getting his supplies. He's staying at the Howard Johnsons. The HJ employee is going to call the Post Office in the morning to see if Dave's packages are there. If not, he'll just purchase food and move on. One way or another, his hike must go on.

Trail Angel Jane

Wenatchee National Forest - Snaggle Tree Peak

Dave's Spot came in at 7:00 Wednesday September 8th. He is camping new Snaggle Tree Peak, just west of it, at PCT mile 2379. The notes on the PCT Half Mile maps say that there is a spring and soggy ground at this point. You can check out the Half Mile maps Washington Section I page 11.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also see Dave's Google Map from his Spot at the following link:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3Rd0t/47.24543/\-121.34315

He is on track to get into Snoqualmie Pass tomorrow.

Again tonight Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead are camping with Dave. You can check out their Spot at the following link:

http://www.teamfarsight.org/ Just go to tracking and click on the most recent Spot location.

They all have packages to pick up tomorrow. The town is very small. The post office is only open for two hours each day. Instead of having the packages left at the post office, their packages are being sent to the Chevron Station. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will have enough fuel and food.

Trail Angel Jane

UrichCamp - Urich Camp at Government Meadow

Dave's Spot came in tonight around 7:00 pm. He is at PCT mile 2355.5, camping at or near Urich Camp at Government Meadow. It looks like he hiked 14.2 miles today. You can check out PCT Half Mile maps Washington Section I page 8.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

I'm not sure why only 14 miles were completed today. If you look at the last pages on the Half Mile maps Section I, under page 8 you can see the elevation gain and loss. It looks like Dave had a relatively flat hike today. It could be that the weather was bad and he needed to dry off. This week is going to be full of rain for him!

You can also see Dave's Google Map Spot location at the following link:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3RCmC/47.08938/\-121.39572

It looks like Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead have caught up with Dave. Their Spot came in at the same time Dave's did and their Google maps are almost identical. They are about 1/2 mile from Naches Trail. I Expressed mailed Zero his clothes today that he had requested. They are not scheduled to hit Snoqualmie Pass until Thursday, which is at PCT mile 2402. Dave thought he'd get their tomorrow afternoon, but now it will most likely be Thursday.

Dave is needing fuel and he should get it when he arrives in Snoqualmie. He's been using campfires to cook food, saving his fuel. Two nights ago, he ran into some scouts who had a fire. He asked if he could warm up by their fire, and they invited him to stay. He even was able to cook over their fire. Zero, too, is running low on fuel. I've forwarded some to him to the stop after Snoqualmie. Hopefully, he'll have enough fuel to last him.

Trail Angel Jane

Labor Day on the PCT - near Basin Lake, WA

Dave's Spot came in around 7:25 pm Labor Day, September 6th. He is camping at PCT mile 2341.3, just prior to Scout Pass Trail junction. He called prior to the end of his hiking with very spotty cell phone service. He let me know that although he was tired and wanted to stop for the day, he had to keep going because he needed water. He had some, so he didn't have to reach water, but Dave is thorough. He has never run out of water because water is always on his mind. He's not taking any chances. We'll see, next time he calls, if he located that water he was looking for!

Check out Dave's Spot on Google maps:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3QpOM/46.94709/\-121.453

You can check out his location on the PCT Half Mile maps Washington Section I page 6.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead hit their Spot about two minutes after Dave hit his tonight. They are camping at PCT mile 2334.2 at the south end of Sheep Lake. You can check out their location at the PCT Half Mile maps Washington Section I page 5. The boys are separated by 7 miles. It's great to see that they are staying really close - 7 miles is only 2-3 hours of hiking.

Trail Angel Jane

More rain - heading towards Snoqualmie Pass

Dave's Spot came in at 7:47 pm, Sunday August 5th. He has passed Twin Sisters Lake and is at approximately PCT mile 2321.5. He was aiming for at least 15 miles today, estimating that leaving town later would not leave him enough time to hike his normal 25 miles. He also said that his pack was always heavier on the first day out of a town. However, it looks like he did 18.5 miles. You can check out the PCT Half Mile maps Washington Section I page 3.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also see the Google Map from tonight's spot:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=46.74804,-121.41901&ll=46.74804,-121.41901&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

When I talked to him this morning he told me that he had forgotten to mention the wildlife that he had seen recently. First there was the bobcat, then the elk and deer. Two nights ago he say a herd of Mountain Goats. The goats were not too disturbed by Dave when he set up camp near them. Although the weather was suppose to be sunny but cold, as Dave was getting on the trail it was drizzling rain. As Dave O said, go figure - rain in Washington! True words Dave O!

It looks like Zero, Fire Marshall, and I believe Redhead, hiked into White Pass today for resupplies. The got right back on the trail and hit their Spot at 7:13 pm. They are camping on the north side of Beusch Lake at PCT mile 2309. Zero's friend Lane called me and told me that Zero is cold. (Dave too mentioned that it was so miserably cold). Zero had sent some items to our house from the trai - things that were not needed and too heavy to keep with him. I'll be going through these items tomorrow and get them in the mail for Zero - hopefully to be at their next location - Snoqualmie Pass on Thursday of this week. We must keep our hikers as happy as we can to help them complete this adventure!

Trail Angel Jane

White Pass

Dave called in tonight, Saturday August 4th. He was just reaching the road that he would walk for a 1/2 mile into White Pass (small town of Naches, WA). He was looking forward to getting a room, hot shower, and a bed to sleep on, but he was worried about this being Labor Day weekend and all the rooms being taken. White Pass is at PCT mile 2303. Dave was happy to check off another hundred miles!

See the PCT Half Mile Map Washington Section H page 20.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Today's hike was one for the books. He hiked over "Great Rocks" at about 7,000 feet. This area is full of shale and loose rocks, and has very steep slopes on both sides of the trail. Normally, this wouldn't be an issue, but the gusting winds and white out conditions (not snow - he was hiking in the clouds) made the trip very perilous. The wind knocked him off his feet at one point. There were several miles of this hiking, but Dave made it through to tell his story.

Getting into town, we hung up and I waited for his call once he was settled and knew where he'd be sleeping. Dave met up with Green Tortuga and is sharing a room with him tonight. Have a look at Greet Tortuga's web page: www.anotherlongwalk.com

Dave had picked up his resupply packages but didn't find any fuel. I've sent so many packages that I've lost track of where I've sent fuel. I thought I had sent some fuel to this location from California, but I'm thinking that Dave may have two fuels at his next location at Snoqulmie Pass on Wednesday. He thinks he has enough fuel to get him through the next couple of days.

Dave has 357 miles (approximately) to Manning Park in Canada. His goal is currently 25 miles per day. At this rate it will take him 14-15 days to reach Manning Park. If he travels 20 miles per day it will take him 17-18 days. The average puts him at getting into Manning Park on the 20th as previously estimated.

Weather.com is saying that he'll have cold but sunny days Sunday and Monday, with Rain on Tuesday for White Pass. The weather for Snoqulmie also shows rain for Wednesday, but sun for Thursday and showers Friday. Most of the rain days are only 30% chance of rain. These rain showers should not bother Dave too much - the thunder showers were what soaked him. He also has gotten some large garbage bags to doubly protect his gear. This coming week will be a challenge for Dave. Keep him in your prayers!

Dave ran into a hiker today who had passed Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead and reported them doing well. The guys hit their Spot tonight at 7:30. There were two Spots received tonight from them. It looks like they are still not camping together. It could be that Zero is having fun hiking alone again. They are camping near / around Lutz Lake which is at PCT mile 2290. You can check out PCT Half Mile map Washington Section H page 18. They should arrive at White Pass (town of Naches, WA) tomorrow early to mid day. Dave will be calling in the morning to find out where the guys are. They are all hoping to cross into Canada together or at least close together.

Trail Angel Jane

Crispus River

Dave's Spot came in at 7:10 pm, Friday September 3rd. He is camping near the Crispus River in the Snoqualmie National Forest at PCT mile 2280.5 at about 6,000 feet. He hiked approximately 23 miles today. He has another 23.5 miles to hike tomorrow into Naches, Washington at White Pass. I'm sure he's been carrying to much food - and will have new resupply food tomorrow. After I had sent out his resupply packages, he called and told me that he'd be hiking less miles each day and would need additional food. He's now keeping to his original schedule. I'd rather have him get more food than less food!

Check out the PCT Half Mile maps, Washington Section H page 17.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

You can also see his Spot location on Google Maps:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3PIvR/46.49018/\-121.43468

We had not heard from, nor seen a Spot for Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead. Finally, last night around 8:30, they hit their Spot. They were camping at approximately PCT mile 2248. They were just west of Mt. Adams, following the White Salmon River, although according to the Spots, they did not camp together. One Spot was at PCT mile 2241, approximately 4,850 feet. The other Spot was at PCT mile 2242, approximately 5,000 feet. You can see where they are on the PCT Half Mile maps Washington Section H page 12.

Since it's not even 8:00 in the West Coast, I didn't expect to see their Spot quite yet. We'll keep watching for them. I'm thinking they'll get into White Pass late tomorrow night or sometime on Sunday. We'll keep tracking them.

Trail Angel Jane

Muddy Fork - Lava Spring???

Dave's Spot came in tonight, Thursday September 2nd, at 7:50 pm. He is camping between Muddy Fork and Lava Spring at a campground at PCT mile 2257.5. When Dave called me this morning, he told me that he wanted to hike 20 miles today. He was getting a late start because he found a kind soul to get him back the 13.8 miles to the trail. When he's on the trail, he gets out early. When he's in town, he takes what help he can get, but that means getting out later on the trail than normal.

Check out PCT Half Mile map Washington Section H page 14.

http://www.pctmap.net/download/p/mapdl.html

Here is the link to his Spot's Google map:

http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=3OsAU/46.30442/\-121.51308

He's camping next to an old lava flow. His goal is to get into his next resupply location, White Pass, by Saturday.

It's been a couple nights since Zero and Fire Marshall have hit their Spot. Dave has left messages on the trail for them, but is afraid the rain may have washed them away. We believe the guys were in town last night and maybe they've not yet stopped for the night. I'll keep looking for their Spot.

It was such a pleasure to hear Dave sound so good again this morning. He was complaining about all the food I had sent him, and that his pack was so heavy, but at least he has warm clothing and plenty of food. I reminded him to eat the heavy food first! He has several boxes of food and supplies waiting for him in White Pass at the Kracker Barrel Store. The last package I sent him has new medium weight wool socks, cookies, and more oatmeal.

Trail Angel Jane

Trout Lake - Dave is back!

Well, what a difference a day makes.

Dave slept well last night even though it stormed all night. Everything he had was either damp or wet, but his down kept him warm. He didn't stay in his tent until the rain moved on, but he got up and hiked the 10 miles to road 23. There he found three other hikers. Before long, a car came by and offered them a ride, but only had room for three. Since Dave was in last, he stayed behind. The driver said that he'd come back for Dave. Dave had hoped that Zero, Fire Marshall, and Redhead would show up by then. After 45 minutes, a truck came by and gave Dave a ride into Trout Lake. There was no sign of the guys.

Last night, the other guys stopped around 9:40 and were about 5 miles behind Dave. Dave figures that they will show up sometime tonight in town. Dave is staying at a motel about a mile outside of town where a handful of other hikers are staying. Laundry is almost done, packages have been picked up, the backpack needs to be repacked, warm clothes are being worn, and a new attitude is surrounding Dave. He said that the continuous rain dampened his spirits. Dave is looking forward to getting on the trail early tomorrow and already has a ride set up to get him back to the trail. There isn't rain in the forecast until Tuesday. Dave is hoping to put some miles between him and the rain.

And so, the hike continues... with a smile. Dave thanks everyone for their prayers. He askes them to keep on coming. (He's asking for minimal rain.) I thank everyone for their prayers. After my conversation with Dave last night I was worried, as much for his emotional well being as for his health. He's promised that his health is great. The emotions are up and down, but thankfully more up than down.

Dave didn't hit his spot tonight, but he is at Trout Lake. He left the trail at PCT mile 2237, at road 23, and is another 13.8 miles into town.

Trail Angel Jane