June 24, 2008 Pacific Crest Trail

Destination: Vermilion Valley Resort
Miles: 5

Adrian:
We woke up at 5:30 a.m. in order to make the early boat to the resort. The mosquitoes were outside the tent waiting for the ambush.

Descending from Bear Ridge took time and patience as we hiked down a rocky tread switching back and forth a total of 54 times according to our count. The view was limited due to a thick conifer mixed with aspen forest.

When you arrive at Lake Edison there is a twice-daily ferry that takes you to Vermilion Valley Resort, a fishing destination on the east side of the Sierra. The ferry is nothing more than a stripped down pontoon but it does get you to a restaurant, motel and store.

We decided to stay one night and instead of bunk beds in the perma-tents (canvas tents framed with wood), we upgraded to the 30-foot trailer. We are becoming trailer dwellers on this trip it seems. No worries, we had privacy and our own private bath.

The resort was fun but very expensive. We spent a small fortune so there was motivation to move on the next day. Regardless of cost, after 11 days of mountain hiking, we were sure glad to have an outpost like this here. Thanks Jim!!

Our unsupported, no resupply, 11 day trip over 6 passes, through numerous canyons, up to the highest point in the lower 48 States and many other adventures was a complete success. It was magical to not see a road, house, or any other human "improvement" in those days. We had some dangerous times, but both of us kept a cool head and completed the task at hand.
I'm a bit melancholy this section is over. We still have many mountains to go, don't get me wrong, but this has been a grand experience. It'll be hard to beat.

But hey, we are still 400 miles until half way, so stay tuned, there's more to come!

Kirsten:
VVR! Six months ago I would have never predicted my arrival at VVR, more than 800 miles on the PCT. I have been so focused on surviving and completing the desert I never really spent much time thinking about the path north of Kennedy Meadows. And yet here we are.

I am elated at our progress. I'm even more excited that we're not merely trying to "get through" the trail. We're enjoying it mosquitoes and all.

We've reunited with the Duece, Lil Wrangler and Snow Kittens. We also discovered a message waiting for us at VVR from Doc, Sven and Troy - all Wisconites. We hope to catch them after the Sierras. If not, we at least have their contact information now.