Day 6 mile 77 – Destination: Julian, CA

Song of the post- “Go your own way” by Fleetwood Mac (Awesome song)

Out of camp at 6:47am. Hoping for 6:30, but we had to head back a 1/2 mile to collect and filter a bit more water for the day. It was projected to be a long and hot day hike. And we used a little too much H2O for last nights dinner, Mashed potatoes and chicken teriyaki (freeze dried)

I say it was hot, but the high was 61, which is pretty far from hot. But that damn sun. It was a beast. Anyway, it was a beautiful, sunny, HOT day. We started at elevation, and over 5 hours made it to the desert floor.

The terrain changed quickly from “somewhat” lush green to scrub brush and flowering cacti 🌵. Pretty spectacular…and hot.

We were very happy to make it to the valley floor, just to enjoy a less strenuous hike. It became stereotypical desert, what Id been waiting for.

We didn’t meet up with any snakes, but another PCT hiker, Fire Fly (he got a trail name already? I want one!!) said he came across 3 rattlesnakes, and the last one chased him. Im not sure how I feel about THAT (that’s a lie, I FEEL that if that happens to me I will be on a fast bus back to Hood River. Cliff who?).

We made it to mile 77, fork in the road called Scissors Crossing, and hitched our first ride. A little, lovely grandmother named Leslie, drove us the 12 miles to Julian, our stop for the night. Julian is a PCT hiker haven, and i’m embarrassed to say we almost skipped it.

It’s known for several things, but one thing in particular is free pie at Moms Pie House. All PCT hikers receive a free slice of the pie of their choice, and ice cream. Just show your PCT permit. It Was Great!! A big part of the enjoyment was participating in the tradition.

Tonight we prepare for another substantial day of hiking, and a big climb, 2000 feet. Charge devised, a little laundry, and clean ourselves up.