Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Crater Lake to Bend

We stop on the coast and take a bus to rent a car to drive to Klamath Falls to take a trolley to Crater Lake. It worked out fairly well, but Sunday's nothing runs and it always messes up trail plans. We happened to stop walking on a Saturday making it a Sunday when we were to escape the coast. An extra zero day later and we were in Crater Lake via the Crater Lake Trolley.
It was amazingly beautiful. I had never been, but I had heard it was a highlight from everyone's hike.
Then we cruised for miles on soft ground.  I tried to summit Mt. Theilsen but ended up having to bail once I got half way up. A big fog rolled around and lingered. I couldn't see the trail and it was very cold. I could have continued, but it was easier just to accept that high winds and fog mean it isn't worth the effort just to get no view. I'll have to come back.
Before.
After.
I have to say that I have been mislead, hearing all about Crater Lake and no one brought up the amazing beauty of Three Sisters Wilderness. I was in epic view heaven and happy to have sun again. Oh and berries!


There was obsidian glistening everywhere. The Three Sister mountains jutting up, meadows, animals, good water, it was heaven aside from the lava rock sections. It's hard on your feet that is.
Anyway, now I'm in Bend getting errands done and loving the REI and hoping to get a new book at the store. Then back to trail. So close to Washington now and only 670ish from the end.

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Completing Coastal Trail Section

There was a lot of 101 walking, a lot of beach walking, and a lot of foot pain, but now it is done. We are headed back to the Pacific Crest Trail today. 
The ocean was at first revitalizing, then it was disheartening. I think I will happier being on trail again. Camping out every night and walking a good pace. 
I'm excited to see Crater Lake today, but my mind is kind of one tracked right now. All I am thinking about it getting north. Canada.