The morning started out very chill with a leisurely wake up time and a walk to the Starbucks across the road from our hotel. We decided to take the 11:45am bus from El Cajon to Campo. It definitely helped me feel more organized and relaxed but it was just long enough to make us feel a little anxious to get going.
Walking to the bus was easy. Once we got there one of the drivers (or maybe she was the drivers manager) saw us looking like hikers, directed us to the right place, gave us some advice, and then we were on our way. The bus was fairly crowded for the first few stops but dwindled in numbers the closer we got to the end of the line. We got dropped off with another hiker and started our walk to the terminus. It’s about a mile walk from “downtown” Campo to the border.
Then it was time to hike! Trail magic happened immediately at base camp, only a little down the trail. We heard a voice call out “happy 4/20! Want an edible?”. “Legend” was there doling out sodas and stories. We passed on the pop but stayed for a story. It was a really nice way to start out.
We took the PCT to the monument instead of walking the road like some people do. It was sunny with a nice breeze so it didn’t feel too hot out. Once at the terminus we took some pictures, signed the book, and talked to a guy who was out scouting for his section hike.
The hike to mile 4, where we stopped for lunch, was rather uneventful. Once we ate lunch my stomach was suddenly super not okay and I had to make an emergency scramble/bushwhack up the hill away from the tiny creek. I’m not sure what happened but it seemed to settle down by the time we decided to camp in a nice shaded meadow. I’m currently warm and cozy in the tent listening to small animals scurry around in the dark.
PCT Hike 