16 Miles
Slow and steady today. No passes, but we did hike the rest of the descent from Mather Pass and half of the ascent for Muir Pass. The hike started with lots of switchbacks through somewhat loose rock. It required attention and tedious foot placement. We got down to a nice spot along Palisade Creek and decided to have an early lunch and hang out by the water. We both had clothes to rinse out and getting into the water was very refreshing. The trail near that point was a burn area so little shade. The water chilled our feet and we could wash off some of the built-up dirt. The rest of the day was spent working our way across a valley between the passes. It’s always fun to look back and see how far you’ve gone. We finished the day at one of the last spots before the climb up Muir. There are a bunch of hikers staying here tonight, but still plenty of spots available. We seem to have the same itinerary as Shade, Studio 54, and Trashman since they’re camped here too.
PCT Hike 