We had 8:30 breakfast reservations for the infamous buffet at the Timberline Lodge so we rolled in a little early to clean up before. The buffet was so good, lots of fresh fruit, smoothies, bagels, a frittata…and more. We saw some familiar hikers there and chatted with an older gentleman who had done a lot of miles on the PCT but now can’t hike anymore so he acts as a trail angel. The lodge was really cool with tons of history, we’ve already made plans to come back for a stay.
With breakfast making me loosen my hip belt a little, off we went meeting lots of day hikers, at least one on a spiritual journey with mountain goats, and even some trail workers out clearing blowdowns. The views of Hood & the pretty wildflowers made the morning kind of slow but fantastic. Right before lunch we had to cross Sand Creek which was rumored to be a harder crossing. I opted to toss my shoes across, undo my bag and wade through in socks. The water was moving quick and was deep enough to be able to sweep me off my feet if I stepped wrong so I took it slow. I made it with no issues plus it wasn’t as nerve wracking for me as rock hopping is. Jake does not have the same fears about rock hopping so he made it across doing that. Lunch was quick, I ate jerky, a cheese stick, a peanut butter protein bar and some cheddar pringles.
Right after lunch was the turn for the Ramona Falls detour on the old PCT. This took us past a waterfall and lots of day hikers. Then it was steep climbing for a few tough miles, right before easing downhill to camp. A hiker we met on the way down told me the spot we were aiming for was “pretty full” but I don’t think he was a thru-hiker. There were only three tents here and plenty of space. Jay, a hiker we’ve been camping around the past couple days, greeted us on arrival and chatted while we set up until after we ate. It was nice to hang out with him for a longer time.
PCT Hike 