We are mid-way through the state of Washington and the end is finally in sight. We have had some crazy adventures the past couple of weeks, and I think everyone is looking forward to seeing the Northern Terminus.
The last picture post (located in August) contained photos from the Goat Rocks. We walked along a Knifes Edge on the Goats Rock Ridge and it was phenomenal. Gorgeous views of the mountain range on either side; and even a few goats milling about on the steep slope of the mountain. It was a tough hike because of the rocky terrain and winding ridge. Trinket felt a little bit of vertigo, and I don't blame her.
The past couple of weeks have shown us how important and necessary our health is out on the trail. A good friend, Jecks, has recently been vomiting at random times. We can't find a connection to her diet and she tested negative to a parasite. Bring sick on the trail dehydrates you, makes you tired, and leaves you in a pickle. We were about 80 miles from any town and Jecks became extremely/violently sick. Of course we stopped hiking and spent the day recuperating, but it took days, a hospital visit, and an IV to help her get back to her normal self. It is scary to think about being alone and vulnerable on the trail. Not having enough food or supplies to spend a couple of unplanned days recovering from an illness is dangerous, especially now that the weather is becoming cold and unpredictable. Hopefully we will figure out the cause of Jecks illness and we are all thankful that we are only a couple of weeks from the end.
Another friend, Snaps, just had to be airlifted off of the trail. Thank goodness she carried a Spot Device- a GPS satellite messaging device that is perfect in SOS situations. Our group was trying to hike 30 miles one day, and Snap was a little farther behind Trinket and me. She left camp a little later than us, but usually we all reunite during second breakfast, or brunch, or lunch.... or random snacks. We were all concerned when she didn't turn up, but we had to keep hiking to complete 30 miles. As the day went on, we asked people we met on trail if they had seen her. They hadn't. We finally found cell phone service and saw that Snap had texted us. She had made a wrong turn on the trail, realized she was lost, and started bush-whacking to make it back to the PCT. This is when she fell and twisted her ankle. She was stranded between two trails with no way to move and no one knowing her location. This situation proved to me how necessary it is to be able make contact with someone in an emergency. Since we don't always have cell phone service, a Spot Device or In Reach Device is a great, safe idea. Hiking alone without a way to be rescued is dangerous and terrifying. We are all so extremely grateful that Snap had that Spot Device and was able to be rescued. Initially I didn't want to carry an SOS device because of the extra weight. Now I realize how important it really is.
We got off trail in Snoqualmie Pass and spent a day visiting Seattle. Great family friends have taken us in and showed us incredible generosity. It has been heavenly sleeping in a real bed, using a real toilet, and drinking incredible wine. We are all happy.
Washington has been a little nerve-wracking because the weather is getting colder and the threat of rain and snow is always present. We have been buying new, warmer gear and I hope we are ready to take on this final chapter. After we reach the terminus, I am still contemplating hiking Northern California, but we will see how everything goes with the trail closures and fire reports. We are all looking forward to the Cascade Range and have only heard wonderful things.
Love to all,
Lobby