Another great day today, covered 17.5 miles, 28.1 km, and mostly downhill. The track was very well formed, not too rocky in most places, and level for most of the day.

Starting out, just before 8 am, it was a little chilly. The sun rose slowly through the trees, and we were on the west side of the hill in the shade. After about half an hour I was warmed up, and another half hour I found a nice sunny spot for breakfast. Just after breakfast, maybe an hour later, I came across trail magic, second breakfast was on! Two trail angels, Honeybee and Beekeeper were set up with fresh bananas, mandarins, hot dogs, cold drinks, chips, snacks and comfy seats. I spent at least half an hour hanging out with them and a group of hikers.

The trail then continues its course through the forest, gradually descending. I see dozens of squirrels and chipmunks on the way down. The trees provide welcome shade as the day heats up, certainly a change from the early morning cold.

As the trail descends, the trees get smaller and more spread out. Eventually the trees disappear, and I’m reminded that this is supposed to be the desert section after all.

For the first time, I see Joshua trees on the trail. They are like cabbage trees in a sense, but much spikier and the old leaves stay attached, giving then a unique look. Looking out to the east from here, I can see some real desert beyond these mountains.

A brief climb leads to camp about 700m from the highway. We’ve now completed 10% of the PCT, I can practically taste the maple syrup already. I find a fantastic flat spot on the ridge and get set for an early night. Tomorrow we head into the town of Big Bear.