Sept 25: WE MADE IT!

A toast!  From Left to Right: Gut Feeling, Little Dipper and Jack-y-Bean. 

After 5 months and 5 days of beauty beyond true comprehension, over 2650 miles, 30+ lbs lost and countless friends made, we accomplished another dream. We owe so much to our families and friends, and we're glad you came along with us.  Please remember to enjoy yourselves, and experience the world for all it's worth!

Sept 22: 5 mi S of Stehekin - Buckhorn Creek Campground,10 mi

Dear George & Family,
     Back in March, you George, gave me some sound advice: Don't miss Stehekin.
     I didn't really gather the full weight of your kind counsel, until I reached Washington State.  The town is the last resupply stop on the PCT.  It's quite a remarkable place--road-inaccessible,  on the edge of Lake Chelan, and home to less than 100 people who voted against the installation of towers that might provide cell and television reception.   It's truly removed, and pristine in many ways.  And for what they do there, they do it well.
     We woke up early and ran to High Bridge.  The bus was set pick up folks at 9 o'clock and take them 10 miles, about an hour ride, to the town of Stehekin.  We were completely thrilled!  Stehekin held the promise of fresh baked goods to fill our bags and bellies, a surprise resupply box from Mama Bean, and all of the other wonderful cleanly and gorging pleasures that go along with a hiker's town visit.
     Goal: Devour more than 10,000 calories without throwing up, shower, launder, call home, eat some more, and take some for later.  And we were going to fit it ALL in today.  In on the 9 AM bus, out on the 6 PM bus, and 10 miles of hiking too.  We ought to audition for the show "Amazing Race."
     We made it to the bus stop with time to spare and met up with at least a dozen other hikers (including Panama, Giltch, Minus, Keegel, Busted, Quest, Rapunzel, & Sprinkles), all ready to catch the same ride.  I hope this bus is big.  And it was!
     We hopped on and road into town, stopping first at the bakery. The Stehekin Pastry Company is a dream come true.  Their goods are absolutely DELECTABLE, and after two head-sized cinnamon buns, meat and cheese stuffed croissants the size of your forearm, quiche, coffee, and cookies, and we were well on our way.  If that wasn't enough, we then stopped at organic garden with a produce stand, home to the creamiest goat cheese you've ever tasted.  Jack-y, Gut and I were in a big food coma fog.
     But Jack-y-Bean and I were worried.  It would take a stop at the post office for us to be truly satisfied.  And what we found there, or perhaps, didn't find there, would determine how our hike was going to end. And for the first time in months we craved something other than food, or a neighboring tables leftovers, (yep, that'll do).
      A few days ago, Jacky and I made a desperate phone call to Mama Bean.  We had done the worst thing a thru-hiker can do to their hike--we strapped ourselves for time.  Then, we miscalculated our mileage, and purchased some non-refundable plane tickets.  If Mama Bean heard us over the shoddy reception, and overnighted something to this small mountain town where the mail comes in by boat once a day, we might make it.
     We arrived to the P.O. and picked up three packages.  Our resupply box, Mama Bean's surprise box, and a beautiful envelope--I swear it was glowing--with our passports.  SWEET WONDERFUL MAMA BEAN!  We were so happy I almost cried.  Now, we could hike into Canada and finish the trail all the way to Manning Park, and we wouldn't have to back track 30 miles, missing our plane flight, and the wedding we'd been pushing to get to this whole hike.  Team Perfect Timing strikes again.
     Mama Bean's Surprise was great too: complete with three glasses of pinot, cheese-it banana-grams, and a whole bag of tobolorone.   It even had a block of cheese (which we forgot to pack ourselves).
     We played and ate banana grams, made it to the bakery again with a hitch from the owner herself, and back to the trail on the last bus.

We feel well prepared for our finish, and every day has been a success.  Thank you for your advice, and here's my advice to other hikers:  Make it before the snow, but enjoy it as you go.
Love,
Dipper

Sept 15: Snoqualamie - Dutch Miller Horse Camp

Snow Lake

Woke up under the ski lift in Snoqualamie and headed into town to eat at the diner attached to the hotel. We had come to terms with the fact that we were not going to get showers in this town, but Jake was determined to at least wash our clothes. After ordering our food Jake eyed the hotel lobby. (See yesterday's blog about how we were turned away from doing laundry.) Knowing that confidence alone can make the impossible possible, Jake grabbed a bag of our laundry strode past front the desk while his pockets jingled with quarters. No one stopped him.

After some basic detective work (like reading signs) he found the laundry room and started a load of wash. He came back to his seat just in time for the waitress to serve our food. It was delicious, the taste of victory that is, and the omelet wasn't half bad either.

We needed to get back on trail ASAP in order to keep on our tight schedule, but we had to wait for our laundry to finish. So as we waited we called home, checked email, and made small updates to the blog. Once our laundry was finished we quickly made our way to the gas station to round out our food supply for the week.

As we were walking out of the station a gentleman pulled up to the door and asked if we could help him fill his tank because he had a disability the prohibited him from doing it himself. We obliged and followed his car over to the pump. He noticed our backpacks and began asking us questions about our adventure. He had lots of questions, and you could tell his interest in us was sincere. We must have chatted with him for 20-30 minutes before he continued on his way. It's true that every minute we spent with him put us further behind schedule, but his genuine character put us at ease and we were more than happy to just hang out and talk with him. Thanks to this kind stranger we hiked out of Snoqualamie in a cheerful mood. (The best experiences you have hiking the trail sometimes come when you're not hiking the trail at all.)

Last night we had decided that today we would take an alternative route that was supposed to be more scenic, a little shorter, and would go pass some hot springs! We were stoked because this meant we could make some good miles, still see great sights, and get clean in some hot springs!

Since today was a Saturday the trail was packed with day hikers heading up to Snow Lake. At the lake we met a ranger who told us the trail ahead was beautiful, but "a little rough." Well, that was an understatement.

The trail was made up entirely of large jagged rocks that appeared to be strategically designed to hurt anyone who tried to walk on them. The corridor was littered with downed trees, and it seemed that the only ones that had not fallen over were the ones with branches at face level. Needless to say, the going was slow. When we finally made it back to real tread Jake's shins were hurting and Karrie was nursing her eye that had been attacked by too many branches. We took comfort in knowing that we would soaking in some beautiful hot springs soon and continued hiking.

We saw a pair of hikers heading toward us and excitedly asked if we were on the right trail for the hot springs. They told us that we were on the right trail, but the hot springs were full for the weekend and they wouldn't let us in... We thanked them for the information and kept hiking anyway. Motivation, or no motivation, we hike. It's just what we do now.

Thirty minutes later we were at the Goldmyer Hot Springs. The hostess was very friendly and told us all about the hot springs. Since we couldn't swim in them and were overdue for a wash, we asked if there was anywhere else to swim nearby. She pointed us a short distance down the trail to a river that people often enjoy swimming in during the summer months. (Middle Fork of the Snoqualamie River) When we got there Jake stripped down and jumped in, while Karrie washed a little more tactfully. The water was freezing, but we didn't care. It was a beautiful spot and we needed to get freshened up.

We dried off just before the sun set, and quickly cooked a hot meal to keep us warm. Since we were still behind schedule we decided to hike on into the night. In the desert night hiking is nice because open sky provides light and the stars make up for the scenery you're missing, but in Washington the tall trees make night hiking difficult. So we only went a little further and called it a night at the Dutch Miller Horse Camp.

Sept 12: *** - Mile 2345.5 "Martinson Gap", 26.3 mi

It's getting colder here. I sleep with my down jacket and a hat every night. The days are shorter, and the sun stays lower, letting the steep hillsides trap the frigid air.

A chorus of elk bugles has been following us this morning, echoing off the hills. Have you ever heard the sound? It's mix between the sound a car makes screeching to a stop, and a lousy, but confident, greenhorn bugle player. Beautiful if you know what it is, ominous if you don't.

Around 10 am, we finally saw the sun as it crested over the nearest nolle. But before we could enjoy its warmth, we were jolted by the sudden pounding of hooves. Maybe a hundred feet below, ran a large herd of doe elk, making way for something.

Then a knock of bone on bone. Two large bull elks met in the opening below our feet. They pushed each other across 50 feet of space back and forth, back and forth, grunting, and wheezing. I remember forgetting to breathe.

Later in the day, I called Fred. As unpredictable as I try to live my life, he knew exactly where we were. "I bet you're pretty close to Mount Rainer National Park by now." Somethings, like the intuition of a dad, never stop. We called to catch up, and of course since this trail was drawing to a close, to plan our next trip.

For lunch, we ate at the road. There were amenities, like picnic tables, trash cans, bathroom stalls, and people watching. Two miles later we met Marty, Janet and their fluffy labradoodle dog by an alpine lake. They gave us fruit, meat, cheese, chips, and artichoke dip. Fine people, with good taste in snacks.

That night, we climbed up to a pass with a great view, where we could see Crystal Ski Resort, and camped in Martinson Gap on the other side.

Sept 9: *** - Walupt Creek, 26.5 mi

Mt. Adams

As a storm rolled in last night we strategically chose a campsite behind Mt. Adams. Ross and Marty taught us about Rain Shadows last week and we figured the mountain may block some of the bad weather coming our way. Well, it totally worked! There were small piles of hail around the edges of our tents, but the tents themselves were completely dry!

Jake climbed out of the tent to go to the bathroom in the morning and just as he was unzipping his pants a hunter walked by in front of him. They are everywhere and no matter what the weather today we would be wearing orange.

Saw a large camp of hunters set up at the ironically named "Killen Creek." We were hiking around Jack Flash, Clutch, and Panama Red today and they alerted us to the delicious huckleberries lining the trail. It was difficult to balance making miles and free fresh fruit so we tried to teach ourselves how to pick and hike at the same time. It was an addicting challenge and we slowly improved over the course of the day.

Jack Flash, Guts, the two of us, and another lady all camped in a small camp site near Walupt Creek. Everyone else had to push on further because there wasn't any more room. We were camped so close together that we were literally sharing tent stakes with Gut Feeling.

After dinner we quickly called it a night. A storm was rolling in and the temperature was dropping rapidly.

August 22: Honeymoon Creek - Crater Rim Village, 24 mi

Red Stick, you're hired!
    Thank you for our wonderful box of goodies!  Unsurprisingly, you really know what a hiker craves.  Peanut butter, gatorade, cliff bars...  Neither Jack-y-Bean or I had ever seen a jar of nutella that BIG before (and it was devoured within 3 days)!  What you sent us was perfect.
     We began our day at Honeymoon Creek.   It was 19 miles into Mazama Village from here, with one bad water source, so we loaded up for the trip.   Recently, the temperature has dropped, which has definitely helped for some of these poor water sections of Oregon, but may also be a sign of an early winter.
     The day was quick!  We made it into the Mazama Store before 2 o'clock, and feasted!   Your box got a lot of attention, and I'm happy to say that we were so well stocked that your package also fed a few others.
     We finished up our day with 5 more miles to the Crater Rim Village where we could peer across the lake's surface.  Have you been here?  The sight was breathtaking.  Not only it is gorgeous, but it drops off so suddenly, if you didn't know it was there you might miss it from less than half a mile back.  It's no wonder one of it's discoverer's Hillman, almost went over the edge when he first happened upon the beauty.
    We crept up on the rim, and snapped some shots as the sun was going down.  Then we ran to the gift shop for a last minute bathroom stop before they closed, and grilled the concession stand staff on the history of the Lake.  Some interesting facts:  There is a helicopter at the bottom of the lake because the pilot couldn't tell in the reflection if he was flying up or down.  And the lake has enough fresh water in it to give every person in the world one gallon per day for 10 years.  Wow.  The things you learn over pop and chips.
     Tonight we're going to camp by the lake so we can see the sunrise tomorrow.  Someone just asked me yesterday too what my favorite part of the trail was.  I said the Sierras.  If they asked me today I'd say this lake.  Love it.
     Thank you and Tatyana again for thinking about us out here.  I hope that the two of you and your newborn babe are in excellent health and are happy.
     Lots o Love,
     Dipper

August 18: Ashland, OR

Alec!

     How’s your summer going man!? Things are going well on the trail. Today Karrie and I spent the day in Ashland, Oregon. We stayed in the Ashland Hostel last night and I was stoked to use their kitchen this morning to make omelets! This is the first time I’ve been able to make an omelet since May, so I bought a load of veggies from the local co-op and cooked up omelets for Karrie, me, and a bunch of friends. I also found a tub of cookie dough in the “share” section of the refrigerator and destroyed it for breakfast dessert. Wish you were here to have some!

     After breakfast we packed up & prepared to hit the trail once more, but we needed to make one last stop at the gear store for fuel. While we were there, a local named Scott asked Karrie, Gut Feelin, and me if we were through hikers. When we told him that we were, he told us we should go for a swim in his pool and cookout on his grill. It was a beautiful day and Scott seemed like a great dude so we decided to take him up on it. We had a blast.

     After our swim we probably should have started hiking again, but instead we met up with our friends Minor, Action, and Only A Test where we saw a free show and somehow ate our 5^th meal of the day. Only A Test, gave us a ride back up to the PCT, and after saying our goodbyes we night hiked a mile down trail and collapsed for the night. We had not planned on spending the whole day in town, but it was totally worth it.

     If you ever find yourself driving up I-5 toward Portland or Seattle I highly recommend a pit stop in Ashland.

     Keep on Keepin on brother,

     -Jake

August 16: 1st Bearground Spring - Seasonal Spring 1724, 29 mi

Hello My Dear Anna Herby!
     First, I wanted to tell you how happy I am to hear that you're out here on the PCT too! That took a lot of rapid planning, and guts to strap on those big boots and head to the woods. It sounds like you are already cruisin'.
     I feel like you're closer, and you are! I mean, we're both on the same hiker highway. But today it's feels especially true.
After months and miles of tough tundra, a glorious number of national parks, and a few pairs of shoes, Jake and I finally made it out of California! Yes, today we crossed into OREGON!
      Now, we're only a state behind you, and it's a smaller one, at that.
The Oregon border was complete with a register, bottle of wine, starbursts for the lot, and a line drawn in the dust. We celebrated with our friends Pit Stop and Panama Red, who crossed with us. One by one we left our farewells and good riddance to California in the register. Job well done.
     It has been said that Oregon is flat. Well, it isn't as flat as a pancake, but maybe if you throw a few blueberries, some walnuts, and a bit of whip cream on top, then we're getting closer (but I digress...). Today we set the cruise, and made it 29 miles, no sweat.
     In fact, I almost felt like the miles were flying by! The first people we met after the border were 3 south bounders who knew you! Their names were: Omelet, Rice Crispie, and Slalom. I was somewhat perplexed that still a full state south, I was receiving news of your arrival to the trail (however grand it was). Apparently they flip-flopped Oregon and had met you a few days before. My mouth was still agape as we parted. My Anna?
     I hope this somehow gets to you while you're on the trail in Washington. Jack-y-Bean and I are following in your tracks and gaining speed! Congrats on your trail name too: Love Bug. It fits you so well.
     I hope I get to hike with you again soon! Slow down, will ya? Ah nevermind. Besides herby was a racecar, right ;)
     Keep on Keepin' on, Little Dipper and Jack-Y-Bean

August 12: Etna - Marble Valley Cabin, 24 miles

Hey Smolaks!
     It was great seeing you guys at Nick & Ashley's wedding! I just heard about Nick's new job with Zippo! Exciting news! All of us will have to meet up in Pittsburgh again sometime.
     Well, I always say that you never know how your day is going to end when your on the trail. Nine out of ten times I say this after a rough day that ends on an unforeseen high note. We've had cold rainy days end with hot showers & warm food; days that seem to be all uphill ending with a epic sunset; and days where we haven't seen a soul, ending surrounded by good friends.
     Today started out looking like it was going to be an all around good day! We ate a huge breakfast & we found a ride out of town first thing in the morning. Usually the first day back on trail is tough & your pack feels heavy but not today! We flew up & down the beautiful Northern California mountains with ease. At lunch Karrie made the most delicious avocado sandwiches! After lunch I saw one of the bluest lakes I've seen since the Sierras. We made it into camp before all of our friends, set up the tent, & started cooking.
     Then, just as my dinner was about ready to eat, I felt it. Something wet had landed right on the top of my head. Without any hesitation I knew exactly what had happened... I had just been crapped on by a bird.
     Arg! One day out of town! I was still clean! I was just about to eat! Needless to say, I was not happy. To add insult to injury, all of our friends were starting to arrive, the only water around was an ice cold spring, & as I prepared to wash off I ripped a button off my shirt.
     In retrospect, I'm sure it could have been worse, but as I poured that freezing water over my head, life seemed pretty miserable. Fortunately for me I have an amazing girlfriend who had finished making my dinner for me & offered to fix my shirt while I ate. Despite this evening being what it was, life has been pretty great lately so I'm still in good spirits.
     I hope you guys are having a great summer!
Love, Jake & Karrie

August 11: Etna

Hey Adam!

     What are you up to brother? It's been way too long since we've talked! Did you work in Ohio this summer?

    Karrie & I crossed mile 1600 today. Every time we pass a mile marker like 400, 800, or 1500 I think about track events & races we've run. It always results in me telling Karrie running stories. I'm pretty sure she's heard just about all of them at least once now.

    This morning we had a pretty tough climb, but the promise of spending tonight in an actual town kept us moving. A couple miles from town we came across 4 black cows walking up the trail toward us. When they saw us they turned around & quickly started making their way back down the hill. Despite our best efforts to scare them off the trail we followed them for over a mile, dodging manure & listening to the loud clanking of cowbells the whole time. Eventually they climbed up a steep slope, & we quickly slid past them before they could change their minds.

    When we finally made it to the road at Etna Summit, we immediately stuck out our thumbs looking for a ride. Four cars & 45 minutes later we caught a ride from a friendly fisherman named Rick. He dropped us off in front of a pharmacy with an old school soda fountain. I grabbed a root beer float that the place had nick-named an “Oh-My!” We asked our server where to find some real food and she pointed us to Dotties.  Dotties was an old school diner that had a hodgepodge menu of cheap and delicious food. It kind of reminded me of Swenson’s except we didn’t sit in a car. I ate 3x the food a normal person would eat & then ordered dessert.

    The rest of the day consisted of usual resupply activities such as laundry, grocery shopping, and showers. All of this was made much easier thanks to the Etna Hiker Hut, which let us camp on their property, borrow bikes to ride around town, and watch movies on their TV while each of us waited our turn for the shower. The grocery store was having sale on Ice Cream Sandwiches (12 for 2 bucks) so I bought 24, ate 4, and solidified some friendships with the other 20. I promise I won’t be too fat the next time we hang out!

    Etna definitely had everything a hiker could want in a trail town. Karrie and I agreed that it was well worth the 45-minute wait. There was supposed to be a big meteor shower tonight, but the smoke from the fires in the area has made it difficult to see many stars. Hopefully it will clear out soon.

    Much love,

    Jake

August 7: Mile 1501- Sulphur Creek, 11 mi

Hey Mom!
     You were involved in our day so much it wouldn't be right not to send you today's postcard!
     First of all, we received the package you mailed us today! Thank you so much for sending it to us & for filling it with so many awesome goodies! We ate the entire box of Oreos while we sorted through the rest of the package in the grass next to Ammarati's Market. At one point the sprinkler system turned on forcing Karrie, me, & about 5 other hikers (Mark, David, Brit, Magic Bag, & Gut Feelin) to quickly evacuate the area. It was a hilarious event.
     Once the box was sorted we grabbed some breakfast burritos & made our way to the campground where we showered & washed our clothes. Then I called you to catch up for the first time in too long! As we talked I ate a pint of ice cream & picked blackberries that seem to be growing everywhere in this small town.
     As Karrie, Gut Feelin, & I sat around waiting for the heat to fade we discussed making something creative for dinner. (The first meal out of town can be different, or heavier than usual because you don't have to carry it very far.) I looked in my bag to see what I had to work with & spotted the salmon packets you had sent us. This of course made me think of your delicious salmon patty recipe. Then I remembered there was a bottle of vegetable oil in the hiker box! All I needed to make salmon patties was a box of crackers from the store!
     I called you to make sure I wasn't missing anything critical. Upon hearing I was not I ran into the store to buy crackers & I even talked a nice employee into giving me some free salsa cups! With our new found motivation, we packed up & headed to the trail.
     It is always difficult to leave town for obvious reasons. One less obvious reason is that towns are almost always in valleys, & therefore leaving town means you have to haul your fully loaded pack up a mountain... Today was no exception. After about 6 miles of hiking we decided to set up camp & give the salmon patties a try. I'm pleased to report that they were quite tasty & everyone really enjoyed them! It's definitely not a meal. I'd recommend for the woods, but we had fun making it.
     Maybe we'll try to figure out how to make a quiche out here next!
     Thanks again for all of your support Mom! Love, Jake & Karrie

August 2: Subway Cave - Baum Lake, 30 mi

Dear Rick & Linda,
     Thank you so much for supporting us on our hike! Thanks to you & others Karrie & I now feel confident that we can make it to Canada both physically & financially.
     Today Karrie & I took on a notorious section of trail known as the Hat Creek Rim. It's a 30 mile unshaded & waterless stretch that is known for its brutal heat. Hikers ahead of us told us "Just skip it. It's not worth the misery." We weren't down with skipping any of the hike, so we went to bed early last night & woke up at 3:30am prepared for the worst. We each packed 4 liters of water & started on our way.
     The goal was to hike as far as we could before the sun hit us. We stayed in the shade until 7:30, & by 8:30 we were sweating bullets! We pushed on past a heard of cows & took an early lunch under the biggest tree we could find.
     After lunch we caught up with 4 of our friends, who were all squeezed into a dome-like shelter made of sticks. Inside were chairs, about 25 gallons of water, & the man responsible for it all! His name was "Tread-lightly," & not only was he kind enough to build this shelter & fill it with water, but he also offered to slack pack us for 9 miles! (Slack packing is when someone takes all of your excess weight & drives it ahead for you. This way your pack is lighter so you can hike faster.) Since this was going to be our longest day yet, we jumped at the opportunity.
     Well hydrated & lighter than ever we took off down the trail. We cruised through the next 9 miles with ease, & crossed the 1400 mile mark on the way! Around 5:30pm, we made it to the road where Tread-Lightly had hid our gear next to an empty cooler. At this point we had hiked 26 miles & figured we had earned dinner.
     As we were eating, a car pulled off the road across from us & the driver asked if we wanted a drink. His name is Grasshopper & as it turns out he had come to refill the empty cooler! Two Trail Angles in one day! This is not at all a common event. We talked with him as we ate, & then he offered to drive us to & from town so we could resupply! We tried to decline, but he was so persistent in his kindness we eventually gave in.
     We were in & out of town in less than an hour, which had to be our quickest resupply yet! On the way back to the trail Grasshopper offered to slack pack us for the last 4 miles of the day too! Amazing. We hiked with nothing but a liter of water & a pint of sorbet. As we set camp next to a beautiful lake I found it hard to believe I had ever dreaded this day.
     I can't wait to see you guys at Kyle & Kelly's wedding! I'm looking forward to hearing more about your road trip too!
     Thanks again! Love, Jake & Karrie

July 30: Braatens, Belden - Chester, 21 mi detour

Hi Uncle Ken & Aunt Rox!
     Karrie & I have so much to thank you for! First, a long overdue thank you for the Calendar & Farmer's Almanac! Also, thank you for sending us your SPOT, & now a huge thank you for your donation to our hike! You guys have been looking out for us so much & we truly appreciate it.
     Yesterday as Karrie & I made our way down the trail to a town called Belden, we saw a fire burning on the next mountain. We soon learned there was a forest fire on the PCT & that the trail was closed. This was disappointing not only because we would have to road detour around this section, but also because we would be missing the official mid-way marker at mile 1325.
     Road walks can be rather miserable because they are hot, unshaded, & generally less scenic, but today ended up being great! It started off with a delicious breakfast at the local cafe with our friends Swiss Army, Lunch Box, & Caveman Express. From there Caveman, Karrie, & I started down the road, which we quickly learned was lined with Blackberry bushes! A trail lined with free food is basically a hiker's dream come true, so we stopped often.
     We were soon caught by our trail angel friend Becca who was out on a bike ride. She offered to keep us company on our hike & show us which way to go when the road forked near the Belden dam. The company was great, & just about the time she turned back another great friend of ours, named Gut Feeling, caught us. The 4 of us had a blast talking & hiking side by side up the untraveled dirt road.
     The detour eventually took us by Butt Valley Reservoir which despite its terrible name, was actually quite beautiful. (We also had fun taking pictures with the sign!) Once past the reservoir we made our way into a town called Chester to celebrate our completion of the first half of the PCT! The 4 of us went to an awesome 50's style diner & feasted on milkshakes, burgers, & bottomless fries. (A thru-hiker never passes on a chance to eat unlimited quantities of food.)
     Even though we didn't get to see the mid-way marker, today ended up being one of my favorite days of this adventure.
     Thank you again for all of your generosity! We can't wait to see you guys at Kyle & Kelly's wedding! Karrie is excited to meet you!
     Love, Jake & Karrie

Thank You!

     Thank you for all of the support we've received over the past few weeks!
     People came out of the woodwork--even complete strangers have stepped up to help out Jake and myself. We are on this trail to have an awesome experience. We've had some tough obstacles, but we have great drive, and we've had a lot of good people surrounding us.
     WE'RE GOING TO MAKE IT! We will! We love every step, and are becoming better people for every one we take. Thank you, thank you for encouraging us in your own way.
     Jake and I are working on posting some updates! We appreciate all of those following us, so we'll give you something to follow!
     Keep on keepin on, and keep in touch!
     Love, Karrie

July 29: Clear Creek Campsite - Braatens, Belden, 10 mi

Heya Stephers!
     This morning Jake and I got up early and booked it to Belden. It's always exciting to get to town (even if its only a single building, which Belden evidently is) AND we were stoked to get your package!
     On our way down, we spotted plumes of smoke rising from the opposite slope, beyond town, and where the PCT takes on the next hill. Then we heard the helicopters. A fire, started near or on the PCT, had set flame to over 20 acres of wood, and was still growing (a day later it was up to 300+ acres, and as I write you this it's 5000+). But that's another story!
     We made it into Belden and retreated to the Braatens to collect our bearings and YOUR BOX! The Braatens are Trail Angels, and some of the best. They own a split house (half for hikers, half for them) just a mile outside of town. They'll pick you up, let you shower, give you fresh veggies from their garden, let you borrow their hip 70s clothes while you wash yours and much more. We had access to a kitchen stocked with food, and beds! It was like having a home again. Sometimes it's just nice to have a place to put your stuff, even if it's only a backpack full of gear that only makes sense to you.
     They gave us our box from you and we tore it open anxiously! You sent us OUR first postcard on the trail! Thank you! Local PA food too! Did someone tell you how perfect that would be? The Popcorn Budda was divine--so good. I wish I could buy stock in the company. Jake waited a LONG half day to devour his jelly beans. Nearly too good to resist!
     For the day, we rested, ate well, hung out with our friends (Gut Feeling, Caveman Express, HeeHaw, Swiss Army, and Lunch Box) and looked lovingly at the items you sent us. The trail may throw fire in our path, but we've for good friends like you and the strength to make it!
     Hugs and Trail Mix,
     Karrie (Dipper)

July 28: Campsite Mile 1256 - Clear Creek Campsite, 23 mi

DYLAN!!
     How are you, bud? We miss you! Jake and I are having a great time hiking in California. Do you know where that is?
     Today, while we were walking, we had fun talking about our favorite movies. We don't get to watch movies very often out here. So we tried something else...
     I have seen the movie Aladdin so many times, I have the whole thing MEMORIZED, from start to finish! So, I recited the whole movie (and I even sang all the songs) for my friends. Everyone really like it and said it was like watching the movie. It was a fun way to make the day fly by.
     Do you think you could tell the story of Cars from memory? I'd love to hear it when I get home.
     School is starting soon, are you getting excited? I love you and miss you, and can't wait to see you!
     LOVELOVELOVE, Aunty Karrie

Later that day, Jake told us about Cool Runnings. "Fine, stay here on the island. We're going to Canada!"

July 26: Spring Mile 1205 - Duck Soup Pond, 27 mi

Hello Star Family!
     I hope your Summer is going splendidly! Have you made your trip up to Cooperstown, yet? Thank you for having me last time! It was so wonderful to relax and play with you. Now I'm hooked!
     You guys got me addicted to puzzles and games. Now I buy thrifty board games by the dozen, and fawn over folks Boggle and Cribbage Sets. I even play when there's no one to play with!
And so, to the family who masters every game they play, and plays them everyday, I present: PCTopoly!
     Jack-Y-Bean (Jake), GutFeeling and I enjoyed creating the latest version of Monopoly with a hiker twist. Our game has every hiker racing to get to Canada. Money is replaced with food items, with $1 Snickers bars all the way up to the $500 Moutainhouse. You go to town instead of jail, utilities include essentials like TP and fuel. Hotels are replaced with tents. And with four tents on a space you get an outhouse!
     We spent an afternoon coming up with chance cards like, Tailgate Trail magic! Collect 5 Ramen" or " Surprise giardia. Go to town" and throwing around ideas to link pack weight to the number of dice each person can roll. We have lofty plans of creating this version to present to the PCT's lightweight and innovative gear challenge at next year's reunion kick-off, for fun. I hope we win, or at the very least get to play a couple rounds! ;)
     I'm having a great time out here, and hiking North fast! To Canada!
Hope all is well!
     Love, Little Dipper (Karrie)

July 24: Peter Grubb Hut - Mile 1187, 24 mi

July 23: Middle Fork American River Headwaters - Middle Fork AmericanRiver Peter Grubb Hut, 21 mi

Hi Grandpa & Grandma!
     I hope you've both been enjoying your summer! I've heard the Ohio weather has been even nicer than usual this year.
     Karrie & I had a very dynamic day today. We woke up to a short thunderstorm this morning followed by light rain off & on all day. Since it was only our 3rd rain experience so far on the whole hike we didn't mind it much.
     Even with the clouds we had great views of Northern California. We crossed over 2 ski mountains & hiked along a ridge for 9 miles. Along the way we saw a lot of cool volcanic rock formations.
     Around dinner time we hiked underneath Interstate 80! This was an exciting landmark for both Karrie & me seeing how it passes by both of our homes on the other side of the country. There is a rest area near this part of the highway, so we took advantage of their sinks & outlets. We called home, cooked dinner, & talked with I-80 travelers. (One kind truck driver even gave us some food! Possibly because he thought we were homeless... but hopefully not.)
     After dinner we hiked another 3 miles to the Peter Grub Sierra Club Hut to sleep. Unlike the Appalachian Trail, the PCT generally doesn't have shelters for hikers to utilize so this was a special occasion.
     We entered through the winter door on the second story by climbing up a giant wooden ladder. Inside we found a large space where hikers could sleep. On the first floor there was a wood stove & a big kitchen table. There was also a variety of magazines & journals scattered about the place. I came across one that was a collection of letters Peter Grub had sent his Grandfather in the late 1930's. In them he talked about various hiking, climbing, & skiing adventures.
     I enjoyed reading them & of course felt moved to send you two a postcard about my adventure today. Maybe someday 75 years from now someone will read our collection of postcards & feel moved to write their grandparents as well!
     Karrie & I can't wait to see you & the rest of the Dowling family in October!
     Love, Jake

July 22: Richardson Lake - Middle Fork American River Headwaters, 21 mi

YETI!
     How's school?! Are you still in Louisville? Have you passed along the bicycle polo team to Kentucky, or any other progressive athletics?
     I'm writing you in the middle of another one of my extensive athletics, out on the PCT! My boyfriend Jake and I are almost halfway done with our trek. I can eat like a killer whale, I've got calves as hard as bricks, and my clothes will never be clean again. It's awesome.
     But...today we met a nice man, with a crazy wish. He told us he hadn't had a rainy day on the trail yet, and was honestly, looking forward to his first.
     We, on the other hand, have had two too many. The first was in our first week. We woke up to a windy, chilling rain and exhausted ourselves hiking hard to heat up our internal motors. The second time, we hiked timidly through ruins of an arsen fire that in the mist resembled a post-apocalyptic zombie zone.
I appreciate variety. But rain?
     Yeti, we remember rain in Maine. It only takes a day for it to get old, and cold. Wet socks, pruney skin, Never dry and always damp. We don't want to go back there, do we?
     Today was beautiful--hot even. We climbed a few ski mountains, and had sick views all the way through. We made good miles, and felt healthy.
     Then in the middle of the night, it hit. We were camped near the top of a ridge. Rain was spattering our belongings inside and thunder was vibrating the ground up through our toes. We bunched up our sleeping mats for extra insulation, and squatted in lightning position until we both had severe Elvis leg. To pass the time, in-between deafening strikes, we talked about other times we were caught in storms, and survived--trying to stay positive and distracted.
     Finally, we heard the storm pass, and Jake and I looked at each other to confirm: This is not a dream. We are still alive!
     At least, in the end, we have someone to blame, AND the flowers that I love so much got a little bit of rain. ;)
     I miss you Yeti! When are we getting together next?
     Lots of love, Dipper

July 21: Dick's Lake - Richardson Lake, 11 mi

Dear Plugger,
     How are you, my good friend? Jake and I are thinking about you a lot out here. Hoping that your leg is healing just fine. We also reminisce about our Tehachapi stay quite often. Ahhh...Red House BBQ...Finger lickin' good! The timing worked out so perfectly! It had been too long since I saw you last, and having you there improved our town time tenfold.
     Now it's been a few more months, and Jake and I are more than twice as far down the trail! I don't think we told you, but Jake just recovered from a bout with salmonella that brought our hiking to a halt for a solid week around mile 1100. Not even halfway, Jake malnurished, and me losing my drive, we wondered if we could finish.
     BUT TODAY MARKS OUR 3 MONTH ANNIVERSARY OF BEGINNING THE TRAIL! Two more months to go and we're back on trail with new passion!
We rejoined the PCT at mid morning. It felt so great to be reunited with the trail! It's like an old friend now.
     We took it easy, and hiked 11 miles to Lake Richardson for dinner. A sweet girl named Gut Feeling and the two of us decided to hop into the warm water, but despite the welcoming temperature it was super mucky. Jake lost a camp shoe and came out dirtier than he went in. I know he wishes our first day back on trail could have been easier.
     But we'll be fine! I still can't get over that we've been out here for three months. It feels normal. The trail is beautiful, and the views may not come easy, but they'll just keep coming. I'm so excited about all we'll see in Oregon next.
     Stay young, stay fun.
     We miss you! Dipper & Jack-Y-Bean

July 20: Back on Trail!

Thanks to Trail Angel Sara from South Lake Tahoe, Jake and I are healthy and back on the trail! We spent the last three nights with her, her dog Jackie-boo and a slew of other hikers. We're so glad we get a second chance to make it to Canada! ONWARD!

July 14-20: Recovering from Salmonella Poisoning

     Six days ago I woke up 17 miles from Echo Lake with a fever. Karrie & I had plenty of food so we knew waiting it out for a little while wouldn't stop us from making it to the next town. But as the day went on I wasn't getting any better. In between bouts of sleep, & Karrie's care-giving, we considered our options.
     1) Take a few Ibuprofen and start hiking back toward Echo Lake and hope someone with a boat could give us a ride before we made it all the way back.
     2) Wait for it to pass and hope I feel so much better we can just keep hiking like this never happened.
     3) We had reception. We could call for a medi-vac airlift.
     Option 3 would virtually end our hike financially & logistically, option 2 didn't seem to be working, and option 1 wasn't sounding too appealing to me. Around 3pm Karrie and I decided it was time to make a decision.  We noticed as the day wore on that a number of hikers had passed by near our campsite. We were tucked away, but close enough we could overhear an occasional conversation.  Karrie noticed that a group of three woman who stopped to sun themselves close to our camp were wearing daypacks.
     Day hikers meant there was a much shorter route to our current location than the 17 miles we hiked in!   Day hikers were our best ticket out of here.  Karrie went to the shore to pay them a visit and find out where they hiked in from. While she was gone I prayed and prayed that she would come back and tell me it was only 3 miles. Then I could just pop a few pain killers and drag myself out of here...
     Karrie returned with vitamin water and 2 Tylenol. Apparently the 3 women she had spoken with had hiked in 5.5 miles and had offered to carry my gear out for me if I was up for the hike; they also had given her the Tylenol and drink. I knew this was the best option we were ever going to be given so I told Karrie I was good enough to give it a shot and to thank these amazing ladies. Helen, Jolie, and Liz packed up our camp and divvied up my gear & by the time they were done I was feeling the best I had all day. Since I rarely take any medicine the Tylenol & caffeine were as good as morphine to me!
     We hiked slowly and some parts were easier than others for me, but we made it out! By the time we got to the car I was feeling pretty rough, but we still had so much to do. Correction, Karrie, had SO much to do. She found me some medicine at CVS, looked up the hours of the Urgent Care, and booked us hotel, all while I sat in the car feeling weak & pathetic.
     I spent much of the next 48 hrs in the bathroom & was really worried that I had somehow contracted Giardia. In between bathroom visits & sleep I managed to ride the bus to the urgent care & see a doctor. Upon hearing my symptoms he immediately asked what I had to eat the day before I came down with the fever. When I said Grilled Chicken, he nodded & told me I probably had Salmonella Poisoning. The thought hadn't crossed my mind until he told me it was a possibility, but the symptoms made sense.
     Karrie & I spent 3 nights in hotels while I was feeling particularly miserable. The cost was starting to hurt us financially though, so we started asking around to see if anyone was feeling generous enough to host us for a few days. We were lucky enough to be put in touch with an incredible trail angel named Sara. She picked us up in town & welcomed us into her home. Karrie, me, & 5 other hikers spent the next 3 days living with her & her German Shepard Jackie-Boo.
     As I finally started feeling better I began slowly eating "normal" foods again & walking around town. Today (a week later) I'm finally ready to hit the trail again!
     This experience has been exhausting physically, emotionally, & financially for both Karrie & myself. Because of our situation we decided to add a "donate" button to our blog. We're hoping we still have the budget to make it to Canada, but it's going to be tight. Any contribution you feel generous enough to offer will go directly toward feeding us.
     We are now a week behind schedule & will need to make up for lost time in the months to come. We feel exceedingly greatful for the opportunity to finish this hike. We already feel that the hike has changed our lives & helped us grow as people & we believe it will continue to do so over these last 1500 miles. Thank you to everyone for your thoughts & prayers.
     We love you all,
     Jake & Karrie