Day 1-2: 9/7/00
Lake Forest to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Sonora Pass Trailhead
The First Steps of the Journey
I shouldn’t start off by saying, “my pack is too heavy because of all the food and the camera,” but let’s be real—it was.
After Rulow dropped me off near the intersection of Highways 80, 50, and 28, I caught my first ride to Jackson—my first time thumbing for a ride since Aspen to Red Rocks for a concert back in 93′. From there, I walked about a mile before catching another ride to a Sierra gas station. Eventually, I arrived in San Andreas after heading down Highway 49, where I took a short hike to the post office, grabbed a quick chicken sandwich (or should I say or chicken sand ohhhh?), and then hopped on a bus to Sonora. A transfer onto the 108 brought me to Sierra Village, followed by a quick ride to some gas station and then another to Strawberry.
Camping at the River
I camped along the Stanislaus River, just a bit down from the bridge and road. This was the first time I felt like a drifter—maybe even a hobo (Q- Here I go again, by Whitesnake) – but not the stereotypical kind with a stick and a bandana. Instead, I had my full backpack, which felt heavy with all the supplies I packed.
Morning on the Move
When I woke up, I made cinnamon apple oatmeal on my stove, and it was delicious. Thankfully, the mosquitoes weren’t as bad as I’d expected—a real blessing. After breakfast, I stuck out my thumb and caught a ride in an open-air Jeep up Highway 108 for the final 30 miles to the Sonora Pass Trailhead.
From there, I began my hike in the morning (I don’t remember the exact time), and it felt like a strong start—until the trail started living up to its reputation. As expected, it became tough. Eventually, I reached the PCT, though not precisely at Sonora Pass as I’d hoped. I believe I was about two miles shy of it.
Reflections on Timing and Choices
I realized I was already a day behind schedule. My fantasy had been to get a ride straight to Sonora Pass, but instead, I ended up starting from Strawberry. Looking back, it wasn’t a bad decision—it added time, sure, but the journey itself felt meaningful.
The View That Made It Worth It
Right now, as I sit and take in the view in front of me, I can say it was all worth it. My biggest concern, though, is sticking to my schedule. I have a tentative plan to meet Steech, Poolen, Pinkham, Rulow, and Rebecca on the 22nd in Mammoth.
Trail Challenges and Rewards
My pack feels too heavy—mainly because of the food I packed. It felt like I brought enough for three months (even though it wasn’t quite that much). I’ll need to rethink my packing strategy next time. Still, I told myself: “Go light or go hungry.” Lesson learned—I’ll break things up better in the future.
Despite the weight of my pack, the scenery has been incredible. The cliffs and rocky formations are sheer and breathtaking. The red mountains stand tall, topped with snow-covered peaks, and I’ve even heard coyotes in the distance—hopefully, no bears.
Simple Meals for the Road
Dinner last night was simple but satisfying: ramen, rice, veggies, half a bagel, and some dried fruit. For breakfast, I had a cup of milk, cereal, a Power Bar, and a few candies. My water supply is over 100 ounces, and I’m making sure to take vitamins to keep my energy up.
Lights out early tonight—I’m hoping to be on the trail before noon tomorrow.