PCT Day 89 – PCT Mile 1108.5 to PCT Mile 1128.2

July 2, 2026

Total PCT miles: 19.7

Non PCT miles: 0.0

Total: 19.7 miles / 31.7 km

Total elevation gain: 3012 ft

Total elevation loss: 3494 ft

Steps: 45259

I was planning on starting on trail today at 0500 hrs. It’s starting to get warmer during the day. It’s by no means hot but even at 21 Celsius which no clouds in the sky a 1000 ft exposed climb is no fun. But I made the decision to “sleep in” and started at 0600 instead. Fortunately it not too hot yet but that weather will likley hit soon. I was treated to a beautiful sun rise as I packed up my tent.

The first part of the day was hiking through the remainder of Desolation Wilderness. There were a few lakes but nothing as incredible as yesterday. About 5 miles into the day I took my first break and who happens to come around the corner but Pinecone and Sage! We caught up briefly they are both taking a few days off in Sacramento via Truckee. So today and tomorrow are likely the only days I’ll leap frog them.

After leaving Desolation Wilderness the trail was forest with not much to see for most of the afternoon. I occupied myself by listening to a History Channel podcast about World War 2 narrated by Tom Hanks. I’m definitely going to need to download more podcasts. Hiking alone most of the time means I need something to occupy the brain.

At Barker Pass Trailhead there was trail magic. Victoria and Tyler were set up and providing BBQ and cold drinks to Tahoe Rim Trail and PCT hikers. I enjoyed a burger, hotdog and cold drink and some conversation before heading on my way.

I stopped earlier than anticipated as from here the PCT goes along a ridge I think and there are no campsites indicated in FarOut for another 8.8 miles. Which I had no intention of trying to accomplish today.

Tomorrow is another day and I plan on starting at 0500!