PCT Day 91 – PCT Mile 1152.2 to PCT Mile 1161.9

July 4, 2026

Total PCT miles: 9.7

Non PCT miles: 0.6

Total: 10.3 miles / 16.6 km

Total elevation gain: 1752 ft

Total elevation loss: 1762 ft

Steps: 27540

Considering the mileage and the terrain yesterday I felt pretty good when I woke up this morning. The sun was rising behind me as I packed up my tent and got ready for the day.

It was a quick two miles to Donner Pass and an easy hitch with someone dropping off a PCT hiker to the Soda Springs General Store. I got there well before they opened so I sat on a chair outside. Chairs! Being able to sit with your back supported is something I most certainly take for granted in my normal life.

Today is the 4th of July and I think this is one of few stores open because it was a busy place from the moment it opened at 0800. I enjoyed 2 breakfast sandwiches, did a top up of my resupply and charged my power bank before heading off.

The hitch back to Donner Summit was also easy fortunately. They dropped me off at the Donner Summit Ski Resort. Here with your PCT permit they will give you a free 40 of beer. Several PCT hikers were there already enjoying theirs. My alcohol tolerance is basically 0 so I got mine and gave it to the group that were clearly in 4th of July party mode. You can stay at the bunk house here for 40$ but instead I had lunch and was on my way. But I wish I had stayed I was feeling off but wanting to make miles I didn’t listen to my body.

A few short miles after starting back on trial I developed a very painful headache and some nausea. I walked slow and took many breaks. It was hot out but the trail had lots of cover. I had drank plenty of water. It definitely wasn’t a caffeine headache and Tylenol or Advil did not help.

I ended up stopping early at the Peter Grub Hutt. These types of shelters are common on other Thru Hikes but this is the first non emergency use shelter going northbound on the PCT. It’s a little creepy so I found a place nearby to set up my tent.