PCT Day 92 – PCT Mile 1161.9 to PCT Mile 1185.9

July 5, 2026

Total PCT miles: 24.0

Non PCT miles: 0.0

Total: 24 miles / 38.6 km

Total elevation gain: 3675 ft

Total elevation loss: 5020 ft

Steps: 52507

I really didn’t want to get out of bed today nor did I particularly feel rushed to do so. It was suppose to be cloudy all day with a high of only 20. Perfect weather to hike and thus in theory no need to rush out of bed at the crack of dawn. All that said I was still on trail by 0630 hrs and it ended up being mostly sunny.

I wanted to make good miles today so I can get into Sierra City tomorrow. The post office is only open from 10-2 and I desperately want to ship my bear canister and a few other things home.

The trail today was monotonous. A few ups and few downs and no real great views to speak off. I mean it’s nature, is beautiful but after being spoiled in the sierra and around Lake Tahoe my current surroundings feel lackluster.

I saw hardly anyone today. No other PCT hikers and only 2 weekend hikers walking south. I occupied myself mostly by listening to EDM podcasts.

The “NorCal” blues are something many PCT hikers must over come. It’s caused by a combination of still being in California And feeling like it will never end, the thrill and beauty of the Sierra being behind you and the trail can get really lonely. I’m not really feeling it yet and maybe won’t.

I have made the decision that I will be skipping a section of NorCal. From Chester I will skip up to Seiad Valley thus missing about 250 miles of trail. This will still allow me to pass the 1/2 way mark on the PCT and give me th satisfaction of crossing the California – Oregon border. The reason is I want to be done early September – the earlier the better. This will allow me some much needed time at home to catch up with family and friends and relax before the next phase of my Sabbatical.

It’s not the most ideal, and technically I won’t have thru-hiked the PCT rather completed what is known as a LASH (Long Ass Section Hike). I’m okay with this – I’ll still have hiked over 2300 miles, which is absurd. Who does this anyways.

Thats my best case scenario. Next best would be starting back at Ashland Oregon which would be easier to get to via public transportation.

24 miles today puts me just over 10 miles to town so I shouldn’t have any issues getting to the post office in time!