The Killdeer Chronicles Volume 3

 Day 17 ( April 20 ) - On the Trail Again Today was a typical "Roy the Procrastinator" day crossed with a short, mellow hike. It started with my usual "Hurry up, I've got to get stuff done" frantic bustle. I got last weeks blog post uploaded, packed my pack (my shoulders are NOT happy with the amount of food in the bear can), took one last shower (why ? I'm going to be hot, sweaty and stinky in a few hours anyway.), and checked out of the Idyllwild Inn. New items added. Green Ice Axe and Microspikes (inside a hipbelt pocket) At 11:30, Paddles and Jess gave me and two other hikers a ride to Paradise Valley Cafe ( In my procrastinated rush, I didn't have time to eat ).  I grabbed a seat at an outdoor table. I was soon joined by several other hikers: Jerky (from France), Snickers (from Oregon, this is her second attempt), a man from Michigan and Fabio (Italy). We had a good meal and lots of good conversation. I was rather surprised when Misty ( I met her on...

 Day 11 ( April 14 ) - Head for the Hills The Trail Angel "Fossil Lady" picked up Shalena, Karina, Jeanette and myself at 9:30. She dropped us off a Scissors Crossing ( mile 77.3 )at 9:45. Technically, we just "skipped" 1 mile of the PCT, because we were all picked up 1 trail mile before Scissors Crossing. Oh well, I'm sure we will make up that mile somehow... Fossil Lady maintaining the water cache at Scissors Crossing Some ugly dude, Karina, Jeanette and Shalena We took a few group photos and started hiking at 9:50. Jeanette quickly outpaced all of us. I hiked faster than Shalena and Karina ( they call themselves "Turtle Team". Before you laugh, remember they have the courage to try. ).  Karina, Shalena and Jeanette cross the highway before starting up the trail. The PCT should really be called the USB ( Unlimited Switch Back ) trail. Notice the rockwork built to hold the trail in place. Thanks Trail Crews ! At one point, I was looking downslope at T...