Friday, August 3, 2012

June 26, 2012 - A Dip in Hot Mud

Day 12
Marie Lake, below Selden Pass
Elevation: 10551 ft
Miles: 22
Trip:186

Today was fun - there was nary a moment of seriousness. At first I was grumpy in the morning, having gotten readily more speedily than usual and still sensing Andrew's impatience to leave. So I was crabby until we saw our first big cascade of the day - who can be in a bad mood with so much beauty? The descent to Muir Trail Ranch didn't seem to affect my feet too badly, and it seemed like only an hour of hiking later we were ringing the bell on MTR's gate. Our package arrived without problems (I'd been concerned about sending a 5-gallon bucket in the mail, but apparently those are easier to load on horses) and we were able to snag a few supplies from some left-behind items. I was disappointed not to be able to use the internet - unless I wanted to spend $20 for a half hour.

Striking a balance between miles and smiles is difficult in the Sierras. I want to push myself and see how far I can get each day, but I also don't want to rush through the Sierras and not remember some pass, a canyon, a creek, a mountain...there's so mych to see, how can I take it all in when I'm exhausted or aching? It's hard to know when to draw the line. Tomorrow we'll try taking a long break in the afternoon, like we did in the local "hot springs" today. As gross as that mud pit looked, it will still make a great memory.

Shaggy says:

Today was amazing. We started early, and it was super cold, about 30 degrees. Hard to get moving, but felt great when we did get into the sun. We crossed the very cold, but not so swift Evolution Creek around 8 AM. Last time I was here, the creek was at least twice as big as it was today. We took the high water route and still were in water up to my waist. Today we got our knees wet at the low water crossing.
   The walk down to Muir Trail Ranch was very easy and we made great time. It was also very pretty. I love watching the transitions from high alpine down to semi desert with sage brush and all.
   At Muir Trail Ranch we were greeted by Pat and 2 dogs. Pat was extremely friendly and helpful, got us our bucket that we sent ourselves right away. We went through everything, so glad we sent ourselves so much food. Also glad we sent 2 beers! The ranch was very laid back, picnic tables in the shade. Also several buckets of hikers leftovers. I resupplied my hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and even found a book about the John Muir Trail to carry. We loaded up and were out in an hour. We walked right to Shooting Star Meadows, where we enjoyed a somewhat dirty hot spring. Drank our semi cold Lewis and Clark beers while soaking in the semi hot springs. That's good livin. We came out smelling clean and somewhat less greasy!
   We then began the 3000 foot climb out of the valley to Selden Pass. It was 2 in the afternoon when we started the climb, not the best timing, but a great climb. Lauren did not want to stop, so we went to the top and on to Marie Lakes. I must say I am exhausted, but we did over 20 miles, climbed 3000 feet, did a resupply, and drank a beer while soaking in a hot spring. I can not complain, I feel great. So does Lauren, we are getting stronger. 

"If one is forever cautious, can one remain a human being?"

I'm running out of superlatives to use for these scenes...Splendiferous!
The ubiquitous marmot. This chubby guy came right into our camp to sniff around...we named him Snickers.
The glorious, yet modest, Muir Trail Ranch hot springs.
Nothing like a muddy soak and a beer! (Yes, Shaggy is wearing shorts in there.)


My mosquito protection. Not only functional, but stylish too.


In camping and real estate, one thing matters most: Location, location, location.

Muir Trail Ranch will pack your supplies in and hold them for you until you arrive. Neat-o!

We go a little excited to be in the John Muir Wilderness.



We hung our food every night in the Sierras. Maybe that's why we didn't see much big wildlife...

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