Desert finale

Before posting photos from my last 3+ weeks in the Sierras with Jennifer, I want to share a few more desert photos. 

There was never a shortage of views while hiking in southern California.

I could usually make out where the trail crossed the valley floor and went up the hill on the other side. 

The skies in the desert were often beautiful. 

The sunrises and sunsets more colorful and lasted longer than in the mountains.

There were interesting rock formations to wonder about.

I was not fond of the sounds the windmills make, but found their effect on the evening skyline interesting at times.

There was not a lot of plant life, but when it bloomed it went all out.

Walking into the trees was always a treat. 

The poodle dog brush would be pretty to look at if I did not know about the terrible blistering painful rash it causes. Much time was spent avoiding it. 

The occasional splash of color was brilliant and beautiful.  

I am glad I experienced the desert. 

From deserts to mountains

This is posting late because of a lack of internet or data connection. Jennifer and I left Lone Pine on June 24th.

Leaving Kennedy Meadows I hiked through large amounts of sage brush in the South Sierra Wilderness and into the mountains.

While I am happy to no longer be worried about running out of water and dying of heat stroke, I have new challenges to deal with. I find that I am colder at higher elevations and am carrying more layers of clothing. 

I am now required to carry a bear canister to store all of my food, garbage, and toiletries. Anything with an odor that may attract a bear must go in the cannister. It is a challenge to get everything inside. I like to store mine in a spot where the bear will have to work hard to get to it. 

I also have a new hiking partner. Jennifer is going to hike the next 220 miles with me!! I am carrying a bigger tent for us and splurged on a door mat. I am excited to share my walk through this magical place with someone so wonderful.