Ziggy and Bears

"Uncle Bob" the bearded young man called out elatedly to Mark this morning as we packed up our camp.   Then he realized it couldn't be his Uncle Bob.  But we are calling Mark Uncle Bob anyway. Mark is getting new trail names as he hikes along.  Like a spy with numerous identities.

8  miles down to the water faucet was hot and we left at 6 am!  Front runners from the kick off passed us, like we were standing still.  They left the border on the 25th. Very fit people.  We all got some great trail magic at the faucet.  Trail angel Tarzan had veggies, hummus and hugs.  Really nice man.  Then the last 5 miles to Ziggy and Bears trail house through the sand where we still sit after washing our clothes, taking showers, and eating food.  Lots of hikers gather here.   We will spend the night here and head into San Gorgonio Mountains pre-dawn to try to beat the heat.  

Hot off the press.  Valentino and Midnight Rider just rode in.  A horse and rider duo who are the only horse team to complete the whole PCT.   Ever.  They are going for it again this year.  Wow.  The trail is difficult to say the least.