Week 11 On the Trail

The trail behind me, leading to more mountains.

I continue to cross snowy mountains, cross icy-cold rivers, and meet furry friends in the Sierra Nevada.  It's been strange walking across the snow fields in the Sierras. It's very cold early in the day, but after mid-morning the June sun can be very hot. And when on snow the heat from the sun is reflected straight back onto you, raising the local temperature considerably. And because I am at high altitude, with little air pollution, the risk of sunburn is extreme. If we know there is much snow ahead, like when crossing the high passes, it's a must to set the alarm, and get up with the sun, aiming to be on the trail by 5.00am.  It's not easy getting up and out of my tent at that time, as it's often below freezing. But  the snow is so much easier to walk on when it is still frozen from the night before, and progress is faster, and safer. I'm seeing lots of Marmots, most of them seem to be almost comfortable with people around. I suppose they don't see too many humans, as this is a wild and barren wilderness, so they don't think of us as a threat. Next week, I hope to clear the Sierra Nevadas, and head into the Southern Cascades.

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A late lunch, taken in the shade to avoid the heat of the afternoon sun.

An alpine lake at 11,000 feet.

More snow to negotiate

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Crossing a river, and trying to keep my feet dry.

Crossing a river, and trying to keep my balance!