Aug 8 Big Meadow Trailhead

12:44pm Well, I made myself a big ‘ole mistake this morning. I inadvertently left my water treatment setup at Armstrong pass. Somehow I missed getting it in my pack. The big problem is that there are no outfitter stores between here and Tahoe City. So…looks like I’m going to have to depend on my observation skills and wits to keep myself hydrated and healthy. I’m going to have to check the maps to see where water sources are coming from etc.

Springs will be the best choice with the creeks coming out of steep ravines next best. Then inlets to lakes unless the water is coming from a popular lake up above. Suspect water can be boiled for cooking with. Wish me luck. Nine miles done, six more to do.

7:08pm Showers Lake 8,650’

Somehow 15 miles seems a lot longer than 13, way more than two miles. I guess it’s not, but it sure felt like it today.

I actually saw some backpackers today. I was resting at the junction of TRT and the PCT when they came along, headed south to Carson Pass. We chatted a bit then they asked me where I was planning to go for the night. When I said Showers Lake they told me a large group of pre-teens had shown up while they were resting and had proceeded to take over the whole place. Physically as well as psychically. They suggested I reconsider my planned stop for the night. Well I spent the next few miles looking for a spot, but I was walking through a huge meadow and there were no high and dry areas. I finally stopped at five to cook dinner then went on looking. Everything was either to steep or to wet. So, here I landed, Showers Lake with loud people. Fortunately I took the first site I could find, which is at the opposite side of the lake from the loud family! And my spot is beautiful with a full view of the lake from on high. So all in all it has, so far, turned out well. I’m too tired to continue. Today’s miles 15. Total miles 106.