I awoke early today as I wanted to arrive at the Onion Valley Trailhead by noon. Using my InReach Explorer, I texted Daniel the previous night and he made reservations for me at the Mt. Williamson Motel and Basecamp in Independence (thanks Daniel!). The “Hiker Special” package included trailhead pickup at noon and so I didn’t want to miss my ride!
Bullfrog Lake
I hiked in the early morning hours past Bullfrog and Kearsarge lakes towards Kearsarge Pass. Hiking to Onion Valley meant I would be leaving the PCT and hiking 7 miles one way just to resupply, but it was worth it to me. I needed a break and the Mt. Williamson Motel came highly recommended by other hikers.
View from Kearsarge Trail
At the top of Kearsarge Pass, I met another PCT hiker named Mr. Peanut. He was also planning to head into Independence and we traveled the rest of the way together. We made it to the trailhead at noon and our ride whisked us away to Independence.
Near the top of Kearsarge Pass
I made it to the top of Kearsarge Pass!
View from the top of Kearsarge Pass
Mr. Peanut
The Mt. Williamson Motel and Base Camp is one of the nicest and most hiker-friendly places I’ve stayed at. The owner, Strider, is a hiker and knows how to pamper her backpacker friends. It’s not the cheapest accommodation, but if you can afford it I can’t recommend it enough to my hiker friends. Plus you have the satisfaction of supporting one of your fellow hikers.
Mt. Williamson Motel and Basecamp
I spent the rest of the day lounging around in my lovely lavender-scented room, working on my blog. I took so many photos of my first days in the Sierras that it took longer than is usual.
My room, “Bailey’s Cabin” – especially for guests with dogs
A good town day.
PCT 2017 Stats
PCT Day 154 – Thursday, September 14
Bullfrog Lake Junction Mile 788.5 to Onion Valley Trailhead
PCT Miles Hiked Today: 0
Non-PCT Miles Hiked Today: 7.5
Total PCT Miles Hiked: 1658.8
Feet Ascended Today: 1234
Feet Descended Today: 2560
Current Elevation: 3940
Steps: 29292
For more on my experience hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, visit my Pacific Crest Trail Blog page.
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