Campo to Lake Morena, 20 miles
It was an emotional start to the day. I was a bit teary when we pulled up to the monument at 7am. I have read about and seen many photos and videos of the start to this journey called the Pacific Crest Trail. I am really here. It is really now.
It was tough long 1st day. Lots of ups and downs. I have never hiked in the desert before, but it’s unseasonably cool. It rained last night, and the temperature was quite civilized. The air smelt of sage and desert spring flowers. The birds were chirping and singing all along the trail.
I have been worrying about Paul. 2 weeks ago we were skiing and Paul had a spectacular yard sale style wipe out. He did a number on his back and couldn’t walk 2 miles without being in pain. Just before we left he had some physio. With some help from some T3s he was hiking at his usual fast pace. I am hopeful he will make it all the way to Warner Springs, 110 miles, before he has to fly back to Vancouver.
Oh yes, the great day ended with trail magic. We were greeted at Lake Morena by Trail Angels who fed us bbq hotdogs, burgers, and chocolate chip cookies.
It’s raining again tonight, but we are cozy and dry in our tent.
trail whispering - moonshadow 
Yay, 1st day of this amazing journey. You look great and GQ is cool. I was the thinking of you both today and had a toast to you from my Seymour.
LikeLike
Mount Seymour still has lots of snow. I’ll be imagining hiking there when it starts getting unbearable hot here in the desert.
LikeLike
Thx Amy. Cheers!
LikeLike
You two look awesome!! What a great start to your adventure. So proud. I’m glad the desert was hospitable. May every footstep get easier. Much love, Cat, Steve, Patches & Vicky.
LikeLike
Thx Cat xx
LikeLike
Oh yeah. Great work. I look forward to following your journey.
LikeLike
Thx…hope your preparations for the CDT are going well. 8 more sleeps for you! We will be following you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful, you are on your way. Looking forward to following you. Hope your crash isn’t bothering you Paul. Glad you are with Sally for the start. Great photo at the monument. Pity we can’t smell and hear the desert on your blog. What great support from the Trail Angels.
LikeLike
Yes. It’s been amazing. People are so kind and generous.
LikeLike
The blog is looking great……so fun to be able to follow your adventure!
LikeLike
Thx Ad. I will miss you!
LikeLike
Looking forward to hearing of your travels. Wishing you the best always. Happy trails, Sally and Paul. ❤
LikeLike
Thank-you Lenore for your interest. It means a lot.
LikeLike
I’m looking forward to following your trip! Good luck and stay safe!
LikeLike
I’ll be following your trip! Good luck and stay safe!
LikeLike
Hi Crunch! You start your adventure soon. Best wishes on your CDT hike.
LikeLike
Yep Monday is the big start day. And I didn’t mean to to send you two comments haha
LikeLike
No biggie. Im still trying to figure out this blogging business. I’ll be thinking about you on Monday. Hope all goes smoothly.
LikeLike
So glad you both are doing well! Looking forward to hearing more about your adventures!
LikeLike
Thx Michelle.
LikeLike
Your blog was recommended by Brad (BikeHikeSafari). I followed him on the PCT and now the CDT. I love your photos of east San Diego county. It’s where I grew up and that landscape resonates with me. You take wonderful photos – looking forward to your posts. All the best.
LikeLike
Thank-you for your comment Donna. What a wonderful place to grow up.
LikeLike