Chief, aka Kevin. PCT 4 me 2013: 08/08/13

Elk Lake Youth Camp, mile 2001. Oregon

Last I spoke to Kevin was when he left Ashland heading for his next resupply box that was being sent to Shelter Cove. This box contained the usual, maps, batteries, notes, and this particular box had 5 days of food and rain gear. Unfortunately, I mailed in time for 20 mile days, but Kevin has been putting some big mile days in recently, with 28 - 32 mile days. So...the box was intercepted (sounds like football?) and sent via UPS to the next resupply drop at Elk Lake.

The highlight - The hiker box at Shelter cove (leftover's from other hikers) was ok. Was able to stock up with oatmeal and a few other items to get him by for a couple of days. But, low and behold, as he was coming down the trail he ran into a Boy Scout Troop that was just finishing up an extended camping trip. They asked if he wanted any extra food and water. Kevin said that the boys dug through their packs and one kid gave him a half of a cookie! How can you say NO to this. Sweet. He felt much better with the added goodies. That was also a day that he hiked for 16 miles without water. So it was such a joy to see these boys. The boys thought it was great that they were able to meet a couple of "real PCT thru-hikers." Maybe one day they will attempt this adventure...this was how it started for Kevin so many years ago.

Then came a few "section hikers" and they also offered up some food. He was set.

The big Bummer - for the first time since he left Mexico, Kevin felt he wanted to quit. This happened after leaving Crater Lake. In the data book, and through the hiker grapevine, there was a water cache within a reasonable distance after leaving the Lake campground. This was a reliable Trail Angel and a reliable water source. Unfortunately, when he and Smooth Operator arrived there was NO cache. NO water. The trail angel had left a note apologizing as the National Park had destroyed the cache. Unbelievable. All he could think about was, "I'm quitting. This is awful." Ended up walking 32 miles that day. The saying on the trail is, "I'm quitting NEXT week!" That way you get one week to boost your demoralizing day, or consequent days. You just have to keep saying to yourself, "I'm quitting in one week." I'm not sure I would have the ability to do that? Kevin said it took him 7 days to recover from that blast. By the way, he did mention that Stagecoach and Family Man were ahead of him and they realized that other hikers would need water since the cache was destroyed. They provided water for the few hikers that came into camp that evening. Amazing trail community. just amazing.

The Map - for all you map geeks. Many of you called or emailed regarding Kevin's map in those last few days. Since he did not get his resupply box, he did not get new batteries for his DeLorme. Therefore, he was being super careful and turned off his tracker just in case he needed to use the Emergency locator. But, he's back on now. So you once again can follow him through the remainder of Oregon.

Kevin was able to meet up with our friend and section hiker, Paul C. aka Beeman. Paul sent me many of the pics I have included and texts throughout the day on their progress. Kevin only hiked with Paul for a couple of days, but really enjoyed having his company. What a nice treat for both of them.

Black Lava Beach at Big Lake (with BeeMan and BirdMan)

I will be flying to Portland on August 15 to meet up with Kevin as he arrives at the Timberline Lodge in Mt. Hood. There we will stay for 2 days before he walks his last miles into WASHINGTON. It's hard to believe this is really happening.

Only 4 more resupply boxes until Canada. Let's only hope he gets enough calories to keep him in these brand new pants that I just sent that are 2 sizes smaller than his normal. Where did my husband disappear to????