July 27- August 1

This was another favorite lake of mine on the TRT (Tahoe Rim Trail). Walking along side was a real thrill. I felt one with the scenery!

 

 These are the kinds of notes hikers leave for each other....I did wonder for a minute if perhaps they wanted a private lake campsite...

 

I met up with Sophia and Dave (he is taking the picture) at Lake Fontanillis the day before - and then again that morning and shared with them that my air mattress no longer held any air. Thus, I had not slept well. So when we met up at Lake Richardson later this day...they insisted that I take one of their air mattress/pad that was functional. I was very moved by their selfless act. They said; "we have only 5 more days on the trail...and you have months!" It made all the difference to my sleep and spirit! (Hope you made it back safely to Canada and I hear from you again!)

Heading into greener terrain-
Trails of enclosing wildflowers

 

My favorite wildflower on the TRT

Looks like mini Tiger lilies? 

 Good bye Lake Tahoe

Twin peaks in Granite Chief Wilderness- Easy to see why it got that name!

Trail Terrain

 

Storm is Brewing: 

Approaching Squaw Valley on TRT section of the PCT 

Hiking the Squaw Valley Slopes.  It is always a thrill for me to hike under the ski chair lifts. I recall thinking two thoughts. First, they must get a lot of snow depth here to cover these rocks.  And second, this the closest I will ever be to a black diamond run!

 July 31

This tent picture and the ones that follow are from the night before I crossed Donner Summit. I purposely selected this high saddle for the view...and because I heard what had to be a bear shaking a tree in the forested area below me. 

There a bear story that some of you may have heard that goes with these views...but it will have to wait to be told in person!  Just know I was never really in harm's way!

July 31 

 sunset in the trees...still hearing the bear! 

August 1:   I opened the tent flap to this!!

August 1st Morning View: