After leaving Etna, what’s on my mind was the forecast of heat waves. I heard people warning the PCT hikers that it would get to near 100s in the Seiad Valley. I passed the Kidder Creek Valley which was gorgeous with endless streams and wildflowers. The next day, I decided to hike in the evening to descend 4,000 feet into the Seiad Valley and the next day early morning to ascend 4,000 feet back up. By 9am on July 2nd, it was very hot, especially when going through the burned forest with no shade. In addition, there were so many down trees on the trail. I decided to count to make it fun and as a way to practice mindfulness. Then I made it to the border of California and Oregon on the full moon day! As soon as I entered Oregon, I noticed the down trees were cut for the hikers to pass the trail and I so appreciated after going over, under and around 864 down trees between Etna and the border! I’m very much looking forward to hiking the Oregon section of the PCT!
Appreciation: for a hiker who shared her water with me on the 4,000 feet ascent out of the Seiad Valley. For two trail angels provided me with sparkling water after the 4,000 feet ascent on the hot day! For my friend’s sister who just moved to Ashland for hosting me. It’s lovely to have a place to rest and cook fresh vegetables. For trail angels who gave me a ride into Ashland as well as a ride in town as well.
Best learning: do your daily tick check! After arriving to Ashland, I found a tick deeply buried on my side above my hip. I had to go in to the urgent care to get it removed. This is my first time that I had to get help from medical professionals to get the tick out after being an outdoor professional for over 3 decades. It is rare but it happens! I’m so grateful that my host was able to take me to the care facility and I got help I needed right away. I was so relieved that I still have the health insurance. Thanks NatureBridge for continuing my benefits!
Challenges: crawling over, under and walking around 864 down trees between Etna and the Oregon border. Down trees are dangerous because it creates slip and fall or scrapes situations.
Disappointment: while descending along the Grider Creek into the Seiad Valley, I interrupted and surprised a couple of black bears foraging time. There were a lot of wild strawberries and raspberries that they were eating.
Exciting moments: seeing the full moon rise, full moon set on the day when I made it to Oregon. I prayed for a safe journey ahead to the moon and the rising sun. Ashland is a very friendly town and I had many wonderful interactions with the locals.
