We woke early and got going by 6:20 despite the cold and damp, spurred on by the promise of a hearty breakfast after the first 7 miles. At that point the trail meets highway 138 and we had a phone number to call for a free lift to a resupply store (Wee Vill Market) where we could purchase a meal.

That also included a lift back to the trail so by 10:30 we were off again. This time the trail followed an aqueduct giving us a nice easy path for the next 17 or so miles.

This desert floor section is usually very challenging because of the heat but we are hiking in unusually cold weather. The distant mountains, mostly covered in cloud today were also sprinkled with snow which fell just 3 days ago. Although the black clouds had dissipated by the time we drew near, the wind picked up in ferocity and the sun had no chance of warming the day. I hiked all day in my rain jacket for warmth and Rob kept his thermal top on.

With Rob’s expert tent skills we are snug in our bags listening to the hum of the windfarm turbines all around us.