Day 39: 1000km

We started off at 6:40am and made good ground in the cool early hours with fine weather, a good path and an easy descent to start us off.

Perhaps because we were relaxed with less effort, we noticed more wildlife through today’s hike. Small chipmunks ran across in front of us and we saw a few small white furry (? mice) scuttle along the trail in front of us, moving much faster than we could. We also saw a snake slither into a bush to the side of the track and, on closer inspection, discovered it to be a rattle snake requiring us to make a small detour to keep a safe distance.

Today’s milestone: around midday we passed the 1000km mark which was conveniently signed for us along the track.

The afternoon saw us climb to the top of a rocky hill with splendid views over the desert and nearby hills. Descending again we finally came to the water cache which was well stocked and, having completed 22 miles, we decided to leave the next ascent for the morning when we are breakfasted and feeling fresh. Also this way we avoid dry camping further along.