And today's challenge....

is the dreaded Poodle Dog Bush. We've been warned about this plant since the beginning of the hike and we knew we were getting to the area where it's prevalent. It grows well in areas that have burned. It can cause a pretty serious rash and on rare occasions, some respiratory problems. Saw LOTS of it today.

Right beside the trail. It was challenging to keep an eye out for it because we did big miles today, so it was easy to lose focus! Fortunately, it has a very pungent smell, so that was a good reminder. We had to do a little bit of road walking again to avoid a section that has been overtaken. 

Saw some more amazing views..

And even though This photo is not a great representation of what the trail was like most of the day, I thought it was cool.

All the new green growth and the charred trees. Signs of the recovery of the forest.

And today we also saw GIANT pine cones!!

Walked through an area that wa devasted by fire in 2009. It was very sad and a little eerie. 

It is unreal how much of southern Cal has been devastated by fire. 

Had a killer climb at the end of this long day. Tomorrow we have a shorter day into a KOA campground. Shower/laundry. Ah!  Life's simple pleasures!