Idyllwild to cold campsite

Since we had to check out of our little cabin at 11...we walked out the door at10:59. Savoring our town time. Turned in our key and literally the very fest person we saw, asked us what we were doing and offered to give us a ride to the trailhead. Incredible.  She used to live in the area and was back for the funeral of her 93-year-old dad. Even though the ride was all of about 10 minutes, when we got to the Devilslide trailhead, she hugged us and thanked us for distracting her and cheering her up. Funny how people's lives can be touched in such a short period of time. In her backseat was 'Travelin' Bear'. All buckled in.

Since this the first spot that we could reconnect with the actual PCT after the fire closure, we had to hike up several miles and a few thousand feet just to reach the trail again.

Saw this amazing rock formation at the beginning

And a little while later we saw it again from above

And by a little while, I mean several hours and a few thousand vertical feet. Today's trail was breathtaking, challenging, warm, cold and snowy. One minute we were in a pine forest trying not to slip on the snow and ice and the next minute, we were out in the sunshine on a beautiful ridge.

Got in some good miles and set up camp at about 7. High on a mountain and it is COLD. I am writing this blog entry from deep inside my sleeping bag. Wearing woolies, hat and gloves.

Yes. That is snow right by our tents. 

Took this pic from the ridge by our tent. The warm desert beiow. That's where we're heading tomorrow.