AZT Map Miles 620.0
Miles Hiked 609.7
Elevation 4,359 feet
Miles Hiked Today 12.0
Today’s target is the Molino Basin Campground. The trail is nothing like it was yesterday. For the most part, it is a path with very few boulder climbs. The trail is more easily defined, so there is no wandering around looking for the trail. Of course, there is elevation gain – about 1,600 feet in total. Going up is never easy, especially for me, but I’ll get it done.
Because the trail was a little “tamer” today, I knew I would get to the campground early. I could easily make 15 miles or more, but I wanted recovery time. There is an approximate 4,000 foot climb coming up in two days, and I want to be rested for it.
As expected, I reached the campground just after 3 PM. As I descended from the trail, a camper called to me. He offered a cold drink and some cold chicken, which I gladly accepted. The camper, Tim, was traveling the west looking at potential places to live. He currently lives in Stuart Florida, but wants to move. He’s a real nice guy (because he gave me food and drink). I’ll probably join him later at his campfire.
Tomorrow I’m going for the Italian Trap Trailhead. It’s at the base of the 4,000 foot climb up to 8,000 feet. I’ll do that climb the next day. I’m not looking forward to it.
