Set off from our glorious campsite around 7.30am, for a day of hopping between water sources. Where there was water, there was plenty and we had to ford a couple of creeks.

We soon got to Boulder Oaks campground, and a little later met up with Blue Monkey, who we were to bump into all day and eventually camp with. Turns out someone camp to the campground last night and set up a barbecue to feed the hikers and gave out ice cold beer! So we narrowly missed out on our first trail magic, but I’m sure there will be more.

Took our first break at Cottonwood Creek to filter water, and I washed my spare undies and socks. Last year at this time it was just a puddle, this year 6″ deep and flowing! It’s been a wet winter here, but great for us as we generally carry 2L of water rather than up to 6L!

Quite a gentle walk to our idyllic lunch spot at Fred Canyon, but on the way I found a watch on the ground. I pocketed it and carried on. Blue Monkey arrived, amongst others, and I asked if it belonged to anyone. Lo and behold Blue Monkey had met a guy who lost a watch earlier, and he arrived 20mins later to be presented with his watch!

The next part of the day was a tough, hot climb towards Mount Laguna. Very taxing, and I consumed litre after litre of water. My shirt is now stained with salt deposits!

Good news is that, due to Austin meeting his family tomorrow in Mt Laguna, we are taking a ‘Nero’, a near zero miles day. I will resupply with food, finally get a replacement water filter and avail myself of the facilities at the campground – my first shower since starting and a wash of my clothes. And I will have plenty of time and signal to phone Fleur 😁😁

Oh, and did I mention I lost my toothbrush on the first day? I’m not one to talk to at close quarters….