We didn’t plan to zero at VVR. We were going to get back on trail and catch up with the crew in Mammoth. But then today happened.

I woke up early and ready to go. Grabbed half a liter of water out of Sallie Keys Lakes and headed out. We had 23 miles to VVR. And I am out of dinners.

I woke up in the amazing camping spot to frozen water. It was still flipping cold. I learned my watch has the last 4 hours of temperature and it said 23 degrees at 4am.

Pat pat. I woke up to a light tapping on my sleeping bag. Instantly I knew it was rain and I held my breath hoping I wouldn’t feel many more a few more hit and I turned to look at the sky.

The morning sun peaked over the mountain. I had been awake a few times before 7 to blow up my air mattress. I think it had a leak. The air isn’t holding too well.

I relaxed this morning. I’m in the Sierras. My bag is heavy. And I don’t need to hurry. At least it’s a bit lighter after finishing the salami, cheese, and veggies.

I wasn’t in a hurry today. No real plan for the day. I still have plenty of food. More than I need to get to VVR. I’m taking advantage of it.

Coffee and a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch were waiting for me this morning. The hostel California was great.

The Hostel Cali. Bike riding and rock climbing. McFlurry at night.

I woke up feeling fresh around 6:30. We had a short hike up Kearsarge pass and down to the trailhead. Then an hour long hitch into Bishop. I’m excited to only have a mile of climbing, and less than 1k feet.