27 miles!

Day four

Garnet peak trail junction to Scissors Crossing- 27 miles

It was another chilly night up on the mountain but the trees around us provided a great wind break so we still got great rest. We got started hiking at 5:45 am in preparation of the longer day of hiking we wanted to do. Since the terrain seemed docile on the elevation profile, we figured we could push to the Scissors Crossing underpass and possibly go into Julian if we got here earlier than planned.

There was one day on the AT where we did 27 miles. It was in Vermont and we had arrived to a shelter only to be greeted by DNR rangers who were searching for an aggressive bear. We kept pushing forward to get away from the Bear, hence the 27 mile day.

So here we were trying 27 miles on day four of this trail! The day began with some wind but incredible views as we sidelined some rocky type mountains. Everyone talks about how the first section of the trail is desert, but I feel like the Laguna mountains don’t get talked about often! They are so beautiful. Most of the day was spent descending from the mountains into the plateau.

At each water stop, we checked in with each other to make sure our bodies were not getting hurt or injured from a long day of hiking too early on. Each time we reported maybe a sore toe from just stumbling on a rock but nothing major. At the end of the day, we both felt grateful and proud of how strong we felt throughout the day as well as humbled by the opportunity to be out here again.

When we made it down to the legendary rest spot under the overpass, we met a trail angel whose name is ‘Ghost’. He gave us a great history of the area, tips on avoiding snakes, and how to stay hydrated. He promised to meet us back here again in the AM to drive us into town for a hot breakfast at the diner! Once again, the trail provides.