We jumped off the Trail at Kearsarge Pass, and after an easy hitch down to Independence, we got a ride to Bishop with a trail Angel whose son is also on the PCT.

We made our way to The Hostel California, where we were greeted with a “welcome beverage”, a hot shower, and indoor beds. Nice!

Day x: Monday 6/01/2015, 0mi/0km

The ancient bristlecone pine forest was a worthy side-trip, but unfortunately no photos since my phone was dead that day.

Day x: Tuesday 6/02/2015, 0mi/0km
The next day we checked out Yosemite Valley!

We had a couple visitors at our backpackers camp area that night…

We met a group of 3 hikers camped next to us, and found out they were doing half dome the next day. Since that was our plan too, I asked them for any trail beta, how much vertical, etc…and found out a permit is needed! No problem, they offered us a couple spots on their permit, and we departed with them the next morning at 5:30am!

Day x: Wednesday 6/03/2015, 14.2mi/22.9km

Day x: Thursday 6/04/2015, 0mi/0km

The next day we visited the Giant Sequoia grove, the trees are ancient and enormous.

We camped in the park, and had a nice night under some giant evergreen trees.

Day x: Friday 6/05/2015, 0mi/0km

We packed up camp and drove to Jus-Jo’s for breakfast. We visited Forestiere Underground Gardens, which is a series of residential tunnels built by an Italian immigrant over 4 decades, impressive! On the way to the airport, we stopped and got some fresh nuts at a roadside stand, and then stopped for lunch at Quiznos. I dropped by dad off at the airport, and then went to visit friends Olesh and Jane in Oakland. After a Seth Rogen movie and beers, I was ready for bed!

Day x: Saturday 6/06/2015, 0mi/0km

I saw Bridal Veil waterfalls on my way back thru Yosemite, on my way back to the Eastern Sierra. I make it to hwy 395 near Mammoth, and call it a night.

An amazing week! There is so much stuff to see/do in the Sierras!! I’m definitely coming back here someday soon.

Back to hiking!