Friday September 5, 19.5mi/31.4km

Kern River Valley (307.8/2870ft) to Kern River Canyon (327.3/3910ft) (CA)

I caught up on sleep from the previous few nights, and by the time I left camp at 7:30, it was already hot.

I followed the Kern River all day, mostly at a distance, and a little above it.

I could hear the loud rushing river, as well as traffic from the road across the river.

I thought there was only one short 800ft climb today, but really the trail had lots of small PUDS, which were even more tiring in the heat. I was really looking forward to getting in the river for a swim and cooling off.

At least there are plenty of trees for shade, and I had lunch under a large old pine tree. An hour later I came to a fun swingbridge, and crossed the Kern River.

I was going to swim at that spot, but then I caught the smell of barbecue. So I continued crossing the bridge, and found a little camp store that sold cold drinks!

I hiked through an RV campground, and on the other side I found a small hamburger stand. Amazing.

I ordered a chicken sandwich and fries and a chocolate milkshake, and while I was waiting I met Monika, who was taking a drive through the mountains and was very interested in talking to hikers. We shared a picnic table in the shade and had a fun chat while enjoying our meal (Happy birthday Monika!). The time flew by, and I realized the sun was getting lower in the sky and it was time to continue on. There was a paved roadwalk for 5 miles, fortunately by now the canyon was mostly in the shade.

I did manage to find a swimming hole to cool off anyway, the water was the perfect temperature. Eventually I left the road via an interesting old metal staircase, which led down to the hiking trail.

It was obviously a well-used trail, and I saw lots of little turn offs to campsites, swimming holes, and fishing spots.

Pretty soon I noticed a change in the geology, the rocks had mostly changed large granite slabs.

I always associate these rocks with the High Sierras, it feels like I’m finally getting up into the mountains again. I hiked a couple of miles, and while there were plenty of informal campsites, surprisingly most of them already had backpackers camping in them. I’m definitely not in Nevada/ Idaho anymore, I’d forgotten this popularity of the Sierras, even this lesser-known part. I set up camp under a nice oak tree, and made dinner to the sound of the rushing river below.