Pam made it to her second resupply location at Muir Trail Ranch yesterday.  Because she and trail buddy, Donna, had covered so much ground over the preceding days, they had a nice 5 mile stroll to the ranch on Monday morning.  We rented Pam a cabin, which came with indoor plumbing (cold water only), access to the power grid (which was critical so she could recharge all her devices), use of the hot springs (which got high marks from Pam), and a couple of meals.  There was no cell coverage, unfortunately, but the cabin package included internet access.

We were hopeful Pam would be able to call us over FaceTime using the WiFi service, but alas, “internet” does not equate with WiFi when you are at a remote outpost in the high Sierras.  Sadly, there was no call.

Today, after bidding farewell to Donna, her friend from Arizona, Pam set out for another day of hiking, accompanied by a new trail buddy.  They covered 11.5 miles, ending their day at Evolution Creek, one of several water crossings on the JMT.  They are camping together near the crossing tonight.

Pam offloaded about three pounds of what she now knows, with 10 days of hiking behind her, to be superfluous items. Three pounds does not seem like a lot, but she felt better getting the weight off her back, hips and feet.

In an effort to travel light, Pam did not pack all the food she needs to complete her trip when she resupplied at Muir Trail Ranch. The plan, instead, is for Paige and Jacob to lead a resupply mission that will meet her on the trail in about a week to bring her enough food to complete her journey.  Along with a few friends, the company will cover about 25 miles over three days, with significant elevation gain.  It will be a challenge, but it is a labor of love and the reunion on the trial with Pam will be worth every step.

Pam is now about half way through her trip.  We have noticed a few things as she adapts the the rhythm of the trail–slight changes in the pattern and content of her messages.  All good things that suggest she is having a great experience.