First Desert Section---Campo to Julian!

After Rob took us for a quick ocean view from Point Loma on April 23rd, we cruised to Campo and the Mexican Border. We signed our names in the PCT register book at the monument, took some photos, touched a toe or finger on Mexico, and hit the trail. It was quite a emotional high for both of us to finally see the trail head. Rob wandered the trail with us for the first four or five miles to send us off on our adventure. Once again, a huge thank you to Rob! What an amazing soul!

Then....Adam and I for the next 5 months in the smallest 2-man tent on the planet. After the first 5 days of meandering through the desert, we were both extremely surprised to see such a variety of flora and fauna in such a hostile, desolate ecosystem. We have crossed through thick, gnarly chaparral mountain ranges, pinyon pine forests, and juniper and cactus plains. Along the way we have crossed paths with numerous plants and animals, but a couple of our highlights have been the horned lizard, tarantula, and the acorn woodpecker. In addition, we have crossed paths and made friends with many cool people along the way, including other thru-hikers like ourselves.

April 23rd--Mexican Border

Tarantula

Foster's Peak



Adam's taped ankle and our only cloudy day.




Desert Beauty.

 Here is a little summary of our trip so far....
April 23rd--Started at 2:30 PM--12 miles
Day 2--18 miles
Day 3--18 miles
Day 4--20 miles
Day 5--9 miles to HWY 78 and a 13 mile hitch from a nice lady to Julian
Total= 77.6 miles

The days have been hot, dry, and full of walking. With so much time on our feet, we spend a great deal of time each day washing, taping, and rubbing our disgusting, blistered feet. The nights have been brisk, fresh, and starlit....that is, until we crawl into our smelly sleeping bags in the cramped living space and pass out shoulder on shoulder. We both are loving life and are excited for each new day to start walking North for Camp AmeriKids and continue enjoying each moment in the wilderness. Until Idyllwild (ETA 7 days)....

Much Love,
F+A