New Valley Hills

I start ahead of Beans. Later he passes me by having hooked up with a friendly couple of last seen before Whitney. The three of them race off to get to Red’s Meadow 20 miles distant for cooked food.

I happily plod downhill looking forward to my easy 10 miles today, though also looking forward to a town day.

I come across a sign saying Duck Lake. I idly look at the FarOut guide on my phone – it’s a shortcut to Mammoth; my heart quickens. Somewhat rashly I take it, it cuts 7 miles off the journey before town day.

At the pass I’m met by four rangers who quiz me. Technically I’m outside my permit conditions though they understand why I’m on this track. I engage enthusiastically with their examination and get let off with no consequences.

I end up doing 18 miles and getting a hitch to Mammoth Post Office arriving there 3 minute before it shuts. I collect my resupply package then head to the motel to see if they can book me in a day early. They can- I’m having a double zero in town!

Getting into a room involves locking the door, shedding backpack, shoes and clothing and straight into the shower in as few seconds as possible!