New Valley Hills

In the morning confirmed my decision to take some time off trail. I did just 9 miles today, all gentle downhill through riparian meadows along an easy track. I still felt tired after the first hour and had to take frequent breaks.

Getting to Toulumne Meadows I checked at the ranger station my public transport options east and west. A shuttle bus could take me to Yosemite then various buses into San Francisco then north to Kenwood.

Arriving at the Ranger station to ask about bus services a series of amazing events starts to unfold.

I loan my phone to another hiker who hasn’t got reception. He repays me by splitting my $20 note so I can pay exact fare for the bus. Overhearing me a hiker joins in the conversation. Houdini lives in England only 40 miles from me and we worked out we’d met 7 weeks ago at the beginning. We agree to hitch into town saving the $17 bus fare.

Pretty soon we get picked up by Rick. He takes us the 2 hour drive to Yosemite Valley. A photographer, he asks if we have time to see the sights – of course. We detour and he points out Bridal Veil Fall, El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.

Asking where we’re camping we uncertainly quote the site name – we don’t know where it is. He’s camping there as well – door to door hitch!

Over pizza and beer he sees me examining a bus timetable. Where are you going he asks. West of Sacramento I reply. I’m going to Sacramento in the morning, would you like a lift? Wow, that’s really kind of you, what time?