June 25, 2017
Onion Valley to the foot of Glen Pass
Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hike: Day 51

The family went over Glen Pass today because they couldn’t stomach just getting to the base of it. Side note, getting to the base of/setting up for Glen Pass was the plan. Once we got an early start over Kearsarge, there was time to go over Glen. In the middle of the day. When it was slushy. And yes, the ascent looked ‘fine’. Steep and technical, but fine. Problem was, the descent was supposed to be the problem, not the ascent. And I was not going to spook myself by being reckless with the first pass of the section.

Thinking about it, it’s probably better to split from the group now, since I am willing to take the time to be cautious and not spook myself if I can help it, follow the advice of my elders, and respect the mountains. Respect the mountains for the majesty and power that they hold rather than set out to conquer them. Yes, part of me feels left behind. A steadier part of me knows that this is exactly what was supposed to happen.

It’s just me and Alex now, and I really believe in us. I believe we can commune with the mountains if they let us, and through respect and attempted understanding, take these awesome challenges one by one. I also look forward to seeing Payless if they catch us. And, if we can make it, celebrating the 4th of July at VVR.