After leaving hiker heaven we crossed more desert chaparral with pockets of Oak woodland on the ridges. These pockets of shade are crucial rest stops along the way to help us escape the desert heat. While we dream of mountain forests and streams, daily we remind ourselves how powerful this arid landscape can be. Growing up in the pacific northwest I grew accustomed to the tall forest canopy which can comfort and allow me to dwell within. Out here in the exposed desert terrain with endless views to the horizon, my mind is free to wander.
Shortly after leaving Hike Heaven we arrived at “Casa de Luna” in Green Valley, home to Terrie and Joe Anderson (no relation…). The property is a maze of campsites spread out under an Oak and Manzanita canopy, truly a magical place. We ended up taking an unexpected zero day here that involved making friends, arts & crafts, disc golf, and a few too many beers.
From here we hitched a ride 13 miles around the Powerhouse Fire closure. There have been many sections in Southern California closed due to fires. At these junctures you are confronted with the decision to walk a detour route (usually involving a road walk) or hitch a ride around the closure. We hope in the future these fire closures will reopen so we can return to walk a landscape that is in repair, full of life and vigor.
We awoke at sunrise in an Oak/Pine woodland and were confronted with our biggest challenge yet, crossing the Mojave desert along the California aqueduct. We reached “Hikertown” mid-day and rested up until evening for a long night hike. Hikertown is a western themed hiker outpost, one of the last trail angel stops on the trail until Kennedy Meadows. We left at 6:30pm and finally arrived at the next water source at 2:30am. For a total of 27 miles, this day was by far the most physically and mentally challenging. My legs are still recovering from the overexertion and I don’t think we will be pushing ourselves that hard anytime soon.
The next 2 days we walked thru a patchwork of windfarms. These giant spinning robots emit melodic tones and groans as they move in unison with the changing windspeed. The infinite ways we as humans impact the landscape is mind boggling. What a bizarre world we live in.
At the end of this section near Tehachapi we were greeted at the trailhead by my Dad, his dog Rosie and a cold beer! The next day we took a zero and got to spend time with my grandparents and aunt & uncle in Bear Valley. Words can’t describe how important family is to the both of us. Time spent with the people you love is priceless and we are blessed to have such a large supportive tribe.
Bye for now,
Topo and Chia
The Anderson Chronicles 