Crabtree Meadows - Tyandale Creek 6/23/10 9 miles

headed out around 6am with a big day planned. About two minutes into our walk, we realized that the only way across the river, to the other side of the trail, was to put our balance to the test by walking across a narrow log in between. That was a good indicator of what the remainder of the day had in store for us. After just a few miles, we had to cross another creek. This time no log to walk across. We put on our crocks, trekking poles in hand and wade across. The current was strong from the rapid snowmelt and the water was COLD! On the other side we chatted with our friend Pacer, the first PCT hiker we met as soon as we came onto the trail, on our first day. We discussed with him our plans for the day and debated our planned journey to Forester Pass (highest point on the PCT.) We discussed ETA and rumors of snowfall and snowmelt. We were undecided if we could attempt this due to fear or 1) finishing to late 2) arriving there too late in the day 3) post holing atop of 4 miles of snow. We continued our walk, still debating our long day, discussing weather we should wait and complete Forester the following day. we came across another hiker, Alex from London, and again debated Forester today or in the morning. We walked and crossed water throughout the day. We arrived at tree line and the mountain was covered. The trail was difficult to navigate due to the snowfall. We found our way with the help of a rock carion in the distance. We hopped back onto the trail after slowly making our way through the snow. We talked with Pacer and a new face, Square Peg, over lunch. We decided to complete 9 miles to camp today and start an early morning on Forester pass, using our crampons to get us by instead of post-holing in slush. We were almost at camp and couldn't have ended this day without yet another river crossing. At least our feet got clean today : ) We camped with Pacer, Square Peg and Alex. Pacer and Alex were a really big help and provided some good tips for the days to come. KB