Walker's Pass - Joshua Tree Springs 6/15/10 14 miles

After a pretty good night's sleep in Lake Isabella, we started the busy day. We packed up our packs, had a good breakfast and headed out. Since walker's Pass was about 30 miles form Lake Isabella, on the main road, we began our hitch-hike (a first for me.) We held up our "To Trail" sign and many cars passed, Then, we had a buyer. I was definitely skeptical at first, but it ended up being a fun, educational ride. Greg Jones was the nice fella's name. He was a local carpenter with loads of knowledge about the history of the land, local economy and some wildlife advice. As soon as we got onto the trail, trail magic appeared. Okie Girl sat under a tent with many goodies to share. We had a chance to meet a gal who actually knew some Bristol folk, wow!! That doesn't happen often here. Her name was the Chocolate Bandito. We also met a nice guy by the name of Pacer, an older man, very sweet. We soon figured out the significance of his name when he smokes us about a mile into our walk! The day was long. First day, trying to get our "walking legs" as Chris said. I thought I was in pretty good shape, but I learned differently with a 45 lb. pack on. Chris and I spat about pack weight. He suggested I do away with my super small bottle of Dr. Bonner's soap. I refused and suggested that he ditch his heavy Nalgene bottle. W came to no resolution. I'm sure this will be an ongoing battle. We sweat, huffed and puffed along the trail and finally made it ot camp. Sore back, feet and hip bones, but it was worth it. Some beautiful land, but very desertous and hot. Looking forward to becoming accustomed to my pack and losing soreness as we continue. Time for bed. Oh yeah, we just happened to read in our guidebook that this camping spot may be bad for bears. Food is hung and in bear canisters. Bear spray and ice axes in tent. KB