CAJON PASS
PCT DAY 18: Mile 337.5 – Mile 342 (Cajon Pass)
Sunday May 1, 2016: 4.5 miles (7.2km)
Cajon Pass
I never thought I would be so excited to head to a McDonald’s store. It has been almost 23 years since I last had a McDonald’s meal and maybe a little more recent for Hammer. We planned a rest day at a Best Western Hotel nearby the trail and McDonald’s was on the way. We broke camp and were on our way around 6.30am. It was only had a short walk to get to our destination at Cajon Pass.
So happy that we camped where we did as the trail from our campsite into Cajon Pass followed a ridge with steep canyon like drop offs. And the first view of the Pass was a jaw dropper. We finally saw the trains we had been hearing for the past 2 days. Multiple train lines converged with freeways and other minor roads. It felt like we reached another PCT milestone.
The morning light is stunning
Leaving our campsite
Another HV powerline. We camped not far from this one
Steep dropoff
We got to the turnoff to our hotel and were surprised to see that the McDonald’s store was signposted on the PCT blaze marker. Even more surprised to find trail magic left for hikers: two bottles of Fat Tire IPA beer and a box of Coors. Fat Tire is one our favourite beers. Nice way to start breakfast.
The I-15 in the distance. Main route between Los Angeles and Las Vegas
We are nearly there
Trail magic
We walked a short way along the original section of Route 66 to get to McDonald’s where we had a long breakfast before heading to our hotel.
Just in case we needed to make a decision
Walking along Route 66 to McDonalds
Busy morning at Maccas.
Damn fine coffee
Once at the hotel we cleaned up, did our washing, got resupplies and spent the rest of the day lounging around, catching up on news from home and watching TV. Later in the day, we had dinner with Jim whom we met just after Scissors Crossing.
As nice as it was to have a long shower and a comfortable bed, I can’t help looking at the distant mountains and wishing I was out there. Tomorrow we will be again.
Cheers Mike, the beer looks good – have taken time off from my “moving” duties and have caught up on your last 7 days and just like you Stef, when you stop you can’t wait to get going again, that’s how I feel when I read you blog and view your amazing photos, I can’t wait for the next day – how amazing the contrast in the weather, the snow scenes just beautiful & the flowers – keep up the good work and look forward to catching up again in a few days – it’s all hands on deck here and the big day is Friday 2 p.m. – stay well/safe Love Maree & JC xx
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Good you got to have some rest from moving duties Maree. Friday is not that far away. Good luck with the move. We are loving the constant surprises that the trail is providing. I am so happy that you are enjoying the journey with us.
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