If hiking the PCT has taught me anything, it is to make the best decision for YOU. One of those good decisions is that we have decided to say goodbye to the trail. It was a tough decision, one that was accompanied by texts to friends, calls home, quite a few tears, and stress eating skittles. The reason we have decided to get off trail is due to the unusually treacherous snow conditions this year. I heard that this is the second highest precipitation year in recorded history, and the data I’ve seen online is confirmed by reading posts by people who have started going through the Sierras stating that this year it’s not “hiking” it’s “mountaineering.” We don’t have the skills or equipment necessary, and the trail is no place to learn such things. Possible concerns are avalanches, slipping on steep snow banks, and insane creek crossings. 

It’s just not worth putting our lives in danger. We knew from the beginning that we possibly would not be able to make it through the Sierras, but hoped that in the time it took to hike there it would melt. 

At first I felt like a failure for not continuing, but I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m proud of myself for hiking 558 miles on my first real backpacking trip (we did one overnight to prepare… but that’s it). I learned a lot, about being and outdoorsman and myself, done a lot of soul searching, and I’m at peace with this decision. I know that I did my best and I’m looking forward to whatever the next adventure will be. 

Our choice was confirmed for us on our last full day of hiking. We were talking about our decision and about food we would eat at home. I mentioned I was in love with oranges and want to eat 20 and Sherry said “Oh I’d kill for an orange right now.” Well, we get to our camping spot for the night…which is also a water cache… and the trail angels had cookies, peaches, one apple… and exactly TWO ORANGES. It’s moments like these that I feel God’s presence in my life so deeply. Even when it seems like everything is falling apart, when something you worked so hard for or really wanted falls through. It’s just a little reminder that He’s there and He’s for me and has my best interests in mind even if I don’t know what’s on the path ahead. 

So best of luck everyone braving the Sierras, you’re in my thoughts and prayers, and thank you to the PCT, the fabulous hikers I’ve met, and the incredible trail angels for a wonderful adventure these past 38 days. 

…Even though I cried this morning as we hiked before 5:00 AM so we could see the stars and desert sunrise one more time.