3.30.2018 Day 6

The sunrise this morning was the best yet. Maybe because there was no one else near me wrestling in their tents. Everything makes noise in your tent no matter what you’re doing, rolling over, packing, cooking. It all makes noise when you’re out here.

I was up and hiking shortly after 7am. I had camped at mile 72 yesterday so I knew I only had 5 miles to get to town where I would have to hitchhike into Julian. Dani had set up a room at The Julian Lodge where she planned to take a zero. When I arrived at Scissors Crossing (mile 77) we had trail magic by @elpinelindsey and further down a water cache which was stocked with the best cutie oranges I’ve ever had. We all agreed we’d never been so happy to be under a bridge.

As I had caught back up with the SOS and Jacob team, we agree to split up in order to hitch into town. Stephanie was quick to stick her thumb out but we reminded her it was only necessary if a car was coming. We had a laugh and then I decided to walk a little further up the road which I though would be a better place to hitch. Sure enough, I spot a Sherriff in his vehicle and I immediately wonder if it’s “illegal to hitchhike”. So being the friendly rule-follower that I am I walked up, introduced myself and he explain that yes technically we shouldn’t do it but that most of the folks around there knew who the hikers are so we wouldn’t have any trouble finding a ride. Well, as soon as I turned from him a nice man by the name of Paul was driving by. With no other option and quick thinking My thumb went out and he gave me a wave. I hurried across the street where he explain he could only take 2 of us as the police officer could see us and he only had a single cab truck with 2 seats belts. No sooner do I notice the Sheriff rolling up behind. He steps out to tell Paul “you take what you can and their packs and I’ll take the rest of them.” And that’s how you get picked up in a police vehicle for a 12 mile ride into Julian with no recourse but a smile. It was a great experience. Paul was on his way to see his daughter in Julian who’d just bought a new car. Such a nice man. We thanked them both and went about the day. The kids were staying at different hotel in Julian, so we parted ways and I walked into town were I immediately took a nice long shower.

Dani and I went over to Carmen’s Garden where she takes THE BEST care of her hiker patrons. She gives discounted drinks, offers free use of her washer and dryer and also allows you to crash on the floor if you’re in town for the night. I love that she comes and just chats with everyone. She gives everyone a hug no matter how dirty you are. Her staff is funny and super pleasing just to be around. And the food was amazing. I had lunch and dinner there today.

I finally met Joey and Nutz at Carmens. I’d only hear about them from others on the trail. They were super fun to hang out with. Dani and I went for our free cup of cider and snack from the Cider Mill. After that, it was a free slice of pie from Moms Pie. We also had a root beer float. I think the hiker hunger has started to settle in.

Dani and I went back to Carmen’s to do laundry. While we enjoyed a beverage I got a message from Laura and Emily that they had made it to Scissors Crossing as well and that they were working on a hitch. I was so excited to see them. We finished laundry and basically ended up hanging out at Carmen’s all day on the patio chatting with other hikers. It was such a beautiful day!!!! We all shared hitching stories and life stories and wrapped up the night with more time with Carmen and her sister Lisa. There was easily 15 of us at one point and she seriously loves the crowd. Such a great time there.

Tomorrows plan is 14 miles to Mile 91. That’s the next place for water from here. It’s hot and Dani and I plan to head out early. Some people are doing night hiking with the full moon but I don’t think I’m that motivated by 4pm to make that sort of decision. We will have to get a hitch back to the trailhead in the morning after some breakfast and just go from there.

All and all, Julian is a great town stop. Glad I took my nero here. The knees got a little bit of a break. Going to shoot for Warner Springs for Sunday now. Hitting the hay. Love you all!