last pass before Mammoth!

Day 52 ~ 868.2 - 886ish

Today, we would conquor our last pass before heading to Mammoth Lakes, what a relief.  This section has has been so difficult, and it seems as if we've been out forever (though I think today is the 7th day out of Bishop).  We are tired, and more than ready for a town stop.  Fortunately, the altitude has not affected us as noticably in this section.

The hiking was moderately easy.  With shoes and socks on, and no difficulties, we crossed Bear Creek, "the most dangerous ford in the Sierras," according to our guidebook.  It was a hot one today; the temperatures seem to be rising and the mosquitos breeding, as they seem to be rapidly increasing in numbers.  We stopped by a stream for a rather long lunch break, where we washed off in the frigid water, and were able to rinse out many of our clothing items.  How refreshing!

Silver Pass was much like Selden, in that the climb up was long and gradual, shaded with trees and plentiful grass and streams along the way (and very little snow).  A spectacular cascade showered down right on the trail.  We reached the pass fairly late in the evening, and hiked on a bit further down the North side of the pass, where we were surrounded by semi-icy lakes.  Upon cooking dinner, I realized I had lost my spoon (ironically after I had just carried and returned someone else's spoon).  At least I have someone to share a spoon with for now, I'll buy one in town. We had a phenomenal sunset view all to ourselves as we dined.