Day 10

Somewhere on Fobes Creek Ranch Road to Lovely Idyllwild (5.8 mile road walk).

Woke to very cold (30’s), heavy fog and misty rain. Fastest weather shift we’ve experienced- ever. Packed up and started down Fobes to HWY 74 where we planned to hike to a campground to cleanup before trying to get a ride to Idyllwild for our first zero. This zero day isnt in our plans, but we need a day to reasses some equipment - (giant tent is staying -love it!)

As we walked down the road in heavy mist, we saw the outline of a tent pitched on, not next to, the road. Hiker emerged and we chatted about the weather. Dont know if he passed us in the night or bailed off the mountain before us. He said he was happy to get down out of the wind and was going to skirt the two hazard areas due to wet weather and snow predicted. We agreed and said we were doing the same and plan to return to trail at saddle junction. Disappointed to miss the view from the top, but probably would be socked in anyway.

We walked along Hwy 74 for a few miles and Chris found half a roll of duct tape discarded in the weeds. She mentioned we needed tape the previous day - the trail/roadside provides! Found the campground and cleaned up. We were cold and wet, so called a guy named ‘Grumpy’ who gives rides into Idyllwild. He delivered us to this beautiful little mountain town and provided a tour. Claimed this is where Elvis used to hang out, filmed some movies here and where JFK and Marilyn Monroe had their rumored fling. ‘Grumpy’ was not at all grumpy.

Staying in a small cabin with a jacuzzi TUB plotting our attack of the next section now that snow is predicted Monday. We hope to get over the 9300 ft section and drop below 6000 ft before storm makes an appearance. Idyllwild is a gorgeous town and very hiker friendly. Saw many other hikers here doing the same thing - eating.

The hiker barrel here at the Inn had KT tape and moisturizer - two things on our shopping list! Score. Rick bought long underwear and another pair of socks at local outfitter store. Chris bought some killer lightweight Black Diamond crampons for snow on Fuller Ridge.

This day has been dominated by eating - Rick - ice cream and Chris - ice! She will never take water or drinks with ice for granted again.