[at-l] PCT hiker writes for Lompoc Record

[lorac4491 at linkamerica.net (Coosa Donaldson)]

http://www.lompocrecord.com/articles/2004/07/25/news/news08.txt

7/25/04 The Sierra. We were astounded by its beauty once again.

Four weeks ago the hiking really began. Prior to that, we were just covering the miles. 

Then we entered the Sierra and the scenery got exponentially more spectacular. As the terrain got steeper the air got thinner and water blew freely around every bend. The flip side was more mosquitos, afternoon thundershowers and a lot harder work, but it was all worth it.
snippet
Before starting the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), I spoke with my high school track and cross country coach, Buck Crosby. He told me he'd done the JMT 10 times. At the time I couldn't figure why anyone would do the same 211-mile stretch 10 times, but now I totally understand. It was absolutely gorgeous.

good article -- you'll enjoy her descriptive vocabulary.

Coosa Donaldson