This sections came with three major milestones. Fuller Ridge, The Mission Creek washout, and mile 200!!
Fuller Ridge is at 8,000 ft and is the final part of the San Jacinto mountain range. To tackle this slanted snowy terrain we needed to utilize micro spikes, metal spikes you add to your shoes for additional traction, not unlike chains on a car. We got over the ridge with few “Post Holes” - when your foot breaks through the top layer of snow and you sink into the snow past your knee.
The PCT through Whitewater and Mission Creek drainages was significantly damaged by Tropical Storm Hilary in August 2023. Many thru-hikers have turned around due to landslides and cliffs blocking the trail. We elected to give it a try and we’re glad we did! The majority of the wash section is walking on loose rock/sand. There is occasional re-routing through some of the cliffs sections, but very doable with a bit of “bushwhacking”.
We hit the 200-mile marker on Monday April 29th!!
Next stop Wrightwood!
