These images are from our thru-hike of the JMT in 98. We hiked from August 16 through September 3, southbound. The hike took 18 days to complete, covering about 220 miles. Solophile and I are indebted to Big Bird (of AT 97 fame) for the splendid hospitality in the Bay City, the time he took off to be our personal tour guide, and the great hitch out to Yosemite.
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The approach to Halfdome. The next morning, we stashed our packs at the campground (in a secured bearbox), intending to dayhike up to Half Dome. Solophile wasn't altogether certain she wanted to climb the rock, but we were here and there was but one opportunity on this trip. We would take the chance and leave all of our gear and food hidden. One piece of gear we had never used before: a bear canister. A last-minute purchase by Solophile at the ranger checkin, we were able to put about a third of our food in it. This canister has two flat latches one has to twist with a coin or knife edge to open -- all smooth on the outside without seams so a bear can't get into it. They were expensive, and DNA had his doubts about the necessity, but Solophile felt the extra weight and cost was worth the protection. |
