Pacific Crest Trail treks

Editors note: Two Southwest Washington men are attempting to hike the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail from Mexico to Canada. The Columbian is publishing periodic updates on their progress heading north as information becomes available.

o Anthony Mannello, 27, has reached Mammoth, Calif., At mile 906, he’s one-third of the way through his trek.

Late May on the Pacific Crest Trail was characterized by wet shoes and soggy feet. Often the trail through the Sierras is above 10,000 feet elevation and snow was a frequent companion.

According to Mannello’s blog: “Getting to a low elevation in order to have a fire is becoming a daily routine to dry shoes and gear before they freeze overnight.”

At Muir Pass, elevation 11,973 feet, and a snow storm approaching, Mannello stayed overnight in a hut.

“A few other hikers behind me joined me in the shelter. The hut was warm and with more bodies inside the iced roof began to thaw as water dripped and continued to drip all night.”

They awoke to 15 inches of new snow.

Yet he remains upbeat.

“The snow and wetness of the trail does not effect my mood because it adds so much to the uniqueness of my experience and challenges me in a way I would not have imaged. The trail is ever changing but always beautiful beyond my wildest dreams.”