The High Sierra welcomed us with a cold front and storm system. At 8,000 feet above sea level we found a beautiful camp with a panoramic view of the high mountains. The radio fiercest called for a slight chance of rain but building clouds and cold temperatures told us otherwise. We prepared for snow. That night a big thunderstorm rolled in, complete with high wind, heavy lightning and, of course, rain. We awoke to a snow covered tent. It was hard to leave our warm cozy shelter but the horses were shivering and the accumulating snow was not letting up. Saddling and packing horses in a snow storm is the most unpleasant of jobs.

The grass is barely starting up high Snow level is low as the Sierra is 130% of normal snow pack for the year. It may be a while until we are able to cross the High Sierra. This is not a problem for us because there are plenty of places to explore. Traveling the back side of Yosemite National Park and the Sierra National Forest, we have ridden through large groves of the Giant Sequoias. We somehow manage to find low use areas. Listening to the ham radio, we've learned that most of the campgrounds are jammed, but the roads we travel are very quiet. Our diet is changing with the season and elevation, to knot weed, sheep sorrel, violets, monkey flowers, dandelions and giant puffballs. There is no shortage of bear signs but so far they have not bothered our camps.... yet.

09/11/00 - part two:

The rugged peaks and passes have taken their toll on our expedition. Our gear is wearing out and breaking, work is hard to find.

Gretchen has decided to quit or at least take time off. I am continuing on alone.

Kings Canyon is spectacular.but not a good place for the inexperienced or weak of heart. Passes are literally cut out of sheer cliffs and reach heights of 13,000 feet, which makes them both challenging and very dangerous. One horse went over the side and rolled down to the next switchback. She's OK. Persistant bears have kept me up all night as they try to get at the food. One made me so mad I chased it down the valley, screaming and throwing rocks all the way. Probaby not the accepted response but this time it was effective.

I've adapted to riding alone and I am enjoying the beauty of Kings Canyon.