8:15 p.m.

Timberline to Cascade Locks

Well, I'm back on the trail again. This time I'm on the final Oregon section, Timberline to Cascade Locks! Started at the lodge at 2:15 pm with hopes of completing the 50 miles in 48 hours. It was beautiful up on the mountain.

Way, way too many people. The trail didn't start

clearing out until after the final junction for Paradise. Then, within a half mile, both sides of the Sandy river crossing, there are tents everywhere! I went about a mile downstream and found a nice virgin spot on an open bluff about 100 feet above the river. That crossing was easy

but down here the river is really cooking! Good white noise for sleeping.

So I did about 11 miles this afternoon which isn't bad after working half a day. I'm glad I held out for this spot. It's really my kind of camp spot and there's no one nearby, I hope. After the climb to and out of Lolo pass tomorrow I will be on the long ridge walk section. Can't wait.