Dispatch 3 - 7/12/26

Hi guys! Happy July

Little trail update - I’m in Shasta. NorCal has been hot hot hot. Many blowdowns and overgrowth and I find my energy pretty low most days and I see why many say the ‘NorCal blues’. Reaching the midpoint has brought many emotions. I’m exhausted and feeling the weight of the trail, like I need a long break (many of us feel this way so it’s validating to be in it with others) and simultaneously feeling like I don’t have ‘much’ time left on trail. It’s a lot to hold and a privilege to hold. I’ve come to really enjoy this experience, not just the hiking but the community, the hikers, the people in town, sleeping in pavilions in parks, watching the World Cup with trail friends in town, the kindness of random strangers helping me hitch ahead to grab my sneakers, the stories, the energy, feeling like I’m apart of this big thing and so many are having a different experience but the exact same experience…. It’s incredible.

Anyways, NorCal also has the most wildlife I’ve seen on trail despite all of the burn zones. Many bears, many, many, many deer, still many rattlesnakes (haha!) and I’m enjoying having my first berries of the season on trail!!! My physical body is very ready for OR. So cheers to enjoying the last of Northern California and almost walking through an entire state - grateful for your support and kindness on this journey. It helps motivate me more than words can describe.

See ya in OR/WA