The route goes right. Tighten the backpack waistband again to keep it from sliding down this hipless anatomy and stroll under a towering Larkspur in full flower to continue the day's long ascent. Sierra Arnica a. nevadensis and Mountain Jewel Flower Streptanthus tortuosus also known as shieldleaf, a dignified member of the Evening Primrose Family Epilopium angustifolium or Fireweed and Mtn. Spiraea S. densiflora who grows out of the creekside granite crevices. All photo's are taken while liberally coated with Deet.
Mosquitoes see a green light when their potential victims have both hands in use.
The voracious little critters are a constant reminder that humans are not last on the food chain. Lunch consists of delicious trail mix and dried fruit together with a PowerBar. Each days menu was carefully planned and packed separately. High calories and low weight was the goal. Creek turns out to be a sublime companion for the next two hours.