(+2 miles from Horseshoe Meadow)
After picking up my ice axe and bear canister, I was ready to head back into the snowy mountains!
Tom, ever the gentleman, escorted me for the first bit of trail through Horseshoe Meadow. We said our goodbyes, and I hiked on to catch up with Bianca & Ollie.
I caught up with them just outside the infamous Chicken Spring Lake – this is the area I sustained my injury in 2021. It looks a lot different now than it did then!
We hiked in the snow on and off throughout the day, as well as crossing several small streams. But we managed to stay dry!
We climbed up to the very frozen and very blue Chicken Spring Lake before descending into drier forests. Our campsite was peaceful, with stunning mountain views.
I’m now backpacking in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks!
All hikers are required to carry an approved food storage canister for this section. Everything scented (food, toiletries, etc.) goes into the canister at night, and it’s stored ~250 feet away from the campsite. Bonus: now I have a stool to sit on!
My first night with an ice axe, and already a casualty! At least I had repair tape and an old tent… I blame it on CAMP USA‘s ice axe – it’s so lightweight I forgot it was in my pack!
