Day 62Etna, California

I’m leaving for a busy day with a lot of elevation. In the morning, the plants on my two feet hurt me very much. The inner soles are black, flattened and almost destroyed, I feel like walking directly on the ground.

I meet Gizmo, Sunrise and Goat. We exchange on frequent heel pains with the Altra. They are considering a detour to Medford to go to REI, but this is several hours’ drive.

I continue despite the pain, hesitating between going straight to Seiad Valley or stopping at Etna. The battery on the phone partly slices the decision: it falls abruptly and I only have half a charge for more than 2 days. I end the day with the camera off and camp near a summit, beautiful decor.