Day 95Okanogan County, Washington

I leave Bridge Creek with pain on my left foot so strong that I doubt I can hold on to the day. Fortunately, the route climbs more than it descends. On my way, I meet the assistance team of Aurélien Sanchez, who is trying the PCT record in 45 days. Trading with them changes my mind.

After 12 or 13 miles, I reach the road and wait about 40 minutes before a couple of hikers gives me a ride to Mazama. I eat a large sandwich, a meatball sub, a huge blueberry pastry, several sodas, a cookie and a brownie. The resupply is less suited to thru-hikers, but I add bulk trail mix, 2 freeze-dried meals and a few breakfast items.

Another driver takes me back to Rainy Pass. He knows the final section and tells me that a fire near the border has been contained. The news worries me. Without service for several days, I did not know the fires were so close.

I return to the trail via Cutthroat Pass, along beautiful ridges between Rainy Pass and Harts Pass. The evening light, mild temperature and views are exceptional. My foot remains painful, but the break in Mazama brought some temporary relief.

I also give up rushing for an appointment with the dentist in France. The return from Harts Pass to Seattle will be already complex, no interest in ruining the last few days for an appointment that I can move.