So around Mount McLoughlin the mosquitos got bad. Really bad. Even while you hike they won't leave you alone. It made for some bigger mile days though because you just couldn't stop. Here you see Mantis being completely eaten alive by a swarm of mosquitos.
Didn't realize we were going to donate a pint of blood that day. Eventually getting out of the real bad mosquitos we hiked on to Crater Lake! It's actually not technically on the PCT, but neither Mantis or I had ever been so it was a must stop for both of us! It was absolutely stunning. Breathtaking sunset and sunrise from Watchman Peak!
It was hard to leave the rim trail, but the PCT was calling. We got back on trail and made our way to Bend! We were fortunate enough to stay with one of Mantis' friends Aunts who lives out there! She and her husband were amazing hosts and we can't thank them enough for their generosity! Now onward and upward to Timberline Lodge!
- Journey Man
