Tule Spring (mile 136.5) to Highway 74 (mile 151.9)
(15.4 miles, +3,000/-1,700 feet).

Today was day two of a two day trip. Overnight it was really cold, in the 20s. I kept my water bottle near me in the tent and as soon as I got out this morning it started freezing up.

We decided to start well before sunrise this morning because we had gone to bed so early the night before. I kept on my base layers and all my clothes for a good part of the hike because of the cold.

It was beautiful in the dark with MixMaster’s headlamp and the nearly-full moon, but none of my pictures came out.

I thought my knees hurt yesterday, but that was just a preview of coming attractions. MixMaster was very kind to walk at my slow pace for a bit, but at a certain point he needed to stretch his legs to deal with his own aches and pains.

The last part of the hike near Coyote Canyon was really pretty, but I was in too much pain to snap any photos. I sang to myself to get down the last couple of miles.

I think I found my limit on this two day trip. No more 20+ mile days in winter when daylight is limited and we have to rush.