I reached Big Bear, CA. on May 25th. I limped into town with a really bad shin splint (but it was worse). I did not know that the 265 mile mark was to be my last miles on the trail.

The past several days I was doing a lot of hiking as I was trying to keep ahead of the freak snow storm that rolled in. I hiked through snow in the higher elevation, but nothing like those behind me that had about to 6 inches of snow get dumped on them. It was during this time that I pushed too hard to stay ahead of the brunt of it- and hurt myself.

In Big Bear I stayed at the Nature's Inn hiker hostel room. Let me say that Ed & Robin were so kind to me. They looked after me as I was trying to allow my leg to heal. I can't thank them enough. However, after me being there for almost 2 weeks it was time to end the journey. My leg had suffered a stress fracture & I could not put any weight on it. So I accepted my fate and made my way back to Las Vegas.

The time I spent on the trail was an amazing experience. Hiking during the day, and sleeping under the stars was my favorite past-time. The friends, kindness of strangers, and the natural beauty I encountered I will always remember. Although I did not complete the trail, does not mean I am still not hiking it in my mind.

Thanks to everyone that gave me support & well wishes on my journey. It meant a lot to me.

My prayers and thoughts are with those still on the trail- enjoy the adventure & hike for those of us who can't.

Entry 8 of 8
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