PCT to Benson/Pioneer Trail along 20

Clarence's pictures of PT and Frank's 2 maps.

Once again the high Sierra beckoned us so we ended up dividing into 2 groups of 8.

Closer group (from Clarence):
We moved the starting time back to 9 AM for the winter months. Our group hiked the new section of the Pioneer trail going toward Bear Valley and we were able to start hiking at 9:30.. Weather was perfect (again). Cool to start, but soon we were sweating. This section of the trail has a beautiful tall forest area. The path was soft and covered with pine needles. I figured it would be 4 miles out to an overlook of Bear Valley and a good place for lunch, but I was wrong! The overlook was always "just ahead"! After nearly 5 miles one way (and after 12 o'clock), I suggested it was lunch time. Everyone agreed! I'm still looking for that overlook.
After lunch we returned back to the cars and my GPS said we had done 9.75 miles.
Next week suggestions are for Malakoff Rim trial and Rice Crossing (or maybe a variation suggested by Barbara).
I will send an invite to view other pictures on Snapfish. Clarence

The high group did the PCT from Donner Ski School, near Donner Pass on old Route 40. We picked up a Truckee hiker, Dave, who hiked the entire way with us, even gallantly carrying Tiana's pack to relieve her hurting feet (new boots - will she exchange them AGAIN at REI??) John and I did this trail to Benson Hut Oct 6 of last year in 3 in. of snow - this year there was only a scattering of snow/mud. Global warming? Out to the hut is about 5.6 miles, making for a hefty hike. We would like to do the hike from Squaw to Benson next year. Certainly Frank and Ellen are interested and they will probably not be here next week due to Frank's eye surgery. The ride through the Sierra to the hike start was gorgeous with aspens (along the Yuba), oaks, and maples. Wednesday's trail alternated between exposed ridge and fir forest. The snow-covered peaks, gorges, and rock displays make this hike well worth it, even if you don't go all the way. We did, though - and ate lunch only slightly late at the hut. The hut is as lovely as the Peter Grubb hut but the bathroom ONLY has an upstairs...which means the determined among us had to climb a vertical ladder and manage a door at the top from that position. Only Ellen, I think, dared try.

We would like to keep hiking the high country as long as we are able - maybe Frog Lake overlook next week? We would park at the Boreal exit where the trail takes off near outhouses.

We just got word from Clarence that Priscilla's ex-huband, Don, passed away on Tuesday. We are thinking about you, Priscilla. And on a brighter note: Jan is doing well and is recovering from her surgery at home now.