August 9th - Seiad Valley to Bear Dog Spring Saddle

Slept in since the store and cafe didn't open until 7am. Was much appreciated after the long walk yesterday.

Walked to the store soon after it opened. Food was on our mind. Unfortunately the cafe wasn't open yet so we chatted with the guy running the store. Nice fella. Let us sip on coffee while we were waiting and he filled us in on the history of how Seiad Valley wanted to become an independent state way back before World War II.

The cafe finally opened. Turned out the regular cook was sick so her husband was filling in. The menu options were limited, but we were able to get a mean plate of eggs, home fries, toast and each attempted a side order of pancakes. This cafe is well known for their pancake challenge - eat 5 pancakes (they are huge - each weighs a pound!) and you get them free. We were hungry, but not that hungry!

We were glad that we arrived at the cafe early - it filled up fast and with the substitute cook things were prepared super slow. Luckily we got our food first.

While eating breakfast, we met the local sherrif who happens to also be a backpacker. He tipped us off on a short cut - taking Seiad Valley Creek Road instead of the actual PCT out of town. The advantages of the road: 2 miles shorter, more shade and less elevation gain/loss. Sold! We decided to take the shortcut - both because it was shorter/easier, but also due to the shade - we ere going to be hiking through the hottest part of the day.

After a quick resupply, we headed back on the trail (or more specifically the road). We were glad that we did. The road was only paved the first 3 miles and then turned to a lovely dirt road. Well shaded, no traffic and was close to a creek. For a road walk it wasn't bad.

Made it to Bear Dog Spring Saddle and decided to call it an early night at just 7pm. All the uphill walking and heat made us tired!