Aug 9: Mysterious object at Lookout Pt.-- Thunderheads -- The 500th Review of the Checklist

I was waiting at the door for the Cedar Grove people to open up for breakfast. I ate heartily but keeping my eye on the hoards of black flies that were buzzing around both inside and outside. There was a lot of discussion about how the power outage was getting on everyone’s nerves.

I decided not to push hard, and choose 8531' tall Lookout Point as my day’s outing. I visited the ranger station and talked to the ranger about some pictures they posted on the wall of a bear-proof food bag that got shredded by a bear. That event seemed to be the main reason they revoked allowing those sacks in lieu of a bear canister. Then I went over to Road's End ranger station, where I heard my name being called out--most unexpectedly; and there was a friend who was coming out of the Rae Lakes loop. We talked for a bit.

I got back on Hwy 180. It was a longish, hot drive to the trailhead, and along the way I encountered three PG&E trucks working on the power line into Cedar Grove. There was no one at my trailhead though. It wasn't easy finding the lightly used trail going up to the peak. I hiked up to the rocky top and was blown away by the excellent view.

I relaxed, shot a few panoramas, and enjoyed the view until the thunderheads started moving a bit too close for comfort. A giant man-made object just below the peak looked abandoned, and there were few clues what it was.

Then I drove back to General Grant Grove, checked in and reviewed my pack and gear for what seemed like the 500th time. I had dinner at the one and only restaurant, where there were a lot of tourists and it took hours to get my dinner and eat it. Luckily I had an inspiring book to read -- Exploring the Highest Sierra, by James G. Moore.

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