Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hikers - 'tis the season for those who started on the southern tip of the iconic trail, to be making their way into Tahoe / Truckee.

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hikers - "Saunter", at Granite Chief Ski and Mtn Shop Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hiker Saunter stops into Granite Chief Ski and Mtn Shop for a map check and conversation.

One such hiker, "Saunter", stopped by Granite Chief Ski and Mtn Shop last week.  "The start of the hike went well. The desert temps were mild, and the landscape had a ton of  blooms.  It did become a bit monotonous, however, after so many hundreds of miles", remarked the Washington state native.  Then came the snow in the high country. "Up to a little over a week ago it was manageable, but then it stopped freezing at night.  The snow would not set up and you were post holing by 9:30am", said the Pacific Crest Trail thru hiker.  Saunter added, "on the plus side of this past winter, there is water to drink everywhere".  The retired business owner (and previous teacher, and politician), has hiked the PCT once before in 1977.  "Back then my pack was around 40-45 lbs.  Now, I carry 10-12lbs, plus water - it's such an amazing difference."  The crew at Granite Chief Ski and Mtn Shop wish Saunter all the best on the remainder of his journey.  We look forward to seeing more PCT thru hikers in the store this summer, lending a hand, and listening to their stories.