As we drove south getting closer to the Mexican border we finally arrived at our destination, Madera Canyon. Our friend Leo met us at the parking lot and told us he knew a great way up to Mt Wrightson, one of the highest 3 peaks in Arizona. We started up Mine Vault trail which was a calf killer as we went straight up. It took a bit to find our rhythm but as we left Leo lagging behind we quickly realized our thru-hiking minds and legs were becoming awakened. As I thought about each step forward, listened to the crunch of my feet, and felt each breath I got a tingle of excitement reminding me why I loved thru-hiking. It's such a meditative experience as I focus on each foot step. I am feeling more prepared for the PCT as I know one of the hardest things is the mental battle.
