Trail: Started out in pine forests by Holcomb Creek then transitioned back to windy desert as we passed the hot springs and Mojave Dam. The hot springs were crowded so I didn't stop, but the dam was pretty cool! Around mid-morning I learned that the Joshua Inn has $5 camping and showers and deli sandwiches, so I hiked as fast as I could to get there before the deli closed--made it just in time to get a pastrami sandwich and potato salad. 😂 At the very end of this section, the trail crosses Deep Creek. I had to carry my pack over my head to keep it from getting wet, but thankfully I didn't have to swim.
Campsite: The dirt parking lot outside Joshua Inn, a hole in the wall beer bar that also caters to hikers. It is possibly the windiest parking lot I've ever been in, but worth it for a sandwich and shower (antibiotics = no beer for me). Tomorrow, the driver whk picked us up will shuttle us back to the trailhead.
People: I met Andi (Canadian) and Stacy (Australian) just before the stream crossing. Andj has been hiking in a group of four, but I forgot everyone else's names. We're all camped here for the night. I think Rangi must've decided to camp near the springs, and I haven't seen Disco Moth.
Tomorrow: I'll probably try to camp around mile 335, then hike the remaining 7 miles into Cajon Pass on Thursday morning so I can get to the McDonalds for breakfast. ☕️🍳🥞