This contestant was camped on the ridge above the canyon. We arose with the sun and broke camp. Plans were to break the fast when we arrived in the canyon and had water available. The descent over the rocks and dry waterfalls was difficult and Hanaupah Canyon was a welcome sight. Once more enjoying the luxury of water we washed, cooked and filled our canteens. Here we met our two advance men, Ranger Warren Hill and Mr. and Mrs. Bud Bingham. The Binghams offered to climb to meet the traversers who were still on the slope and lead their descent. Ranger Hill volunteered to transport the packs and late hikers to the bus.
The Last nine miles are the longest? No! The day was warm, but we were blessed with a breeze and the hike was a pleasant one. We encountered one rattlesnake - the rattles were removed but the snake is still alive. The air-conditioned bus was waiting at Shorty's Well (-250') and we arrived about 2:00 p.m. -- only two hours behind schedule. The ranger's pickup soon appeared with hikers and packs; the bus was loaded and we began the trip home. The swim at Shoshone was refreshing, the dinner in Barstow delicious, the good-byes in Pasadena short, and the sight of home most welcome.
But, if I may quote our Leader, Bob Greenawalt, "See you on some other outings. They are fun!"