pirana6 wrote:
It's definitely a contest with through-hikers. Lord knows the lighter their packs are, the more fulfillment they get.
I applaud efforts to go without a tent, I definitely couldn't. I do know many prefer a hammock + lightweight quilt over a tent but I don't think that's possible down there.
My lady really wants to backpack the Channel Islands, which does look great so let us know how it goes. Unfortunately its a long way to backpack when we live in a backpacking mecca... Then again, I'm pushing for Moab/Canyonlands so I guess I'm a hypocrite there.
Update!
We ended up taking 4 nights/5 days. Wanted to enjoy the beaches and scenery instead of just walking, pitching, sleeping, breaking down, repeat.
It's pretty fucking spectacular, even in the middle of Summer. Not as green as Spring, but still great views.
Here's some buffalo we came across:
https://imgur.com/a/bcesSyeOne of many sunsets
Ya boi rocking a bandana
For anyone who is familiar with SoCal geography, all the way to the right of this pic is an outline of Saddleback Mountain (Santiago Peak), and as you work your way to the left you can see the outline of Mt. Baldy and the Santa Monica Mountains in the foreground (of the background)