Dreaded rain, and the earth starts to rumble

Barbara Egbert, her husband, Gary Chambers, and their 10-year-old daughter, Mary Chambers, set off April 8 from the Mexican border to hike the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail.

Mile 1,980, Day 132

Rain began at 6 a.m., and it continues to be very stormy. It’s the day we’ve been dreading: We’re stuck in the tent all day. We eat and drink very little to save rations. Luckily we each have a book to read.

Mile 1,996 Day 133

We hike in rain all day and get soaked before taking a side trip to the Big Lake Youth Camp near Clackamas, Ore., where we get a warm cabin and dry out.

Mile 2,022, Day 136

I’m worried about the danger of crossing Russell Creek after five days of rain. We detour off the trail and hitchhike into the tiny town of Detroit to stock up on food. The next day we return to the trail, and it’s still raining. Gary has achy legs and stiff joints.

Mile 2,034, Day 138

Another cold day, with rain and sleet. Made it to Olallie Lake Resort in time to rent the last cabin and warm up with a wood stove. Hiker 816 arrives too late to get a cabin, so we take him in.

Mile 2,084, Day 142

It’s the first day with no rain. Mt. Hood is beautiful under a coat of new snow.

Mile 2,135, Day 145

The weather and scenery are beautiful, but I’m starting to experience increasing pain in my jaw and left leg. I decide to drive home and deal with my medical problems.

Mile 2,135, Day 147

It feels so strange to be off trail. Gary and I manage a cheerful farewell so Mary won’t be too upset.

Mile 2,196, Day 149

Mary is thrilled to come across a bear skeleton.

Mile 2,280, Day 153

Mt. St. Helens is getting ready to blow. How many thru-hikers have to deal with volcanic eruptions? Aren’t bears, glaciers and rainstorms enough?

The final segment: Slogging through snow to the last mile.