After breaking camp, we started hiking our way down and we again crossed a section of trail that was covered by debris from an extremely large fallen tree. This time however, instead of just climbing over the debris, Ellen got ambitious and started clearing the trail. Together, we started rolling these huge logs off the trail. The wood was deceptively lightweight because they were rotten inside … but it was fun and made for great video!
Before…. 
Move them logs! 
Clear trail! 
After
We experienced the switchbacks in downhill mode this time as we looked out on the gorgeous valley of Bubbs Creek below. The steep downhill did not help our aching knees but we finally arrived back at the junction at Bubbs Creek and Sphinx Creek where we had lunch.
Overall, we felt more relaxed about being closer to the trailhead, and since we still had at least 3 more days of planned hiking, our ambition returned. Studying the map again, we came up with a “plan B” to hike further up Bubbs Creek and then East Creek to East Lake, and then back. Along the way we made camp along Charlotte Creek around 4 pm.
Journeys with Jeff and Ellen 