June 29, 2018
Celebrated as the largest “trail town” on the PCT, Ashland is known to the rest of the world as a center for Shakespeare and other plays. Tourists mingle with bearded hikers, seekers of alternate lifestyles, and busy locals, making downtown an endlessly interesting place. Jay and I discovered this while walking through Lithia Park on our first evening…
Of course, our main job was to take care of Jay’s sister’s cat, known as ‘Kitty’. Once Kitty conveyed our roles to us, we got along fine.
“Sarah will feed me, Jay will give me cuddles, and I will entertain myself. Just make sure to leave a sunbeam on the floor in which I can bask each morning.”
We did enjoy some entertainments when two friends, Linda and Dave, visited us from Gardnerville, NV. They flew into town in a glider that Dave built himself!
We wandered the streets, stopping in several cafes for food and drink. At the Agave, the waitress gave us an impromptu lesson in margarita making. We were fascinated! (And Dave and Jay agreed that the margaritas were quite good.)
We walked along the creek in Lithia Park, and Dave and I stopped to climb a giant rope jungle gym.
We closed our day with a free concert at an outdoor stage. The Green Shows happen every evening except Mondays, featuring different fine arts performers. It’s a big draw for tourists and locals.
Often, after a day of slack packing, Jay and I wandered down to the Green Show. The eclectic nature of the Green Shows gave us new experiences nearly every night.
As Jay and I explored each evening, we were treated to tunes from street musicians. Some were very good, some were just beginners. All added to the holiday atmosphere that permeated the heart of Ashland.
We have enjoyed this time of culture and fun. Tomorrow we continue hiking the PCT. I intend to enjoy myself there, also! This world is truly a wondrous place.
Sarah and Jay Hike 
Thanks Sarah and Jay!!! Reading your stories is such a nice relaxing break during the day. Just like being there. Love you both!!!
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Thanks! It’s always good to hear from you. Hug!
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So glad you had such an interesting and fun week! Lots of food for thought while you’re hiking. Thanks for the great pictures!
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Yes, I usually don’t run out of things to think about while hiking! 🙂
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Looks like Ashland was great fun. Keep up the enjoyment. I am appreciating you journey vicariously.
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So glad!
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Looks like a very fun week and so glad Linda and Dave visited you. Fun and post and I am continuing to enjoy the adventure!
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Hurray! 🙂
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I am so glad you are having a great time. And to have friends stop by! That is even better.
We went up to Ebbett’s Pass yesterday and saw someone set up with Trail magic on our way back. Looks like he has done this before. Lots of people stopping by and resting and eating.
Tony’s mom is here visiting, so we went up to Highland Lake. Lovely day.
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That’s wonderful! So glad you are enjoying the summer, and glad to hear that there’s trail magic
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I’ve been following you on this enchanting tale, Sarah….enjoying your writing from the porch of our retirement center! Your parents and Helen share some notes when we get to dine together. Cheers!
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I’m so glad you are enjoying reading the blog! I hear about you from my parents occasionally also. 🙂
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Hiked Carson pass to winnemucca lake yesterday & ran into several through hikers PCT-a guy named cowboy , couples tips & turtle , doctor Quinn & bipolar, cheesits & monster & another single woman hiker whose trail name undid not get-have fun!
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It’s awesome to hear of your hike. Sounds like you had a lot of fun talking with thru-hikers! Thanks for letting me know.
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The world is a truly wonderful place
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Yes indeed!
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It brings me such joy to follow your adventure. Ours is waiting just beyond the horizon.
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How exciting! The horizon holds mystery and joy!
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