Backpacking trip

Bryan and Grandpa Pack were so excited to go on a backpacking trip with the kids. This would be Courtney's first trip so she was excited. They had originally decided to go Mt. Whitney since Courtney hasn't hiked it and the rest of us have. However, they couldn't get a permit. Bryan tried and tried to get one but it didn't work out. He did some more research and decided they would do another hike but still go on the trip. After a lot of debate, it was decided they would go near Mammoth and do a hike to some lakes.

With the location finally decided, the packing began. Food was purchased, packaged, and packed. Sleeping bags were stuffed and sleeping pads were prepared. They got their clothes ready and were all ready to go.

On the 25th, the hikers took off for California. They had to stop at a bakery for donuts, of course. They also had to stop to see the aliens.

The hikers made it to the camp area, set up camp, and began to be eaten by the mosquitos.

The next morning, the 26th, they got up, went to the trailhead, and began their hike. They soon realized that the mosquitos were awful. Since it has been a really warm Spring, the snow had melted quickly and released mosquitos all at once. News article about 2023 mosquitos

Courtney was miserable and got eaten alive!  She wore a mosquito net on her head to try and combat the bugs but it didn't do the best. They hiked until they got to the lake and Ethan went fishing while Courtney hung out in the tent. He caught fish for dinner and he had a great time fishing.

The next morning, the hikers decided they couldn't handle the mosquitos anymore. Courtney was eaten up and swollen all over so they went back to the car, called home to say they were on their way home, and came home that evening. I couldn't believe the amount of mosquito bites they all had when they got home. Bryan had about 30 just on his elbow area. And none of them escaped from the bites.  It was crazy. 

Courtney said she isn't interested in another hike but we are hoping that time will dull the pain and she will want to go another time.