It took a while for me to announce publicly that I was going to thru-hike the PCT. Effectively hitting ‘pause’ on your career, your life and, in some ways, your relationships, is not a decision made lightly. So even though I’ve been planning to hike it for over 20 years, it wasn’t until recently that …
One of the first things I bought when I decided to hike the PCT was a paperback book titled “Ultralight Backpackin’ Tips” by Mike Clelland. Two weeks later I bought a second book, “Long-Distance Hiking” by Dan Feldman, as well as a recipe book, “ Lipsmackin’ Backpackin’ “ by Christine and Tom Connors. I was embarrassed standing in the …
From all the research I’ve done – blogs, websites, podcasts, YouTube – you shouldn’t buy ahead or even plan out what you’ll eat over the course of a long-distance thru hike. Experienced thru hikers are nearly unanimous in cautioning against doing this. Reasons being: your food tastes will change over time; hiker hunger will kick …
PCT – Pacific Crest Trail; a National Scenic Trail running from the Mexican border near Campo, CA to the Canadian border in Washington state, 2,660 miles long. Thru Hiker – Someone who hikes an entire long distance trail like the PCT, AT, CDT or FST in one year or season Section Hiker – Someone who hikes sections …
It goes without saying I will miss my family, home and friends while I’m on the trail. I’m going to miss my coworkers and job as well. That is all a given. The trail removes you from everyday life and relationships. It also removes most modern conveniences. That’s one mental aspect I’ve been thinking about …
“I’m going to hike the Pacific Crest Trail this year.” This is my standard response when people ask what I’m training for as I walk for hours with an obviously overloaded and uncomfortable daypack on my back. You may find it surprising, but the question I get asked most after telling someone I’m going to …