On April 11th, 2020, I will begin hiking the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. This ongoing series is an attempt to document the entire journey from beginning to end.
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Crowding
It never fails. Every single time the conversation turns to the Pacific Crest Trail, I am asked the same question. “Are you doing it alone?” I always respond the same way, “No, I am going with a friend from college.” Then I inform them of the mass of humanity who attempts this trail every year, so many that a lottery system has been implemented. Their worry ends there, but no mine. I worry about the mass of people. I worry about our impact on the environment. I worry about not getting the day I want. I worry about group dynamics and finding people who will comprise my trail family. I worry about the loss of novelty. I worry a lot, then I get back to planning.
Sick on the Trail
I’ve written about the topic of being sick on the trail before, but for some reason, I haven’t convinced myself yet of how it will be handled. It is fresh on my mind now, because a few weeks ago I was hiking and had a serious fall while attempting a creek crossing. What happens if next time I break my leg? What if I am bitten by a rattlesnake? What if I eat or drink something that disagrees with me? My “what if’s” quickly become worries. I worry a lot, then I get back to planning.
Water Purification – Check
Another section on my shopping list is done. Below is everything I purchased related to water purification, where I bought it, and how much it cost me.
Item Seller Price
Sawyer Squeeze Filter Amazon $41
3L SmartWater Bottles 7-Eleven $6
Cnoc Vecto Water Container Amazon $20
Snow Practice
Recently, I was in Sequoia National Park working my way up to Alta Peak and got my first real taste of hiking on snow. As I slipped and slid, it became very apparent I didn’t have the right gear for the job (more on that in a minute). This was both a humbling and troublesome experience. Like countless other thru-hikers, I have scoured the internet researching gear. I’ve purchased lots of gear based on user recommendations and still have a lot more to buy. With every trip out into the wild, I hope and pray that I have everything that I need. I hope it works. I hope that I am using it properly. I know the only way to get over these concerns is to practice.
Crampons and Trekking Poles
Crampons? That was an easy decision. Sequoia taught me a powerful lesson. Trekking poles? I’ve avoided those things like the plague. I’ve even made fun of those who use them. Well, friends, I am converted. I got a great deal on some poles at REI and used them on a trip to the Cleveland National Forest. They took considerable pressure off my back and hips. For the first time in a long time, I ended a hike without being in any pain. So, to all those I made fun of, I am sorry.
Be good to each other,
-Nathan
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