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Monday, January 6, 2014

Preparing for the PCT, Part One

Being sick and holed up at home has given me time to continue planning for the PCT.

Actually, it has given me time to think about how I'm not planning for the PCT. As much as I love making itineraries and lists, this process has started to feel a little pointless.

I've prepared for this trip by trying to collect the right tools. I've minimized the weight of my pack. I've studied and practiced so that I can show up prepared. Though when I look again at the plans I've made, I'm reminded that I can't account for the complexity and fickleness of experience. How do I know if any of this equipment I'm buying will be the right equipment for the trail?

About 700-800 people start the PCT in Campo, California each year with dreams of finishing the trial in Manning Park, British Colombia. Some leave the trail due to illness or injury, but about 60% of hikers are lucky enough to get through five months with their body intact. The pull between demand and reward, discomfort and the opportunity has seduced me.

Is it April yet?

1 comment:

  1. I'm right there with you. I'll be doing the PCT this year as well! Planning right now is making me crazy April can't get here fast enough. I've never even gone backpacking before. So Gear and everything I'm bringing with me is total speculation haha. Hey so I pry see you on the trail. Walkingthewalkpct.blogspot.com

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