THRU HIKING FAQ
1. What is the Pacific Crest Trail?
The Pacific Crest Trail, also referred to as the PCT, is a long-distance hiking and equestrian trail, stretching from Mexico to Canada through the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. It is America's second largest trail, at 2,650 miles. Hikers take the challenging route through the High Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountain ranges, and cross 57 major mountain passes, dip into 19 major canyons, and pass through 5 national monuments, 6 national parks, 48 federal wilderness areas, and 25 national forests.
​
2. What is a Thru-Hike?
The true definition of thru-hiking or through-hiking varies, but it is to hike an established end-to-end hiking trail or long-distance trail with continuous footsteps in one direction and in one season. However, due to weather and other situations (i.e. wildfires), hikers will sometimes flip-flop (start northbound, but at some point travel north and then hike south). Others may "blue-blaze", which means to skip sections or take an alternate route. As a "purist", I aim to complete the trail via direct foothpath.
​
3. How long will it take?
The trail is 2,650 miles long and generally takes 4-6 months to complete. As I am averaging 20 miles a day, I aim to complete the trail in 5 months.
​
4. Where will you sleep?
In a good old-fashioned tent in the wilderness.
​
5. Who are you going with?
Nobody, I am hiking the trail by myself. I am sure I'll meet many along the way, and be part of a "trail-family", but solo hiking allows me to really enjoy the experience fully. Hundreds of hikers attempt each year - I will have plenty of company.
​
6. Aren't you afraid?
I am honestly more afraid of not going. Although I don't have warm fuzzy feelings about rattlesnakes or bobcats, its scarier to pass up on a dream at such an opportune time in my life.
​
7. Where will you shower?
Campgrounds, RV Parks, Hostels, Hotels, Trail Angels Houses, Lakes etc.
​
8. How will you reassure family or friends while on trail?
Despite hiking 2,650 miles at mother natures mercy, this is undoubtedly the hardest part. I am bringing a satellite safety beacon with me to connect with family, but I know, all too well, that my "alive and well" messages won't suffice. My parents will not sleep for five months - a fact almost stopping me from going. I only hope that the happiness smeared across my face in photos and post-trail will return the years back to their lives. As I will have limited access to cell service (and the beacon has limited messages) my blog is here for friends to keep track of my progress and well-being. I plan to post each time I hit a town for re-supply.
​
9. How are you going to get food?
I will be stopping in trail towns along the way (every 5-6 days) and mailing myself resupply packages to replenish food and gear.
​
10. Are you bringing a gun?
No, I will be unarmed. I will, however, bring my pocket knife.
​
11. Is it safe?
Basic facts: A) there is intrinsic risk in the backcountry: lighting, cold-weather, avalanche, falling rock, wildlife etc.
B) I am responsible for my own safety
C) I can minimize most of the risk with knowledge, equipment, planning and good judgement.
D) I will not let fear stop me from going.
In preparation for my thru-hike, I have taken first-aid courses, outdoor survival skill courses, and drilled it in that I cannot let excitement cloud my judgement (i.e. - don't hike a full day of 20 miles in the first few days to avoid injury).
In regards to personal safety, there is a 0.0003% chance of being victim to violent crime. In other words, I am 3,011 times more likely to be hurt by someone outside of designated wilderness areas. I am more at risk in my NYC apartment.
​
12. Are you insane?
I prefer "brave".
​