Pacific Crest Trail 2023
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”
- John Muir -
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SHARE YOUR DREAMMy Journey Pacific Crest Trail
What is the Pacific Crest Trail?
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a long-distance hiking and equestrian trail stretching approximately 2650 miles (4265 km) from the border of Mexico in California to the border of Canada in Washington. Traversing through diverse landscapes, it crosses three states: California, Oregon, and Washington. The trail crosses through multiple national parks and forests, including Yosemite, Crater Lake, and Mount Rainer.
Hikers on the PCT experience a variety of terrains and climates, encountering deserts, forests, and mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada and the Cascades. It is one of the original National Scenic Trails established by the National Trails System Act of 1968.
My Pacific Crest Trail Walk 2023
I chose to hike the Pacific Crest Trail because of my love for walking and my curiosity to discover its limits. Walking day on end, camping in a tent, sleeping under the stars, and living simply are all my passions. Additionally, I wanted to meet people from different backgrounds who share a similar enthusiasm for walking and nature. Finally, I thought to myself, “If not now, then when?”
Due to the high snow year, I couldn't complete the intended thru-hike. Instead, I walked several sections, connecting the points to cover the entire 2,650 miles of the PCT. I started my journey on April 29th in Campo and finished on September 11th in Chester. Altogether, it took me 136 days, averaging 19.48 miles per day. I spent about half of the trail miles walking alone and the other half with various "tramilies" (trail families): a desert tramily, a happy camper tramily, and a one-person tramily.
Step by Step: Getting Trail-Ready for the PCT
Before embarking on my Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) adventure, I immersed myself in a world of preparation. Here’s a glimpse into my journey from pavement to peaks:
From Baby Steps to Bigger Strides
Learning from Other PCT Hikers
Gear
Logistics
Mapping My Route and Terrain
Nutrition and Hydration
Visa and Permits
On April 29th 2023, I stood at the southern terminus, heart pounding. The PCT awaited - a canvas of dreams, challenges, and sunsets over distant peaks. This was my step-by-step preparation journey, fueled by passion and a longing for adventure. Happy trails!
Key Steps for Completing the PCT, a Steep Learning Curve
- Appreciation: I cherished the privilege of pursuing my passion every day.
- Safety First: Prioritizing injury prevention, I stayed mindful of my physical well-being.
- Continuous Learning: Each day, I acquired new skills and knowledge.
- Simplicity and Clarity: I streamlined my approach, making it more effective.
- Adaptability: Remaining flexible allowed me to navigate unexpected challenges.
- Gratitude: I appreciated what I had, fostering a positive mindset.
- Dynamic Planning: While maintaining a plan, I adapted as needed.
Lessons from the Pacific Crest Trail: Dream Big Too
On September 11th, 2023, I stood at the trailhead in Chester, California. My trail shoes bore the dust of 136 days on the Pacific Crest Trail - a patchwork quilt of landscapes stitched together by memory.
Each section imparted its lessons. In the desert, resilience bloomed as I navigated steep snow traverses and faced wildly varying temperatures. Northern California gifted me with June snow and countless blowdowns, mirroring the challenges ahead. Washington’s mountains tested my fitness, while Oregon’s tree-lined flatlands allowed me to sprint, averaging 40 miles per day. And then, the crescendo - the Sierra Nevada. Pass after pass, including two climbs above 4000 meters, most of them solo. Step by step, sometimes with storms brewing, I ascended. River crossings and perpetually wet feet became my norm. Amid granite spires and alpine lakes, I realized that limits were mere illusions, and fears could be conquered. If I set my mind to it, I could overcome almost anything.
Chester marked the physical end, but the trail’s spirit lingered - a reminder that adventure awaits, and the wilderness whispers wisdom to those who listen.
In Hindsight, the Pivotal Steps Were:
- Planning: Meticulously organizing permits, logistics, and gear for a smooth start.
- Visualization: Imagining the rugged terrain and overcoming obstacles fueled my determination.
- Execution: With unwavering commitment, I turned dreams into reality on the PCT.
“To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift”
- Steve Prefontaine -
On the trail, I was eventually given the trail name Pre. Trail names are bestowed by fellow hikers or people you meet along the way and often reflect a personal story or trait. I received my name from my friend Brad on the way from Kennedy Meadows South to Chester.
Pre stands for:
- Prefontaine: Named after the Eugene runner legend, because I once lived in Eugene, Oregon, and admire his accomplishments and legacy.
- Pre-leaving: Leaving the camp early in the morning before everyone else.
- Prepared: Reflecting my extensive preparations, such as cold soaking after work, drinking cold coffee before work, sleeping in a tent in my room, and sending myself packages ahead.
- Pre-arrival: Indicating that I arrived at the Canadian border before many of my fellow hikers.
- Pretty or Prima Ballerina
One Love, One Walk, One People
Profound Milestone in My Life's Journey.
The Pacific Crest Trail marked a profound milestone in my life's journey. While I acknowledge that I am still on a path of continuous learning, the trail illuminated a fundamental truth: Great achievements are only possible when surrounded by great individuals. It reminded me that every step toward greatness is shared with the remarkable souls who walk alongside us. To all those who have supported me along this extraordinary journey, I am forever grateful for your unwavering encouragement and belief in me. Thanks.
My PCT Adventure Unveiled
If you're curious to delve into the vivid impressions and rich experiences of my journey, I invite you to explore my eight-part slideshow capturing the essence of my personal PCT adventure. Titled “One Love, One Walk, One People: My Experienced Diversity on the Pacific Crest Trail,” it encapsulates the myriad moments and diverse encounters that shaped this unforgettable expedition.
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