[pct-l] Crowded Trail?

[Tom Bache]

I've been following the ADZPCTKO discussion that annually segues to
discussions about the impact of the herd, the looming threat of permit
systems, etc., etc.  I think the focus on the tiny community of through
hikers can seriously distort perception of PCT usage.

I'm a section hiker (southern 1420 miles so far) who usually goes solo on a
schedule that seldom overlaps with through hikers.  My perception is that
the trail is not crowded -- it is actually quite empty (JMT and Tahoe area
excepted).  All my hikes have been in good weather, but I seldom see anyone
or even much sign (other than the trail itself) of the passage of others.

So I don't worry about trail overuse, I worry that the trail is used too
little to generate the support it needs.  In fact (heresy coming), I'm happy
to see horses (very rare) and hunters and even mountain bikes and
motorcycles (as long as they stay off the trail itself).  All people who are
enjoying the backcountry are my (our) friends, and there is more than enough
room for them nearly everywhere, nearly all the time.

Tom Bache
San Diego