[pct-l] unsupported

[Eric Lee (GAMES)]

Bearcan't wrote:
>
i agree.  however, when folks head out to break the 'unsupported pct
record', that dictates there must be a definition of 'unsupported' for
their attempt to be valid & meaningful.  doesn't it?
>

There are obviously no right answers here because there aren't any governing bodies for long-distance hiking to dictate the rules (thank goodness).

However, in my completely worthless opinion, "unsupported" means hiking like a normal thru-hiker, taking advantage of trail magic when it offers itself and hitchhiking to town for supplies when necessary, but being on your own to arrange your own affairs as you go.  It doesn't mean you always refuse help from everyone.

Contrast that with a "supported" hike, which generally implies a permanent crew to follow you along the trail, transporting your gear for you and bringing supplies directly to wherever you happen to be right when you need them.  Literally all you have to do is put one foot in front of the other - everything else is taken care of.

Eric