[pct-l] On Hiker Privacy . . . and Safety

[Donna Saufley]

Hiker privacy is a subject that came up here at Hiker Heaven again recently.
A story related recently brought this topic back to the surface, and I feel
it's important to share.

 

Some hikers were recently helped by a random person who knew nothing about
the PCT at a trail head, who took an interest in their endeavor.   Seemed
innocent enough. 

 

It became not so innocent when this guy made some inappropriate statements
to the female in their group, started waiting for them or leaving notes for
them at trail crossings and tracking their whereabouts --  literally
stalking them.  

 

Posting about where and when you saw a hiker on the trail may seem innocent
enough.  It's done with good natured enthusiasm by many in this and other
forums, even by the hikers themselves posting in their online journals.
People are very excited to report on the hikers they saw, or who signed a
register.  Though well-intentioned, it could have harmful unintended
consequences.

 

Hikers have been stalked (and killed on the AT) because they post their
whereabouts in real time online.  Hey, if you don't care and want to post
your own stuff, that's a personal choice and go for it - many do.  But don't
make that choice for others who may, for many reasons, not want their
whereabouts known - not even under the guise of trail name.  

 

Posting hiker sightings could be much more dangerous than you think.

 

L-Rod