[pct-l] Permits for the rest of us

[Michael Donnay]

Hi Snuffy,
I too have been piecing together the PCT over the past few summers,
2005 (700 miles), 2006 (1,024 miles), 2008 (428 miles), and this summer
I should be finishing the final 508 miles of WA.

I am a PCTA member and each year I get the
PCTA's Thru-Permit intending to hike 500+ miles.  Last summer, the plan was to complete OR and WA's 936 miles but due to the massive snowpack obliterating the trail and slowing us down we had to taper our goal and call it a summer in Cascade Locks.

My point is, the PCTA's Thru-Permit form states:
"I have read 
      and agree to abide by the Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Permit Requirements. It 
      is my intent to travel at least 500 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail by 
      foot or hoof in one season..."

I wonder if you contacted the PCTA and asked how strict are they about the 500+ mile (intended) minimum.  I didn't get into trouble last summer when I only managed 428 miles.  It would save you a huge annual headache to get your permit, it would encourage you to join the PCTA if you haven't already done so, and you would feel more a part of this amazing hiking community that absolutely cherishes this amazing trail, which is hard to feel if you aren't thru-hiking.

Good luck!
Mike



        	Sunday, February 8, 2009 12:42 AM
        	
            
            
            From: 
            "SWS" <sws4024 at charter.net>
            	
            	
            	
        	To: 
        	pct-l at backcountry.net
                Although I'd love to thru-hike, I'll have to hike the PCT in sections like I did the AT. It'll 
take a few more years, but that's ok...something to look forward to each year....Most of the 
info I've seen on websites and this list focuses on thru-hike permit requirements or folks 
completing sections of 500 miles and using the PCT process.

What is the best way to get a permit if you are planning to hike only 100-300 miles a season? I 
know the websites say to get your permit from the Forest Service office where you are beginning 
your hike. If I'm planning to start at Campo and hike to Warner Springs or to Big Bear City, 
where do I get my permit? Would it be from the Cleveland National Forest Office or if not, where 
would the first "governing" agency be located on the trail? Thanks...

>From the east coast,

"Snuffy"