[pct-l] Section O California

[Bob Bankhead]

People who have never experienced section O get their initial perception of it from the Guidebook. There's an old saying "Perception is reality". I actually enjoyed section O. It was NOT overgrown with brush and poison oak. There were signs of recent trail maintenance too.

In fact, every section of the PCT has it's good and bad points. Weather alone can change one into the other in a heartbeat. Examples:

Hat Creek Rim: famous for high heat and no water. I went through in August many years ago. It was in the low 80s and sunny. Two days later, it was 115° on the rim. 

Fire Creek Pass: famous for beautiful views. I went over the pass in August one year       in an absolute white-out of clouds and cold, wind-driven drizzle. I ws doing good to see the trail ten feet ahead of me.

Section hikers have the luxury of choosing when they go where; through hikers rarely get that opportunity. You get what you get when you get there. The fact that you survived does get you bragging rights over the weekenders and section hikers. Think of the stories you'll have to tell when you get home. Embrace the struggle!

Wandering Bob