[pct-l] Phones and other issues

[Jeffrey Olson]

I started hiking by myself in the late 60s, and started doing longer 
section hikes in the mid-70s.  I both understand current rationales for 
carrying a multi-use phone and for heading out sans communication 
technology.  To be honest, the last thing I want to do is be in contact 
with loved ones or friends at home while I'm on the trail.  The first 
step on the trail is a step into a different world, which includes all 
the risks and rewards this entails (I'm sure it helps being single and 
having no children).

A friend carried a cell phone on a trip this last summer and it was a 
"presence."  It was a hole in the fabric of my wilderness experience.  
He didn't use it.  It was just there.

This is just an opinion and should be taken as such.

Jeffrey Olson
Martin, SD