[pct-l] Social Networking, Kickoff, Narcissism and the quest for Triple Clowning

[vike norseman]

I agree with many that say social network and electronic gadgetry have really adversely affected the trail. Backpackers have definitely found a new way to hike trails without really immersing themselves into the true spirit of the trail and the wilderness experience these days. Thru-hikers have become even more detached from the earth each passing year, but you can be sure commercialism and marketing ensures they know a gear product is 2oz lighter than another. Also, so many hikers these days seem to covet or wear "Triple Crowner" on their sleeve as though thats what a thru-hike is all about. This type of achieving mentality should be shunned and left in the city. Advice to new hikers: Ignore those who seek recognition and idolism for their past thru-hikes. HYOH. Certain regulars in the PCT/"through hiker" community need to move on with their silly thru-hiker medals and find a new endeavor. Backpacking is NOT a sport, nor should be rewarded for. As for the PCT Kickoff, it has just too many of the same "through hikers" every year, which bumps off new hikers or future hikers from attending Kickoff. The kickoff should be only for new hikers, not a party gathering for past hikers. You can do your past thru-hike reflecting on social media at home. Rant off.
 Any thru-hikers this year NOT using social networking and NOT using electronic gadgets? If so, I assure you your hike will be much more fulfilling. Enjoy 2013!
----- Original Message -----
From: vike norseman
Sent: 03/21/13 09:20 AM
To: pct-l at backcountry.net
Subject: [pct-l] Oprah and low snow provide a record year?

I keep hearing of Oprah's book about some lost prostitute on the PCT. Is it really a good book or just because its Oprah? Like the PCT needs more books of self agrandizing. We have enough through hikers who are annoyingly self promoters and peddling something. The spirit of the trail is lost when we follow. Will this novelty, like Bill Brysons book for the AT, coupled with a likely low snow year make 2013 a record year for thru-hikers attempted? I see the kickoff registration closed in 1 day as well. Any other indicators, like more than normal jounals? _______________________________________________ Pct-L mailing list Pct-L at backcountry.net To unsubcribe, or change options visit: http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l List Archives: http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/ All content is copyrighted by the respective authors. Reproduction is prohibited without express permission.