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

[Mike Henrick]

I have a hard time believing that walking 2650 miles with an iphone will
rob folks of the "true wilderness experience".  I also sense a lot of "it
was harder in my time youngster" type of  sentiment in other posts, which
while true are kind of sad.  Shouldn't you be encouraging people to seek
out adventure and live a fulfilling life?  The steps that carry people down
the trail are the same with or without the gadgets.

I say this while still planning my first thru-hike this year without a GPS
or smartphone (while being 28 and going solo).  I'm hiking to get away, not
try to stay connected 24/7 but if someone feels the need to share their
experiences with those who can't or think they can't hike I support the
effort.  I've also benefited a great deal from the people who've documented
their hike and their gear (although not from Oprah...).  I probably
wouldn't be hiking the PCT without the internet, but here we are and I'm
looking forward to a life changing experience.

>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!