[pct-l] Ultra Tricks

[Montedodge@aol.com]

 If the " Ray Way" is so great, why didn't Jardine tackle the CDT with his 
tactics instead of repeating and repeating and repeating the PCT. If Jardine 
would have tried his 8 lb. pack in the 70's , he would have flopped!!! In the 
mid 70's the PCT had only 950 miles of completed route out of 1650 miles of 
trail in Calif. ( though most of the trail in Wash. and Oregon was finished ) 
Route finding was on par with today's CDT. Many parts of the Crest stopped at 
dead ends requiring bushwacking five miles to the left or right to catch 
another trail. Now, the PCT is as pastured as the AT with all sections neatly 
marked. ( section A,B,C, etc. )  This allows Ray to hike in the manner he 
does. Water was iffy at best  in the 70's because of a seven year drought. 
Ray would be carrying extra gallons on his back same as us. No trail angels 
or water stashers back then !!! Anyone can hike light and take little when 
the weather is good. ( This is nothing new ) The problem with the Ray Way is 
, on many sections ,you starve if you don't make high miles. If bad weather 
sticks you, no extra food or gear for that matter. Not much safety margin in 
the happy go lucky " Ray Way". Hopefully PCT newbees will see through some of 
these shortfalls and get a more well rounded advice picture. The"  King of 
Corn Pasta " does make some good points but should be looked at as a " Stunt 
Hiker". Pack as light as you safely can and be sure to take extra food 
rations and enough clothing for the bad weather. 40 miles a day may seem fine 
on a nice day, but in 36 degree rain????  Humm?? 
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