[pct-l] Northeast trekking versus west trekking: An observation

[rmoak@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (Ronald Moak)]

Johnsmallberies writes >> I am a relative newbie to this list, but not a
newbie to mountaineering. I
have been doing all iterations of the sport-adventure for 40 years. My
observations of the discussions are many, but I will only address the issues
which are important to safety, enjoying the experience and challenge, weight
management of pack and asides on equipment. >>

Well I'd have to say, it's not just your berries that are small!

Personally I don't care if someone chooses to go ultra-light or ultra-heavy.
Whatever they choose, it's a pretty safe bet I won't be caring it. As they
say it's "no sweat off my back", pun intended.

I know from experience and observation that there's little, if any,
relationship to the weight on your back and your safety on the trail. Though
some people still seem to believe that one exist.

There is however a direct link between knowledge and safety. Ie, less
knowledge = greater risk, more knowledge = less risk.

So rather than spiel out a long list of so called "Do's and Don'ts", I find
it much more educational to simply state what works for me and why. That way
if the reader finds something I have to say informative, educational and
suited to your hiking style they're free to adopt it for themselves. If not
they're also free to follow their own path.

If you chose to tell us what you carry and why, so much the better. But
please don't attempt to lecture to us like a group of school girls.

-Fallingwater