[pct-l] First Time Section Hiker

[spiritbear2k@xxxxxxxxxxx (Ginny & Jim Owen)]

Tammy,there's no reason you can't take your daughters out for a couple of
days on the PCT.  Pick your timing and location well and don't expect big
miles, but why not?  They are certainly old enough.  I have met five year
olds backpacking - a 12 year old certainly can.  Many parts of the PCT are
not at all difficult -- the trail is well graded and in some areas goes near
many lakes allowing for short days.  Desolation Wilderness is one
possibility - you could start at the north end of the Lake and hike south
however far you chose to go.  Section P in northern California was
interesting as well and has fewer people.  The San Gabriels are also a
possibility.  Just pick sections where water sources are fairly close
together so you don't have to carry a lot and where you can do very short
days.

I would certainly suggest training hikes before hand.  There are several
good books about hiking with kids - Cindy Ross's book comes to mind, but
there are others as well.  Make it fun, take it easy and bring lots of food.
  Let us know what happens.

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