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[pct-l] Why Hike Solo
- Subject: [pct-l] Why Hike Solo
- From: jdroberts at vd-p.com (Dan Roberts)
- Date: Sun Feb 15 17:49:56 2004
- In-reply-to: <20040211051758.C2E243C5F4@edina.hack.net>
I have always hiked solo (with my yellow lab) mainly because I couldn't find
anyone who wanted to hike the PCT. Although I have never thru hiked the PCT
I find that hiking solo gives me the time I need away from others to be
human when I return.
I work and live in San Diego, own my own landscape architecture business,
have one son, two step daughters and a wife, none of whom would even
consider hiking the PCT on a day trip let alone a thru hike. As a result,
I go it alone.
The biggest down fall for me of hiking alone is the logistics. I am hiking
according to the book Day Hikes and the PCT and the average day hike is
roughly 14-16 miles. When I go to hike, I have to compromise with my wife
that she follow me out in her vehicle. (To get this I usually have to offer
up something like a bed and breakfast that night). So she follows me out in
her vehicle and then we travel to the end point of the day hike I am going
to pursue the next morning and I leave my vehicle there. Early the next
morning, we take her vehicle to my starting point, she dumps off me and the
dog and we are on our way.
The good thing about this method is that my wife is familiar with the area
that I am hiking so that if there is a mishap, and I don't return with a
call in by the appointed time she knows that I am somewhere between my car
and the early morning drop off. The down side, is that it takes a
commitment on her part that often times comes begrudgingly to drive out the
night before. As I get further away from So. Cal. I have to provide bigger
incentives for her. Problem is that I really need the hikes. There is
nothing more quietly comforting to me than the solo hike alone with dog.
There are times when I am hiking a particularly difficult leg when I say to
myself what in gods name am I doing this for, but that soon goes away, as I
smell the air, only hear that things that belong there and enjoy the
companionship that only a dog can give.
I would like to find someone who enjoys hiking alone that could share in the
logistics. For example, if I had a "hiking partner" but we both agreed to
hike solo on these day hikes, we could meet the night before and have a good
time, then the next morning, both would drive to the opposite end point,
park the vehicle and be off. Somewhere in the middle, you would meet up and
perhaps enjoy a lite meal and then carry on once again in the opposite
direction. When you get to the end, you simply hop in the others car and
drive it back to an agreed upon spot, hopefully at the nearest watering hole
and can share stories.
I think this would be optimum for me, because then I could find someone who
shared the same passion for hiking as I do, but who also appreciated and
respected the solo aspects of the hike. Safety is increased, because you
know somewhere along the way your going to meet up and if someone is hurt or
has a problem they are in good care.
Right now I am waiting for the snow melt to get thru Fullers Ridge, but I am
hiking the PCT in contiguous segments this way. I usually do one to two PCT
segments a month and spend the rest of my time, hiking around my own
community. I live in Carlsbad, CA. 35 miles north of San Diego adjacent to
a large open space preserve and since I can't get out to the PCT every
weekend, my backyard (open space) is my continuous training ground. This
also allows me to test any gear I purchase in an easy way.
Is there anyone out there that this type of hike scenario appeals to them?
If so I'd like to hear from you.
Dan Roberts
-----Original Message-----
From: pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net
[mailto:pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net]On Behalf Of
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Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 9:18 PM
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Subject: pct-l Digest, Vol 10, Issue 5
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Today's Topics:
1. Re: why do you hike solo? (Tom Magee)
2. Re: All about food (Jeff Olson)
3. need a ticket to San Diego? (Jennifer Holliday)
4. RE: Re: why do you hike solo? (Marge Prothman)
5. Hiking solo as a woman (chris G)
6. Re: Why do you hike solo? (CMountainDave@aol.com)
7. Canadian Border Permit (John Hildebrand)
8. Re: All about food (Marshall Karon)
9. Re: All about food (Brian McLaughlin)
10. Re: Why do you hike solo? (CMountainDave@aol.com)
11. RE: All about food (Mike Saenz)
12. Solo Hiking (Mike Saenz)
13. Tent Poles... (John Hildebrand)
14. Re: Why do you hike solo? (Saskia Daru)
15. Why Hike Alone (Lars Nilsson)
16. Re: Tent Poles... (Jeffrey J. Olson)
17. RE: Why do you hike solo? (Mike Saenz)
18. Re: All about food (Marshall Karon)
19. Re: Tent Poles... (Randy Forsland)
20. RE: With all the talk of going solo, I'd like to put in a
good word for hiking as a couple. (Mike Saenz)
21. Sewing sil-nylon.. (Fran?ois Berthelot)
22. RE: Tent Poles... (Ron Moak)
23. Re: Sewing sil-nylon.. (motbe@cox.net)
24. usual date of whitney climb? (David Tibor)
25. Re: usual date of whitney climb? (Christopher Willett)
26. Re: All about food (Dave Giese)
27. Bull (Eric Yakel)
28. Solo (Eric Yakel)
29. Canadian Permit (Eric Yakel)
30. RE: Sewing sil-nylon.. (Eric Lee (GAMES))
31. For those interested (Eric Yakel)
32. RE: Why do you hike solo? (Gray)
33. RE: Why do you hike solo? (Kent Ryhorchuk)
34. Re: Why do you hike solo? (Joanne Lennox)
35. RE: Why do you hike solo? (Jon Lovejoy)
36. Re: All about food (Alistair & Gail Des Moulins)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message: 1
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 06:44:18 -0800 (GMT-08:00)
From: Tom Magee <luv2hike@earthlink.net>
Subject: [pct-l] Re: why do you hike solo?
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID:
<31384572.1076424259148.JavaMail.root@misspiggy.psp.pas.earthlink.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
What was your thinking behind deciding to hike solo?
------------------------------
I hike solo for rid myself of noise. In all of my part time jobs that I
have, they all contain noise. In everything we do, there is noise. I go to
the woods to get away from the noise. I day hike during the week, so there
are less people on the trail. And besides, when I hike with just me, there
is only one person with an attitude on the trail.
Only you control your attitude and therefore, your happiness.
------------------------------
Message: 2
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 08:00:21 -0700
From: "Jeff Olson" <jjolson@uwyo.edu>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <005401c3efe6$9b3d2ca0$14249045@jeffrey6kevd44>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
----- Original Message -----
From: "Linda Cooper" <LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
He has another question regarding food. He is currently of the mindset
to hike the trail without sending himself food packages. Also
considering leaving the stove behind. Have any of you done this, and
can you discuss pros and cons?
______________________________________
I've hiked for a week to ten days a number of times without a stove. It's a
very different experience. Rather than stopping and going through the
ritual of food preparation, I ate every hour or so. I had the normal pilot
crackers and peanut/butter and jelly for lunch, and granola for breakfast,
but no real dinner. I ended up eating all that was left of the day's food
before going to sleep. I brought lots of different finger foods and the
meal packets http://store.yahoo.com/bearvalleybars/varietypacks.html from
Bear Valley. I made sure the protein/carb/fat balance was right.
I didn't miss warm food or the comfort the ritual gives.
Jeff Olson
Laramie WY
------------------------------
Message: 3
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 08:40:31 -0800
From: "Jennifer Holliday" <JHolliday@communitycouncil.org>
Subject: [pct-l] need a ticket to San Diego?
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
<4B1798F71595B54EB7CE0202596C463316C0AF@cspcserver.communitycouncil.org>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="Windows-1252"
Southwest Airlines is doing their California sale again this week, but it
now goes through April! I just snagged a Sacramento to San Diego on April
22nd for $50 (including fees and taxes). They also have a systemwide sale,
with one ways from everywhere they fly for $39-$99.
www.southwest.com/hotfares/
Jenny
------------------------------
Message: 4
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 08:34:26 -0700
From: "Marge Prothman" <marge@prothman.org>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Re: why do you hike solo?
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <000201c3efeb$5e3dd750$6501a8c0@marge20g04myym>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
Why do I hike solo,
Well, I am not suppose to do that any more due to an incident on the trail a
few years ago when I broke my leg. I have stood at attention in front of my
eldest son, who is over six feet tall, raised my right hand and swore that I
would never hike alone again.
However, I enjoy hiking alone and on day hikes I can get lost in my own
thoughts, enjoy the beauty and quietness of my surroundings, take the time
to hike a few feet of the trail and see the views. On longer backpacking
trips I like to have some time each morning and afternoon to just hike by
myself. (I will day hike alone, my son lives in another State)
Then there is the other side of me I am a people person and really like the
company when resting or camping. I like to know that my friend or friends
are just a half hour behind me, or that I will meet them at a pre-designed
spot up the trail. I would rather not spend the nights by myself, I seem to
hear every noise while in my tarptent and my mind will run overtime. That's
when I make the Hot Chocolate spiced with a little bit of Southern Comfort,
slowly drink it and quickly fall asleep.
Cheers,
Marge [The Old Gal]
http://www.prothman.org/marge
------------------------------
Message: 5
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 16:56:48 +0100 (CET)
From: chris G <chgeth@yahoo.de>
Subject: [pct-l] Hiking solo as a woman
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID: <20040210155648.87795.qmail@web40514.mail.yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
> I'm interested in what women hiking alone have to
say.
I am a 36 yrs old female from Germany planning a solo
PCT thru hike this year.
I have always been hiking alone - first because nobody
else wanted to come along and then because I liked it.
Now I prefer solo hiking - as it has been said before
no compromises and total responsibility. I don't think
that women face bigger problems than men while hiking
solo - I never felt threatened by other male hikers.
The most interesting people I met while hiking were
other solo hikers - they are much more independent and
self-reflecting than couples. But you are right, I
hardly ever met any other female solo hikers -
especially not on long trips. It is a pity that most
women miss that experience.
I am so much looking forward to my trip - it is the
fulfillment of one of my biggest dreams - but doing it
alone was never ever any concern for me.
Happy trails,
Christine
Mit schvnen Gr|_en von Yahoo! Mail - http://mail.yahoo.de
------------------------------
Message: 6
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 11:47:25 EST
From: CMountainDave@aol.com
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID: <78.502bf93e.2d5a651d@aol.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
Real simple. I'm a sort of control freak. Why impose that on others? I like
making the decisions and not having to compromise. I'm a middle of the road
sort of guy. I don't like hot shot drivers who are constantly tailgating me
because I am in their way. Conversely I don't like thumb suckers who go 10
miles
under the speed limit just to be safe. They are in MY way. So rather than
look
for a needle in haystack for someone who hikes like me, it is much easier to
just go solo. I don't like making decisions for other men and I don't like
other men making decisions for me. So what other option is there but to thru
hike
alone. I could never in a million years hike 6 months with another guy. A
woman that I am compatible with in hiking style -- well that's another
ballgame.
There, I am more than willing to compromise on many things but she would
have
to accept me as I am
As for loneliness, it's WAY overrated
David C
------------------------------
Message: 7
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 12:23:41 -0500
From: "John Hildebrand" <John.Hildebrand@trw.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Canadian Border Permit
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <s028cd5d.022@dns.livmi.trw.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
Hey everybody!
I just noticed on the website that they have changed the zip code on the
Canadian Border Permit....
I sent mine about one month ago......Do you think it'll get there?? Should
I resubmit the form?? or will it get to where it needs to go??
Thanks.
------------------------------
Message: 8
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 09:20:23 -0800
From: "Marshall Karon" <m.karon@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
To: "Linda Cooper" <LCooper@WHF-Law.com>,
<pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <000e01c3effa$2b6026d0$6401a8c0@YOUR357898FF1F>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
In '94 I knew a hiker who did not cook on the trail. He had lots of vitamins
and other power cold foods. He was in great shape, was fast, and had no
problems. At resupply places, he would get meals. Not my way of going, but
it worked for him. When it gets cold, I really like a warm meal. And, I
think cooking adds more variety and reduces bulk. But, I cook only 1 meal a
day.
As for resupplying and not sending packages - I don't think it can be done
and survive. Some of the trail stops have so little you won't be able to
make it to the next point. However, you can buy food along the trail and
mail yourself packages to those places where you won't be able to pick up
what you need. Or, you hitch to the nearest town that has good stores. But,
that takes extra time that you may not want to take. But, if you are young
and strong, that probably won't matter. Also, there are a few places were
you pass that you can pick up a meal or two and snacks, but not a complete
supply.
If you are doing cold foods, I think you will want to mail yourself at least
some of what you need.
The worst spots where I believe you need packages - or go off trail: Belden,
Hyatt Lake, Cascade Summit, Elk Lake, White Pass, Stehekin. Marginal: Mt.
Laguna, Warner Springs, Kennedy Meadows (south), Kennedy Meadows (Sonora
Pass), Olallie Lake.
Marshall Karon
Portland, OR
m.karon@comcast.net
----- Original Message -----
From: "Linda Cooper" <LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 5:32 AM
Subject: [pct-l] All about food
I want to say thanks to everyone who responded to the question about the
ice axe and alcohol stove. Hoosier Owl is my 24 year old son who hiked
AT last year and plans to hike PCT this year. He currently has no
computer access at home, so I am assisting him in getting trail info.
(He does have guide books).
He has another question regarding food. He is currently of the mindset
to hike the trail without sending himself food packages. Also
considering leaving the stove behind. Have any of you done this, and
can you discuss pros and cons?
Hearing of all your adventures makes me want to quit my job and hit the
trail. Also, loved the comments on solo hiking.
Linda (for Hoosier Owl)
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------------------------------
Message: 9
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 09:42:31 -0800
From: Brian McLaughlin <bmclaughlin@bigplanet.com>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
To: Linda Cooper <LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID: <40291807.AFF11601@bigplanet.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Linda Cooper wrote:
>
> He is currently of the mindset to hike the trail without sending
> himself food packages. Also considering leaving the stove behind.
I would not advise leaving the stove behind. If the idea is to cook
on campfires instead, he should understand that open fires are banned
in many places along the PCT. Also, gathering fuel and tending a fire
require extra effort and time each and every day.
If the idea is to limit himself to non-cooked foods exclusively, then
he should understand that he's condemning himself to a more monotonous
diet than almost anyone could stand for 4-5 months, especially if he
resupplies entirely from what he can buy near the PCT or scrounge from
hiker boxes. Also, non-cooked foods tend to contain more water, which
more than negates any weight savings from leaving the stove behind. He'd
almost certainly end up carrying more weight, total, that way.
If he is not convinced by these arguments, then at the very least I'd
suggest he put a stove into his bounce box, so he can change his mind
along the way.
He will, of course, hike his own hike.
------------------------------
Message: 10
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 12:52:54 EST
From: CMountainDave@aol.com
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID: <10.3b7aa27f.2d5a7476@aol.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
I think Colin Fletcher said it very well in his book "The Man Who Walked
Through Time"
He was on a solo hike of several weeks in the Grand Canyon and had gotten
quite used to his own rhythms and schedule. Then a very good friend joined
him
for a few days of hiking. Colin stated that although the guy was a good
friend, he couldn't wait for him to leave. The imposition of having to
suddenly
consider the whims and follies of another person was just too much: when to
get
up, when to take a break, pace, consideration, etc. He could no longer just
do
it his way, and he had come to enjoy just doing it his way, something quite
rare in today's world. Frank Sinatra's tune "I did it my way" is another
good
explanation of why I enjoyed solo thru hiking
The weak and the bold make good partners. The bold look for an audience and
the weak look for direction. If you are neither, solo is such a relief. A
team
just doesn't get independence. It's an either/or situation. A pecking order
must be established in a group. A leader must emerge. If you don't like the
leadership that emerges, great friction can occur if you rebel.
I am not a loner. I belong to two outdoor clubs. I am going to be at a ski
lodge with 54 other people this weekend. I can go with a group or by myself,
and I am quite aware of the differences between the two types of trips. I
know
what to expect from them both and adjust accordingly. I know I must
compromise
my expectations when with a group, and do so willingly in order to enjoy it.
When solo, I can do as I please. One good, one bad? Beauty is in the eye of
the
beholder, and let's not compare apples with oranges
------------------------------
Message: 11
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 11:01:39 -0800
From: "Mike Saenz" <msaenz@mve-architects.com>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] All about food
To: "Brian McLaughlin" <bmclaughlin@bigplanet.com>, "Linda Cooper"
<LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID:
<157A61E98909CA47A3BBC4D6E5A7737701CF9EFE@server3.mvenet.ad>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Brian,
You raise a very interesting point: "...non-cooked foods tend to contain
more water..."
Is there any info available that compares water content between different
foodstuffs?
I, for one, always take a stove. And it's not an alcohol ultra-light "you
crazy thru hikers" (I'm beginning to become quite fond of that phrase ;))
carry. Mine's a multi-fuel.
To me, there is a certain level of comfort that preparing and consuming a
hot cooked meal provides. I also get a kick out of successfully cooking
recipes that I'd make at home while on the trail. I'm gonna try baking bread
next...
My motto: "If you're goal is just to survive, you're missing the whole
point."
M i c h a e l S a e n z
McLarand Vasquez Emsiek & Partners, Inc.
A r c h i t e c t u r e P l a n n i n g I n t e r i o r s
w w w . m v e - a r c h i t e c t s . c o m
-----Original Message-----
From: Brian McLaughlin [mailto:bmclaughlin@bigplanet.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 9:43 AM
To: Linda Cooper
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
Linda Cooper wrote:
>
> He is currently of the mindset to hike the trail without sending
> himself food packages. Also considering leaving the stove behind.
I would not advise leaving the stove behind. If the idea is to cook
on campfires instead, he should understand that open fires are banned
in many places along the PCT. Also, gathering fuel and tending a fire
require extra effort and time each and every day.
If the idea is to limit himself to non-cooked foods exclusively, then
he should understand that he's condemning himself to a more monotonous
diet than almost anyone could stand for 4-5 months, especially if he
resupplies entirely from what he can buy near the PCT or scrounge from
hiker boxes. Also, non-cooked foods tend to contain more water, which
more than negates any weight savings from leaving the stove behind. He'd
almost certainly end up carrying more weight, total, that way.
If he is not convinced by these arguments, then at the very least I'd
suggest he put a stove into his bounce box, so he can change his mind
along the way.
He will, of course, hike his own hike.
_______________________________________________
pct-l mailing list
pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
unsubscribe or change options:
http://mailman.hack.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
------------------------------
Message: 12
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 11:32:34 -0800
From: "Mike Saenz" <msaenz@mve-architects.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Solo Hiking
To: "PCT Mail List (E-mail)" <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
<157A61E98909CA47A3BBC4D6E5A7737701CF9EFF@server3.mvenet.ad>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
I've been reading this particular thread with great interest. The person
who's writing the article had asked why someone would have reservations
about hiking solo. I had assumed that she was a PCT hiker, or someone who is
familiar with recent events in the southern segment areas.
So I responded with:
****
We've lost eight people in the mountains this winter. Another two illegal
immigrants were found dead a couple weeks ago on the PCT (I was on the very
section of trail, the same day they were found on, and passed the Boy Scout
Troop that found them). Various factors came together to make the conditions
unusually dangerous.
We just endured the most devastating fire season on record. We're beginning
to get something closer to "normal" precipitation. Erosion is making whole
mountainsides unstable. Along with the rain follows periods of cold weather
that freezes ice and then layers soft snow on top, creating death-trap ice
chutes that will drop a hiker hundreds of feet in a fall. "Urban Sprawl" and
a population increase in wildlife have resulted in more human/animal
interactions.
We've had people inexperienced in hiking go up in winter conditions without
proper gear or basic trail skills, or they go out and buy the gear and go up
without knowing how to properly use it. Even experienced hikers are dying
due to the unusually dangerous conditions (I mentioned the SAR member that
died. The "tram" I referred to is the tram that runs from Palm Springs to
9,000 feet up in the San Jacinto Mountains. Desert to Alpine in 15 minutes!
And you may want to research the incident in Whiting Ranch, where a guy was
killed and partially eaten by a mountain lion which attacked a girl BEFORE
IT WAS FINISHED EATING IT'S FIRST VICTIM. Now, wildlife attacks are
extremely rare. Or they're supposed to be...
One of the illegal immigrants found on the PCT described above had his body
cavity hollowed out, mountain lions will eat the soft tissues first...
We now have to string up our food in the San Bernardino National Forest.
Bear populations have been on the rise for the last 20 years. Bear canisters
will soon be required for anyone seeking a wilderness permit here.
What makes the wildlife problem notable is that, Whiting Ranch is a park
almost completely surrounded by suburban residential tracts in Orange
County, CA. The mountain range that the San Bernardino National Forest is in
isn't a contiguous wilderness area. It's got the Los Angeles and San
Bernardino basins to the west, The San Fernando, Santa Clarita and Antelope
Valleys to the north, Palmdale, Victorville and Hesperia to the east and the
Coachella Desert to the south. All heavily populated areas.
The gal who was attacked in Whiting was mountain biking with another guy.
The cat knocked her off her bike, clamped down on her head, and dragged her
off into the bushes (toward where it had stashed the body of the first guy
it killed). I think she just now got out of intensive care.
When she was attacked, her partner tried to fight off the cat with his bike,
then managed to throw rocks at it until it let go of the girl. Even when the
guy managed to get the girl back, the cat kept stalking them!
So. Even hiking with others doesn't necessarily mean you're safe from
predators. As a hiker, we're just another animal in an environment that is
not only unfamiliar to us, but we're simply not physically equipped for it.
There are many creatures out there that have long, sharp teeth and claws,
and they use them on a daily basis. We don't have to be in Alaska or
Yellowstone to be concerned with dangerous animals, we have them right in
our backyards...in Southern California!
The dangers of hiking solo are compounded by physical exhaustion after
putting in a 10+ mile day. It's one thing to be fresh, fed and light on your
feet on the first few miles of the trail. It's quite another situation when
you've put big miles between yourself and any possible help, head-down
dragging towards your planned campsite. A slip or fall injury, a rattlesnake
bite or even an animal attack can probably be survivable within a couple
hours of help. But if help is a day away you could be seriously screwed.
Throw in a sudden change to adverse weather...
I've considered getting a portable ham radio (and learn how to use it). I do
carry a cell phone, but service is almost always non-existent in the
mountains. I also carry a GPS unit that has both FRS and GMRS capabilities.
I also know how to signal for help using mirrors, whistles, smoke/fire, etc.
But I'd imagine that having a partner with you is the most time effective
way to get help if you need it.
There are many reasons NOT to hike solo, but from what you've read from
others, there are just as many (and sometimes more compelling) reasons to
seek the solitude of solo hiking. I still want to try it as an overnighter,
but a wise person would weigh all the variables.
Bottom line: Have the skills necessary for wilderness exploration (It's not
simply walking a trail). Have the proper gear (ALWAYS carry "The Ten
Essentials"). Make a plan and stick to it, share that plan with others so
they know where you should be and when you should be expected back. And
probably most important, be aware of your surroundings at all times
(something that is just about instinctual when solo hiking anyway).
Wow. I didn't plan on writing so much. And now that I re-read this, it
sounds like I'm saying that solo hiking is a death defying stunt. But it's
quite the opposite! I've never felt so ALIVE when quietly walking down a
trail, or sitting in a quiet place, taking in all the sounds, sensations and
sights that only a place far removed from human impacts can have. These
places are what the world really is, whether it's a mountaintop or a desert
island. It's a special feeling to know you're there as a part of it, not as
an intruder. Few people bother to experience it. The down side is, if we
convinced more people to try it, we'd lose a bit of the solitude we seek.
****
In essence, there are considerations whenever we go out onto the trail. As
backpackers, we've learned what to expect and how to deal with the
unexpected through trail and error, or if we were smart, through learning
from another experienced hiker. Beyond the personal preferences of hiking
alone or with a partner/group, one must consider what's appropriate for each
hike. Somewhere between the extremes of mountaineering solo in some far
flung mountaintop and marching 50 Boy Scouts through a wilderness meadow is
the happy medium we find our enjoyment and go about doing so responsibly.
M i c h a e l S a e n z
McLarand Vasquez Emsiek & Partners, Inc.
A r c h i t e c t u r e P l a n n i n g I n t e r i o r s
w w w . m v e - a r c h i t e c t s . c o m
------------------------------
Message: 13
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 15:03:03 -0500
From: "John Hildebrand" <John.Hildebrand@trw.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Tent Poles...
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <s028f3c6.065@dns.livmi.trw.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
I was wondering if anyone knew what (& where) the best material is for
fabricating tent poles..... I think most folks use aluminum, but what size
and type?? (1/4" dia.? 6061 T6 material?) Is there a place I can order
tube stock (or actual poles) for tent poles? Is it hard to bend your own
poles? Will they bend when put into use??
Is there any special procedure for sewing onto the compression straps on my
backpack? What about sewing the Syl-Nylon? Can you use a regular ol'
sewing machine?
Thanks....again!! :-)
------------------------------
Message: 14
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 21:09:34 +0100
From: Saskia Daru <saskiadaru@xs4all.nl>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: PCT list <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <BC4EF90E.4420%saskiadaru@xs4all.nl>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
Hi everyone,
With all the talk of going solo, I'd like to put in a good word for hiking
as a couple.
I have to consider the whims and follies of another person. But I love that
person! And I get to enjoy the warmth, the wit, the encouragement as well.
I get to sit silently next to my partner and look at the sun going down over
a mountain range, colouring it pink. I can see how hiking solo is special,
but so is hiking with the person you love. And such a big thing as a
long-distance hike, is something I would definitely want to share. I feel
privileged to get the chance to do so.
Saskia
------------------------------
Message: 15
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 12:56:01 -0800
From: "Lars Nilsson" <Lars@standardarmament.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Why Hike Alone
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <A994EC4124887746BE4CB1F384122FED83C9@server.SAI.local>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
Years ago, before marriage and family, I backpacked solo fairly often.
I just went on another this past weekend after over 15 years. I day
hike solo all the time. Day hikes and overnight or multi-night trips
are completely different animals. On a day hike you know you'll be back
in the arms of loved ones even if it late at night. You hike your own
hike, but you know its not for long. Backpacking solo as a married
father of three, son, and brother, is completely different from those
trips of years ago. Maybe it's just that I am different. When I was
single, I felt I just belonged to myself. I went when I wanted and had
no set route. Now I see I belong to others as well. I owe it to my
daughter to make every effort to hike down the aisle with her on her
wedding day; trek endless loops together with my wife as we await the
births of our grandchildren; and plod with heavy heart to the cemetery
with my siblings when our widowed mother embarks on her last journey.
"No man is an island..." But neither are we chained to others by these
obligations. When I planned this past weekend, I laid out my route,
planned the alternate routes, and printed up two copies - one for me and
one for my wife. I assured her that should I fail to appear at the
appointed time I would be found on the route I had chosen, under no
circumstances would I leave it. I got the thrill of hiking about 10
miles in the prints made my a mountain lion earlier in the day. I saw
the tracks of the huge buck the lion was hunting. I was awakened by the
roar of African lions in Soledad Canyon (Shambala Preserve, with about
60 lions) and the replying chorus of coyotes. I was able to thrill at
looking into canyons I had never seen before. I got to enjoy all the
serendipitous moments that can only happen on the trail. Yet I was also
aware that those at home were concerned, especially following ten recent
deaths in the local mountains and the cyclist killed by the cougar.
Those I love, who had no inclination or time to join me, knew I was
somewhere along a 40+ mile path of my choosing. This middle-aged solo
hiker still hears the call of the wild, but is also drawn by hearth and
family.
Sincerely,
Lars Nilsson
------------------------------
Message: 16
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:49:09 -0700
From: "Jeffrey J. Olson" <jjolson@uwyo.edu>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Tent Poles...
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <006a01c3f01f$b6d37670$f0344881@uwyo.edu>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
http://www.fibraplex.com/tentpoles.asp
Try this business...
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Hildebrand" <John.Hildebrand@trw.com>
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 1:03 PM
Subject: [pct-l] Tent Poles...
I was wondering if anyone knew what (& where) the best material is for
fabricating tent poles..... I think most folks use aluminum, but what size
and type?? (1/4" dia.? 6061 T6 material?) Is there a place I can order
tube stock (or actual poles) for tent poles? Is it hard to bend your own
poles? Will they bend when put into use??
Is there any special procedure for sewing onto the compression straps on my
backpack? What about sewing the Syl-Nylon? Can you use a regular ol'
sewing machine?
Thanks....again!! :-)
_______________________________________________
pct-l mailing list
pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
unsubscribe or change options:
http://mailman.hack.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
------------------------------
Message: 17
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 13:54:56 -0800
From: "Mike Saenz" <msaenz@mve-architects.com>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: "Saskia Daru" <saskiadaru@xs4all.nl>, "PCT list"
<pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
<157A61E98909CA47A3BBC4D6E5A7737701CF9F01@server3.mvenet.ad>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
You, my friend, are truly blessed.
M i c h a e l S a e n z
McLarand Vasquez Emsiek & Partners, Inc.
A r c h i t e c t u r e P l a n n i n g I n t e r i o r s
w w w . m v e - a r c h i t e c t s . c o m
-----Original Message-----
From: Saskia Daru [mailto:saskiadaru@xs4all.nl]
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 12:10 PM
To: PCT list
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
Hi everyone,
With all the talk of going solo, I'd like to put in a good word for hiking
as a couple.
I have to consider the whims and follies of another person. But I love that
person! And I get to enjoy the warmth, the wit, the encouragement as well.
I get to sit silently next to my partner and look at the sun going down over
a mountain range, colouring it pink. I can see how hiking solo is special,
but so is hiking with the person you love. And such a big thing as a
long-distance hike, is something I would definitely want to share. I feel
privileged to get the chance to do so.
Saskia
_______________________________________________
pct-l mailing list
pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
unsubscribe or change options:
http://mailman.hack.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
------------------------------
Message: 18
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:00:41 -0800
From: "Marshall Karon" <m.karon@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <000801c3f021$5389c270$6401a8c0@YOUR357898FF1F>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
I really question the premise that non-cooked foods contain more water.
I believe the individual I knew who did not cook on the trail ate a lot of
nuts, powdered power meal types of foods, powdered electrolytes, etc. He
also went very light (Teva sandals, no shelter - had a water proof bag,
little clothing). He was easily doing 25-30 mile days after the Sierras.
Still, I don't know how he managed to get the calories he needed. But, he
did.
Marshall Karon
Portland, OR
m.karon@comcast.net
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mike Saenz" <msaenz@mve-architects.com>
To: "Brian McLaughlin" <bmclaughlin@bigplanet.com>; "Linda Cooper"
<LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
Cc: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 11:01 AM
Subject: RE: [pct-l] All about food
Brian,
You raise a very interesting point: "...non-cooked foods tend to contain
more water..."
Is there any info available that compares water content between different
foodstuffs?
I, for one, always take a stove. And it's not an alcohol ultra-light "you
crazy thru hikers" (I'm beginning to become quite fond of that phrase ;))
carry. Mine's a multi-fuel.
To me, there is a certain level of comfort that preparing and consuming a
hot cooked meal provides. I also get a kick out of successfully cooking
recipes that I'd make at home while on the trail. I'm gonna try baking bread
next...
My motto: "If you're goal is just to survive, you're missing the whole
point."
M i c h a e l S a e n z
McLarand Vasquez Emsiek & Partners, Inc.
A r c h i t e c t u r e P l a n n i n g I n t e r i o r s
w w w . m v e - a r c h i t e c t s . c o m
-----Original Message-----
From: Brian McLaughlin [mailto:bmclaughlin@bigplanet.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 9:43 AM
To: Linda Cooper
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
Linda Cooper wrote:
>
> He is currently of the mindset to hike the trail without sending
> himself food packages. Also considering leaving the stove behind.
I would not advise leaving the stove behind. If the idea is to cook
on campfires instead, he should understand that open fires are banned
in many places along the PCT. Also, gathering fuel and tending a fire
require extra effort and time each and every day.
If the idea is to limit himself to non-cooked foods exclusively, then
he should understand that he's condemning himself to a more monotonous
diet than almost anyone could stand for 4-5 months, especially if he
resupplies entirely from what he can buy near the PCT or scrounge from
hiker boxes. Also, non-cooked foods tend to contain more water, which
more than negates any weight savings from leaving the stove behind. He'd
almost certainly end up carrying more weight, total, that way.
If he is not convinced by these arguments, then at the very least I'd
suggest he put a stove into his bounce box, so he can change his mind
along the way.
He will, of course, hike his own hike.
_______________________________________________
pct-l mailing list
pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
unsubscribe or change options:
http://mailman.hack.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
_______________________________________________
pct-l mailing list
pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
unsubscribe or change options:
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------------------------------
Message: 19
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:06:54 -0800
From: "Randy Forsland" <randy_forsland@hotmail.com>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Tent Poles...
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <Law10-OE30muGuDFCzS00051fd0@hotmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
I second that recommendation. The poles that they made for me were
superb...and when i broke one mid-hike (my fault, I stepped on it), They
rushed a replacement out at no cost...They stand behind their poles 100%..
Redwood
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jeffrey J. Olson" <jjolson@uwyo.edu>
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 1:49 PM
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Tent Poles...
> http://www.fibraplex.com/tentpoles.asp
>
> Try this business...
------------------------------
Message: 20
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:09:38 -0800
From: "Mike Saenz" <msaenz@mve-architects.com>
Subject: [pct-l] RE: With all the talk of going solo, I'd like to put
in a good word for hiking as a couple.
To: "Lars Nilsson" <Lars@standardarmament.com>, "PCT Mail List
(E-mail)" <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <157A61E98909CA47A3BBC4D6E5A77377DC5EEC@server3.mvenet.ad>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
I know what you mean.
All the girls I've dated thought "roughing it" was going to a Marriott
without reservations...
M i c h a e l S a e n z
McLarand Vasquez Emsiek & Partners, Inc.
A r c h i t e c t u r e P l a n n i n g I n t e r i o r s
w w w . m v e - a r c h i t e c t s . c o m
-----Original Message-----
From: Lars Nilsson [mailto:Lars@standardarmament.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2004 2:09 PM
To: Mike Saenz
Subject: With all the talk of going solo, I'd like to put in a good word for
hiking as a couple.
Mike,
I would also like to put in a good word for hiking as a couple. I
really would like to. But after almost 23 years of marriage and one
memorable backpacking trip to Yosemite 21 years ago, she won't let me
put in that good word. I have offered 5 mile days, no load trips for
her, etc. No dice. I go solo. But she loves me and lets me go, and I
love her and don't drag her. As she says, "absence makes the heart grow
fonder."
Lars
------------------------------
Message: 21
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 17:11:15 -0500
From: Fran?ois Berthelot <franczazou@hotmail.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Sewing sil-nylon..
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID: <Sea2-F63v7Dr2NBZjjE0002c613@hotmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1; format=flowed
Q: Is there any special procedure for sewing onto the compression straps on
my
backpack? What about sewing the Syl-Nylon? Can you use a regular ol'
sewing machine?
Hi Jeffrey! You can use a regular sewing machine for sil-nylon, just make
sure you have a very small needle, size 70 or 80, and make sure it's new.
My advice would be to carefully adjust the tension (mine is around 4 i
think..) to get even stiches and BE PATIENT!!! The stuff is soooo
slippery!!
I finished a tarp a few months ago and everything went well, just don't use
the rip-stop patern as a guide 'cause it's not strait, i learned the hard
way :)
good luck!
-franc
_________________________________________________________________
MSN Search, le moteur de recherche qui pense comme vous !
http://fr.ca.search.msn.com/
------------------------------
Message: 22
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:18:52 -0800
From: "Ron Moak" <rmoak@sixmoondesigns.com>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Tent Poles...
To: "'John Hildebrand'" <John.Hildebrand@trw.com>,
<pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
<93D3951A2D24D311B44E00A0CC3DA1C4232FD3@bear.fallingwater.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
John,
Before ordering poles you need to have a pretty good idea of the design of
your tent. If you're simply replacing existing broken poles you can go to
www.polesforyou.com for Easton 7075 poles or to
http://www.fibraplex.com/tentpoles.asp for carbon fiber poles.
You should note that if there is a large arc in the pole over a short length
then it's better to use pre-bent aluminum poles than carbon fiber.
I'd suggest going with Aluminum poles first before getting carbon fiber.
They are significantly cheaper and if you make a mistake it's not as costly.
-Ron
------------------------------
Message: 23
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 17:24:20 -0500
From: <motbe@cox.net>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Sewing sil-nylon..
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID:
<20040210222420.YXJJ29834.lakemtao05.cox.net@smtp.central.cox.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
> Q: Is there any special procedure for sewing onto the compression straps
on my backpack?
As Francois mentioned, a new needle, sized 60 or 70 should be fine for
sil-nylon.
For sewing to your compression straps, you probably want a size 90 or 100
needle, since you're going through thick material. Amazingly, I've broken
larger sized needles like that hen sewing through webbing material. You
just have to keep your eye on it as you're stitching..
Daniel
------------------------------
Message: 24
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:57:14 -0800 (PST)
From: David Tibor <david_tibor@yahoo.com>
Subject: [pct-l] usual date of whitney climb?
To: PCT-L <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <20040210225714.50857.qmail@web13506.mail.yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
if you leave from the AZDPCTKO this year, what would
be the estimated date to arrive at the trail up to
Whitney? i need to know to put an estimate on my PCT
permit for 2004 (i.e. estimated Whitney climb date).
__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Finance: Get your refund fast by filing online.
http://taxes.yahoo.com/filing.html
------------------------------
Message: 25
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 18:18:38 -0500 (EST)
From: Christopher Willett <chwillet@indiana.edu>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] usual date of whitney climb?
To: David Tibor <david_tibor@yahoo.com>
Cc: PCT-L <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
<Pine.GSO.3.96.1040210181645.23867B-100000@ariel.ucs.indiana.edu>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII
You don't have to be super precise. It is looking to be at least an
average snow year, if not more. Leaving KM on the 15th of June (Ray's
Day) will put you in a position to climb Whitney on the 18th. Note,
however, that it took me, and a lot of other hikers, a month to get to
Kennedy Meadows. It took others long than that. But, if it is a big
snow year, there is no reason to push unless you are strong enough
and equipped properly to force the Sierra early.
Suge
On Tue, 10 Feb 2004, David Tibor wrote:
> if you leave from the AZDPCTKO this year, what would
> be the estimated date to arrive at the trail up to
> Whitney? i need to know to put an estimate on my PCT
> permit for 2004 (i.e. estimated Whitney climb date).
>
> __________________________________
> Do you Yahoo!?
> Yahoo! Finance: Get your refund fast by filing online.
> http://taxes.yahoo.com/filing.html
> _______________________________________________
> pct-l mailing list
> pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
> unsubscribe or change options:
> http://mailman.hack.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>
>
>
----------------------
Christopher Willett
Department of Mathematics
Indiana University
831 East Third Street
Bloomington, IN. 47405-7106
(812)-855-1448
chwillet@indiana.edu
mypage.iu.edu/~chwillet
------------------------------
Message: 26
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 19:37:13 -0500
From: Dave Giese <dgiese@maine.rr.com>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] All about food
To: Linda Cooper <LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
Cc: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Message-ID: <6F649001-5C2A-11D8-9451-000A9596222C@maine.rr.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed
I also hike without using maildrops for resupply. I had no problems in
Washington last year but Southern Oregon was tougher, I had to hitch
into Ashland, which most thruhikers probably do anyways. (I'm hiking
Cal. this year) My diet is also restricted because I don't eat any
dairy, including milk chocolate. If you intend to eat cold, which I
also did for about half of my AT hike, then resupplying along the trail
is actually easier because foods to cook are harder to find than junk
food. I like to think of myself living off of the land, 21st century
American style. I do recommend carrying a stove during the colder
months of the trip, I consider it part of my safety gear during those
seasons. A stove also allows you to incorporate liquid oil into your
diet, which is a light and cheap way to pack calories. It is more
expensive to buy your food at convenience stores (I was paying $.60-.90
/ pop-tart and I can buy them here for $.17 apiece) but that increase
is somewhat offset by the postage costs of maildrops. To me, that
extra cost is worth it because I am supporting businesses along the
trail rather than my local Walmart. I do worry that if everybody
decided to buy local the same year, stores that are not used to
stocking those quantities would soon run out. I should also add that I
carry a large pack, so I can carry multiple bags of chips without
crushing them. Lots of pros and cons, but for me it
works......DoItYourself
On Tuesday, February 10, 2004, at 08:32 AM, Linda Cooper wrote:
> I want to say thanks to everyone who responded to the question about
> the
> ice axe and alcohol stove. Hoosier Owl is my 24 year old son who hiked
> AT last year and plans to hike PCT this year. He currently has no
> computer access at home, so I am assisting him in getting trail info.
> (He does have guide books).
>
> He has another question regarding food. He is currently of the mindset
> to hike the trail without sending himself food packages. Also
> considering leaving the stove behind. Have any of you done this, and
> can you discuss pros and cons?
>
> Hearing of all your adventures makes me want to quit my job and hit the
> trail. Also, loved the comments on solo hiking.
>
> Linda (for Hoosier Owl)
>
> _______________________________________________
> pct-l mailing list
> pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
> unsubscribe or change options:
> http://mailman.hack.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>
------------------------------
Message: 27
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 16:45:43 -0800
From: "Eric Yakel" <eyakel@earthlink.net>
Subject: [pct-l] Bull
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <003901c3f038$61b62e30$942cb3d1@David>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
1. A Rifle.
2. A Barbecue.
Eric
------------------------------
Message: 28
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 16:53:45 -0800
From: "Eric Yakel" <eyakel@earthlink.net>
Subject: [pct-l] Solo
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <005901c3f039$816f4120$942cb3d1@David>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Robert, there are plenty of us out there who are the same position as you.
I will be hiking the trail in 2005 also, and I have contacted a few who will
be too. We will all be at the kick-off. Hope to see you there. We can
compare hiking speed and mileage; re-supply stops; etc.
Eric Yakel
------------------------------
Message: 29
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 17:16:16 -0800
From: "Eric Yakel" <eyakel@earthlink.net>
Subject: [pct-l] Canadian Permit
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <00d901c3f03c$a6653360$942cb3d1@David>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
They may have changed a few other things also. You might want to check out
the PCTA website. They have a section on the Canadian Permit changes.
Eric
------------------------------
Message: 30
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 17:20:48 -0800
From: "Eric Lee (GAMES)" <elee@microsoft.com>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Sewing sil-nylon..
To: Fran?ois Berthelot <franczazou@hotmail.com>,
<pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
<EB0A327048144442AFB15FCE18DC96C701FFBC59@RED-MSG-31.redmond.corp.microsoft.
com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Franc wrote:
>
Hi Jeffrey! You can use a regular sewing machine for sil-nylon, just make
sure you have a very small needle, size 70 or 80, and make sure it's new.
My advice would be to carefully adjust the tension (mine is around 4 i
think..) to get even stiches and BE PATIENT!!! The stuff is soooo
slippery!!
>
A few more good tips:
* Use an iron on low heat setting to get creases in hems and seams before
you sew them. Makes managing that slippery material slightly less
aggravating.
* Use metal binder clips to hold pieces of the material together before you
sew them. Works better (for me) than pins.
* Use 100% polyester thread, not cotton-core thread.
Eric
------------------------------
Message: 31
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 17:26:26 -0800
From: "Eric Yakel" <eyakel@earthlink.net>
Subject: [pct-l] For those interested
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <00fa01c3f03e$121f8500$942cb3d1@David>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Campmor has the double layer Wrightsock on sale. This is the one with the
inner liner and then outer sock that are sewn together. I loooooovvvvveee
them. Buy one pair for 12 dollars or three or more pairs for 10 dollars
each. They are normally around $15. Also, they have the Golite Lair 1 tarp
on sale for $79. It normally is $99.
Eric
------------------------------
Message: 32
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 20:00:48 -0800
From: "Gray" <gray_hiker@mindpoison.org>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: "'PCT list'" <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <000c01c3f053$a231a460$0400a8c0@VONNEGUT>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
> With all the talk of going solo, I'd like to put in a good
> word for hiking as a couple.
After a bit of thought, the real reason I hike solo is because I'm
single, and when not single, usually not with someone who can, or will,
take off for 6 months to walk in the woods.
Maybe someday :)
Gray
------------------------------
Message: 33
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 20:50:59 -0800
From: "Kent Ryhorchuk" <kentr-lists@sbcglobal.net>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: "'PCT list'" <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <000001c3f05a$a5053290$6400a8c0@OFFICE>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
I'm not entirely sure how I ended up *not* hiking solo. Cathy, my hiking
partner and wife, wasn't interested in backpacking when I met her. She
got interested in it while being my support crew for an adventure race
that I was, ironically, racing solo in. That race touched part of the
PCT, along Deep Creek and Silverwood Lake. The question of "what is this
PCT?" was raised, one thing led to another and 7 months later we set off
from Campo.
Extended hiking with a spouse is not always a love fest - it takes
commitment and a strong will to push through the inevitable bad times. I
imagine that without a formal commitment like marriage it could be even
harder to stick with a hiking partner. I would miss Cathy if she wasn't
with me, but I can also see the advantages of hiking solo (i.e. no
teamwork, no compromises required). Overall I would say that hiking
alone isn't better or worse, just different.
Kent.
------------------------------
Message: 34
Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2004 22:30:03 -0800
From: "Joanne Lennox" <goforth@cio.net>
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: "Jim McEver" <mceverj@qwest.net>, <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <200402110449.i1B4nAdt021748@cnwmail.isomedia.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
I have been hiking and climbing alone for 40 years. I started because I
could not find people to go on longer trips and into remote areas,
especially California, early season.
I have now done 3 Mexico to Canada trips alone. I would generally rather
be with somebody else. I am slow, but very persistent. NObody wants to do
what I want to do or at the same time. I don't have much choice. It is
either go alone or not at all.
I have always found that I learn much more about myself when I am alone;
but I seem to enjoy and absorb the scenery more when I am with another
person. thruhiking can be a difficult experience alone; daunting in poor
weather and when plagued with pain or injuries. Company is real solice and
somebody with humor so warms the experience, that it may be for some the
difference between continuing or stopping. Thruhikers with warmth and
humor are in high demand on the trail. I think a different perspective
allows one to absorb different things from a hike and to create memories
that bring real and lasting value to the hike.
I have never regretted a single hike that I have done alone, even when I
was injured.
My very first overnight was a solo.
I am like Gray now in that if I went with anybody , they would have to be
able to go alone because I value both company and solitude.
Goforth
------------------------------
Message: 35
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 20:59:15 -0800
From: "Jon Lovejoy" <jon@lovejoyart.com>
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Why do you hike solo?
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <001601c3f05b$cc2f2dc0$0201a8c0@JonDesktop>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
The cool thing about the PCT is that you can do both. You can hike solo
and stop when you see someone, to share a meal or make camp. If you find
someone who matches your pace & personality, you get to hang out
together for a while. As a solo hiker, I'm only alone when I choose to
be.
Also, the solo hikers I met this summer are more clearly defined in my
memory than the couples and groups I met. You have to be a little
different (crazy?) to hike solo.
-Molasses
------------------------------
Message: 36
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 22:10:56 -0700
From: "Alistair & Gail Des Moulins" <aandg@telusplanet.net>
Subject: [pct-l] Re: All about food
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Message-ID: <001e01c3f05d$6e6148c0$f3faba89@ab.hsia.telus.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Hoosier & Linda
Gail and I thru hiked the PCT in 2003 and we did not send any food packages
apart from one mail order from Hadley's in Cabazon for a change of diet
(We'd resupplied in Cabazon earlier and enjoyed their food).
Advantages of buying food on route:
1. You don't have to spend days or weeks preparing food in advance.
2. You can vary your diet when you want to (subject to availability) rather
than when you think you might want to 4 or 5 months earlier. Some people got
sick of what they'd packaged 3 months earlier and bought at the stores. See
next advantage!
3. You can take advantage of all the (often good) stuff other hikers leave
in the hiker boxes in towns.
4. You are not tied to Post Office opening times at your resupply points.
5. You get to know the quantities of food you need better after you've been
on the trail. We misjudged our quantities at the first resupply point (Mount
Laguna) but were luckily able to get a few extras (potato chips, hot dog
buns and marshmallows!) at Warner Springs to last us until Anza.
Disadvantages.
1. You cannot be a fussy eater - some stores are much better than others.
Shelter Cove, White Pass and Stehekin were the most limited in their
supplies. White Pass had no breakfast cereal, bread, tortillas, peanut
butter and we ended up trying to make pancakes in a potlid using just a
spoon!
2. The food costs a lot more at some of the stores on route but this would
be partly offset by the cost of mailing.
3. Probably your food load is a bit heavier resupplying on route.
We met several hikers who had more than 1 parcel not arrive during their
trip - so this is a hazard of preparing in advance.
At Shelter Cove (Oregon) and Stehekin (N. Washington) we did more than half
of our resupply from hiker boxes - Stehekin would have been really tough to
resupply from unless you stocked up at the bakery, which went on a 3 day a
week schedule after Sep 23rd (I think) last year.
Alistair
>>
> Message: 35
> Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2004 08:32:18 -0500
> From: "Linda Cooper" <LCooper@WHF-Law.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] All about food
> To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <F3A033D1CE42B549A6C4CE446596E407CC6AEE@whfex01.whf.dom>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> I want to say thanks to everyone who responded to the question about the
> ice axe and alcohol stove. Hoosier Owl is my 24 year old son who hiked
> AT last year and plans to hike PCT this year. He currently has no
> computer access at home, so I am assisting him in getting trail info.
> (He does have guide books).
>
> He has another question regarding food. He is currently of the mindset
> to hike the trail without sending himself food packages. Also
> considering leaving the stove behind. Have any of you done this, and
> can you discuss pros and cons?
>
> Hearing of all your adventures makes me want to quit my job and hit the
> trail. Also, loved the comments on solo hiking.
>
> Linda (for Hoosier Owl)
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
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