[pct-l] PCT Start Date

[GSL38 at aol.com (GSL38@aol.com)]

I am an AT '03 hiker now in grad school and aching to get back out
there, this time on the PCT, when I graduate next May. I want to start
planning so I have something to look forward to but wonder if I am
uneccesarily getting my hopes up - I won't be able to start until late
May, something like the 25th. Is this too late? What are the challenges
to starting this late and how many people do it?

If you wanted to start in the Big Bear area or even near Lake Silverwood, you 
can fly into Ontario International which is not very crowded.  There are 
plenty of people who would be willing to give you a lift to the trailheads in that 
area.  On May 29th I picked up a PCT hiker at the airport and took her to get 
her fuel and then to the trailhead at Interstate 15.  Only a 30 minute drive 
and a wonderful experience for me.  I know there are others out there that are 
willing to do the same thing.  All you have to do is ask and you'll get 
plenty of offers.

Donna Smith
Girl Scout Backpacking Advisor