[pct-l] Verizon cell phone coverage

[wandering_bob at comcast.net (Bob Bankhead)]

Tracy:
Ask yourself this question - why would I carry this cell cell phone?

Answer 1: for emergencies.
Odds are, you won't have cell service at that point, nor will you get it 
anytime soon. Assuming you're hiking solo, it's a rare day when you don't 
encounter at least one other hiker on the PCT (during the regular hiking 
season). Learn to depend on yourself and the other hikers for aid. CAVEAT: 
If you are hiking outside the regular season or planning to take a lot of 
"alternate routes" branching off the PCT and rejoining it later, this does 
not apply. You could easily find yourself all alone for extended periods. 
This is another excellent reason for leaving a detailed hiking plan with 
someone at home. Personally, the degree of risk I'm willing to take on the 
trail is directly proportional to the number people I'm hiking with. Don't 
be afraid to turn around and go back. SAR groups really hate body hunts.

Answer 2: to call home periodically
You'll find lots of pay phones at supply points.

Answer 3: so "they" can reach me if need be.
Why did you go on this trek in the first place? If you are so indispensable 
somewhere else, why are you on the trail? Being incommunicado is part of the 
fun! "They" can't intrude on your solitude unless you first choose to allow 
them access by calling them. You are free - for awhile.

I have found a cell phone to be 10 ounces (phone + hard case + 2 batteries) 
of unnecessary deadweight on the trail. Rarely did I have cell service when 
I was of a mind to call home to share the beautiful sunset with my family. 
Never did I entertain the idea of calling the office, just to "check in" 
(there's always an emergency they are more than willing to drop in your 
lap). It was just one more thing to keep track of among my gear and I found 
myself checking it repeatedly to assure it had not parted company with me. 
To eliminate all that, I carried my AT&T phone card and $2 in quarters - 
total weight less than 1 ounce - and I could also use the quarters for the 
showers at the state parks or treats at the store.

If you absolutely MUST be reachable and/or be able to reach someone else 
anytime for any reason, carry a satellite phone instead. More money, more 
weight, almost unlimited comminucations ability.

Wandering Bob





Does anyone have experience with Verizon cell phone coverage on the
PCT. I was planning on packing my cell phone for my PCT trek.

Two years ago I carried my cell phone on the JMT and only had a cell
signal at the summit of Whitney. Thanks for the input...Tracy