[pct-l] introduction

[SFox <sfox@eskimo.com>]

Hi, y'all.

I represent another branch of lurkers -- those who don't really want to
hike the PCT, but enjoy reading about it. Maybe that's because I have too
many responsibilities and can't take off an entire summer. Or maybe
because I enjoy less-travelled trails in the North Cascades? In the
meantime, it makes for interesting armchair travelling.

I get out hiking a lot, though (see
http://www.eskimo.com/~sfox/SJF/h1998.htm for this year's adventures). I'm
very fortunate to live so close to the North Cascades area! I'm in my
low-40's and enjoy hiking, climbing, and snowshoeing. It's difficult to
sneak away for more than 3 days, but I manage to get out a lot anyway.

My one long-distance experience was riding halfway across the US
(Corvallis OR to Denver CO) on my bike in 1979. We followed the
BikeCentennial route. Anyone else do that?  What an excellent way to
travel! The logistics are much simpler since you pass general stores one
or more times a day. But a bit more noise. The route was outstanding,
though, with little traffic on most of it. 

I haven't read Jardine's book, but I find it hard to believe you can hike
in the North Cascades with 9 lb packs! I get COLD and need lots of
clothes. Maybe it's because I'm not a techno-junkie and have heavy
equipment? (OK, let's just say I'm cheap!) I've never had a problem
lugging a heavy pack, but this year I tried a real light pack for a 3-day
trip and was sold on that method. However, the weather was excellent the
whole time.



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