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[pct-l] Re: pct-l-digest V1 #804
- Subject: [pct-l] Re: pct-l-digest V1 #804
- From: Erik Dopman <edop@mail.utexas.edu>
- Date: Thu, 08 Jul 1999 11:47:49 -0500
Dear fellow hikers,
I was wondering if any of you could provide advice on hiking the rainforest
trails in the Olympic this time of year. I realize biting insects will be a
problem and trail conditions will likely be poor because of mud - but, as I
have never hiked in a temperate rainforest, I am still considering the
trip. So far, I've been reading up on the Bocachiel & Hoh Trails. Any
suggestions??
Yours,
edop
At 11:49 PM 7/7/99 -0500, you wrote:
>
>pct-l-digest Wednesday, July 7 1999 Volume 01 : Number 804
>
>
>
>In this issue:
>
> [pct-l] Re: pct-l-digest V1 #802
> [pct-l] Snow depth @ 6,000 feet, Mt. Jefferson
> [pct-l] Olallie Lake info.
> [pct-l] FWD: BOUNCE pct-l@backcountry.net: Non-member submission
from ["Reuben Rajala, PCTA Director of Trail Operations" <trails@pcta.org>]
> [pct-l] Trail Head Car Parking
> [pct-l] Re: snow levels
> [pct-l] Thief
> Re: [pct-l] Re: Mosquitos -- suit up?
> [pct-l] Looking for Dave Long (Dave the Hiker)
> [pct-l] Hello from Doug Banks
> Re: [pct-l] Re: snow levels
> [pct-l] Outages (Admin)
> [pct-l] Who leaves the trail?
> Re: [pct-l] Who leaves the trail?
> [pct-l] Trip Report / Ultralight hiking (long)
>
>----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>Date: Mon, 5 Jul 1999 03:10:55 -0400 (EDT)
>From: Jarrid Wong <wongjk@umich.edu>
>Subject: [pct-l] Re: pct-l-digest V1 #802
>
>Hello again!
>
> Simple question. Anyone know which is better to fly into for entry
>in section H? i have to either fly to LA or San Fran then bus to Section
>H. where i wish to start. if anyone has done this before or has ANY
>suggestions please let me know.
>
>Thanks again!
>
>Jarrid
>
>^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
>"But i still haven't found what im looking for."
> -U2
> Jarrid Wong
> http://www-personal.umich.edu/~wongjk/index.html
>^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
>
>On Sun, 4 Jul 1999, pct-l-digest wrote:
>
>>
>> pct-l-digest Sunday, July 4 1999 Volume 01 : Number 802
>>
>>
>>
>> In this issue:
>>
>> RE: [pct-l] AT vs PCT
>> [pct-l] Info on Tuolumne Canyon...?
>> [pct-l] Mailing Addresses
>> [pct-l] Snow in Washington State
>> Re: [pct-l] Mailing Addresses
>> [pct-l] WALT & PAT ARE BACK HOME!
>> [pct-l] BOUNCE pct-l@backcountry.net: Admin request of type
/\bsubscribe\b/i at line 7 (fwd)
>>
>> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 11:24:00 +0200
>> From: "Eriksen, Svein" <sveri@wmdata.com>
>> Subject: RE: [pct-l] AT vs PCT
>>
>> I hiked the AT in 96, then the PCT in 98. This summer I did the first 650
>> miles of the AT again.
>>
>> One reason for going back to the AT for my vacation this year was the
>> friendly people on the AT, and I wasn't disappointed. Nothing wrong with
the
>> PCT poeple, but I think people on the AT is at least as friendly as on the
>> PCT. In general they are more relaxed (probably because having less
miles to
>> do in a longer seaon).
>>
>> When it comes to cell-phones I saw a couple of people using them. They
>> seemed almost embarrassed about it and tended to take them away from the
>> shelters. I'll have to agree with one of the other answers that I can't
>> really see how you can use a cell phone to get room in a shelter as they
are
>> first come first serve.
>>
>> If you don't like people, then of course the PCT is "better" that the AT,
>> but then why hike a trail in the first place?
>>
>> Svein
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 07:52:32 -0700
>> From: "Kurt Herzog" <kpherzog@cdsnet.net>
>> Subject: [pct-l] Info on Tuolumne Canyon...?
>>
>> Hi Kevin..
>>
>> Saw your post about Tuolumne Cyn.. I was at Yosemite June 21 and
>> at that time the ranger at the permit station at Tuolumne Meadows
>> told me that the crossing was very dangerous. He said that the
>> only party he knew of to cross was a mountaineering group who
>> used climbing ropes and crampons to cross on a single rickety
>> log. Does not sound like a place for children to me, IMHO.
>>
>> The trip to the falls is still worth while however.. just plan
>> on turning around below Waterwheel.
>>
>> Good luck . . . Kurt
>>
>> PS: Bears are very bad at Glen Aulin. Bring a bear can.
>>
>> Kurt P. Herzog = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
>> 1440 N.E Tenth Street | kpherzog@iname.com | COBOL Lives!
>> Grants Pass, OR 97526 USA | | The Mainframe Rules!
>> ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
>>
>>
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 12:42:03 -0400
>> From: "David B. Stockton" <davstock@tiac.net>
>> Subject: [pct-l] Mailing Addresses
>>
>> Does anyone have an updated list of resupply mailing addresses (updated,
>> say, from Jardine 2)?
>>
>> I had all those helpful emails from this past spring but I had a switch
>> set wrong and the archive process deleted them all. The on-line PCTA
>> archives don't have 1999 in them.
>>
>> Would REALLY appreciate any help.
>>
>> - -- Dave Stockton
>>
>> David B. Stockton
>> davstock@tiac.net
>>
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 11:15:12 -0600
>> From: "Marge Prothman" <margepr@cyberhighway.net>
>> Subject: [pct-l] Snow in Washington State
>>
>> Went to Manning Park June 12th. Still lots of snow on the PCT. climbed up
>> Windy Joe Mtn on snowshoes. Went next to Crystal Mtn. about June 20th and
>> checked out the trail that goes from White Pass To Snoqualmie Pass. I
>> thought maybe my granddaughter and I could get back on the PCT at that
>> point and finish to Snoqualmie. No such luck still lots of snow between 5
>> and 6000 ft.and the avalanche shoots were still very dangerous.(we would
>> have used snowshoes not skis). Crystal Mtn. opened for summer skiing June
>> 26th. and yesterday it was snowing at about 5500 ft.
>>
>> Then at the end of June went to Snoqualmie Pass. Drove the car to the
trail
>> head parking could not get in there too much snow. Saw the PCT sign at
the
>> end of the parking area. Went on snowshoes to the trail head. the Toilet
>> peaked out of the snow about 1 foot and saw the very tops of the posts
>> holding the registers etc. Anyplace there is a forest, it is still holding
>> the snow. No way to find the trail unless you have good navigational
>> skills. I knew the area and managed to get very close to Red Mountian on
>> snowshoes and gained about 1000 ft. elevation. The biggest concern I had
was
>> snow bridges over creeks etc.
>> Have a son involved in Seattle Mtn Rescue. they feel the snow will not
>> leave the 6 - 7000 ft level this year unless it is on a open slope and lots
>> of sun.
>>
>> Marge (the Old Gal) doing it by sections.
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 15:17:01 -0700
>> From: "Carolyn M Eddy" <ceddy@netzero.net>
>> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Mailing Addresses
>>
>> I don't have the addresses but here's a list.
>> >1. mt laguna (generic 4 day box)
>> >2. warner springs (generic 4 day box)
>> >3. kennedy meadows (generic 6 day box, with tent included)
>> >4. vermillion valley resort (generic 4 day box)
>> >5. burney falls (generic 4 day box)
>> >6. crater lake (ups only)(generic 4 day box)
>> >7. ollalie lake resort(generic 4 day box)
>> >8. timberline lodge (generic 4 day box)
>> >9. stehekin(generic 6 day box)
>> >
>> >(generic 4 day box has food for 4 days, & generic 6 for 6 days)
>> >
>> >does anyone have the current address & phone for ollaie lake resort,
(since
>> >the ranger station has been shut down & we aren't supposed to mail
>> >packages there)?
>> *************************************************************
>> Carolyn
>> Eagle Creek Packgoats
>> Eagle Creek, OR
>> "Have goat, will travel"
>> http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/Rapids/3796/
>> *************************************************************
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ________________________________________________________
>> NetZero - We believe in a FREE Internet. Shouldn't you?
>> Get your FREE Internet Access and Email at
>> http://www.netzero.net/download/index.html
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 19:38:03 -0500 (CDT)
>> From: radney@ix.netcom.com
>> Subject: [pct-l] WALT & PAT ARE BACK HOME!
>>
>> SENT THIS BUT NEVER RECEIVED IT ON MY LIST SO WILL SEND IT AGAIN.
>>
>>
>> From: radney@ix.netcom.com
>> To: pct-l@backcountry.net
>> Date: 07/02/99 00:14:47
>> Subject: PCT Hiker Information
>>
>> Walt and I are back in Virgina. Imagine our surprise when we got on the
>> discussion site and had over 1,000 msgs -- what happened to our
>> "unsubscribe.?" Guess we didn't do it right. But how wonderful to hear
Tom
>> and others relaying msgs about how everyone is doing -- thank you, we
>> appreciate your interest and concern while we are on the trail. All the
>> water drops were much needed and for those of you who took part in
stashing
>> them for us -- thanks from the bottom of our hearts!! Thanks also for all
>> the rides, letters, and packages!
>>
>> For the most part, the "TRAILOGRAM" is pretty accurate, BUT... not
always.
>> I (Pat) got off the trail in Lone Pine because of an exhisting digestive
>> problem (maybe colon polyps) that were causing me abdominal pain, fatigue,
>> nausea and bleeding. Walt and I had not done most of this section (the
>> Sierras) in '97 and we were hyped up to get it under our belt.
>> Unfortunately, I was in no condition to safely take it on when we got
there.
>> My GI wanted me home and I wanted to continue the hike so badly. At the
>> moment I was not in serious trouble but I could be if I continued -- the
>> Sierras are really tough and would put more strain on me than what we had
>> already done. I knew I couldn't go, but Walt was strong and knew the
ropes
>> and he could go on and meet the challenge. If I went I could endanger
>> anyone else on the trail and possibly have to be rescued or cause someone
>> harm trying to help me if I were to became seriously ill. So, I really
had
>> no choice but to stay in Lone Pine until Wendy (our Trail Daughter from
>> '97) could come and get me and take me to Vermillion Valley Resort where I
>> could wait for Walt to come in.
>>
>> Walt did the 120 miles in 8 days and lost 10 pounds -- almost everyone
lost
>> weight and found an inner strength they didn't know they had. The
conditions
>> the Hikers faced in the Sierras were tough and every day was spent
fighting
>> to get up and over snowy passes, enduring postholing, loose scree or
gravel
>> and lost trails. The sun reflecting on the snow caused most of them to
come
>> in to VVR with sunburned faces and cracked and burned lips. Down in the
>> valley they encountered deep and turbulent stream (river!!) crossings.
Most
>> couldn't eat enough during the day to get the calories they needed for
each
>> days ordeal. They arrived at VVR famished and feasted on several
breakfasts
>> the first hour or so and then they had lunch only to come back several
hours
>> later for dinner -- or two dinners! I saw many hikers come into VVR quiet
>> and reflective and for some it took several days before they seemed to
come
>> out of it. With good food and a haven to rest in, almost all headed back
>> out for Tuloumne. If not eagerly, at least with more inner strength than
>> they knew they had before and a resolve to get to Canada -- no matter what!
>>
>> Contrary to the TRAILOGRAM, Walt also did not take a soaking in Evolution
>> Creek -- but he did come close. Walt was hiking with several other hikers
>> and the first couple who crossed had a bit of trouble because of the
strong
>> current. As he got almost across, the current started to drag him and
>> Walter (yes, there are two out there) had to give him a had to steady
him so
>> he could get across -- wet he got from the waist down, but thank God (and
>> Walter Harman) he narrowly missed getting dunked. The current was not so
>> strong in the meadow and they should have crossed there as we did in '97.
>> Walt said the hike thru the Sierras was everything and more than you could
>> imagine -- snow, snow and more snow -- and then there was water, water and
>> more water!
>>
>> The following is a list of some of the hikers who left VVR for Tuolomne --
>> the date is when they left, not arrived: 6-10 -- Christian Golfette and
>> Sandy Egli (Switzerland), 6-14-- Henry Shires, Nathan Martin, Frank
>> Tupicchio, 6-15-- Jarrad Caspen, Sven Thesen, "Jersey Jim" Smart, 6-16--
Ken
>> Roberts, Pack Rat, Shirt, Lindy, Kevin Rourk, Steve Fonesca, Aaron Alexis,
>> Mike Perry, Jan Doelder 6/17 --Big Red and Ramblin Man, Jason & Lara,
>> Spice, Mike (Homebrew), Robert Berard (Little Bear), Sophie Hartshorn,
Erica
>> Kutcher, Charlotte Clews (Meg did the Sierras with her sister), 6-18 --
>> Chris Daves, Ron Vaughn, Dana, Karen Davis & John Langhein, Hurricane
Helen
>> and dog Cleideth. I didn't write down the leave dates for the following
--
>> sorry. Junk Yard Dog, Donna and Johnathan, Pete and Dennis, Mary Barrow,
>> Walter & Korin, Jeff Maxson, Deb, Rebecca, Brian, Derek, Jason & Jason,
>> Ishmael, Allen Downs, Rob Bedicheck (he and Anne became engaged on Lake
>> Edison--congratulations!), JAIME & BETH, Robin, Nick, Whitney and (?),
Neil
>> Parcell (from England), Mark, John (Christina went back to Maine with feet
>> problems), and the three Norweigens. I know there are several others
who I
>> have not mentioned -- sorry -- I will try to get a more completed list
soon!
>>
>> Thanks again everyone! Walt and Pat
>>
>>
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> Date: Sat, 3 Jul 1999 20:21:21 -0500 (CDT)
>> From: PCT List Admin <brick@fastpack.com>
>> Subject: [pct-l] BOUNCE pct-l@backcountry.net: Admin request of type
/\bsubscribe\b/i at line 7 (fwd)
>>
>> - ---------- Forwarded message ----------
>> Date: Thu, 1 Jul 1999 23:35:06 -0500 (CDT)
>> From: owner-pct-l@backcountry.net
>> To: owner-pct-l@backcountry.net
>> Subject: BOUNCE pct-l@backcountry.net: Admin request of type
>> /\bsubscribe\b/i at line 7
>>
>> >From owner-pct-l Thu Jul 1 23:35:05 1999
>> Received: from harvest1.harvestcomm.net (mailserver1.hcom.net
[206.155.254.164])
>> by edina.hack.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with SMTP id XAA28817
>> for <pct-l@backcountry.net>; Thu, 1 Jul 1999 23:35:05 -0500 (CDT)
>> (envelope-from odie@enid.com)
>> Received: from [208.33.71.81] by harvest1.harvestcomm.net (NTMail
4.20.0009/AX0250.00.e2ec0ed8) with ESMTP id mawshaaa for
<pct-l@backcountry.net>; Thu, 1 Jul 1999 23:33:23 -0500
>> Message-ID: <377C412D.7C59@enid.com>
>> Date: Thu, 01 Jul 1999 23:33:50 -0500
>> From: "K. Odenwald" <odie@enid.com>
>> Reply-To: odie@enid.com
>> X-Mailer: Mozilla 3.0C (Win95; I)
>> MIME-Version: 1.0
>> To: PCT-L e-mail <pct-l@backcountry.net>
>> Subject: Changed my mind
>> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
>> Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
>>
>> I have been a lurker on this list for quite some time now. I have been
>> happy just reading messages but I haven't really considered a PCT hike
>> in the past. I have been geared toward the AT.
>> When I first "got into hiking" the AT was all the rage and I have been
>> planning to do the AT for the past year or so. My departure date would
>> have been tax day '00.
>> If I haven't mentioned I also su*bscribe to the ATML and lurk there also.
>> I have not been too impressed with all of the bickering, infighting, and
>> general apathy toward fellow hikers. This fact along with the
>> over-commercialization of the AT has prompted me to put the brakes on my
>> AT thru hike. I have no desire to spend my journey time there.
>> That takes me to the PCT. One of the few trails that I could still find
>> an adventure.
>> Now my question: What would be the one best book or guide that I could
>> use to plan a 2000 hike. I know there will be many different answers,
>> but I need help quick! I have geared up for the AT and read it up, but I
>> am fairly ignorant concerning the PCT.
>> Thanx for putting up with my long post.
>> - -Ballcap PCT 00
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>> End of pct-l-digest V1 #802
>> ***************************
>>
>> * From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>>
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Mon, 05 Jul 1999 09:57:48 -0400
>From: "Struz, Lesya" <lstruz@aer.com>
>Subject: [pct-l] Snow depth @ 6,000 feet, Mt. Jefferson
>
> Abe of the Detroit Ranger District, Willamette National Forest, was up
>there about a week ago -- give him a call. He was very helpful to me.
>Ask about Russell Creek crossing, too...
>
>Lesya Struz
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Mon, 05 Jul 1999 10:31:49 -0400
>From: "Struz, Lesya" <lstruz@aer.com>
>Subject: [pct-l] Olallie Lake info.
>
>Here's the info:
>
>Olallie Lake Resort
>Mailing Address:
>13445 SW Golden Mantle Rd.
>Crooked River Ranch, OR. 97760
>
>Reservations:
>(541) 504-1010
>(503) 557-1010
>Fax: (541) 504-1010
>E-mail: info@olallielake.com
>
>The web address is wwww.olallielake.com
>
>If you look on the web, you will find all the information you are
>requesting. The turn-around time on an email question was quick, too.
>Pasted in below is part of the email I got in reply to my questions,
>which may be of help to you:
>___________________________________________________________________________
___
>3. As the group will be staying at Olallie (we hope!), will they be
>charged for showers or for their resupply boxes?
>
>A) Yes, Showers are $5 for 30 min. No, there is no charge for resupply
>boxes.
>
>4. How do you want resupply boxes shipped to you -- by U.S. Postal
>service, UPS, or ? How long do you hold resupply boxes?
>
>A) Ship to:
>USFS
>Estacada Ranger Station
>595 NW Industrial Way
>Estacada, OR. 97023
>
>5. Has Skyline Road been regraded this season? Can one drive to Olallie
>Lake Resort with 2-wheel drive or is 4-wheel drive required?
>
>A) 2-wheel drive, High Clearance Vehicle required on Skyline Road!
>
>6. How is the road to Breitenbush Lake?
>
>It won't be long before they close off that road - it has not been
>maintained in many years.
>
>Hope this answers all your Questions.
>
>Voice: (541) 504-1010
>
>Thanks,
>Doneal Thornton
>Olallie Lake Resort
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Mon, 5 Jul 1999 12:17:03 -0500 (CDT)
>From: PCT List Admin <brick@fastpack.com>
>Subject: [pct-l] FWD: BOUNCE pct-l@backcountry.net: Non-member
submission from ["Reuben Rajala, PCTA Director of Trail Operations"
<trails@pcta.org>]
>
>- ---------- Forwarded message ----------
>Date: Sun, 4 Jul 1999 20:26:20 -0800
>To: PCT General List <pct-l@backcountry.net>
>From: "Reuben Rajala, PCTA Director of Trail Operations" <trails@pcta.org>
>Subject: Arizona residents who have done the PCT?
>
>Hello
>
>I've heard from an Arizona publication called "SWEAT Magazine: Arizona's
>Sports and Fitness Resources" that they would love to have an article about
>the PCT, with the PCTA office would be happy to collaborate on (referencing
>threats, volunteer opportunities, PCTA information/education resources,
>etc.) with.
>
>If you are from AZ and want to do something, please let me know?
>Thanks.
>Reuben
>PCTA
><trails@pcta.org>
>
>
>
>
>
>___________________________________________________________________________
____
>
>Reuben R. Rajala
>Director of Trail Operations
>Pacific Crest Trail Association
>5325 Elkhorn Blvd., #256
>Sacramento, CA 95842
>Office (general) 916-349-2109
>Office (direct) 916-349-0941
>Fax: 916-349-1268
>Residence (Roseville) 916-781-5462
>Email: trails@pcta.org
>
>Visit PCTA's website! http://www.pcta.org
>
>Thoughts to ponder:
>
>A bad day on the trail is better than a good day in the office.
>There is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.
>Remember that you are unique, just like everyone else.
>You cannot find new oceans unless you are willing to lose sight of the shore.
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Tue, 6 Jul 1999 16:39:56 -0600
>From: "Marge Prothman" <margepr@cyberhighway.net>
>Subject: [pct-l] Trail Head Car Parking
>
>Want to know if there is car parking availabilities Where the trail comes
>out at the following:
>Warner Springs
>I 10 Pass - hiway to Palm Springs
>I 15 Cahoon Pass
>Aqua Dulce
>Hiway 138
>Hiway 58
>Walker Pass
>
>I am trying to figure out a system of putting my car at the end of each
>section and then possibly
>hitchhike back to my starting point. Is this feasible? I could resupply
>myself from my car and even drive to a Motel to clean up or just go home
>lol.
>/Thanks, Marge (the old gal)
>\
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Tue, 06 Jul 1999 08:50:26 -0700
>From: Brian Cornelius <bcorneli@wsu.edu>
>Subject: [pct-l] Re: snow levels
>
>>Anybody know what the snow levels are around Mt Jefferson about 6000 ft?
>
>I was down climbing Mt. Hood last weekend, and there is still a lot of snow
>in the trees and shaded
>areas. Open areas didn't look too bad. Snow on the trails seemed to be
>patchy between 3500 and 4000'. I had a hard time identifying the PCT route
>at Barlow pass. Most snow there looked to be at least 2' deep. Locals in
>Government Camp told me the temperatures really hadn't gotten out of the
>50's and low 60's yet. The east slope seemed warmer. Timberline Ski Resort
>(5900') has ample snow for skiing all the way to the parking lot. Suspect
>Mt. Jefferson has similar conditions.
>
>Brian
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Tue, 6 Jul 1999 16:13:37 -0700 (PDT)
>From: Jim Serio <jim@rollercoaster.com>
>Subject: [pct-l] Thief
>
>Was doing my weekly journal browsing and caught
>this in Rob Bedichek's journal:
>
>http://bedichek.org/robert/pct/progress.html
>
>- --
>One sad thing happened at Red's Meadow. I ran into
>another hiker who I had met earlier at Vermillion
>and who seemed like an ok guy. His trail name was
>"Junkyard Dog" and is from the east coast. I was
>looking at his shirt, which said "Master Baiter",
>and was thinking that was a dumb thing for a
>23-year-old to wear. He thought I was looking at
>his stolen PCT sign (which I hadn't seen). He said
>he didn't think the forest service should be nailing
>things into trees -- a lame excuse for stealing
>government property. I told him that in the winter,
>we depended on those signs high up on the trees to
>find the trail. He stood by his rationale. I told
>him that the trees weren't hurt by having something
>nailed to them and in in case if he didn't like it,
>he should write a letter, not steal the signs. It
>saddened me that I was in the company of people who
>would screw up the very thing that so many of the
>rest of us were trying to preserve and improve. While
>I and others cleaned out fire pits, picked up litter,
>and carried it many miles on our backs to make the
>forest a little cleaner, Junkyard Dog was ripping us
>off.
>- --
>
>Kinda sad that Rob's calling it quits. Anyone
>want to speculate what the number 1 and 2 causes
>of leaving the trail are? I'd guess feet problems
>and depression (or some sort of other emotional
>issues).
>
>Jim
>- --
>Jim Serio
>Producer, World of Coasters
>"Doing the PCt in Y2K"
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 09:08:42 EDT
>From: RRichey535@aol.com
>Subject: Re: [pct-l] Re: Mosquitos -- suit up?
>
>In a message dated 7/2/99 7:21:49 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
>sandersbtm@worldnet.att.net writes:
>
>I just finished a 4 day trip in Tuolumne and Yosemite backcountry. The
>skeeters were the thickest I've ever seen. Without bug pants and a head net
>I would have been steak on the barbie for these varmints. No amount of DEET
>could have stopped them IMO. Around Sunrise HST they were just incredible.
>A light colored long sleeve shirt to protect from UV precluded the need
for a
>bug shirt, but I was very happy I had some goretex rain mitts to protect the
>back of my hands. The only problem with the head net was the diminished
>vision, particularly when walking into the sun. Happy hiking, Bob R
>
><< TravelSmith (http://www.travelsmith.com) sells "Skeeter Beeter" tops and
> pants (item numbers 3002 $32 and 3001 $22, respectively). The writeup says
> they're "virtually weightless.... effective against mosquitoes, black flies,
> and bees."
> Does anyone have any experience with Skeeter Beeters or similar products?
> Would it be worthwhile to take a set with me on the JMT later this
> month/August? Thanks in advance! >>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Fri, 2 Jul 1999 17:53:58 -0500 (CDT)
>From: PCT-L Guest Post <milt@backcountry.net>
>Subject: [pct-l] Looking for Dave Long (Dave the Hiker)
>
>* Message posted to PCT-L from the National Scenic Trails Website
>* by our guest Rhoda T. Bolton <rhodatbolton@msn.com>.
>* Please use <mailto:rhodatbolton@msn.com> to reply to the sender.
>
>Friday July 2nd
>Hi! This is a legitimate message-no SPAM here!
>I am trying to find out if anyone has seen my brother on the PCT. He left
Tehachapi on Sunday June 20th and he was hiking with Jeff and Melanie from
Packwood,WA. I am assuming that since there is no phone in Kennedy Meadows
that instead of contacting me,as planned, that they have gone on to
Vermillion Resort. I am wondering about his schedule at this point in
time, since I am taking care of business on this end for him. If anyone
has seen Dave or Jeff & Melanie, I would appreciate an update. His roomate
John is in Yosemite and is trying to figure out the schedule to hike south
to meet Dave at Vermillion. Thanks so much for any help!
>Dave's sister,
>Rhoda
>
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 09:37:01 -0500 (CDT)
>From: Milt Webb <unclemilt@backcountry.net>
>Subject: [pct-l] Hello from Doug Banks
>
>Heard from Doug last night. He called from Reno and said he got caught up
>in a crooked poker game and gambled away all his gear and wanted me to
>take up a collection. Nah!!! Just kidding.
>
>He's fine, but has had a terrible time finding a place to leave his car.
>His finally found a place in Reno and was catching a bus this morning to
>the trail.
>
>That's all for now...
>
>- -Milt
>
>
>"In the name of the Bee, and of the Butterfly, and of the Breeze, Amen" -
> --Emily Dickenson
>
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 08:33:23 -0700
>From: "Carolyn M Eddy" <ceddy@netzero.net>
>Subject: Re: [pct-l] Re: snow levels
>
>Thanks. Anybody, if you go up to the PCT around Mt Hood or Mt Jefferson in
>the next couple of weeks, I'm taking an OPB Oregon Field Guide crew in about
>July 28 and we need to be where it's relatively but not necessarily
>completely snow free. We were going for Jeff Park but that's not going to
>happen. Now we're thinking the PCT above Olallie Lake.
>Any info will be gratefully appreciated.
>*************************************************************
>Carolyn
>Eagle Creek Packgoats
>Eagle Creek, OR
>"Have goat, will travel"
>http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/Rapids/3796/
>*************************************************************
>
>
>
>
>
>
>________________________________________________________
>NetZero - We believe in a FREE Internet. Shouldn't you?
>Get your FREE Internet Access and Email at
>http://www.netzero.net/download/index.html
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Wed, 07 Jul 1999 11:34:34 -0500
>From: Ryan Brooks <ryan@inc.net>
>Subject: [pct-l] Outages (Admin)
>
>Sorry for the recent outages over the holiday weekend. The good news
>is that I finally tracked the problem down to some weird corrosion and
>have replaced the faulty part in the server. Never had a problem like
>that before...
>
>All should be well now,
>
>Ryan
>
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 13:15:47 -0700
>From: "Robinson, Brian A" <brian.robinson@compaq.com>
>Subject: [pct-l] Who leaves the trail?
>
>>Kinda sad that Rob's calling it quits. Anyone
>>want to speculate what the number 1 and 2 causes
>>of leaving the trail are? I'd guess feet problems
>>and depression (or some sort of other emotional
>>issues).
>
>About a year ago I posted the following article on this subject. Here it is
>again for those who missed it:
>
>Hi PCTers,
>
>Before my PCT hike in '97 I heard the statistics. It varies year to year,
>but only 10% to 50% of attempts at completing the PCT in one year are
>successful! That frightened me. I estimated my personal chances at 50-50.
>
>So who makes it? The determined and the prepared. Many people could make
>it if their lives depended upon it, but choose not to. Does this mean they
>"failed?" Not in my opinion. Anyone with the gumption to make the personal
>sacrifices necessary to make an attempt is way above average. These people
>define their own successes and failures.
>
>A useful discussion is who doesn't make it and why not. Here's my
>observations:
>
>1. Those whose bodies and packs are overweight and out of shape.
>Preparation is best here, but the determined can send stuff home and lose
>weight on the trail.
>
>2. Those who get injured. There's a strong correlation to #1 here. Those
>determined to get in shape on the trail often get injured during the
>process. Those who think running shoes are a good idea, but have weak
>ankles and a 50+lb pack get injured.
>
>3. Those who get ill. Giardiasis is only one possibility. The determined
>get treatment, get rest and get back on the trail.
>
>4. Those who can't deal with the elements. This year ('98) it's the deep
>snows.
>Other years it's cold rain or lack of water and heat exhaustion. Everyone
>complains about mosquitoes and biting flies. Experience and the right
>equipment help a lot.
>
>5. Those who suffer from equipment failure. If your boots give you
>persistent bad blisters, or your pack doesn't fit, or your down sleeping bag
>gets wet, you'll soon find your will to continue eroding. Find the problem
>and fix it quickly.
>
>6. Those who have food problems. If you get tired of your corn pasta, or
>you're not eating enough, your hike will suffer. Very few strict
>vegetarians stay that way on the trail. Plan well, or adjust your menus as
>you go.
>
>7. Those who like the comforts of home more than the wilderness. A one
>week trip is a visit. A 4-6 month trip is more. The wilderness must become
>your home, or you'll go home early.
>
>8. Those who don't have adequate social support. This one surprises some
>people. I've heard of hikers given ultimata by loved ones to come home now
>or don't come home at all. I've seen incompatible couples drive each other
>off the trail. I've seen solo hikers who can't stand the isolation. Give
>this one some thought.
>
>9. Those who don't have the time and money. Being able to afford a trip
>to the podiatrist, or buy some new equipment, or hole up in a motel to wait
>out a bad storm can make all the difference. Those who try to eat out of
>the hiker boxes the whole way have fewer options.
>
>10. Those who live for today on the trail. The PCT visits some of the most
>wonderful, beautiful places in the world. Those who spend too much time in
>one place will not see all the others in the same year. (But these people
>come back next year!)
>
>11. Those who don't guard their idea of a "pure" trip. Most people take
>alternate routes at times. Some choose to slackpack. Some even hitch rides
>for mileage. But whatever your standards are, stand by them. It's the
>proverbial "slippery slope." The more you compromise, the more
>satisfaction you lose. One day you realize you've already quit.
>
>12. Those who don't have a good attitude. This is the most important and
>most mysterious element of all. Every thru-hiker faces many of the problems
>listed above. Some find a way to keep going and others decide to go home.
>For me, this voyage of self-discovery is the most deeply meaningful
>experience of the trip.
>
>Brian
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 19:43:44 -0700
>From: "ROBERT E RIESS" <CDRRIESS@prodigy.net>
>Subject: Re: [pct-l] Who leaves the trail?
>
>Well said, Brian. Your articulate post is what makes the list a treasure.
>
>Bob Riess at the TrailHead in San Diego
>
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date: Thu, 8 Jul 1999 00:49:06 -0400
>From: "Mayer, Jim" <JMayer@crt.xerox.com>
>Subject: [pct-l] Trip Report / Ultralight hiking (long)
>
>[Note: I posted this earlier this week on the AT-L -- JLM]
>
>Hi all,
>
>This is sort of a two threaded note. Partly it is a trip report for a
>circuit I made of the Black Forest Trail in north central Pennsylvania. The
>rest, and the part that may interest folks the most, is a report on the gear
>I used. I've been flirting with ultralight hiking for a year or so now and
>I recently bit the bullet, decided I'd never get around to making much of my
>own gear, and decided to try out Lynne Whelden's "One Pound Series".
>
>The short answer is that Lynne's approach works very, very well. My
>starting pack weight, INCLUDING seven pounds of food and two liters of
>water, was under 25 pounds. I didn't skimp a whole lot either... I took a
>fairly full first aid kit (about 7-8 oz), a mid weight fleece, cooking gear,
>a repair kit, a water filter. I did skimp on rain gear (I took a water
>resistant shell) but made it through nearly 24 hours of rain and
>temperatures in the 40's. I had some construction problems with the pack
>(they'll show up in the trip report), but I am happy to say that Lynne
>promptly and cheerfully sent me a new one. Since none of the failures had
>anything to do with the lightweight materials Lynne uses, I am assuming that
>whoever sewed my pack was having a bad day.
>
>Anyway, here is the trip report. After the trip report I'll include a rough
>gear list and a small "lessons learned" section.
>
>The Black Forest Trail is a 42 mile (maybe 43 mile) loop. It is pretty
>rugged by north central PA trail standards, and has lots of relatively short
>ups and downs. The area was originally a plateau, and is now deeply
>furrowed by hollows... which the trail delights in dipping in and out of.
>There are some lovely outlooks and one or two places that are almost, but
>not quite, scrambles.
>
>My plan was to start slightly off the trail, hike most of it solo, then join
>up with a group from my local Adirondak Mountain Club (ADK) chapter. I
>started Wednesday, June 16, 1999.
>
>Friday, 18 June 1999:
>
>It's just before 11:00 AM on the third day of this trip. I'm at a beautiful
>lookout just past mile 5 -- too pretty not to stop. I'm trying to dry out
>some stuff as well, as most of my clothes got pretty wet yesterday. There
>are a pair of Turkey Buzzards catching thermals and they are pretty to
>watch. The sun is coming from behind me, so the far side of the valley is
>all lit up.
>
>[Note: I start writing about the first day of the trip]
>
>I got in a little before two on Wednesday and went about 8 miles. I would
>have gone on another couple of hours but I noticed that a seam on my pack
>was pulling -- a manufacture's defect -- so I sewed it up with dental floss.
>I saw to interesting animals today: a ruffed grouse which seemed to charge
>me (ruffed out feathers and all), and a buck making a "wooshing" sound that
>I'd associate more with a train than a deer.
>
>The ultralight getup worked extremely well (except for the pulled seam) and
>was very comfortable to carry. The tarp rigs easily and makes a great space
>with the side pull-outs, and the ground sheet with the foot pocket is a
>thing of genius. The blanket is OK -- it would have been better for me if
>it was a bit wider and longer [Note: I'm 6'2" tall and weigh a little over
>200 pounds]. The concept is fine, though I think a summer bag may be
>adaptable over a wider range of temperatures. Still, it got down in the
>40's Wednesday night (it rained too) and I was OK (though I added my fleece
>in the night).
>
>It was rainy and cold nearly all day Thursday. I saw another grouse (a
>female this time, doing a broken wing routine). I hiked about 16 miles --
>the light weight made the miles easy and, besides, it was too cold and nasty
>to want to stay anywhere for long. I finally ended up hiking with a coolmax
>T-shirt, a nylon shirt, my fleece, and my windbreaker. The fleece got quite
>wet in spots, which I didn't like. Perhaps a real light weight rain coat is
>in my future! The night was cold, rainy, and wet again. I was warm enough
>without my fleece, but just barely.
>
>I stopped at most of the vistas on Thursday. They were wonderful -- great
>moving masses of cloud with tendrils of fog rising up out of the valleys.
>Sometimes I couldn't see across the valley, but other times I could make out
>the hills peaking out of the mists.
>
>Friday started off cold. I slept about twelve hours and then sat around for
>a bit dreading to put on my wet clothes. Oh -- I had some chaffing
>yesterday, and I changed to running shorts under my slacks [Note: instead of
>compression shorts]. Luckily the day turned pretty so my stuff will have a
>chance to dry out... all except my socks and shoes -- wet blueberries make
>that hopeless!
>
>I saw a doe as I was walking and stopped before she saw me and bolted. She
>knew something was over my way, but continued browsing for about five
>minutes before wandering off.
>
>I love the smell of sweet fern and blueberry (it reminds me of New
>Hampshire). Also, the Mountain Laurel are in bloom.
>
>[Note: well, that was as far as I got on keeping a journal. I'll fill in
>notes for the rest of the trip]
>
>My original plan was to meet up with the ADK group on Saturday around noon,
>but I reached the rendezvous point around 20 hours early! I decided to hike
>back to my car (three or four miles) and meet up with the group at the state
>park where they planned to stay Friday night. The hike back to the car was
>on a cross country ski trail (not the BFT) and was all on the plateau.
>Partway down I discovered another problem with my pack... the right shoulder
>strap was partially detached. Luckily, the shoulder strap is attached with
>three bar tacks, and only one gave way. I also managed to route myself on
>to a side trail... I was supposed to be following blue circles, and ended up
>following blue rectangles instead! I reached my car around 6:00 after a
>roughly 17 mile day.
>
>I thought hard about bailing out because of the shoulder strap problem, but
>after the trip leader and I looked at the strap we decided it would probably
>hold. Also, there is a load lifter like strap that could hold things in an
>emergency.
>
>The rest of the trip was fun but uneventful. I was a bit cool Saturday
>night because I was sleeping right on an old forest road near a stream. I
>was warm enough on top, but I could feel my warmth leaking away right
>through my pad. I need to remember to scrape up some dry leaves to add some
>insulation.
>
>We finished up quite early on Sunday and headed back to Rochester. All in
>all, a very nice trip.
>
>- ---------------- Gear ------------------
>
>[Note: I may well have left some items out]
>
>"One Pound Series" pack (see http://members.tripod.com/lwgear).
>"One Pound Series" blanket
>"One Pound Series" tarp
>Tyvek ground sheet
>mesh ditty bag
>medium stuff sack
>large stuff sack (for food)
>
>[Note: the above gear was purchased from Lynne Whelden]
>
>Z-Rest pad (3/4 length)
>Pure Pioneer filter
>Polartec 200 jacket
>Polyester microfiber windbreaker
>repair kit (rubber bands, paper clips, fire starter, matches, Polar Pure,
>needles & thread, etc.)
>first aid kit
>mid weight long underwear top and bottom
>two pair wool socks
>two bandannas
>eyeglass cleaning kit [1/2 bandanna & liquid]
>fleece hat
>8 Easton aluminum tent stakes (about 1/2 oz each... these are great -- I've
>never bent one).
>50' bear bag line
>100' Kelty "Triptease" line [for rigging tarp]
>1 liter soda bottle
>1 liter Nalgene Lexan bottle [Note: threads onto water filter]
>"Shit kit" [orange trowel, TP, wash'n dries]
>Stuff [hand sanitizer, aloe vera gel, toothbrush, stim-u-dents, baking soda
>[for toothpaste],
> 1/2 comb, etc.]
>Headnet
>Food
>0.9 liter Evernew titanium pot
>Home made alcohol stove, stand, windscreen, lighter, etc.
>8 oz denatured alcohol in a small Nalgene bottle
>compression shorts [I tried these to prevent chafing... I found that I just
>chaffed in a
> slightly different place... equally uncomfortably].
>
>[Note: all of the above was carried INSIDE the pack. The following stuff
>was worn]
>
>Wide brimmed cotton hat [like a Tilley hat, but cheaper. Despite being
>cotton,
> it works well as both a sun hat and a rain hat].one pair lighter
>coolmax socks
> [Note: my shoes fit better with these than the wool socks, and I
>ended up wearing
> them for the whole trip].
>Running shorts
>Supplex long pants
>Coolmax t-shirt
>Nylon shirt
>New Balance 801AT trail runner shoes
>
>- ------------- Things I didn't bring ----------------
>
>I usually use a pair of hiking poles, but though I brought them with me I
>decided to leave them in the car. Not taking the poles worked very well. I
>can report that 40 pounds with poles is easier to carry than 40 pounds
>without poles, and that 25 pounds without poles is easier to carry than 40
>pounds with poles. I felt so sure footed and light on my feet with the low
>weight and running shoes that I will not take them on future ultralight
>trips.
>
>I also decided (again at the last moment) not to bring camp shoes. I
>usually bring Walmart brand fake Teva's, but decided that since I was
>wearing running shoes I didn't need them. This worked OK, though cold, wet,
>shoes are cold, wet, shoes no matter what kind they are!
>
>- -------------- Lessons Learned ---------------
>
>Hiking "ultralight" felt more like day hiking than backpacking. Lynne's
>pack doesn't even have a hipbelt, and I never missed it for a moment [though
>I kept reaching down to undo a phantom buckle before taking the pack off!]
>In my opinion, Ray Jardine is right when he says that hip belts tend to
>immobilize the hips. I found myself swinging my hips to lengthen my stride
>and did just fine. The pack stayed right on my back and I never felt like
>it was going to flop off somewhere.
>
>A Z-Rest pad doesn't provide a whole lot of insulation. Therefore it works
>a lot better on duff or leaves than on bare ground. I find foam pads quite
>comfortable, but have noticed that they are an acquired taste. The only
>good thing to come out of my 6 month ongoing divorce so far is the ability
>to sleep comfortably on floors. When I first tried to sleep on a foam pad I
>found that I had to sleep on my back (my arm would fall asleep if I tried to
>sleep on my side). Now I can sleep comfortably in any position, though I
>haven't the foggiest idea of why that should be so.
>
>Lynne's "blanket" is really cut for someone a bit smaller than me sleeping
>on their back. It works well enough for me, but if I ever learn to sew I
>may try making a slightly bigger one. Lynne can have larger ones made, but
>they obviously weigh more.
>
>Lynne's tarp is great. It is made from parachute cloth (like Jack
>Stephenson's tents and Integral Design's "Sil Tarp") and has exactly the
>right tie outs. It provided me with a light weight, well ventilated,
>extremely roomy, shelter. Since I didn't bring hiking poles, I used Ray
>Jardine's trick of looking for appropriate sticks on my way into camp.
>Also, occasionally I'd tie one end to a tree.
>
>I've tentatively decided that my fleece will join my long underwear and one
>pair of spare socks on my list of "things that I will not get wet." Yes, it
>dries quickly. Yes, you can shake out much of the water. But I don't want
>to sleep in damp fleece if I can help it! For now I'll carry my coated
>nylon rain jacket and, sooner or later, I'll make myself a rain shirt out of
>parachute cloth or buy one from Jack Stephenson.
>
>I liked the PUR Pioneer filter. It threads directly onto a Nalgene bottle.
>
>For water, I carried both a one liter pop bottle and a one liter Nalgene
>Lexan bottle. As most know, the Nalgene bottles are pretty hefty. My
>current system is to mostly drink from the pop bottle. I filter into the
>Nalgene bottle and pour from it into the pop bottle. One advantage of the
>Nalgene bottle is that I can use it to hold hot liquids (e.g. to warm up a
>sleeping bag on a cool night). I also use it to measure water for cooking,
>though I could add measurement lines to the pop bottle if I wanted to.
>
>Bugs were not a problem on this trip. There were a few, and I did use my
>headnet some nights, but they were not heavy. I plan to try Ray Jardine's
>idea of "mittens" and "booties" in conjuction with a headnet, long sleeved
>shirt, and long pants. The "mittens" and "booties" are made of nylon cloth
>and, together with the other stuff, make a set of "bug proof" clothing for
>hot nights. Since I haven't tried that system yet, I can't comment on it.
>
>- --------------------
>
>All in all, the ultralight approach worked really well for me on this trip.
>The next weekend I went on an ADK trip and things worked equally well
>(though since my pack was on its way back to Lynne I somehow stuffed
>everything into a 2000 cubic inch daypack. It was a tight fit!).
>
>I don't know how to describe the difference, other than to say that by
>carrying less I felt really free. It just felt good.
>
>Happy hiking.
>
>- -- Jim Mayer
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
>------------------------------
>
>End of pct-l-digest V1 #804
>***************************
>
>* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
>
Erik Dopman
Cornell University
Corson Hall
Ithaca, NY 14835
* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List | http://www.backcountry.net *
==============================================================================