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RE: [at-l] [Fwd: Another ATML?]
TJ
For those unfamiliar with the PCT, there are differences between the two
list like there are between the trails themselves. Many of the controversial
topics on the AT-L make no sense on the PCT. For one with fewer people
attempting the PCT vs. the AT there are fewer to disagree with.
1. No arguments over backpackers vs. slackpackers. With long stretches of
trail between roads, slackpacking can be considered in only a few spots.
2. Cell phones aren't discussed. Probably less than 1 percent of the trail
would be covered.
3. No blue vs. white blaze debates. The PCT doesn't use painted blazes - two
cutouts in tree bark or cairns - and many the side trails aren't blazed at
all. If they are, it's with a single cutout.
4. No discussions about purity. Thru-hikers on the PCT are less dogmatic
about passing every blaze. Some veer of the main trail due to snow
conditions, travel to re-supply stops, or for scenic reasons. You've got
another 400+ miles to cover in a shorter hiking season than the AT.
Generally starting around April 15 to May 1 and ending around middle to end
of September, or 5 months. This requires a higher daily average mileage for
a single season hike.
5. Fewer road crossings mean farther distances off the trail to towns. This
reduces the number of town stops. There are far few thru-hiker geared
services. Fewer distractions off the trail.
6. I don't remember any discussions about commercial use of the trail. In
the past, and I suspect today also, there have been number guided trips on
the PCT. They generally last for a week. There are some guides that use
lamas to carry your gear while you use a day pack. Others are guided trips
on horse back. Generally loop trips that use some of the PCT. Not to mention
NOS, Outward Bound, etc.
7. With no shelters, shelter etiquette isn't discussed.
All this is not to say that there isn't contention every now or then. One of
the recurring threads concerns horses on the trail. Unlike the AT, the PCT
is designed and constructed to support pack-animals. There is an advantage
for us humans too. You don't find the steep boulder climbs like in the
Whites or in Maine. I think the maximum grade on the PCT is supposed to be
10 percent.
Hope that helps.
Ron
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