[pct-l] Early April PCT Starts

[Montedodge at aol.com (Montedodge@xxxxxxx)]

 Before Ray Jadine did the PCT in late 80's thru early 90,s, most thru-hikers 
did in fact start their trip in early April. ( April 1st. was a rule of thumb 
in early years) Reason was the " Average" thru-hike took longer because of 
the heavy boots and heavy gear used a few years ago. A thru-hike took almost a 
month longer than now even though the trail in the 70's and early 80's was up 
to 150 miles shorter. ( 15 to 17 miles a day were averages with few hikers 
breaking the 25 a day barrier with the 60 pound packs.
    Early April is still a good a time to start on low snow years or if you 
plan to hike relaxed milage days the first 2 months of your hike. 
  You should expect some snow in the Laguna Mts. about 40 miles into your 
hike at that time of year and be prepared to have at least an ice axe in the San 
Jacinto Area area of the trail 2 to 3 weeks from border . ( May also need to 
do some light route finding after a heavy snow year in San Jacinto Area) 
    Things that are good about the early start is that the water sources 
along the trail should be in good shape as many dry up even before late April. ( 
Ala.- Hauser Creek near border) Being at a 10 to 15 mile pace allows you to 
pick wonderful camp sites along the way  and gives you time to enjoy some very 
nice trail towns ( like Julian) to take a layover day. For an older hiker in not 
yet prime hiking shape , this is the way to go and allows the body to break 
in slowly.  ( Of course younger hikers and folks in top shape may be able to up 
off a plane to hit the 20 plus mile days off the get go)
    I have high hopes of doing a thru-hike at retire at 60 and plan to do 
this method myself. ( I will need all the help I can get !!) Good Luck!!