[pct-l] 2004 thruhike

[mihalik at ev1.net (michael mihalik)]

Hi,

I think I-15 is a pretty good place to start. on May 20th. I think the 
main group this year was probably around Wrightwood about that time, but 
it probably varies from year to year. My experience is thruhikers aren't 
the constant presence they are on the AT, but there are enough of them 
around that you should be able to hike alone safely. The PCT from what I 
have seen is of an easier grade than a lot of the AT, so the pack 
shouldn't be a problem. Can't say about fording rivers; they are all in 
sections I haven't done yet, and I think it will depend on snowfall next 
year. What I suggest is email Donna Saufley at dsaufley@sprynet.com 
before you start. She is a center for trail information, particularly 
the important question of water availability, as there are a lot of 
sections where water is scarce in Southern California. You will also 
want to visit the Saufleys when you get to Agua Dulce.  They are great 
folks.