[pct-l] Hiking alone aid

[corcoran at corky.cc (Corky Corcoran)]

It seems to me that hiking alone does present some technical 
difficulties in early Spring.  One can get into trouble on snow in a 
real hurry, and sometimes there is no good way to avoid taking the 
chance.  And crossing streams early in the season can be 
problematical.  Very often another person may not prevent the 
problem, but can help you out once yer there.

Since I prefer solo hiking, one thing I do is carry 500 feet of 500 
pound test Spectra fishing / kite line.  That gives me 250 working 
feet.  Very often it's good for balance crossing streams, and can 
limit exposure crossing some snowfields.

It's about the size of yer basic cotton string, weighs 7 ounces.  One 
also needs 2 smaller metal carabiners for handles.  It's not the 
answer to everything, but has been a big, big help on 
occasion.  Wouldn't have made it across some streams without 
it.  Wouldn't have tried.  And I walk easier across some snow fields 
knowing I won't go all the way down.

Obviously it won't do for a leader fall, but those aren't an issue 
for hikers.  Or shouldn't be.  I regard it as a small price to pay 
for at least some insurance in some questionable conditions.