What are
/r/PacificCrestTrail's
favorite Products & Services?
From 3.5 billion Reddit comments
The most popular Products mentioned in /r/PacificCrestTrail:
The most popular Services mentioned in /r/PacificCrestTrail:
AllTrails
Strava
Weather Underground
Healthcare.gov
IGTV
Windy
TinyURL
Rome2rio
TripAdvisor
Hotels.com
Ride With GPS
Walmart
Visualping
The Weather Channel
AccuWeather
The most popular Android Apps mentioned in /r/PacificCrestTrail:
Halfmile's PCT
OverDrive
Contour lines plugin — OsmAnd
The most popular reviews in /r/PacificCrestTrail:
The Pacific Crest Trail - "A Hiker's Companion" by Karen Berger and Daniel Smith was written specifically with that audience in mind.
if you're interested in geology/flora/fauna, it's just what you want, and it was written by a couple that through hiked.
Learn to read a dichotomous key and pick up a tree ID book. Once you get some of the terms down you'll be able to ID pretty much anything.
Check out The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail, by Barney 'Scout' Mann and Mark Larabee
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Pacific-Crest-Trail-Exploring-Wilderness/dp/0847849767
It's not what you're describing, but Amazon sells the "faucet adapter kit," basically a squeeze and some plastic tubing, for $25.
Go as late as possible in that window to give snow time to melt, mosquitoes time to die off, and rain the chance to go away for good. Clothes are personal preference at that time, but synthetic or wool > cotton. Having rain gear (waterproof) or at least a fleece + water-resistant layer faux rain gear option would be nice. Stove is personal preference but everyone loves JetBoils and if you're on the beginner end for a solo hiker, you can't get more failsafe and foolproof than JetBoil. I always go for the cheap with sleeping pads (Thermarest Z-Lite), but again, personal preference. You don't need a liner for that bag, that thing is plenty warm and indestructible.
Consider reading something like The Ultimate Hiker's Gear Guide by Andrew Skurka. He'll make it seem like your current pack and sleeping bag are too big, but fuck that, it'll still work out and it's what you have already. Save investing in truly lightweight stuff for later when you go on a bigger adventure. But that book will answer, or at least get you thinking in the right way, about your other questions.
You cannot get into Canada with a birth certificate and photo ID from the United States. The rules were changed several years ago. Countries don't tend to let you in knowing you won't be able to leave. You will be fucked without a passport or other acceptable ID (enhanced license, passport card, Nexus card). Most notably, the form to enter Canada via the PCT (the one on the PCTA website) requires a number from this type of ID. You would have to illegally enter Canada. There is no way they'll approve your form if you don't have the correct ID. Also, you might not be allowed back in the United States. As in, you would not have the ID required, and would have to hope the people at the border pity you.
This information is correct, as far as I am aware.
So, definitely do not plan to cross the border with only an ID and birth certificate. Assuming you don't live in a state that does enhanced licenses, your cheapest bet is a passport card. You don't need it right away, so you could fill out the form and get the card shipped to you later on.
It really depends on how your friend is setting up resupplies for the Sierras. If they plan on going into Mammoth Lakes, leave your car in S. Lake Tahoe and take a bus to Mammoth. Then hitch onto the trail with your friend. I think there's also a free bus that heads up that way. Mammoth is one and a half days hike from the edge of the park. http://www.rome2rio.com/s/South-Lake-Tahoe/Mammoth-Lakes
If they are resupplying at VVR then they'll probably skip Mammoth, so you'll have to meet up at Toulumne Meadows which is a few miles inside the park. http://www.rome2rio.com/s/South-Lake-Tahoe/Tuolumne-Meadows-Lodge
Agree with this. I use a 250mL Scientific Safety Wash Bottle Plastic with narrow nozzle (looks like a hamster bottle). I don't use the Smart Water bottle like the video (because I don't like mixing 'dirty' with 'clean'. The 250 mL bottle is extremely lightweight and can be clipped onto a bag very easily. I still carry TP when backpacking, but using this greatly reduces the need for it. A quart sized Ziploc freezer bag for anything that needs carrying out.
edit: https://www.amazon.com/Yonger-Scientific-Plastic-Economy-Squeeze/dp/B01K2JA346
Best $2 you'll spend on hiking gear.
ULA Circuit is a good pack as someone has already mentioned. As for a tent, maybe consider something like this? This is the tent that I have. Doesn’t add a whole lot of weight, and not all of the ground stakes are necessary
Extremely common. All sizes/locations, etc. the best care is prevention, but that’s usually easier said than done. If I feel one coming on I use climbers tape And it works well. Stays in place for several days at a time even while walking all day.
Definitely, but my biggest issue with a quilt is that I'm planning on using a foam sleeping pad (Nemo Switchback). Do you think I would be warm enough in a quilt with a foam sleeping pad, or is an inflatable necessary? I've also never used a quilt before so I'm a bit nervous to make the switch.
Quarantine restlessness is definitely a big reason how I stumbled on the PCT, too. It's encouraging to see that you didn't phase right out of it and wen ton backpacking trips, too. As I mentioned, that is where I'd like to get. However, I definitely do not relate to you about having outdoor experience. Do you have any resources (such as books, guides, etc. -- I've recently stumbled on How to Shit in the Woods which looks promising)?
And yes, this thru hike is such a commitment, I'm sure careers are holding a lot of people back. I hope you enjoy your future hikes, though! Thanks for your anecdote.
Amazon or Paria Outdoor website. It’s $160ish but in my opinion worth twice that. I’ve never slept more comfortably outside.
Paria Outdoor Products Thermodown 0 Degree Down Mummy Sleeping Bag - Ultralight Cold Weather, 4 Season Bag - Perfect for Backcountry Camping and Backpacking (Short) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XRKNTML/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GZB7DbBPH1GR8
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.tadteam.halfmilepct&hl=en
It will show your exact mile marker and distances to future locations, but won't put a dot on the map for you.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ruffworkllc.android.pcthyoh&hl=en
That app will cache weather reports, water reports and Halfmile maps for you.
I found Fixing Your Feet: Injury Prevention and Treatments for Athletes by Dr. John Vonhof to be an excellent resource for blister care, proper taping, exercises for injury prevention. Dr. Vonhof specializes in foot care for ultramarathoners and thru-hikers.
A travel bidet keeps you clean & fresh, with no need to carry soiled TP: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CSDKSQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You can buy a small dry stick antiperspirant, cut off most of it, and apply it every 2 days to drastically reduce the BO smell. Not that heavy.
Re trekking poles, check out the Fizan Compact 3 poles on Amazon. Mine work great, weigh 164 grams/pole and cost $70.
First I’ll say that your bw isn’t that bad, and you’ll for sure figure out ways to drop some weight once you’re on trail.
I’d drop the down booties.
I’d just carry the Patagonia cap base layers the whole way instead of your other ones. An R1 for a base layer is pretty overkill.
You could swap the xero sandals for some Walgreens flip flops or similar.
Drop the matches. If all you’re using a lighter for is lighting a stove 2-3 times a day it’ll probably last the whole hike.
I carry this instead of the sawyer syringe. It only weighs a few grams and takes up less space. Would strongly suggest you get the regular squeeze tho. The mini will clog in no time.
You say your battery is for charging your phone, and your headlamp, but you also have batteries for your headlamp?
The pepper spray and alarm I think basically any hiker would tell you you don’t need, but that’s a personal decision. Iirc pepper spray is illegal in Yosemite. But maybe that’s just bear spray? Not sure.
Would strongly suggest you carry your own trowel/hand sani/etc. what if he’s ten minutes ahead of you and you suddenly gotta go RIGHT NOW? Believe me, it happens, and there’s no way that’s worth an ounce. Plus personal hygiene is, ya know, personal. You should just have your own.
As you said your first aid is pretty overkill. All I’ve ever carried is duct tape and painkillers, and I’ve never really needed either. Band aides are useless for how dirty and sweaty you’ll be.
Technically almost all of your bathroom/ personal, and first aide could be marked consumable. Bit of a grey area, but still.
Read Gavin de Becker, "The Gift of Fear".
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0036Z9U2A/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1
Trail bidet is da bomb. No TP to pack out.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CSDKSQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I just checked Amazon and it looks like they don't sell it anymore. It was called MalloMe. This one is more expensive, but very similar to mine. Sleeping Pad
The only time I’ve had an issue with critters is the one time I accidentally left something outside of my tent. I’ve slept with my food every night I didn’t have a bear can.
This is the perfect food bag imo. Granite Gear Air Zipsack Ultralight Zippered Pouch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003EMSDBY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_MLpcGbZ9J7GPA?psc=1
Pretty much just the smallest/lightest as it’s highly unlikely it’ll get used. I carried this one for the Pct and cdt till I lost it at some point.
Suunto Compass https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BSDU4Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_cMAXFbYKC6Q68
Ok, so I bought this about 8 years ago, so I couldn't find the exact one, but this is the closest I could find on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Q8JTVC?psc=1 I also didn't pay that much for it, if I remember it was ~$35-40 (the most I'd ever spent on a pillow lol). You might be able to find a lumbar support tempur pedic pillow and use it for your head since they make them smaller.
I also realized that I have this, which I've used for traveling https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/therapedic-reg-memory-touch-round-neck-pillow/1013506582 and used it to sleep on airport benches. It doesn't have the same height as a pillow and I would probably stack a towel or extra clothes underneath for long term sleeping. If you shop at BBB you can always get a 20% off coupon online or in the mail too.
Hope this helps!
Mont Bell Tachyon -- pricey but they're the lightest I found.
Enlightened Equipment apparently makes them now. I would have probably gotten those if I would have known about them at the time.
Another option if you don't want to spend ~$100 on wind pants are the Dance warmup pants on amazon.
Yes, look for the 2014-2017 model. It has hip belt pockets and shoulder strap pockets. These will be very handy. You can find the older model exos online at amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Osprey-Packs-Backpack-Basalt-Medium/dp/B00E0LGLOO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521656284&sr=8-1&keywords=exos and it's on sale.
There's a documentary on the PCT called "6 million Steps". You can get it on Amazon Prime. It's a few years old(2011), but they did have a women who was hiking with her dog the whole PCT. It's worth seeing as it interviews many thru-hikers.
Hiking up over the pass and seeing Marie Lake was awesome. This image is from my hardcover photography book, Pacific Crest Trail: A Journey in Photographs. Final sale before the book goes out of print, 60% off plus free shipping: wanderingthewild.com and on Amazon.
About a week, probably and maybe only a few times. I brought an Anker 20000. Never had to worry about running out of charge, and if I didn't have much time to charge it, I knew I could get away with not fully charging. Loved it. It charged my phone in about an hour too. You can absolutely get away with something less though.
This guy and Anker's USB-C 20W nano-pro wall charger (the single port one): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LG2X98F?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I use an Android so I only needed a USB-C to USB-C for both my phone and the battery. I liked not having a bunch of cords.
Depends on where you were, I guess. > Tropical Storm Kay delivered nearly a year's worth of rain across Southern California, shattering daily rainfall records. In San Diego, 0.63 of an inch of rain was measured on Friday, which crushed the previous record of 0.09 of an inch set back in 1976. This was also the wettest day in the city since Dec. 14, 2021, when 0.98 of an inch fell.
I'm currently going through this process to sign up for catastrophic coverage through ACA.
You can apply before you quit, you will have until X date(June 22nd for me) to send the government proof of loss of coverage and pay your bill. Once both of those things have happened, your ACA coverage kicks in. You can pick your plan before - I picked one about a month before my loss of coverage.
Losing your insurance counts as an exemption to the enrollment period so you are able to sign up whenever.
I'm 29 and male - my catastrophic plan will cost about $250 a month without subsidies. Note: catastrophic is only available to those under 30 - the bronze plans weren't much more expensive though I didn't see one with a national provider network like the plan I've chosen.
Since you're getting married before the trip it looks like you might be eligible for a subsidy, however if you get jobs afterward and cross the threshold by the end of the year I would expect you'll have to pay the subsidy back.
which baleaf shorts? I'm definitely a knee length hiker because I tend to tear through waist high stuff but don't like pants. I am considering these, but worried about the waistband digging with my pack on...
https://www.amazon.com/BALEAF-Stretch-Camping-Lightweight-Resistant/dp/B09MLDN1NB
cheap and light nylon wind pants, very common on the pct
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.GoogleCamera geo tags your photos based on location services if you grant it. it can be turned off when you aren't hiking in beautiful places and want privacy
I wear glasses and carry clip-on sunglasses instead of my dedicated prescription sunglasses. It’s smaller, lighter, and less likely to get smooshed. I have some like these https://www.amazon.com/Clip-Sunglasses-Polarized-Height-Millimeters/dp/B07HSQ5BLY/ref=asc_df_B07HSQ5BLY?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80126987828683&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=m&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&a...
Maybe try an "ultralight method". Take a hike with contacts and just a lens from your reading glasses. See if you can make that work. Another thing I have seen is reading glasses stickers that tape on to glasses.
Have not tried them, but if they can be reused, it might work.
Ya, thats basically the same as what I just said and what I linked to. The rain though isnt going to be as high during the day as it is at night, thats very normal in SoCal. The main part of the rain will be tonight into tomorrow morning before sunrise then again tomorrow night into Thursday morning before sunrise. Most people also arent doing 20 mile days to start, so I used Friday as the soonest someone could expect to be in Laguna and by then it will be less severe than it will be tomorrow.
​
You dont hit 3500ft until around kitchen creek which is around mile 25. So unless you are really pushing the pace really early in the season thats probably going to be near the end of day 2 for most people who are starting this early. That would put you at Thursday afternoon and by then the quantity of snow/rain significantly dies down according to the forecast.
​
If youre afraid of hiking in the snow, this probably isnt the trail to be on
Campo, CA 10-Day Weather Forecast | Weather Underground (wunderground.com)
The 10 day shows an hourly forecast for the area of when its going to be rain/snow
Most of the rain is coming tonight, tomorrow is only forcast to be .2in of rain, so not a lot and it wont be bad hiking in. You also wont see snow until the climb up to Laguna, so if you are fast then maybe day 3 which would be Friday but for most it will be dar 4 or 5
​
Campo, CA Weather Conditions | Weather Underground (wunderground.com)
Not to be gross, but it’s the combination of hair, sweat, clammy skin and the result is chaffing. Buy Butt’r…I use it for running (mostly), biking and hiking.
https://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-Anti-Chafe-Cream/dp/B000HZGTUS
I did trail magic in the 100 mile wilderness of the AT a few years ago. I brought a ton of stuff, but I was surprised how many people needed things fixed or ran out of something. So I brought extras of a lot of things like trekking pole sections, duck tape, tenacious tape, frog toggs tops and bottoms first aid items and blister care stuff, and extra small fuel cans. I don't know how much extra heavy stuff you're willing to take, but people were also pretty happy to get rid of trash or empty fuel cans. You can bring one larger fuel can and just refill people's minis with something like these adaptors. But think about stuff that would be really important to have if it broke or got lost. Like replacement cheap stoves like the BRS3000.
This sort of hand pump is fairly common.
And, Numberhike's ziploc-funnel if you don't see a pump. Or ask another hiker for help and do a delicate balance game.
But most of the caches with 5gal jugs have a pump.
<also>
Obligatory:
In general, do not rely exclusively upon the caches, but especially if you do not have a confirmation they've been maintained recently.
Why? Well, it depends on what section you are hiking when.
Once the "bubble" passes in either direction, replenishment can become less frequent by the trail angels. Some major ones are very reliable. Some minor ones are locals who drop off 6gal on their way home from work in-season.
So...just do a little research as you make the plan for you specific section.
e.x. Down here in the desert, it is a lull between the NOBOs (who have passed) and the SOBOs (who are a few months away). I'd triple check my water plan. It was 108F today.
It's more about type than brand. Hard cheeses like parmesan, and peccorino romano, will hold up MUCH better in warm conditions than things like cheddar and jack cheese.
You can get shelf stable cheese in mini marts, usually paired with some kind of jerky. The same kind of cheese can be bought online in bulk, and doesn't require refrigeration.
Quick search of Amazon turned up this, among many others: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0994V9Z3J/
Im wondering if using something like this will work as well as an opsack in tandem with my sea to summit dry bag?
I have the Elecjet P20. It's 13oz but charges 0-70% in 30 min and 100% in 2.5hrs. worth a look for everyone out there.
Elecjet PowerPie P20 45W Fast Portable Charger, 20,000 mAH Power Bank for Samsung and Laptop Devices https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YLFX8DT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_FX4MMQSAX3ZKED51MA31?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I used Wuru wool when I developed hot spots from breaking in new shoes on the AT. It's very lightweight. The main thing I had to remember was to pull it out of the sock each night and set it aside so I could reuse it.
I haven't hiked it yet. I learned of it after hiking the PCT in 2019 and have been researching it here and there since then. There's a guide book available with some pretty helpful info. I just mention it to you since it's a predetermined route that one could follow from the Shasta area through the Trinity Alps. Not sure how much distance you're prepared to cover but I figure if you were interested in the JMT then you may be interested in another long-distance tour which extends a bit beyond just the Trinity Alps proper. There's a lot of overlap with the PCT. And in my research I've noticed that it's possible to hike from the SPT to the Redwoods and even the Oregon Coast Trail, were one so inclined.
I can't do coffee either and while tea occasionally is fine (I'm actually still pretty sensitive to even the caffeine in green tea lol), I really like caffeinated mints.
I get these: Penguin Caffeinated Wintergreen... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B885TEU
Link to the coupler: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B018NJC1A6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
$2.99
i usually roll w/ a 4L capacity: 2x 1L smart water bottles & a 2L water bladder.
If you're uncertain / first-timer, you might keep a 5L capacity just to be safe (although you may rarely if ever fill more than 4L). Water bladders are great as overflow capacity because they collapse to almost nothing when not in use.
Govee makes a small Bluetooth thermometer you could use to test some different methods to see which is the coolest. It’s less than one ounce and connects to your phone to log temps throughout the day which you can see in the app
https://www.amazon.com/Govee-Hygrometer-Thermometer-Bluetooth-Notification/dp/B09BHSLWBL
If you going to wear an ugly hat, at least wear an ugly hat that will protect your skin.
I am amongst the super pale. I wore the white version of this hat for a two week trip to Bryce, Zion, the Grand Canyon, etc.
Despite the hat, I still got burned to a crisp. I watched, with complete envy, this goofy looking family where mom, dad, and two small children all had Sunday Afternoon adventure hats.
I now have a Sunday afternoon hat. Totally ugly. Very goofy looking. Will prevent being burned to a crisp.
I pair it with Columbia coolmax neck gaiter, and sun umbrella.
For my PCT hike I kept it through California but ditched for a ball cap. I pulled my neck gaiter up around the ball cap like a hoodie.
I usually backpack with this Nalgene 12 oz flask: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001C1SSN2/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_vwKYIoAtMy4vA I don't always have it full but it gives me flexibility to carry something in a dedicated container with a reliable closure. The stated weight includes the blue outer layer, but I only use the clear inner one. Haven't weighed it but I think it's likely 2-3 oz empty.
And I'm NOBO starting April 3 👋
Two chargers, two banks. It takes a long time to charge a bank up - it would be better for the two of you to each get half a charge on a bank then for one bank to get a half charge. Plus, then you can get your devices charged too. This is the brick I used and would recommend.
Excellent, that helps a lot, thanks!
>If you have a Pixel 5A, you have a PD phone.
Yeah, I have a Pixel 5a and my wife has a Pixel 4a.
>"Nano"-series chargers are lighter.
If I get a chance I'll upgrade, but it's great to know what I have will work.
>an NB10000
This is maybe my weak spot - my current battery is from 2018, an Anker PowerCore II - says it does 18W output, but no mention of PD.
I also don't know how quick it might charge from my Phone's wall plugs (I can't test yet as I don't have a USB C to Micro USB cable yet.)
If I need to replace it I was thinking about This Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 PD Green, 10000mAh Portable Charger USB-C Power Delivery (18W) Power Bank Fast Charge because it was only $22 and seemed to do what I want?
>Anker PowerLine
I have the wall-to-phone cables, but yeah, will grab a USB C to micro USB for the battery and torches.
I rarely go more than 4 days between showers, and it's never been a problem.
I also travel with a lightweight travel loofah and will do a quick rinse (water only) if I'm getting some extra stink down there.
I use the Lixada solar panel (98g / 3.5oz) with the Nitecore 10,000mAh power bank (154g / 5.4oz). I attach the solar panel to the corners at the top of my backpack's mesh pouch. My tent is stuffed into the pouch, so the "hump" creates a pretty good angle to capture the sun. I secure the bottom two corners to the rings below my mesh pouch using a piece of 1/16" shock cord. (It's just enough to keep the panel from bouncing around or getting blown upwards by the wind.)
I charge my electronics from the power bank at night. The solar panel keeps the power bank topped off if I hike in the sun the next day. And on cloudy/shaded days, well, that's why I have 10,000mAh as a buffer.
I rarely need to charge my power bank in town. Finding an outlet is one less thing I need to deal with.
I really like this. Used it for the cdt and azt, and it’s great. Also still looks almost new. Weighs about an oz.
Sprigs Sun Protection Hat Shade Attachment with SPF 45+ & Cooling Fabric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T274SFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_V4G79G8XHGPBSYBRY38E?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Pretty much everyone asks this same question at some point in their planning. And you only are confident in the result after you ask it yourself.
I only saw one person with a solar rig. They were one of the 10lb-11lb base weight people -- Superheros? Freaks?...we still don't know -- and they carried this Lixada panel. They only got ~5W-7.5W out of it, at best, but it was reliable.
The issue they said was getting sufficient sunlight relative to their phone useage. They knew they could manage in some sections but were going to swap for a power bank in others.
And, as you've sorta discovered, and as most people do, ya...you could curtail your electronics use to work within that bottleneck of a solar rig <or>...you could carry a reasonably light power bank.
The Nitecore 10000 and Anker Powerline Slim PD 10000 are some common favorites.
Well, there's a whole lot of just straight up conjecture in this thread. Take a look at this article if you'd like to read something that isn't wildly speculative/without justification.
Re: hotel booking apps - I use several (I travel a lot unrelated to outdoors activities haha) and I'm always finding good deals on hotels.com at the last minute - I'm often surprised on how much I actually save... and if you book ten nights thru the app you get a free credit worth the average of the value of the ten nights you booked. which ends up being a pretty sweet deal. I plan on using that app on the PCT this year because i always manage to snag last minute rooms with it. and hopefully some airbnbs if i can time arrival in certain towns properly....
I'm tempted to go back to a solar panel. It means when stopped I dont have to charge everything at once and bring the lighter charger.
I think I would loose my pillow for it.
Would take a day to charge (I need to validate my math) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099RSLNZ4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_i_NN2R10KS3KJ1EEMV4VHX
The Book for anyone interested. Currently reading it right now. Fun bite sized nit bits of data collected on the PCT.
Makes me think, how did you record all of this? 🤔
I bring Fox River ragg wool Glomitts. You can wear them as fingerless gloves including the thumb or flip the covers up and wear them like mittens. I like this style because I never have to take them off to do stuff and risk losing them. The wool doesn't get soaking wet, they are warm, and they dry fast.
You might consider some sun gloves if you use hiking poles. These provide good sun protection and protection from blisters on the grips.
Showa Best 282 Atlas TEMRES Insulated Gloves. Cheap. Waterproof. Some insulation. 3.63 oz for a Large. Size up if you want to wear a liner underneath.
Hi fellow glasses and contacts sufferer lol....
I agree that your glasses case is a bit heavy. But do NOT put them in a soft case, baggie, etc - it's not worth potentially busting your glasses on trail.
I am going to save your day right now. I discovered this glasses case thanks to Mari Johnson's PCT vlogs - she just randomly bought it off Amazon and used it, and I was curious so I got one too. It's a beast of hardshell plastic case that weighs a mere 1.9oz (and that's with a wiping cloth inside). I would never backpack without it, since I got mine. You're welcome.
Definitely ditch the liner. They’re usually fairly useless anyway. Plus with a 10° I doubt you’d ever really need it.
I’d wait as long as I could to buy or rent seirra gear.
I like having an extra foam pad as a sit pad, it’s nice to have it double as extra protection for the inflatable pad as well.
IMO this is the perfect food bag. I used it for the Pct, azt, and about half the cdt. It’s great. Granite Gear Air Zipsack Ultralight Zippered Pouch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003EMSDBY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_QR4ZGXZTD84F5S1JY7RM?psc=1
I highly recommend the Sunday Afternoon Ultra Adventure hat or a cheap straw sun hat (like one found at a farm supply store). If you get a cheap straw hat, make sure that weave is tight enough to actually block the sun.
I prefer spray sunscreen, it’s much easier to apply and won’t make a greasy mess.
I use this with any hat for sun protection. Weighs about an ounce, very easy to take on or off.
Sprigs Sun Protection Hat Shade Attachment with SPF 45+ & Cooling Fabric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T274SFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_00ZZMK4V9JTC42PG74C5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I actually just got this scale from Amazon yesterday. Tried it out last night and it works great. Most of my items are weighing in within 0.1 oz of the listed weight.
Dance Pants are a great cheap and lightweight wind pant.
I prefer to have a separate set of sleep clothes that I don't hike in on a regular basis. For me, it's more comfy (I've brought a cotton tank just to sleep in), keeps my bag 'cleaner', and it's nice to have something dry to change into for camp/sleep.
New Balance is the only vendor.
I suffer form the same problem. I've searched for years. Altra keeps on narrowing their footbox to the point that I can no longer wear them.
If you're a woman, you will have more choices if you wear men's shoes.
The 510 is your best bet. If you find a shoe that works for you, I highly recommend you buy several pairs. They constantly change the designs and discontinue shoes.
If you live near a New Balance store, don't bother going in. They don't have them in stock. Either call them and ask them to order them, or just buy them online.
Timberline trail loops around Mt Hood and has a section on the PCT. Also about the distance you're looking for.
The only long, low elevation trail I can think of that might be snow free near you is the Corvallis-to-Coast trail. It's a 58 mile hike through the coastal range and it will likely be quite empty. However, it's a new trail so considerable stretches are still along logging roads.
I live in Bend so I'm partial but its a great place to take a couple days off. Not only in terms of resupply but also the hikes in the area. Lets just say you get off at Elk Lake Resort. Bend is 45 minutes away and has great food and breweries. Just north of bend is Smith Rock which is an awesome place to hike. The trail to the top is a little steep but short and has great views. Green lakes trail is pretty close to elk lake and is a 9 mile round trip hike that only gains 1000 feet in elevation. I could keep going but I'm just going to leave you with this link
I always have these in my kit: WYSI Multi-Purpose Expandable Wipes, Just Add Water - 100 Compressed Tablets and Travel Tube https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001NWVBPC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_0RGZXPSRBPPNEQ3CWJN0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 They are great for wiping your body at the end of a hot day, including feet. I don’t use them as TP, too much waste, I use a 500ml bottle (tiny hole in extra cap, otherwise for water storage) as a bidet instead.
Get yourself a copy of John Vonhoff's "Fixing Your Feet"
https://www.amazon.com/Fixing-Your-Feet-Prevention-Treatments/dp/0899976387
Vonhoff covers pretty much every blister prevention method available. You'll need to work out something that works for you- everyone's physiology is different and what works for one person won't necessarily work for another.
I've used quite a few sunshirts and sun hoodies over the years and the OR echo isn't my favorite. I don't think it breathes very well, and I salted it white working construction for 3 weeks strait, so similar sweat load to hiking. I likely will never wear it again, unless I need a hoodie I can just thrash. it is permanently white on the back.
I arrived at buying multiples of the cheaper Amazon sun hoodies, and I really love them. I think there was a time when buying a reputable name brand was important, but for a least a few outdoor items I've found it just doesn't matter. I have 3 hoodies for the price of 1, and I use them more because I always have one around. I've worked in a shop and taught thousands how to use the wilderness, and am an admitted gearhead (for perspective, not gatekeeping. Hike naked for all I care). Here is something similar. Of note, I did have to send a few back, as the sleeve lengths weren't identical in the same size.
Ditto the other comment for lighter color. But I also have a darker color for town / local use because my wife said I looked handsomer in it.
I wouldn't sweat the UPS / SPF very much. I don't burn, or even tan, through my shirts no matter the rating, and I burn indoors in the dark. more important is coverage, like a deep hood to hide your face, or longer sleeves to cover your hands. I also recommend sun gloves, but those can be nearly anything. If you have dogs, avoid the new "ice/cooling" stuff as it has xylitol, a deadly substance for dogs.
I really enjoyed this one:
https://www.amazon.com/Crunch-Million-Snowy-Steps-Pacific/dp/B08YQCSBCR
It’s about tackling the High Sierra in May of 2017, the high snow year. It’s really an amazing glimpse into something that most people never experienced.
I wear these peppers. Peppers I like them a lot. They stay on my face super well and provide the protection my eyes need. I’m going to wear them for my hike this summer. The only time I’ve felt like they’re not quite enough is on a sunny glacier/snow during the summer when all the rays are being reflected right back up at you, but that’s not really an issue in the desert and I’m not going to drop money on glacier glasses when mine work just fine 95% of the time. My only piece of advice would be to buy a darker pair than the ones I have.
I bought one that threads into smartwater bottles:
ACM Economy Wash Bottle, LDPE, Squeeze Bottle Medical Label Tattoo (250ml. / 8oz / 1 Bottle) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WTHLR18/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_CNKKWP1SD6Z3AXTWBYHZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Weighs 5g and works well.
It's heavier than a smartwater bottle. I suppose if someone wanted to get creative, they could do some work with a smartwater bottle and some tubing...
I can't find my scale at the moment, but it is 500ml. This one (slightly different from the one I got) claims to be 1.59 ounces: https://www.amazon.com/Valchoose-Economy-Squeeze-Medical-Watering/dp/B07W4NVVVV/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=500ml%2Blab%2Bbottle&qid=1639001799&sr=8-6&th=1
I think mine is significantly heavier, maybe up to 5 ounces. But worth every single one of them.
I printed my maps at home using a color laser printer on this paper. Likely cheaper / easier to purchase preprinted maps but I enjoy having the paper around for more obscure routes.
Another good battery bank to look at for a good price and same battery size but also light.
I love this sunscreen. It feels like skin lotion and it's tinted so you don't look like a ghost. So much nicer putting on and wearing. And I try to go with physical barrier sunscreens vs chemical barriers. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M8G39OW
"The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail," by Mark Larabee and Barney Scout Mann, is well regarded. It has beautiful photos, lengthy and well researched articles about the trail, and an intro by Cheryl Strayed.
Walks Far Man is really good. It's not a reference though. It's more of a man's journey on the PCT interspersed with information about the native peoples that lived there before and geology. His walk on the PCT spans many years of his life and the way he weaves in history and geological time depicts really well how the trail affects your own sense of yourself in a cosmic way.
The Wilderness Press guides have a lot of natural history throughout. Geology, plants and animals. If you carry the pages with you like we used to a little more than a decade ago before apps, you can gain some understanding of the things you are seeing when you are there looking at them. They've recently revised them so I don't know how much this is still true. It probably is still true.
that's the one i check regularly as well. i added it to https://visualping.io/ and the service emails me (free) whenever the graph changes.
here's the same content but you can choose which historical years you want to compare with: http://cdec.water.ca.gov/snowapp/swcchart.action
Nothing wrong with a clear plastic tarp from Walmart. Have used these for years and years.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Husky-3.5-Mil-Clear-Plastic-Sheeting/19512219
Can easily get a couple of tarps and a couple of ground sheets out of this. ;)
Since you've mentioned you're technically savvy, is there something, anything, that could either text your or send you Telegram messages/similar? As annoying as it may be, something that sends a message once an hour during the daylight hours from the same number would:
- Be heard if you have your ringer on
- Could be dismissed easily once you've received this tidal wave of messages after being out of reception for a few days.
Ideas on how to do it:
- Use the Twilo API + your scripting method of choice to send you a text every hour.
- Use IFTTT SMS feature (100 messages a month cap so 3 a day)
- IFTTT App + notifications for same idea without limits
- SmartThings (Samsung's Home Automation tool) also has SMS capabilities so you could use this with something like Webcore.
- Build a quick Telegram Bot, or even just subscribe to something that sends out an hourly weather update or something, to generate some notifications.
Here's a real simple one that I can't quite get to taste good, just for my ignorance on how to season it: 1/4 cup couscous 1/4 c. dried veggie soup mix 1/2 cube veggie bouillon 1/2 c. water 1 tbsp (or packet) olive oil
I'm liking the idea of Dorito dust, I might just start accumulating a baggie of that before a hike.
Have you ever seen https://www.amazon.com/1000-Mile-Ultimate-Tactel-Liner/dp/B002X00GUE/ref=mp_s_a_1_20?dchild=1&keywords=1000+mile+socks&qid=1627670656&sprefix=1000+mile&sr=8-20# I used these socks and never had blisters, they really do the job
Maybe order one of these foot massage balls, haven’t thru hiked yet (Starting the CT in a few weeks), but rolling out my feet every night after hiking has always helped with foot soreness on my trips. https://www.amazon.com/Rawlogy-Ultralight-Massage-Recovery-Tension/dp/B08HSR9B5Z/ref=asc_df_B08HSR9B5Z/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=475809347017&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6874560200252052036&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt...
I hope your ankle is feeling better. If not, or if it's slow, then this ankle brace is the type I like best. It fits in low or mid top shoes, and the comfort level stays pretty consistent throughout the day. I haven't used it for long hikes like you're doing, so you might want to have some sort of wrap to prevent hotspots from forming blisters. I think that'll give your ankle enough support to recover without giving up on our hike.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C1C3N7Q/
I also have a fancier one with a plastic frame and a hinge on one side, but I can't recommend it. It only fits with low top shoes, although that's usually not an issue for thru hikers. It doesn't stay put, so it can become uncomfortable quickly and you'll have to stop to adjust it. It's also finicky to get right. That may not be issues if you're playing sports with short bursts of movement, but hiking is the complete opposite.
Android: OruxMaps GP ($4.49) and free USGS GEOPDFs as offline maps. Download the Halfmile GPS data from pctmap.net and (using Google Earth) create KML overlays with query-able waypoints.
I’ve used this granite gear wallet for both my Pct thrus and the cdt. Works great, weighs practically nothing, and has been super durable.
Best leave no trace practices ask that NO soap be used, even if biodegradable. I was very worried about my pot, but it really wasn’t an issue unless you cooked Mac and cheese in it. Put boiling water into the potato bag directly. Ramen doesn’t leave a mess.
I believe the camp shoe I saw most often was the Xero? It’s very thin, but you aren’t really doing much walking when at camp. I personally preferred a pair of croc-like open toe, slip-on sandals, like these - FUNKYMONKEY Women's Comfort Slides Double Buckle Adjustable EVA Flat Sandals https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CV7J7DT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_07JH7ZV2NB1J04WDHTDF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. The whole point of a camp show, in my eyes, is being able to slip on and off quickly.
I used this for the cdt, fits on virtually any hat, and weighs about an ounce. After full thru hike it still looks brand new, and if you’ve got prime you can get it real quick.
Sprigs Sun Protection Hat Shade Attachment with SPF 45+ & Cooling Fabric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T274SFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XVGGVR9CJPZR29J3YNXS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1