Books, Guides and the like

imported
#1

Im ordering Yogis Book, but as far as all the hundreds of pounds of guides and the like, which could I get by without?

Seriously.
I love the AT data book and thruhiker companion, they are the only books I ever used on multi long distance AT bouts. But I notice there are a few more and bigger books on the PCT.

Do I really REALLY need maps? Or can I get by with my phat ass Altitude Silva Tech4o combo watch, and my Ranger CL compass>?

Im good at route finding, but and this is important so I need to know.
I just dont want to have to drop over $100 on 3 books.

Ya know?

Thanks

Lion King

#2

oh yeah, and if I start early is it easy to get a ride back to the “Kick off” party?

Thanks, again.

Lion King

#3

Here are the needed books, in order of importance (my opinion):

  1. The three Guidebooks: S. Cal, N. Cal, OR-WA

  2. The Data Book

  3. My book — seriously, if you’re low on funds, don’t get my book. The Guidebooks and Data Book are much more important. You absolutely need maps on the PCT. It’s nothing like the AT. The guidebooks include maps.

Ride to Kick Off: Go to the Kick Off website and post your name on the ride board. You’ll probably find a ride there.

yogi

www.pcthandbook.com

yogi

#4

Have you checked out PCT-L? There is a lot more PCT-specific traffic on PCT-L than there is here on trailforums. You’ll likely find more opinions on all things PCT-related over on PCT-L.

Check it out: http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/

yogi

www.pcthandbook.com

yogi

#5

I agree with Yogi. You really do need the guidebooks because of the maps. The data book is good because it gives you an “at a glance” look at the many places where water is scarce. On the PCT that is a very good thing to know. Yogi’s book will tell you what to expect in towns, hostels, etc. as well as a lot of other information that will make your hike simpler to plan.

Ginny

#6

How will your phat ass altimeter and your Ranger CL compass help you find the PCT if you do not have the maps??

On the AT you can climb to just about any viewpoint and see houses, roads, or powerlines in the distance. If you were lost without maps, you could simply walk to one of these man-made landmarks. On the PCT there will be many times when you look around and can see NOTHING man-made.

I would not feel comfortable hiking on most sections of the PCT without the maps.

Emily

#7

Appreciate it.

Yogi, too late, I ordered your book last week, hope to see it in a day or two!

LK

Lion King