Finish by? - Pacific Crest Trail

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#1

I’m trying to get a plan together for a PCT thru-hike in the next year or two. I’m in college and can’t leave until the end of spring semester which would put my start date at around May 10 or so. I know this is a little later than ideal for heading out and I was just curious about what kind of conditions to expect. Also I’m somewhat concerned about what date I need to be finished by to avoid too much snow in Washington. I just finished an AT thru-hike this fall and can say for sure that taking my time was certainly not regrettable. I realize that I will have to put in bigger days and more miles on the PCT but would still like to be out there as long as possible. So, when would you suggest setting my finish date for?? Thanks for the help.

Happy Feet

#2

PCT hikers try to put in 20-25 miles per day. Coming straight from the AT, this may sound big. But you will soon realize that 25 miles on the PCT is different from 25 miles on the AT. The PCT is rarely very steep.

You should be fine starting around May 10. However, Southern California will be very hot for you. In 2001, we started on May 6, and SoCal was MUCH hotter than 2002 and 2003 when I started around April 25. Since you’re starting around May 10, you won’t see very many people at first. That will translate into faster hiking. Breaks and town stops by yourself are boring, in my opinion. I would imagine a solo hiker at the back of the pack would walk longer days with fewer breaks and shorter town stops.

Are you returning to school in the fall? Snow is unpredictable. You will probably see snow in Washington by the third week in September. It could come earlier, though.

If you are strong and fast, you could easily finish a PCT hike in 4 months, and possibly be back in time for school to start. With longer town stops and a more leisurely pace, 4 1/2 to 5 months is more what I would predict. I’d imagine you’ll catch the back of the big thru-hiker pack by Kennedy Meadows or maybe Sierra City.

yogi

www.pcthandbook.com

yogi

#3

Happy Feet,

Like yourself I hiked the AT (03) and am in college, throwing aruond the idea of a PCT thru-hike. I don’t think its gonna happen this year, but definately in 06’. If you do a quick search in the PCT forum, I asked an almost identical question a few months ago and got some good answers. I would have to walk the trail in exactly 4 months between school semesters. Still considering it:)
Good luck and let me know how the planning is coming

A-Train

#4

I’m doing the same thing. My last exam is Tuesday May 10 so I won’t get to the trail until May 12. I’m not returning to school in the fall, so my only limiting factor is the weather. My AT hike in 2003 was rushed because of having to get back for school and I really regret it.I have a feeling a number of college kids will be starting then. It wont be too lonely :slight_smile:

Sally