Other than the southern desert heat, are there any other disadvantages to a PCT May 23rd start date northbound? Thanks a lot.
Sids
PCT Start - Pacific Crest Trail
system
#2
Ice rain snow and cold in WA state depending on your walking pace and what time you arrive up north.
Smack
system
#3
On an average year, you might have some water issues to deal with - some dry ‘seasonal’ water sources until the High Sierra.
You will be mostly alone, other than an occasional day hiker, for a while until you catch the back end of the “herd.” This is either good or bad depending on your preference for social life.
You will miss much of the Spring blooming flowers.
In any case, happy trails!
freebird
system
#4
I started May 9 and had a few hikers around until Big Bear, where I started to get the tail end of the herd. By Agua Dulce I was in the thick of the back end. At Kennedy Meadows I was up near the front. I averaged about 20ish miles a day, reaching KM on June 9. Conditions were excellent. The Wookie started about the time you’re thinking of and had a much different experience. See his joural on this site (2003).
In some ways a late start is better as you’ll probably get better conditions in the Sierra. However, be aware that you don’t want to lollygag too much as WA in late September and October can be a real pain.
suge