After 4 years, and 3,400 miles of more experience, here goes my second attempt at thru hiking the Pacific Crest Trail! What did I learn from my first failed attempt at the PCT, and what am I changing now for a successful second try? Since then I have hiked the Sheltowee Trace Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Uinta Highline Trail, Florida Trail, Arizona Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and the Long Trail! So I definitely have more miles under my feet, and this is what I've learned.
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10 Tips For An Ultralight Backpack
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I think in 2018 I had done a few things well when it comes to long distance hiking, but I also made some mistakes that ultimately were the reason why I quit. So in efforts to learn from my past hiking experience, and what I know now let's look at both the good and the bad decisions.
What did I do well during my first hike on the Pacific Crest Trail?
1. I had saved enough money! Money is so important when it comes to long distance hiking. If you are tired, sore, have injuries or blisters money means you can afford to get that hotel and rest. Money means you can go to that restaurant with friends. Not having enough money is one of the biggest reasons people quit thru hikes, and hiking on a budget is definitely not recommended if you are trying to give yourself the best chances at success.
2. I had done my research and planned well. I knew what I was getting myself into. The weather, the gear I would need, towns, terrain. If it's going to be 20 degrees, you should know that so you can pack appropriately. If there is going to be a 200 mile stretch of trail without a town, that's important information!
3. I had a light weight backpack. An ultralight, or lightweight pack means less stress on your knees, your joints, feet, and muscles. It means you have a lower chance of injury. It means you can hike longer and expend less energy while doing so! In the end we want to be happy to be out there, happy to be hiking all day every day up and down mountains. A miserable time hiking hauling a heavy load will not be fun and could be trip ending. 10 Tips For An Ultralight Backpack - • 10 Tips For An Ultrali...
4. I was eating enough food. Calories fuel the daily miles, calories help with recovery and energy. Making sure you are eating enough to give your body what it needs to operate properly when put under the stress of a thru hike is important!
So what did I do wrong my first attempt at the PCT? Why did I quit?
1. I was on a strict schedule. A tight schedule is always tough. The stress of meeting a deadline, and feeling like you have to push all the time. I was pushing miles out of the gate, and knew I had to keep it up to complete my goal. Whatever happens happens is the best mindset when it comes to scheduling a long distance hike.
2. I started out too fast too soon. From day one I was hiking 26 miles a day, everyday. This can be ok if you are well trained! But for me it was definitely a big factor in why I quit. Take your time and slow down, especially for the first week or month! Let your body get used to the daily hiking.
3. I was a bit overweight, and under trained. I started out the trail without having a ton of training, which is fine if you're going slow but it is always better to train and prepare physically! This time around I am eating clean the months before my permit date, and I am staying very active!
4. I was not drinking enough water. The final thing here, water. If you aren't drinking enough it can cause you to stumble instead of walking with a clear mind. You may make worse decisions. And your body wont recover as well. I think in the end this was the final straw that broke me. This time around I'll drink more at the water source, and I'll be sure to pay closer attention to where water sources are coming up next.
Going down Mt San Jacinto I broke my foot in two places. I stumbled on a rock likely because I was a bit dehydrated. When I caught myself, I put all my weight into my foot. Being that I was a little overweight than what I normally am, and hadn't trained as hard as I should of. My foot broke. I wound up hiking about 800 mile further on a broken foot still wanting to do the entire trail. Eventually I quit. But now I am coming back stronger, more experienced, and smarter.
I hope this video has been helpful in your PCT preperations!
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