Permit, check! - PCT 2024
Three weeks! Oh my gosh!
The PCTA suggests every long-distance (ie, hiking over 500 miles) hiker to carry a permit. You’re able to hike on local permits rather than a long-distance permit but that’s a logistical hassle that I didn’t want to deal with. Rangers are allowed (and do) ask to see your permit. The permit cannot be laminated, which is a bit silly since you’re exposed to the elements for months on end, and you’re unable to print your permit after your start date so you better have a copy ready! If not, it’s like you didn’t have a permit to begin with. There's no calling and begging for a copy after your start date. I have it digitally saved just in case I lose or damage mine on the trail, at least I can have a copy printed while I’m in a trail town.
I’ve put fresh ink in my printer just for this moment! 🖨️
I have my PCTA permit printed. I have my California fire permit printed as well. You’re required to have this permit to use backpacking stoves (or have camp fires if there isn’t a fire ban) while in California.
Permits ✅
I’m starting to push the training again.
I had a great strength training session this morning. Have you done three way calf raises? Hoo boy. I can still feel that delightful burn. I just returned from a relaxed 6 mile (9.7km) walk out in the rain. I’m trying to take it easy while the flu kicks it but proceeding with meaningful intention. All that hippy jazz, if you know what I mean.
One interesting fact that I learned the other day that my hiking coach pointed out, it’s common for thru-hikers to get sick before and after trail. Before - the hustle and bustle, ramping up training, work, getting affairs in order, stress. Afterward - the cumulation of a grand journey: poor diet, exhaustion, etc leads to a lowered immune system. The after sickness makes sense. So glad I’m almost over the before sickness! On with the pre-trail prep!
The nerves are setting in. It’s strange because despite my excitement, and truly, I AM excited, I’m also feeling a bit anxious. I’m about to start on such an epic journey, all alone, in a country that isn’t mine (I’m Canadian, btw 🇨🇦), in a wilderness I’m unfamiliar with, and the grand vastness of this all is a bit overwhelming.
It’s a neat feeling. The best way I can describe it is like having butterflies in your stomach. It’s that nervous energy before something big… and in just a matter of days, I’ll be standing at the southern terminus, looking north and I’ll start walking.
Pretty darned cool. 🥾
