
If I Hiked The Pacific Crest Trail Again
Has it really been 13 years since I thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). In those 13 years I went on to finish the Triple Crown, done thousands more miles (and bikepacked 1000’s more), but most importantly, I’ve gained a lot of knowledge. I decided to put what I learned into this post, If I Hiked the Pacific Crest Trail Again.
After so long, my approach to hiking, my skill level, confidence, and the gear available have changed greatly. I wanted to write this post as a companion piece to my original gear list, to show what I would do if I went back and thru-hiked the PCT again.
If I thru-hiked the PCT again I would plan my start to avoid the Herd, in an attempt to avoid the crowds. The more I think about it I might even go SOBO. Going SOBO would mean no Herd, and a better weather window. This better weather window would hopefully eliminate the need to flip flop or skip sections due to snow or fires.
As far as gear goes, I would attempt to take less and strive for a 10 lb. or lower base weight. My approach would definitely be fast and light. I would use the experience I’ve gained to limit my gear to what I think the essentials are, thus a smaller and lighter pack.
I would also do bigger miles and spend less time in towns. This would be to maximize my time in the woods and spend less money.
It’s my hope this comparison will help others in selecting their own gear and possibly help speed up the learning curve.
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PACK & SHELTER
Item
Brand
Reason
What I Used Last Time
Pack
Pa’lante Packs V2 or Gossamer Gear Kumo 36 (Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 for the Sierra)
With a higher MPD and less overall items in my pack, I could use a smaller pack.
ULA Catalyst
Big Agnes Scout 2 Carbon
or a Tarptent Aeon Li
Weight, size, easy of set up.
Gossamer Gear Twin w/Tyvek Ground Sheet
TarpTent Contrail
Having never hiked in the desert before, I was afraid of the water situation in the southern section of the trail. As a result I got a pack with ample room so I could carry extra water. I now know how much water I need to carry for my own personal needs and I’m also willing to over load a smaller pack for a short time to carry extra.
As far as my shelter is concerned I loved my Contrail the first time. The tarp was fine for the southern section but when I got to the Sierra I needed a place to get away from the mosquitoes. It also sucked to put up in the wind.
Today’s Dyneema tents are so light and packable, I can’t resist them despite their cost. I used the BA Scout Carbon 2 on the JMT but for a longer trip I think I might like something with a full vestibule. Personally, my tent is my safe place. I really enjoy and feel comforted by that .51 oz barrier between me and the bears.
Conclusion
My first thru-hike of the PCT was a big unknown. The PCT had deserts, high altitude, more varied terrain and volatile weather. It seemed like I was always thinking about the next unknown. Most times I was left wondering how I would handle it.
Going back now would be much more relaxing and I would be much more confident. Decisions would be quicker and much easier to make. This would translate to having much more Trail Confidence and a more enjoyable hike (not that it wasn’t enjoyable the first time). Any mistakes I made on my first go would be a thing of the past.
My hiking style has changed over the years. Now I enjoy solitude and I also like to do bigger miles. My gear and other decisions reflect this change. If I Hiked the Pacific Trail Again, it would be a much more personal endeavor, with less attachments to others.
It’s my hope that this If I Hiked the Pacific Crest Trail Again post will help others thinking about doing the trail for the first time, understand what one veteran hiker would bring when it comes to gear and assist them in planning their own gear list.
Lastly I fully understand one’s gear list should reflect their personal needs and style. This post is meant to assist in that process. Do your research, do shakedown hikes, and build your trail confidence before hitting the trail. Good luck.
MORE RESOURCES
Read these next or checkout the main resource page.
Gear lists from the AT, PCT and CDT; Pros & Cons; Things I’d do different; and Tips.
In depth look at what I would bring for gear and why, if I hiked the AT, PCT, LT, and CDT.
Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.
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