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Published -
- August 4, 2020
- 9:15 pm
Did I start alone?
Yes. But the trail is super easy to make friends on, so relax and trust that along the 2650 miles of dirt, you’ll meet at least one person you might want to hike with.
What are some essential items to pack for a long-distance hiking trail like the PCT?
Walking long distances has always been an adventure for people who love nature and the outdoors. It is an activity that requires both physical and mental strength as well as proper equipment. In 2019, I decided to walk the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a long-distance hiking trail that spans 2650 miles from Mexico to Canada. This journey was an incredible experience that taught me about endurance, resilience, and the importance of minimalism. In this article, I will share how I walked 2650 miles with just a single backpack.
One of the most critical aspects of hiking such a long trail is equipment. Choosing the right gear for the journey is essential. For me, the backpack was the most important item. I chose a lightweight pack that could comfortably carry all my necessary items. The pack needed to be large enough to hold my sleeping bag, tent, food, water, and clothing while still being comfortable to carry for long distances. I opted for a backpack with a capacity of 65 liters that weighed around 1.7 kg. This size and weight felt perfect for me.
Next, I had to choose the right clothing for the hike as the terrain and weather conditions on the PCT can vary greatly. I chose lightweight, quick-drying materials that would protect me from the harsh sun, rain, cold, and wind. I also made sure to pack a warm jacket for chilly nights and a raincoat. The clothing that I brought was functional, durable, and I did not carry any unnecessary clothing items.
The food and water supply was another significant factor to consider for such a long hike. The PCT has water sources along the way, but it is essential to have a water filtration system. I carried a water filter, which allowed me to fill up my water bottle from a natural source, and prevent any water-borne diseases. Additionally, I carried a small stove, cooking pot, and lightweight utensils to prepare my meals. I packed mostly dehydrated food that weighed less and still packed the necessary nutrients my body needed for such an exhausting hike.
One of the main objectives of minimalist backpacking is to keep the overall weight of your load as light as possible. It is important to eliminate anything that is not a must-have. Carrying less weight makes the hike less burdensome and allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery on the trail. I made sure that every item in my backpack was of utmost importance before hitting the trail. In total, my backpack weighed around 20 kg at the start of the hike, including food, water, and equipment.
Walking on the PCT is not an easy feat. The trail contains various obstacles such as steep mountains, rocky pathways, and harsh weather conditions. These challenges tested my physical and mental endurance throughout the journey. But despite everything, I pushed through, keeping in mind that I needed to continue walking. It was critical to maintain a positive mindset, and realize that walking a long trail like the PCT was more than just a physical activity. It required an open mind, acceptance of the natural forces, and a clear focus on the objective.
In conclusion, hiking the Pacific Crest Trail while carrying a single backpack was a life-changing experience. The journey taught me about the value of minimalism, the importance of mental and physical endurance, and the beauty of the great outdoors. Walking on a long trail is an adventure that can transform your life for the better. By understanding how to pack and prepare for the journey, it made a huge difference in my hike. I hope that my experience can inspire others to take on such an incredible challenge and discover the same life-changing outcomes as I did.
