[pct-l] PCT Drop Out Rate

[RJ Lewis]

My guess would be much less than the 80% projected rate also. My 
reasoning being that although this is a long hike, most are at least 
somewhat aware of what they are facing, are well prepared and have 
thought this through. BUT.....I have to say, the desert is most likely 
what gets those who do drop out. I think hiker's misconception of what a 
desert really is, and what it's really all about, leaves some hikers 
unprepared for the first sections of the PCT.

Just a note new hikers on the PCT...everything in the desert is on the 
defense...it bites, sticks or nails ya in some form or fashion- NOTHING 
in the desert is friendly. ;) ('Cept perhaps another thru hiker!)

And btw, this will be my first thru hike and I chose the PCT for several 
reasons, after discussing it with some folks who have done triple crown 
hikes. Besides, I just love the mountains, period, and have spent alot 
of time in them. Even did some hiking on the JMT long before this whole 
PCT/AT/CDT thing became a "tradition" for so many. (back in my youth as 
some would say) Have done considerable hiking up and around the Yosemite 
High Sierras...still my favorite of all spots.  I used to sit and dream 
when I lived in Colorado of a trail that went all the way through...heh 
heh heh, whoda thunk that someday we would actually HAVE that trail? ;) 
Amazing.......


Andrea Dinsmore wrote:
> In the last 5 years we have averaged between 150 hikers up to 256. 
> Being here in Skykomish, Wa. most of them that hit here finish the 
> trail. Last year was an early heavy snow in the North Cascades and 
> most were cut off by October 1st. We are about 2450 miles from the start.
>  
> PCT MOM
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> _______________________________________________
> Pct-l mailing list
> Pct-l at backcountry.net
> To unsubscribe or change list options (digest, etc):
> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>