[pct-l] Central Cascades/Alpine Lakes Trip Report
Erik Turnberg
erik.turnberg at gmail.com
Wed Jul 13 13:01:19 CDT 2011
This is mostly as an encouragement to hikers who are moving on up the
trail. Terrapin Flyer and I drove over to Alpine Lakes Wilderness in
the Central Cascades yesterday and did a 16.5 mile loop on Polallie
Ridge, which is not too far from the trail at Waptus Lake. Snowline
was highly variable and things are melting fast. On northeastern
slopes we had up to six feet of snow at 4200 ft. On the southwestern
side snow line was about 5000 ft. It's difficult navigation, and slow
going but beautiful. There are a lot of blow downs but they're not
impassible. Things are now melting really fast. I think WA is going
to be pretty wonderful by August/September.
Granite
On Wed, Jul 13, 2011 at 10:00 AM, <pct-l-request at backcountry.net> wrote:
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> Today's Topics:
>
> 1. Re: Navigation Problems (Mike Cunningham)
> 2. Where can a hiker go ??? (Meridith Rosendahl)
> 3. Re: PCT thru hike question (Austin Williams)
> 4. Re: Where can a hiker go ??? (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 5. Re: PCT thru hike question (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 6. Re: Thru hiker in Sierra City (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 7. Ebbits Pass (aslive at charter.net)
> 8. Tahoe Conditions, 7/9/11 (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 9. Northern PCT (CHRIS C MOORE)
> 10. JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Brock Dallman)
> 11. PCT thru timing for 2012 (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 12. Re: PCT thru timing for 2012 (Austin Williams)
> 13. Re: Ebbitts Pass (ron guay)
> 14. 2012 go see now (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 15. Re: JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Yoshihiro Murakami)
> 16. PCT thru timing for 2012 (PCT List)
> 17. Re: PCT thru timing for 2012 (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 18. Re: Blasphemy (Was Hidden Gems of Bridgeport)
> (Diane Soini of Santa Barbara Hikes)
> 19. Re: Castle Crags north starting 23-25 July?
> (Diane Soini of Santa Barbara Hikes)
> 20. PCT thru timing for 2012 (PCT List)
> 21. Re: PCT thru timing for 2012 (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 22. Re: Navigation Problems (Carl Siechert)
> 23. Re: JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Scott Williams)
> 24. Re: JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Yoshihiro Murakami)
> 25. The Animal Inside,and some B.S. (Mike Chapman)
> 26. Re: Navigation Problems (CHUCK CHELIN)
> 27. Re: PCT thru timing for 2012 (ron guay)
> 28. Re: JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Madmxe at aol.com)
> 29. Re: JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Donna "L-Rod" Saufley)
> 30. Re: PCT thru timing for 2012 (Jeffrey Olson)
> 31. classic snow bridge (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 32. Re: JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas (Scott Williams)
> 33. classic snow bridge, woops (ned at mountaineducation.org)
> 34. Re: The Animal Inside,and some B.S. (Edward Anderson)
>
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:08:29 -0700 (PDT)
> From: Mike Cunningham <hikermiker at yahoo.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Navigation Problems
> To: PCT <pct-l at backcountry.net>, Brick Robbins
> <brick at brickrobbins.com>
> Message-ID:
> <1310490509.38048.YahooMailClassic at web39310.mail.mud.yahoo.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
>
> I do the same, but?I have a wrist compass on my watchband.
> ?
> in NYC there are generally 4 exits at each station & unless you are familiar with the station you can never be sure which of the 4 corners you will end on. Thankfully I am not that familiar with any of the stations any more.
> Used to be a city slicker, now I'm a country bumpkin & proud of it!
> ?
> hm
>
> --- On Tue, 7/12/11, Brick Robbins <brick at brickrobbins.com> wrote:
>
>
> From: Brick Robbins <brick at brickrobbins.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] Navigation Problems
> To: "PCT" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Date: Tuesday, July 12, 2011, 3:41 AM
>
>
> Not PCT, but I got really lost today using some of the navigation
> tricks I rely on while hiking.
>
> I exited the subway in Buenos Aires and headed south towards the low
> winter midday sun. Things didn't look right, and I started getting
> really confused.
>
> That is when I remembered, that in the southern hemisphere, the low
> winter midday sun would be in the north. Then I got even more confused
> and disoriented. So I stopped, got out my compass and map, and figured
> out where I was.? Urban navigation at its best.
>
> And yes, I'm serious, I keep a compass in my bag to orient myself when
> I come out of the subway stations at night. Old habits die hard.
> _______________________________________________
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>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 2
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:37:28 -0700
> From: Meridith Rosendahl <meridith.rosendahl at gmail.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] Where can a hiker go ???
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAEJJFnpXQ3Mg4MBYFTbHLnVME1wAJekg-Ht63Z+iBiD0LMRqaA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> You can go south of Old Station too! Everyone says "go to Old Station."
> Why not go to Chester and hike through Lassen? It's doable! Although
> Bookworm got a dunkin' in Kings Creek, going SOBO, if you're going NOBO you
> can take the Summit Lake trail and cross where it's less aggressive
> (according to Don't Panic and Wing It). And every day the flow slows around
> here, although it's still high. Next SOBO hiker I see, I'll get better
> info.
>
> Piper's Mom needs a hiker fix. ;-)
>
> PM
>
>>Flip to Old Station and head north. That's my opinion, anyway, but I'm not
> out there this year. :-)<
>
> Eric
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 3
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:50:12 -0700
> From: Austin Williams <austinwilliams123 at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru hike question
> To: himynameissusan4 at aol.com, pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAGOWXFSFUrhQ68k3v5zHUW927k=LJU8zqHwAW1j0pWe7zOaPAA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Hi,
>
> I live in Portland too, and I manage the www.planyourhike.com website.
> Maybe we could get together some time? When do you plan to hike? 2012?
>
>
> Austin Williams
>
>
>
> www.PlanYourHike.com <http://www.planyourhike.com/>
> Info on PCT Gear, Resupply Points, Maps, Thru hiking Movies, etc.
>
>
>
> On Fri, Jul 8, 2011 at 2:17 AM, <himynameissusan4 at aol.com> wrote:
>
>> Do you know how I might get in touch with a "mentor" who might help me
>> plan for a thru hike on the PCT? Or how I might find people in my area
>> who have done the thru hike? I live in Portland, Oregon.
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 4
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 11:10:52 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Where can a hiker go ???
> To: "Andrea Dinsmore" <andrea at dinsmoreshikerhaven.com>, "PCT-L"
> <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <D168AD2D8417481285C2EF8D580197F6 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
> reply-type=original
>
> Not Tahoe. Still 3 to 6 feet of snow on the PCT here...
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> 1106A Ski Run Blvd
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Andrea Dinsmore" <andrea at dinsmoreshikerhaven.com>
> To: "PCT-L" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Sent: Monday, July 11, 2011 10:03 PM
> Subject: [pct-l] Where can a hiker go ???
>
>
>>I have our first SOBO hiker here in Skykomish, WA. He's considering
>>flipping
>> south somewhere. Any suggestions for him ?? Going either direction.
>>
>> Says the hike from Manning Park to here was a doable but really dangerous
>> pain in the rear.
>>
>> PCT MOM
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 5
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 11:14:03 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru hike question
> To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>, <himynameissusan4 at aol.com>
> Message-ID: <578DE5212EA34A24817FED8A23AA5A34 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
> reply-type=original
>
> Susan,
>
> On the PCTA website, there is a list of "Mentors" and can be found under
>
> Trip Planning:
> Before the trip:
> Resources:
> Mentors
>
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> 1106A Ski Run Blvd
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <himynameissusan4 at aol.com>
> To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Sent: Friday, July 08, 2011 2:17 AM
> Subject: [pct-l] PCT thru hike question
>
>
>> Do you know how I might get in touch with a "mentor" who might help me
>> plan for a thru hike on the PCT? Or how I might find people in my area
>> who have done the thru hike? I live in Portland, Oregon.
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 6
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 11:39:33 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Thru hiker in Sierra City
> To: <mkwart at gci.net>, <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <8938F4F03B334F549BC0E10A9C861815 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
> reply-type=original
>
> Talked with Wrong Turn while he and a few others were in South Lake Tahoe
> last week. He was doing well.
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> 1106A Ski Run Blvd
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <mkwart at gci.net>
> To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 9:43 AM
> Subject: [pct-l] Thru hiker in Sierra City
>
>
>>I just talked to a friend who was visiting Sierra City two days ago--he
>> talked to Wrong Turn, who said he was a thru hiker from Georgia who has
>> gone straight through from the Mexican border. Wrong Turn also said
>> there was about 4 hikers ahead of him.
>>
>> --fireweed
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
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>>
>> List Archives:
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>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 7
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:13:10 -0400 (EDT)
> From: aslive at charter.net
> Subject: [pct-l] Ebbits Pass
> To: PCT-L <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <6aaef373.1b3990.1311fc46908.Webtop.45 at charter.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed
>
>
> Anyone have the latest information on trail conditions heading north
> from Ebbitts Pass?
>
> Shepherd
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 8
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:31:34 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: [pct-l] Tahoe Conditions, 7/9/11
> To: "PCT MailingList" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Cc: TheTahoeRimTrail at yahoogroups.com
> Message-ID: <A5D7BF5093674643B968F199E8B84D10 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> With most of the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) completed under springtime snow and only two, non-PCT sections to report on, here is a synopsis of what we have seen in the last 4 weeks:
>
> The east side of Lake Tahoe is dryer, naturally, so it is drying out fastest. It is highly likely that the TRT from Mt. Rose Ski Area south to Heavenly Ski Resort will be completely dry and visible by the last week of July. Snow may linger on north-facing, shaded slopes.
>
> The north side of the lake is drying out below 8,000 with only a few patches of snow remaining on north slopes. Above 8,000 it is highly likely that snow is solid on north slopes and lakes are just now opening up.
>
> South and west sides of the lake still have snow. Patches will be encountered from 7,500 to 8,000 feet, especially on the north sides of mountains and ridges and solid snow covering the trail completely above that. Lakes are trying to thaw out still. The area of the Pacific Crest Trail above 8,000 is still under snow, but by now only to the depths of 3 to 6 feet and with lakes only half full of snow. Creeks are over-flowing in meadows and roaring in canyons, but their volumes are far less than those seen in the longer drainages of the High Sierra to the south.
>
> For more details, read our trail condition reports and see the recent pictures at http://www.mountaineducation.org/news.php
>
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> 1106A Ski Run Blvd
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 9
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:44:30 -0700
> From: CHRIS C MOORE <ccdmoore at msn.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] Northern PCT
> To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <COL120-W5229432624AAFACA50A2F7DB440 at phx.gbl>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
>
> Early trail reports indicate a lot of blow downs under that melting snow. They are planning to dynamite one bad area on the PCT. http://sportsyakima.com/2011/07/071211-whats-happening/
>
> "Some areas have such large blowdown clumps that even removal with saws
> will be too dangerous and will necessitate the use of explosives by
> trail crews, trail crew veteran Deb Davis said. One area where that will
> be necessary is along the Pacific Crest Trail north of Snoqualmie Pass."
>
> Chris
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 10
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:57:04 -0700
> From: Brock Dallman <brock.dallman at gmail.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAPAvRYAkR4TaT_bdg846ompfe08jtphM3WRBpXhN-Lw1L5rYpA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Good morning! I'm planning a hike from Walker Pass to (at least) the
> Columbia Gorge, and i have delayed my plans due to the heavy snow-pack this
> year. The JMT and High Sierras are to be the focal point of my trip, and I
> plan on taking my time going through them. Obviously I am expecting snow
> and ice through the high passes and parts of the trail, but I want don't
> want to deal with the "hundreds of miles of continuous snow" at the lower
> elevations. I have never been in that area and am wondering what the
> current conditions are, how fast they are changing, and when the "A GPS IS
> MANDATORY" status of these sections will cease to be, as I will not be
> buying one. (I've got the Wilderness Press guides for all the sections and
> a compass.) Any info would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Also, a friend of mine gave me some great advise on bear deterrent that
> I have never heard anywhere else despite its simplicity. AIR HORNS!
> Instead of bear mace which is basically a last resort method with
> questionable effectiveness, hows about something more pro active? Say it's
> the dead of night and you hear some large creature rustling around your
> site. Just cover your ears and give the ol' air horn a lengthy blast! Plus
> you could use it on the trail even at a distance if you spot a bear that's
> getting too close for comfort. Probably not the best thing to use in an
> avalanche area but with discretion, I think it would be an effective tool,
> when combined with bear cannisters/ bear bagging of course. Anyhow, happy
> trails, and a safe Summer!
>
> Brock
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 11
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:59:19 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: "PCT MailingList" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <6E1CDBF63B8A4F41B3DE4D436F3BD616 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> Based on our on-trail personal observations from 2010 and 2011 when we snow-hiked the high sierra in May, June, and July and the Tahoe Rim in June and July and personal perspectives from teaching wilderness skills along the same area since 1982, we would like to encourage next year's thru hikers to consider the following:
>
> Reference Thoughts:
>
> - High-flow rate and volume creek-crossings are more dangerous than hiking over snow
> - The longer the upstream drainage from a creek crossing, the greater the flow and more risky the crossing
> - Longer drainages exist south of Yosemite and shorter ones to the north
> - Snow Bridges, when judged to be safe, are a great and fast way across high-flow creeks
> - Consolidated, Spring snow, whether two feet thick or ten, is walked on with the same skills
> - Consolidated snow begins to form in the Sierra as the amount of daylight increases, typically in March
> - Navigation over snow is easier above timberline than below and in the trees
> - Bears are not as much a problem in a snow-covered high country
> - Fresh Powder Snow storms in Northern Washington can begin as early as mid-September and stop hikes
> - Consolidated, hard, spring snow is easy to walk on compared to the Fall's deep powder (even with snow shoes!)
> - Sierra snow storms can happen in May, but are usually short and low in quantity of snow
>
>
>
> Main Points:
>
> - KM entry into the Sierra in May provides the following:
> - high snow levels for ease of navigation above timberline
> - long creek drainages crossed on snow bridges
> - low creek volumes because the thaw hasn't started
> - snow bridges are still intact
> - by the time the thaw starts, you may be above Yosemite's canyons' long and high-flow creeks
> - by the time you hit the navigation-troublesome trees of Tahoe-north, you may be out of the snow
> - bears, mosquitoes, and blow-down are not an issue in the high sierra
> - you may be in Tahoe in June, able to do Oregon in July, and Washington in August, avoiding early-season
> powder snow storms in September that stop entry into Canada
> - shorter daily mileage requirements because your hiking window started "earlier," thereby lasting longer
>
> What this means is:
> - you avoid dangerous, long-canyon, high-flow and volume creek crossings typical of the high sierra
> - you avoid the in-trees/on-snow navigation delays found up north
> - you will be walking over snow in big, open canyons where navigation is easier and faster
> - snow bridges will help you
> - you can snow-hike straight north without flip-flopping
> - you can slow down and enjoy the high sierra while killing time for the snow to melt up north
> - you'll arrive at the shorter drainages and smaller creeks of Yosemite-north at about the same time as the thaw peaks, the creeks come up, and the snow melts off where you can see the trail through the trees
> - you avoid early-season snow storms in NoWash that can stop your hike short of Canada
> - SoCal is done while cool and water is more available
>
> Translated:
>
> An "early-season" start from Mexico (say April 1st) allows you to:
> - go through SoCal while cool and wet
> - go through the Sierra on snow bridges without the danger of high creek crossings
> - arrive on dry trail and high creeks where the canyons are short and the creeks are narrow
> - do your in-trees, difficult navigation up north once the snow has melted
> - go slower
> - arrive in Canada before the snow flies
> - no need to flip-flop, just go straight thru
>
>
> These are just our thoughts based on our personal observations and being on-trail for the last 37 years teaching snow and wilderness skills. We believe this year's thrus will be able to shed some light on this idea after having dealt with the thaw while in the long canyons and high elevation gain areas of the high sierra.
>
> Ok, release the bulls....
>
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> 1106A Ski Run Blvd
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 12
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:30:00 -0700
> From: Austin Williams <austinwilliams123 at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: ned at mountaineducation.org, pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAGOWXFSRBs0iZXYXHmxT+PTs6CqmTjC4us9CK_bKR=Ov9ye3jw at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Nice, I like it.
>
> Austin Williams
>
>
>
> www.PlanYourHike.com <http://www.planyourhike.com/>
> Info on PCT Gear, Resupply Points, Maps, Thru hiking Movies, etc.
>
>
>
> On Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 1:59 PM, <ned at mountaineducation.org> wrote:
>
>> Based on our on-trail personal observations from 2010 and 2011 when we
>> snow-hiked the high sierra in May, June, and July and the Tahoe Rim in June
>> and July and personal perspectives from teaching wilderness skills along the
>> same area since 1982, we would like to encourage next year's thru hikers to
>> consider the following:
>>
>> Reference Thoughts:
>>
>> - High-flow rate and volume creek-crossings are more dangerous than hiking
>> over snow
>> - The longer the upstream drainage from a creek crossing, the greater the
>> flow and more risky the crossing
>> - Longer drainages exist south of Yosemite and shorter ones to the north
>> - Snow Bridges, when judged to be safe, are a great and fast way across
>> high-flow creeks
>> - Consolidated, Spring snow, whether two feet thick or ten, is walked on
>> with the same skills
>> - Consolidated snow begins to form in the Sierra as the amount of daylight
>> increases, typically in March
>> - Navigation over snow is easier above timberline than below and in the
>> trees
>> - Bears are not as much a problem in a snow-covered high country
>> - Fresh Powder Snow storms in Northern Washington can begin as early as
>> mid-September and stop hikes
>> - Consolidated, hard, spring snow is easy to walk on compared to the Fall's
>> deep powder (even with snow shoes!)
>> - Sierra snow storms can happen in May, but are usually short and low in
>> quantity of snow
>>
>>
>>
>> Main Points:
>>
>> - KM entry into the Sierra in May provides the following:
>> - high snow levels for ease of navigation above timberline
>> - long creek drainages crossed on snow bridges
>> - low creek volumes because the thaw hasn't started
>> - snow bridges are still intact
>> - by the time the thaw starts, you may be above Yosemite's canyons' long
>> and high-flow creeks
>> - by the time you hit the navigation-troublesome trees of Tahoe-north,
>> you may be out of the snow
>> - bears, mosquitoes, and blow-down are not an issue in the high sierra
>> - you may be in Tahoe in June, able to do Oregon in July, and Washington
>> in August, avoiding early-season
>> powder snow storms in September that stop entry into Canada
>> - shorter daily mileage requirements because your hiking window started
>> "earlier," thereby lasting longer
>>
>> What this means is:
>> - you avoid dangerous, long-canyon, high-flow and volume creek crossings
>> typical of the high sierra
>> - you avoid the in-trees/on-snow navigation delays found up north
>> - you will be walking over snow in big, open canyons where navigation is
>> easier and faster
>> - snow bridges will help you
>> - you can snow-hike straight north without flip-flopping
>> - you can slow down and enjoy the high sierra while killing time for the
>> snow to melt up north
>> - you'll arrive at the shorter drainages and smaller creeks of
>> Yosemite-north at about the same time as the thaw peaks, the creeks
>> come up, and the snow melts off where you can see the trail through the
>> trees
>> - you avoid early-season snow storms in NoWash that can stop your hike
>> short of Canada
>> - SoCal is done while cool and water is more available
>>
>> Translated:
>>
>> An "early-season" start from Mexico (say April 1st) allows you to:
>> - go through SoCal while cool and wet
>> - go through the Sierra on snow bridges without the danger of high creek
>> crossings
>> - arrive on dry trail and high creeks where the canyons are short and
>> the creeks are narrow
>> - do your in-trees, difficult navigation up north once the snow has
>> melted
>> - go slower
>> - arrive in Canada before the snow flies
>> - no need to flip-flop, just go straight thru
>>
>>
>> These are just our thoughts based on our personal observations and being
>> on-trail for the last 37 years teaching snow and wilderness skills. We
>> believe this year's thrus will be able to shed some light on this idea after
>> having dealt with the thaw while in the long canyons and high elevation gain
>> areas of the high sierra.
>>
>> Ok, release the bulls....
>>
>>
>>
>> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>>
>> Ned Tibbits, Director
>> Mountain Education
>> 1106A Ski Run Blvd
>> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
>> P: 888-996-8333
>> F: 530-541-1456
>> C: 530-721-1551
>> http://www.mountaineducation.org
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 13
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:14:10 -0700
> From: ron guay <ron.a.guay2 at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Ebbitts Pass
> To: aslive at charter.net
> Cc: PCT-L <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID:
> <CAF0ch10bQK5Bo6OLTM7+vAW2jEkfYPGMtf=h87NC=z8vMspxMw at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Six of us Thrus just made it to S. LK Tahoe.
>
> "No Skips, No Flips...No Road Walking!"
>
> We did hit snow initially...I think Ebbits is near Highway 4/Meadow Mary's
> right? We all did 20+ miles that day and the trail into Raymond Meadow was
> clear. If I remember correctly...it was one of our better days.
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 14
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 16:00:19 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: [pct-l] 2012 go see now
> To: "PCT MailingList" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <8C574EA1DF414A7BB2D8F8F4E5EDADFB at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> Mountain Education just released its thoughts on getting through the Sierra snow and high waters for those planning a PCT thru hike next year. The premise for it all is to be safe while having an enjoyable long-distance, multi-month hike from the Mexican Border to the Canadian Border through California, Oregon, and Washington.
>
> With that in mind and the thoughts on "early" departures from the southern border mentioned earlier, we encourage next year's thrus to go up into the Sierra right now, while the conditions are likely to be similar to what they'll have to deal with next year, and find out what the trail is really like, and then plan for it, train for it, gear up, and prepare realistically. It doesn't matter whether you attend our skills courses, just go do your own test hike up there now.
>
> If you want to have a fun, safe, and successful thru hike of the PCT next year, go see for yourselves what its really like during the difficult conditions that can't be avoided this year (and couldn't be avoided last year), then prepare for them as suits you best. Trail Journals describe it, but have you tested yourself in it? Remember, the only real time constraint you have that will stop you in your tracks is the early-season Washington snow storm.
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 15
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:33:53 +0900
> From: Yoshihiro Murakami <completewalker at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: Brock Dallman <brock.dallman at gmail.com>
> Cc: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAMCqdRvi_LR99XNnDB+e0bG81ijjsdMYMvhTMxKHf67GVLi3mg at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-2022-JP
>
> Dear Brock
>
> I will visit JMT as the third times, and I will guide my wife to VVR
> to Lone Pine. The snow pack melting rapidly. I think it remains at
> most a few miles patch of snow in August. My wife will be terrified
> very much, when faced with steep cliff covered with snow. So we will
> carry aluminum crampons. If you are afraid of snow, it might be better
> to carry Microspikes. But the snow pack will disappear, I think it
> will be useless, except a few miles. Donahue pass (
> http://bit.ly/oAcOdb )
>
> Steel-Eye already wrote the bear problems. Bears is wise, has various
> bearsnality, knows humans are bad and trouble making animal. Generally
> speaking, they never approach to humans, except a few bears who know
> the taste of human foods. So, the bear canister is needed. I used the
> mos balls technique last summer. I don't know it works, since the
> density of the bear is very low. ( it is very dense in Japanese
> mountains). I think it has some effect to marmot or some creatures.
> So, I will use this technique once more.
>
> I have a GPS, but it is not needed in summer JMT, the compass and
> maps( http://bit.ly/qAJIbF ) are enough. No large creature. Full of
> flowers.
>
>
>
> 2011/7/13 Brock Dallman <brock.dallman at gmail.com>:
>> Good morning! I'm planning a hike from Walker Pass to (at least) the
>> Columbia Gorge, and i have delayed my plans due to the heavy snow-pack this
>> year. The JMT and High Sierras are to be the focal point of my trip, and I
>> plan on taking my time going through them. Obviously I am expecting snow
>> and ice through the high passes and parts of the trail, but I want don't
>> want to deal with the "hundreds of miles of continuous snow" at the lower
>> elevations. I have never been in that area and am wondering what the
>> current conditions are, how fast they are changing, and when the "A GPS IS
>> MANDATORY" status of these sections will cease to be, as I will not be
>> buying one. (I've got the Wilderness Press guides for all the sections and
>> a compass.) Any info would be greatly appreciated.
>>
>> Also, a friend of mine gave me some great advise on bear deterrent that
>> I have never heard anywhere else despite its simplicity. AIR HORNS!
>> Instead of bear mace which is basically a last resort method with
>> questionable effectiveness, hows about something more pro active? Say it's
>> the dead of night and you hear some large creature rustling around your
>> site. Just cover your ears and give the ol' air horn a lengthy blast! Plus
>> you could use it on the trail even at a distance if you spot a bear that's
>> getting too close for comfort. Probably not the best thing to use in an
>> avalanche area but with discretion, I think it would be an effective tool,
>> when combined with bear cannisters/ bear bagging of course. Anyhow, happy
>> trails, and a safe Summer!
>>
>> Brock
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>>
>
>
>
> --
> Sincerely
> --------------- --------------------------------------
> Hiro ( Yoshihiro Murakami ???? )
> Blogs http://completewalker.blogspot.com/
> Photo http://picasaweb.google.co.jp/CompleteWalker/
> Backpacking since about 1980 in Japan
> 2009 JMT, the first America.
> 2010 JMT, the second America.
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 16
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 16:51:51 -0700
> From: PCT List <pctlist at gmail.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAOtJNzO-KB0JoKqORAaNGvfjv7Lhao22G6o8w1Zc9s2Tj=Grkw at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Overlooking the irony of an April 1st start date (changed from March I
> see), maybe Ned can answer a few questions that have been clearly
> overlooked and need to be considered.
>
> 1. Does Mountain Education know what percentage of thru-hikers get
> turned around in Washington due to early season snow? This is your big
> selling point and I'll bet you have no clue.
>
> 2. How does Mountain Education address powder/consolidated conditions
> on Mt Laguna, Mt San Jacinto, Big Bear and Baden-Powell in April? You
> seem to have handily ignored this.
>
> 3. How does Mountain Education address certain April winter storm
> conditions in the SoCal mountains? You've completely ignored this as
> well.
>
> 4. Does Mountain Education realize that entering the Sierra *after*
> peak melt when the trail is mostly clear, almost all the hazards
> you've painstakingly noted have diminished greatly or are gone
> completely?
>
> 5. Does Mountain Education realize an April 1st start date puts most
> hikers in the NorCal/Oregon snow as well?
>
> 6. Does Mountain Education realize what an exhausting, dangerous
> regimen they are trying to bestow on the average thru-hiker?
>
> 7. Last, does Mountain Education *really* have the best interest of
> hikers in mind or are you striving to be relevant, create a market and
> demand for yourselves, in lieu of promoting the *ease* of late
> spring/early summer hiking conditions?
>
> -postholer
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 17
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 17:52:15 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: "PCT List" <pctlist at gmail.com>, <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <5F21B1C148D54D1CA7D4BAE0E786C0DA at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
> reply-type=original
>
> Ok, Scott, lets go in deeper...
>
> Preface:
>
> We only asked that our thoughts on this subject be considered by next year's
> class of thru hikers. Of course topics can be overlooked which need to be
> considered.
>
> 1. Every year we hear of hikers that do get stopped by early season storms.
> I would imagine that others in our hiking community may have this
> documented. We are only reiterating what the Park Rangers in Canada have
> told us about when the storms usually arrive and their recommendation that
> all hikers get across the border by "mid-September." We do not question
> their validity or authority on this matter only accept it since they are
> there and know best because of it. I would sure be saddened to hike toward
> my dream of Canada only to be unable to reach or attain it because of an
> early-season snow storm.
> As far as a "selling point," I stated that we don't care if people take our
> Courses, only go see what it's like up there right now for themselves and
> consider the idea.
> As far as having "no clue," after 37 years of sierra wilderness skills
> instruction, we certainly have at least that.
>
> 2. In Southern California in April, being past the March date I stated when
> the snow begins to consolidate because of the length of sunlight in the day
> and the usual increase in ambient temperature, the snow on the mountains you
> mentioned is consolidating and becoming more "spring-like" and harder
> throughout. Yes, storms can still come in and bring powder conditions, but
> "winter," unconsolidated snow is not usually present in April and the powder
> doesn't last. We had such storms hit us this year and last in May north of
> Kennedy Meadows and they did not deposit much nor did it last long (maybe a
> day or two since the ambient temps at those times were very warm).
> As far as "handily ignored this," I thought it was common knowledge, but
> then I guess there are many who think there is fresh, powder snow in
> abundance on the mountains of Southern California in April. Mountain
> Education is not without recent experience in this as we just last year
> taught a snow skills course on Mt. San Jacinto the end of April.
>
> 3. As mentioned above, snow storms can and do hit the west coast in April
> and May, some bringing rain and some bringing snow. We have camped through
> numerous storms that brought one or the other in May at elevations above
> 10,000 north of KM, as mentioned above. They deposited little and presented
> no deterrent to our progress.
> As far as "ignored this," you must be assuming that my comments were
> premeditated and colored to make my "selling point." Storms at this time of
> year do not pose a problem, but we encourage all thru hikers to be prepared
> for the worst and enjoy the best, so watch the weather, stay in your tent if
> there is a big storm, and carry a tent that will handle it well--you may be
> in it for a day off!
>
> 4. Well, that depends when "after peak snow melt" really is and what is
> still present at that time to continue to deal with. Most thru hikers want
> to be as educated as possible before their hikes so they can be as prepared
> as they can to make it through when their time comes. The true conditions on
> the ground vary wildly depending on when they get "there." If "after" means
> when there are ideal conditions of dry trail and low-flowing creeks above
> 10,500, then hikers may have to wait into August to get through the Sierra
> in a summer like this one and last. Can a hiker still make it to Canada
> after that and before the snows up north start flying, I doubt it, but with
> some flipping I suppose anything can happen. I'm talking about keeping it
> simple and doing a straight-through thru-hike.
>
> 5. If Oregon holds a lot of snow in July, then so be it. It certainly did
> when I hiked through, but I got to Canada before the first snows of 1974! If
> thru hikers want to hike fast and schedule their dream hikes that way,
> leaving "late" and having to hurry north to make the storm deadline, then
> that is their choice and desire. We only wanted to present the idea and ask
> next year's class to consider the option in light of what last year's and
> this year's have had to and are dealing with in regards to snow, creek
> crossings, and safety-related concerns.
>
> 6. We want thru hikers to be aware of the conditions they are likely to
> encounter in the High Sierra during the months when they are to be there,
> know what it will take of them to get through it, go around it, or skip it
> entirely, and have a Plan-B. Every year we look into the eyes of hikers who
> have romanticized the concept of the thru hike and really have no "clue" as
> to what they're going to see up there nor how they're going to have to deal
> with it safely. Many just rely on their companions for aid and guidance and
> there's nothing wrong with that except when they leave the trail, hike
> ahead, or are just not around when the help is needed. Once the aspiring
> thru goes up into the Sierras at the time when they expect to be there the
> next year, they will see for themselves just how "exhausting and dangerous a
> regimen" it really is and prepare for it or avoid it by waiting for the snow
> to melt, avoiding it altogether, or flipping (if that really works depends
> on the year's snow levels elsewhere on the entire trail).
>
> 7. Mountain Education wants hikers to be realistic about their intentions.
> How do they do that? Go up into the mountains for themselves to see what its
> really like. If they choose to hike late and attempt to attain a dry trail
> all the way to Canada, then they need to realize what that will require of
> their speed and miles required per day to get to Canada before the snow
> flies. Just because we find it more enjoyable to go slow, start early,
> snow-hike, and cross low creeks up north doesn't mean that everyone will see
> it our way nor want to do it this way nor, maybe, they don't have it in
> their schedule, even. HYOH.
>
> Just realize that there are other ideas on the subject and they are not just
> theory or conjecture. I left on the PCT on March 14th and arrived Manning on
> Sept. 2nd.
>
> Thanks for asking me to fill some holes in the subject, Scott!
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "PCT List" <pctlist at gmail.com>
> To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 4:51 PM
> Subject: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
>
>
>> Overlooking the irony of an April 1st start date (changed from March I
>> see), maybe Ned can answer a few questions that have been clearly
>> overlooked and need to be considered.
>>
>> 1. Does Mountain Education know what percentage of thru-hikers get
>> turned around in Washington due to early season snow? This is your big
>> selling point and I'll bet you have no clue.
>>
>> 2. How does Mountain Education address powder/consolidated conditions
>> on Mt Laguna, Mt San Jacinto, Big Bear and Baden-Powell in April? You
>> seem to have handily ignored this.
>>
>> 3. How does Mountain Education address certain April winter storm
>> conditions in the SoCal mountains? You've completely ignored this as
>> well.
>>
>> 4. Does Mountain Education realize that entering the Sierra *after*
>> peak melt when the trail is mostly clear, almost all the hazards
>> you've painstakingly noted have diminished greatly or are gone
>> completely?
>>
>> 5. Does Mountain Education realize an April 1st start date puts most
>> hikers in the NorCal/Oregon snow as well?
>>
>> 6. Does Mountain Education realize what an exhausting, dangerous
>> regimen they are trying to bestow on the average thru-hiker?
>>
>> 7. Last, does Mountain Education *really* have the best interest of
>> hikers in mind or are you striving to be relevant, create a market and
>> demand for yourselves, in lieu of promoting the *ease* of late
>> spring/early summer hiking conditions?
>>
>> -postholer
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 18
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 18:04:56 -0700
> From: Diane Soini of Santa Barbara Hikes <diane at santabarbarahikes.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Blasphemy (Was Hidden Gems of Bridgeport)
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <9C88331A-B54A-49B4-ABE3-3A84199BF7F2 at santabarbarahikes.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; delsp=yes; format=flowed
>
>
> On Jul 12, 2011, at 10:00 AM, pct-l-request at backcountry.net wrote:
>> For those at this year's ADZPCTKO and at Shroomer's BBQ's in John
>> Muir country, they may remember that his BBQ'd tofu was absolutely
>> incredible!!
>
> As were his giant Dungeness crabs! Crab butter on San Francisco
> sourdough bread. Oh my! I'll eat Shroomer's and Piper's Mom's cooking
> any day (even though I no longer should).
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 19
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 18:16:42 -0700
> From: Diane Soini of Santa Barbara Hikes <diane at santabarbarahikes.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Castle Crags north starting 23-25 July?
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <3009D39C-DA14-4DF5-8142-FED5B781F9A4 at santabarbarahikes.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; delsp=yes; format=flowed
>
> I read some PCT trail journals today and it sounds like a lot of
> hikers were having success hiking from Fish Lake Resort in Oregon
> SOBO to Old Station. There has been snow, but they've been able to
> manage. So I think by July 25 you should be okay. You won't have an
> entirely snow-free hike, but you'll probably do okay. And my guess is
> that the mosquitoes will be hellish. Mosquito-geddon. Bring a big can
> of spray-on deet and a headnet you can actually see through when the
> sun shines on it otherwise your pictures of Oregon will be the only
> way you'll see any of it.
>
>
> On Jul 12, 2011, at 10:00 AM, pct-l-request at backcountry.net wrote:
>
>> I have been planning to start north from Castle Crags on 23 or 25
>> July.
>> Does anyone have any feeling for whether the trail through to
>> Ashland will
>> be clear, or mostly clear of snow by then? Also, anyone else
>> starting
>> north from Crystal Crags around then? I plan taking Amtrak from
>> Los Angeles
>> (near where I live) to Dunsmuir.
>>
>>
>>
>> My plans are to continue on to Cascade Locks. I am an experienced and
>> reasonably strong backpacker, and hope/need to average 20 miles per
>> day
>> between Crystal Crags and Cascade Locks (I did Tuolumne to Crystal
>> Crags
>> averaging that last summer). Is this realistic given the
>> conditions this
>> year? Also, are mosquitoes likely to be horrendous? Any info
>> that anyone
>> can provide now, and during the next couple of weeks, will be greatly
>> appreciated.
>>
>>
>>
>> - Blue Feather
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 20
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:04:03 -0700
> From: PCT List <pctlist at gmail.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAOtJNzO6Gcak0fYV6N6XUzr4ydjq+VJ0PSR5zciQCqJo-Od2gA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> The sierra are irrelevant. The average hiker that leaves April 1st
> will be skipping and flipping before they to get to I-10. Your
> disregard for the abilities of the average hiker (your abilities are
> irrelevant) and the winter conditions they'll face in the SoCal desert
> and mountains is appalling. Why would you encourage this?
>
> You are incredibly, irresponsibly wrong for promoting a March and
> April 1st start date in a normal snow year for the average hiker.
>
> June 15th in a normal snow year is significantly past peak snow melt.
> Why would you 'doubt' that a hiker could make Canada before the snow
> flies? How can you even make such a statement when you admittedly
> don't know what the numbers are? You simply do not know. In your 37
> years of experience you have no clue. I'll give you a hint, a hiker
> that leaves KM after peak melt in a normal snow year has a FANTASTIC
> chance of making Canada, without dealing with all the dangerous and
> 'soul crushing' conditions you deem so necessary for a successful
> hike.
>
> You want hikers to be 'realistic about their intentions'? A 3 day
> field trip to the Sierra Snow this summer is a far cry from hiking
> hundreds of miles in snow-clogged forests. How could an average
> potential thru hiker not from the area even begin to fully understand?
>
> Ned, you need to take a step back and look beyond the end of your own
> nose. The average, potential thru-hiker does not have your abilities.
> Encouraging them to hike your hike, telling them they'll fail if they
> don't......when you don't even know.
>
> -postholer
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 21
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:49:35 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: "PCT List" <pctlist at gmail.com>, <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID: <06F9F2F0DA044E859EF01E0B88C96B66 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
> reply-type=original
>
> Scott (Postholer),
>
> We have known each other for two years. You have been gracious to allow us
> to reach, educate, offer skills training courses and information about them,
> and discuss other safety-related snow-hiking topics via your Postholer site
> for those two years. We invited you to join us, once, but you declined,
> saying that you're not a fan of the snow. For your hosting, we thank you.
>
> It is a sad day when you respond to our dissenting voice (our opinions do
> not agree) by blocking viewers from seeing our Forum on your site. You
> certainly have that right; it is your site. For everyone else in our hiking
> community, this is what Scott decided to do:
>
> "Hey Ned,
>
> I've changed the status on your forum so only you can view/edit etc:
> http://postholer.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=25
>
> I feel so strongly that you are promoting incredibly bad advice that I
> do not wish to have the postholer site associated with you or Mountain
> Education.
>
> The forum will be there indefinitely, just hidden, so you can remove
> what content you need to.
>
> Best of luck,
> Scott"
>
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "PCT List" <pctlist at gmail.com>
> To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 7:04 PM
> Subject: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
>
>
>> The sierra are irrelevant. The average hiker that leaves April 1st
>> will be skipping and flipping before they to get to I-10. Your
>> disregard for the abilities of the average hiker (your abilities are
>> irrelevant) and the winter conditions they'll face in the SoCal desert
>> and mountains is appalling. Why would you encourage this?
>>
>> You are incredibly, irresponsibly wrong for promoting a March and
>> April 1st start date in a normal snow year for the average hiker.
>>
>> June 15th in a normal snow year is significantly past peak snow melt.
>> Why would you 'doubt' that a hiker could make Canada before the snow
>> flies? How can you even make such a statement when you admittedly
>> don't know what the numbers are? You simply do not know. In your 37
>> years of experience you have no clue. I'll give you a hint, a hiker
>> that leaves KM after peak melt in a normal snow year has a FANTASTIC
>> chance of making Canada, without dealing with all the dangerous and
>> 'soul crushing' conditions you deem so necessary for a successful
>> hike.
>>
>> You want hikers to be 'realistic about their intentions'? A 3 day
>> field trip to the Sierra Snow this summer is a far cry from hiking
>> hundreds of miles in snow-clogged forests. How could an average
>> potential thru hiker not from the area even begin to fully understand?
>>
>> Ned, you need to take a step back and look beyond the end of your own
>> nose. The average, potential thru-hiker does not have your abilities.
>> Encouraging them to hike your hike, telling them they'll fail if they
>> don't......when you don't even know.
>>
>> -postholer
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 22
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 20:06:08 -0700
> From: Carl Siechert <carlito at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Navigation Problems
> To: Brick Robbins <brick at brickrobbins.com>
> Cc: PCT <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID:
> <CAK1x7V=X1Psg5OHNsCDrOkJBv3+=kys8WPrYksBfWHXjzwHwkA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Same thing happened to me while hiking in South Africa many years ago. I
> knew from looking at the map in advance that we'd be hiking west. But I felt
> disoriented the whole time; something just felt wrong. Then I realized it
> was because the sun was on my right side.
>
> For travel, my two essentials include flashlight as well as compass. In
> town, I figure I can get along without the other eight!
>
> On Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 12:41 AM, Brick Robbins <brick at brickrobbins.com>wrote:
>
>> Not PCT, but I got really lost today using some of the navigation
>> tricks I rely on while hiking.
>>
>> I exited the subway in Buenos Aires and headed south towards the low
>> winter midday sun. Things didn't look right, and I started getting
>> really confused.
>>
>> That is when I remembered, that in the southern hemisphere, the low
>> winter midday sun would be in the north. Then I got even more confused
>> and disoriented. So I stopped, got out my compass and map, and figured
>> out where I was. Urban navigation at its best.
>>
>> And yes, I'm serious, I keep a compass in my bag to orient myself when
>> I come out of the subway stations at night. Old habits die hard.
>>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 23
> Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2011 22:29:30 -0700
> From: Scott Williams <baidarker at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: Yoshihiro Murakami <completewalker at gmail.com>
> Cc: Brock Dallman <brock.dallman at gmail.com>, pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAGxcj13cJtOtqCCfNngM5+aKEAfYpWa9h5BZ8+Nb4-gq--5rnQ at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> I'm in Alaska right now and have run into several Native American guides at
> a cultural site who carry air horns to scare away the brown bears. They say
> they work. I may buy a cheap boat horn for our hike on the Exit Glacier
> tomorrow. It's got to be more effective than bear bells.
>
> I was eye to eye with a lynx 3 days ago, and the magnificent animal just
> stood there 10 feet away staring us down and let me get some great pix.
>
> Shroomer
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 24
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:59:43 +0900
> From: Yoshihiro Murakami <completewalker at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: Scott Williams <baidarker at gmail.com>
> Cc: Brock Dallman <brock.dallman at gmail.com>, pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAMCqdRu4ajacs6GXABDwRHU6cHxSNuJT86LUbXqCwSyK2NWvjg at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-2022-JP
>
> Yes Shroomer
>
> There are many tools to frighten bears:
>
> The bear bell ( small type, widely used in Japan ) ---- It is noisy. I
> hate a bell and run away. I think bear also hate and run away.
>
> Whistle ( some one likes in Japan) ---- I have a whistle ( at a chest
> strap ). , It is very noisy. I hate whistle, bear also hate too.
>
> Horn --- horrible impression. --- I and bear run away instantly.
>
> Please treat wild animals more tenderly.
>
>
>
>
> 2011/7/13 Scott Williams <baidarker at gmail.com>:
>> I'm in Alaska right now and have run into several Native American guides at
>> a cultural site who carry air horns to scare away the brown bears. They say
>> they work. I may buy a cheap boat horn for our hike on the Exit Glacier
>> tomorrow. It's got to be more effective than bear bells.
>> I was eye to eye with a lynx 3 days ago, and the magnificent animal just
> ? ( I can't understand )
>> stood there 10 feet away staring us down and let me get some great pix.
>
>
>
> You are very lucky. I have never met with bear such a close distance.
>
>
>> Shroomer
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
> --
> Sincerely
> --------------- --------------------------------------
> Hiro ( Yoshihiro Murakami ???? )
> Blogs http://completewalker.blogspot.com/
> Photo http://picasaweb.google.co.jp/CompleteWalker/
> Backpacking since about 1980 in Japan
> 2009 JMT, the first America.
> 2010 JMT, the second America.
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 25
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 07:25:19 -0700
> From: Mike Chapman <altathunder76 at gmail.com>
> Subject: [pct-l] The Animal Inside,and some B.S.
> To: "pct-L backcountry.net" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID:
> <CAJL5Nrsu4kXijzTvc4jKZfa9EnGca7FL4xX0UHtvF2tF7GoshA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Ive been prep hiking for my release back into the wild,ive dominated
> Donner Summit and did a little peak hiking and blazing of new
> trails,it feels great to do what makes me feel good. I leave this
> morning heading north on pct,but will come back after 100 or so miles
> and head south. I read somewhere on this site that its not worth
> risking your life for the pct. Can I ask you what is worth risking
> your life for,your 9-5? Is this gods plan,9-5 and hope that fun finds
> you in your golden years,if you make it that far(f#$% that). I still
> suffer the effects of Steven Johnsons Syndrome,which is basically
> untreatable,and can take you off the planet. Im as itchy as a person
> covered with poison oak(over a month of this),but when im hiking,im
> not itching,im too busy! Sure,I wanted to go from campo strait to the
> northern terminus,but I slipped up and got a huge dose of reality,im
> not superman(doh!). Im a firm beleiver that I dont guide my path,im
> just the conductor on the train of life,just keep your arms in the
> window and watch for road crossings. Im not a violent person(sure),but
> when people get crazy or tough on this list or in life in general,my
> hair on my neck stands,and I feel the animal inside,ready to pounce.
> This is the feeling I get,when im raging thru the pct. Dont be ashamed
> to show emotion,I often foam at the mouth with rage,I like to pump
> myself up. Sure,its a little weird when I come around the corner and
> my face is full of tears,and im growling the word RAGE! But,whatever
> works for you,some like energy GU,or protein shakes to get pumped up,a
> prime example of HYOH. Id like to say that if you plan on doing the
> pct and dont know snow,please take Neds class(why not?). Im pretty
> sure Ned has never told anyone that they must start the pct at a
> certain date,and to tell you the truth,some people would never listen
> to advise from this list anyway. But I think its great to say what you
> feel PCT List,you got some valid points,im just unsure that there is
> answers to some of these problems,everyone is so different. How can
> stuff that works for you,work the same for me? Just to prove that I
> can,id like to call out the powers that be,that kicked Reinhold out of
> the K.O. Are these the same people that preach HYOH?(please) I really
> wanted to hear this dude,and to hear about how it went down,really
> makes me sick. I dont like when people get picked on,and to see the
> guy(K.O. Goon) walking around with the scowel of little mans
> disease,wanting to show how tough he is,please,get a full size goon
> and fight non hikers,or pct legends. Yes Tortoise,the truth does
> matter,and dont be affraid to tell it. Hike On!
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 26
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:46 -0700
> From: CHUCK CHELIN <steeleye at wildblue.net>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] Navigation Problems
> To: Carl Siechert <carlito at gmail.com>
> Cc: PCT <pct-l at backcountry.net>, Brick Robbins
> <brick at brickrobbins.com>
> Message-ID:
> <CABc=HN=Pi1mOa4RLebXhEwp5MdACsFQTVkn6vYveOXT0hVz2Hw at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
>
> Good morning,
>
> I experienced the same phenomena in RSA and Australia whenever I set foot
> outside of a city. Sun position is an overlay of unconscious and reliable
> security suddenly turned backwards. It?s really disquieting to have to stop
> and think about where the sun is ? or should be.
>
> With that, feel for the plight our many PCT guest hikers from Australia and
> New Zealand who must hike substantially north for about 5 months with the
> sun uncharacteristically at their backs when it "should be" in their face.
>
> Steel-Eye
>
> Hiking the Pct since before it was the PCT ? 1965
>
> http://www.trailjournals.com/steel-eye
>
> http://www.trailjournals.com/SteelEye09
>
>
> On Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 8:06 PM, Carl Siechert <carlito at gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> Same thing happened to me while hiking in South Africa many years ago. I
>> knew from looking at the map in advance that we'd be hiking west. But I
>> felt
>> disoriented the whole time; something just felt wrong. Then I realized it
>> was because the sun was on my right side.
>>
>> For travel, my two essentials include flashlight as well as compass. In
>> town, I figure I can get along without the other eight!
>>
>> On Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 12:41 AM, Brick Robbins <brick at brickrobbins.com
>> >wrote:
>>
>> > Not PCT, but I got really lost today using some of the navigation
>> > tricks I rely on while hiking.
>> >
>> > I exited the subway in Buenos Aires and headed south towards the low
>> > winter midday sun. Things didn't look right, and I started getting
>> > really confused.
>> >
>> > That is when I remembered, that in the southern hemisphere, the low
>> > winter midday sun would be in the north. Then I got even more confused
>> > and disoriented. So I stopped, got out my compass and map, and figured
>> > out where I was. Urban navigation at its best.
>> >
>> > And yes, I'm serious, I keep a compass in my bag to orient myself when
>> > I come out of the subway stations at night. Old habits die hard.
>> >
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 27
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:18:30 -0700
> From: ron guay <ron.a.guay2 at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: PCT List <pctlist at gmail.com>
> Cc: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <CAF0ch12_RiUrx_-YdMCewzoYASsRv9RSwkx0LriS7Hjfiudx-A at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> I just want to add my two sense...considering I am a current thru in a very
> high snow year who just went through TM to Echo Lake (I also have no
> monetary stake in this)
>
> I would much rather have miles and miles of clear trail than miles and miles
> of snow. I would rather cross a few difficult streams without snow bridges
> if it meant clear trail.
>
> The psychological factor snow plays on hikers is huge...even if they have a
> GPS with tracks...and the snow is easy to hike on...etc.
>
> In my humble opinion...March or early April is too soon. I've heard of
> thrus breaking down and screaming because of this years snow..."F the snow!
> F the snow!" (Funny)...and others who took the snow course(s) and who are
> still skipping trail.
>
> Right now we just want the snow to end, but we hear it may be another 200
> miles before that happens...I can't imagine if we started a month earlier!
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 28
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 11:25:20 -0400 (EDT)
> From: Madmxe at aol.com
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID: <26b8b.4ddff685.3b4f12df at aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
>
>
>
>
> I was eye to eye with a lynx 3 days ago, and the magnificent animal just
> stood there 10 feet away staring us down and let me get some great pix.
>
> Shroomer
>
>
> Sure would love to see the pics when you get a change. That is really
> awesome!
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 29
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:57:03 -0700 (GMT-07:00)
> From: "Donna \"L-Rod\" Saufley" <dsaufley at sprynet.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: Madmxe at aol.com, pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID:
> <9636898.1310572624101.JavaMail.root at elwamui-polski.atl.sa.earthlink.net>
>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
>
> I once had a similar experience with a lynx, sans camera. I came upon it when it had a fresh kill. It went and "hid" behind some tall grass. The funny thing was that there were just a few stalks of grass, and I could see the animal in its entirety, just 20 feet away. But it thought it was hidden so it stayed there still. Finally, I thought it best to move along and leave the magnificent cat alone with its meal.
>
> L-Rod
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
>>From: Madmxe at aol.com
>>Sent: Jul 13, 2011 8:25 AM
>>To: pct-l at backcountry.net
>>Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>I was eye to eye with a lynx 3 days ago, and the magnificent animal just
>>stood there 10 feet away staring us down and let me get some great pix.
>>
>>Shroomer
>>
>>
>> Sure would love to see the pics when you get a change. That is really
>>awesome!
>>
>>_______________________________________________
>>Pct-L mailing list
>>Pct-L at backcountry.net
>>To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>>http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>>List Archives:
>>http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 30
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:03:13 -0700
> From: Jeffrey Olson <jolson at olc.edu>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] PCT thru timing for 2012
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID: <4E1DC1C1.4020506 at olc.edu>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
>
> It is possible to leave Mexico in June and complete the trail before the
> snows hit in Washington. Last year Hummingbird did it. I was hiking
> around the 1000 mile mark along Falls Creek in 1994 and met a guy who
> read Jardine's book, got himself set up as Jardine recommended, and was
> passing hikers who had started six weeks before him. Both were
> dedicated hikers. Neither spent long jabbering...
>
> Neither of them were at all social. They eschewed others actually. It
> would take a pretty unique personality to find and maintain the
> motivation to finish in four months or less.
>
> Jeffrey Olson
> Santa Rosa, CA
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 31
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:15:11 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: [pct-l] classic snow bridge
> To: "PCT MailingList" <pct-l at backcountry.net>,
> <TheTahoeRimTrail at yahoogroups.com>
> Cc: johnmuirtrail at yahoogroups.com
> Message-ID: <BC1076886F0846BB9C85046EBB5D2CCE at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> In case anyone doesn't know what a "snow bridge" is and how great they are when it comes to getting across a dangerous creek, we have a shot of a "classic" one taken just a week or so ago on July 1st at 7,000 feet (west aspect in trees: Bear Lake Creek, north of Miller Creek, north of Desolation Wilderness).
>
> The key to safely using these for creek crossing is to visually inspect its thickness from downstream prior to crossing. If you are snow-hiking over firm, consolidated, spring snow, we have found that for the average hiker a thickness of 3 feet is sufficient to hold your weight. If there is any question, test ahead with your poles, check the edges for their thickness taper, then, if you feel confident about it, vault across the center, most likely thinnest section, on your two poles. Beware of tree branches or logs within the bridge as they create their own hollows or voids that will make the snow over them thinner.
>
> In regard to snow bridges, we have been asked to comment on the woman who fell through one down in SeKi earlier this spring. Evidently, and we don't have all the reports, she was a very experienced "mountaineer" who should have known better. Speaking from the standpoint of someone similar, it is very easy to become distracted or hurried when in the company of others, so perhaps she didn't exercise all her attention or wisdom in the evaluation of the bridge before she crossed it and fell through. Does anyone know if she was alone? Clearly, the reports say that there were others in the area who helped rescue her from the waters downstream. Were they part of her party?
>
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 32
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:18:34 -0700
> From: Scott Williams <baidarker at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
> To: "Donna \"L-Rod\" Saufley" <dsaufley at sprynet.com>
> Cc: pct-l at backcountry.net, Madmxe at aol.com
> Message-ID:
> <CAGxcj11th1y0HLsV82g-VMQBmFXNY7yyZ4Kiv=_6VaeTNL3RUA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> Hey all,
>
> I will be posting pix of the lynx as well as moose, porpoises, whales,
> eagles and calving glaciers this Saturday morning in a hiking column I've
> been writing since last January. When I got back from my thru hike last
> year the editor of our local e-paper, Martinez.Patch.com, asked me to write
> a hiking column. At first I told him no way did I want a deadline back into
> my life, but by Christmas I thought what the hell, I'll write something. I
> usually profile a local hike and tell stories from the PCT last year, but
> when I'm somewhere beautiful I profile where ever I am. Several weeks ago
> it was the Grand Canyon, now it's Alaska. Last weeks article was all on
> stream crossing, from my experiences and much we talk of on this list. The
> column is called Walk About Martinez, and if you search my name, you can get
> the old columns. The one on Grand Canyon is nice, as is the one in Henry
> Coe State Park with Zinger, a bit ago. If you want the stories of our
> transit of the snow last year, they begin on Feb 10 or so. It's been fun.
> I'll post a link on Sat as so many have asked for the pix of the lynx.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Shroomer
>
> On Wed, Jul 13, 2011 at 8:57 AM, Donna "L-Rod" Saufley <dsaufley at sprynet.com
>> wrote:
>
>> I once had a similar experience with a lynx, sans camera. I came upon it
>> when it had a fresh kill. It went and "hid" behind some tall grass. The
>> funny thing was that there were just a few stalks of grass, and I could see
>> the animal in its entirety, just 20 feet away. But it thought it was hidden
>> so it stayed there still. Finally, I thought it best to move along and leave
>> the magnificent cat alone with its meal.
>>
>> L-Rod
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> >From: Madmxe at aol.com
>> >Sent: Jul 13, 2011 8:25 AM
>> >To: pct-l at backcountry.net
>> >Subject: Re: [pct-l] JMT/Sierra Conditions? + Bear Ideas
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >I was eye to eye with a lynx 3 days ago, and the magnificent animal just
>> >stood there 10 feet away staring us down and let me get some great pix.
>> >
>> >Shroomer
>> >
>> >
>> > Sure would love to see the pics when you get a change. That is really
>> >awesome!
>> >
>> >_______________________________________________
>> >Pct-L mailing list
>> >Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> >To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> >http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>> >
>> >List Archives:
>> >http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Pct-L mailing list
>> Pct-L at backcountry.net
>> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>>
>> List Archives:
>> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 33
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:19:27 -0700
> From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> Subject: [pct-l] classic snow bridge, woops
> To: "PCT MailingList" <pct-l at backcountry.net>,
> <TheTahoeRimTrail at yahoogroups.com>
> Cc: johnmuirtrail at yahoogroups.com
> Message-ID: <C5CF2345B3FF489BAFBF83B4ECAE1A10 at PacificCrestPC>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> Forgot to tell you where the picture is...
>
> http://www.mountaineducation.org/news.php
>
> First trail report dated July 1st and 2nd, third picture. Click on it to see bigger.
>
>
>
> "Just remember, Be Careful out there!"
>
> Ned Tibbits, Director
> Mountain Education
> South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
> P: 888-996-8333
> F: 530-541-1456
> C: 530-721-1551
> http://www.mountaineducation.org
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 34
> Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:54:25 -0700 (PDT)
> From: Edward Anderson <mendoridered at yahoo.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] The Animal Inside,and some B.S.
> To: Mike Chapman <altathunder76 at gmail.com>, "pct-l at backcountry.net"
> <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Message-ID:
> <1310576065.89171.YahooMailNeo at web111618.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
>
> Good and interesting post.
> ?
> I will be riding my horse Neekalos?south from Sierra City beginning August 9.?I'm getting really itchy too. ?If you notice any big obatacles for a horse please let me know. AND - have a good hike.
> ?
> MendoRider
>
> From: Mike Chapman <altathunder76 at gmail.com>
> To: pct-L backcountry.net <pct-l at backcountry.net>
> Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 7:25 AM
> Subject: [pct-l] The Animal Inside,and some B.S.
>
> Ive been prep hiking for my release back into the wild,ive dominated
> Donner Summit and did a little peak hiking and blazing of new
> trails,it feels great to do what makes me feel good. I leave this
> morning heading north on pct,but will come back after 100 or so miles
> and head south. I read somewhere on this site that its not worth
> risking your life for the pct. Can I ask you what is worth risking
> your life for,your 9-5? Is this gods plan,9-5 and hope that fun finds
> you in your golden years,if you make it that far(f#$% that).? I still
> suffer the effects of Steven Johnsons Syndrome,which is basically
> untreatable,and can take you off the planet. Im as itchy as a person
> covered with poison oak(over a month of this),but when im hiking,im
> not itching,im too busy! Sure,I wanted to go from campo strait to the
> northern terminus,but I slipped up and got a huge dose of reality,im
> not superman(doh!). Im a firm beleiver that I dont guide my path,im
> just the conductor on the train of life,just keep your arms in the
> window and watch for road crossings. Im not a violent person(sure),but
> when people get crazy or tough on this list or in life in general,my
> hair on my neck stands,and I feel the animal inside,ready to pounce.
> This is the feeling I get,when im raging thru the pct. Dont be ashamed
> to show emotion,I often foam at the mouth with rage,I like to pump
> myself up. Sure,its a little weird when I come around the corner and
> my face is full of tears,and im growling the word RAGE! But,whatever
> works for you,some like energy GU,or protein shakes to get pumped up,a
> prime example of HYOH. Id like to say that if you plan on doing the
> pct and dont know snow,please take Neds class(why not?). Im pretty
> sure Ned has never told anyone that they must start the pct at a
> certain date,and to tell you the truth,some people would never listen
> to advise from this list anyway. But I think its great to say what you
> feel PCT List,you got some valid points,im just unsure that there is
> answers to some of these problems,everyone is so different. How can
> stuff that works for you,work the same for me?? Just to prove that I
> can,id like to call out the powers that be,that kicked Reinhold out of
> the K.O. Are these the same people that preach HYOH?(please) I really
> wanted to hear this dude,and to hear about how it went down,really
> makes me sick. I dont like when people get picked on,and to see the
> guy(K.O. Goon) walking around with the scowel of little mans
> disease,wanting to show how tough he is,please,get a full size goon
> and fight non hikers,or pct legends. Yes Tortoise,the truth does
> matter,and dont be affraid to tell it. Hike On!
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> End of Pct-L Digest, Vol 43, Issue 13
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