[pct-l] first night out

[abiegen at cox.net]

Hi Gerry,

Piper and I got a late start back in 2008 because we just couldn't wait to get started hiking. That put us in the twilight for most of our hike that day. I wasn't afraid of illegals as it seems only reasonable that none of them would come across the border with a gun. Almost all are just looking for work in the US. The drug running and gun running doesn't take place on the PCT. Drugs and Guns are too heavy. Would someone try to sneak some of your food or water? That's a possibility, but would you feel okay with shooting someone for that?

I was somewhat afraid of all the attention that our late start gave to the border patrol. They were circling overhead probably trying to figure out if we were illegals or not. Most thru-hikers hike during the day, not the evening so I guess we looked suspicious. I wouldn't like to have to try to explain myself with loaded guns pointing at me (something I have innocently had to do three times in my life). They did not send anyone out after us. We found a little hollow off the trail where we had just enough room for our tent and stayed there. We did hear feet pattering by, but no one stopped.

In 2010 we started early and we saw evidence of illegals, mostly their clothes and little sandals they discarded. I ran into the border patrol on the trail but they were very friendly. Asked if I had seen any illegals and I could honestly say no. Later I did see a straw hat hinging in a tree but not its owner.

We were not the only ones to start late in 2008 as we later met Clockwork Orange who was just a little ahead of us. You can always go to the monument and wait until someone shows up. You might feel more comfortable hiking with others at the beginning.

Your gun may make you feel secure early on in your hike but it is highly likely that after a short while you will realize you don't need it. At the very least, when you get to the Canadian border you are going to want to ditch it. Then what do you do with it? Can you send your gun through the mail along with ammunition or are you stuck with it for the duration? Would you feel comfortable doing that? If you own a gun you probably know more than I about what is allowable.

Best,

TrailHacker

"When my feet hurt, I can't think straight"
Abraham Lincoln