[pct-l] Kickoff experiences

[Melanie Clarke]

I attended the kickoff in 2011 and I didn't even see one drunk person.
 Come to think of it, I don't remember even seeing alcohol of any kind.  I
didn't see any cigarettes of any kind, tobacco or weed.  If it's there,
it's pretty discreet.  Everyone was quiet and in their tents asleep by
9:30-10:00pm.  No night life here!  I enjoyed looking at all the Vendors
with all the light weight gear.  This ultra light stuff was all new to me.
 REI was my only experience with backpacking equipment.  The classes were
marvelous and gave out really good information.  Talking to all the people
there was useful.  Everyone had amusing anecdotes and trail lore.  I also
observed what things worked and what didn't for other people.  The kick off
is an amazing learning experience!



On Sun, Mar 17, 2013 at 6:08 PM, vike norseman <valhalla at greenmail.net>wrote:

> In my experience the Kickoff isnt really too helpful for a thru-hike as
> you should be informed and prepared prior to arriving in the desert. Its a
> bit irresponsible to start a trail like the PCT and have to attend classes
> while on the trail, but thats just me, maybe. Sounds like everyone is
> attached to and carrying these electronic devices these days and can get
> info any time they need it. Introverts seem do better on the PCT and
> especially CDT. I noticed A.T. extroverts typically have a challenge ahead
> of them, but I suppose your electronic entertainment devices will help
> coping in the tougher times on the trail.
> Been to the kickoff a couple of times myself and really its just primarily
> a drunk-fest for past "through hikers" and the same folks peddling
> something, whether it be a book, video, themselves as "experts" or gear
> that you should already have for your journey. Its better to attend after a
> completion as a "through hiker" than as a thru-hiker. Either way its worth
> one attendance eventually if you enjoyed the trail. Yet, to each his/her
> own. Enjoy 2013!
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