What gear do I need to hike the PCT?

What gear do I need to hike the PCT?

The garments used during the active portion of a trip on the PCT and considered to be the basic outfit include socks, footwear, underwear, pants, shirt, warm jacket, hat, mittens or gloves, and rain gear. The term “extra clothing” refers to additional layers that would be needed to survive bad storms.

What sleeping bag is good for PCT?

As to warmth, a bag or quilt rated for 20°F is common on the Pacific Crest Trail. If you sleep cold, go with a bag rated for 10°F degrees. When the weather is warm you can sleep on top of your bag.

How heavy should your PCT pack be?

Pack Weight for Backpacking and Hiking: A loaded backpacking pack should not weigh more than about 20 percent of your body weight. (If you weigh 150 pounds, your pack should not exceed 30 pounds for backpacking.) A loaded day hiking pack should not weigh more than about 10 percent of your body weight.

How much money do you need to hike the PCT?

On average it costs about $6,000 to hike the PCT. That said, the cost of your hike can easily amount to several thousand dollars higher (a common scenario) or lower (if you’re disciplined and your hike is setback-free).

What temperature should a PCT quilt be?

Sleeping Bag or Quilt Temperatures on the PCT can be anywhere between the teens to more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so no one sleeping bag is going to be perfect for every night. Most hikers find a quality 20-30 degree down sleeping bag or quilt to meet their needs for almost every night of the trip.

How heavy is the average hiking pack weight?

Ideally, your backpack should weigh between 15-25 pounds, so you’ll probably need to find ways to cut weight when it comes to your gear. Luckily, we put together this guide for you with a few specific tips for one of the most popular thru-hikes of all.

How many died on PCT?

At the time this post is being updated (as I update it whenever news comes in), the number stands at 14. There have been 13 thru-hiker deaths on the PCT.

What to eat on a PCT thru hike?

Some popular options for “cold-hydrated” food include: Beans and rice (instant white rice rehydrates better than brown) Mashed potatoes Lentil soup and corn chowder from bulk bins Hummus Homecooked and dehydrated meals – our favorite Instant ramen noodles Trail salads

What to know before hiking the PCT?

Natural Threats On The PCT Aren’t What Most Hikers Expect.

  • Water Can Sometimes Be Scarce So Be Prepared.
  • Some Stop-Off Points Include Hostels And Motels.
  • Deciding At Which End To Start And The Ideal Timeline.
  • Obtaining (All Three) Permits.
  • Essentials To Pack.
  • Food And Resupply Stops,As Well As Mailing Supplies.
  • When to hike the PCT?

    Most northbound thru-hikers start the PCT in mid-April through early May. Southbound hikers generally start in late June through early July. Many people want to start early. Beware. Snow covers sections of the trail in the spring and early summer.

    How long does it take to hike the PCT?

    How long does a PCT thru-hike take? The trail is 2,650 miles and it generally takes the entire snow-free season to walk. That’s about 5 months. Elite athletes who are experienced on the PCT have finished the trail in as little as two months.

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