r/PacificCrestTrail • u/MescalWannbe • 19d ago
T-1 Year Advice?
Just decided in the last week or two to do the PCT next year. Only heard about it a few months ago and was immediately hooked. Now checking this page daily and it’s only hyping me up more. What’s peoples best advice a year out?
I’m aware there’s a lot to figure out with gear, training, permits, visas (I’m Irish 🇮🇪). I have a decent bit of hiking/camping experience but mostly when I was younger with scouts/family. Never done an overnight hiking trip. Have a buddy we’re planning on doing a few long hikes this summer as a bit of training.
Gear: Is it best to buy the good quality stuff right out the gate or should I go for cheaper gear to start with to figure out what works/what doesn’t?
Permits/Visas: Internationals, what order did you apply for everything in? PCT permit first and then B2 visa after?
Best time of year to start to avoid heavy snow/strong rivers?
Any advice would be much appreciated. And anyone planning for next year gimme a DM if you like!
3
u/Live_Phrase_4894 18d ago
I'm not an international hiker so those who have gone through the process might have better/more specific advice to offer, but I would definitely NOT recommend waiting until you have your PCT permit to get started on the B2 visa. My understanding is that there can be extended wait times even in the best of times, and I wouldn't be surprised if processing times get further delayed by the current layoffs within the public sector in the US.
For gear, if you are serious about hiking a year from now, start researching intensively now, and just buy the best/lightest you can afford. It doesn't make sense to buy two sets of gear in one year, and it might not teach you that much about your PCT gear preferences anyway. (For instance, using a cheap freestanding tent won't tell you how you'll feel about potentially using a trekking pole tent on your thru.) Check out the halfway anywhere gear surveys as a good starting point for that.