Author: David Craig

Ultralight Thru Hiker and traveler
Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: A Zero Day in Tehachapi
Pacific Crest Trail, Thru Hiking

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: A Zero Day in Tehachapi

A “zero” day is a day in which no miles are traveled. Zero days are mainly for resupplying, laundry, showering, and resting. Fortunately for some friends and I, we took care of these chores the day before. Consequently, we had a full zero day in the town of Tehachapi with no trail chores. The day started when I woke up in the backyard of trail angel Tortoise’s house. I cowboy camped next to his trailer because the inside smelled like stale cigarettes and dead animal.

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After eating 2 servings of breakfast at a local restaurant, five of us headed to the movie theater for a matinee showing of Neighbors. The movie cost $5, about 75% less than a movie in New York.
By the time the movie was over, we had not eaten in about 3 hours, so Handstand grilled everybody some burgers and hotdogs on Tortoise’s barbecue.
When the food was all gone, a bunch of us packed into the trailer for a couple games of scrabble.

20140605-132622-48382999.jpg Continue reading “Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: A Zero Day in Tehachapi”

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: Hostel to Hostel Hiking
Pacific Crest Trail, Thru Hiking

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: Hostel to Hostel Hiking

Staying at Jeff’s hiker hostel was an inspiration. His family took us into their home and treated us with the upmost hospitality and generosity. We took several “zero” days here to rest up and get the hell out of the desert sun. This is the attic that became home for a few days.

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On the 3rd day of our stay, he took us out back to shoot a couple rounds off with his 22.

20140517-185149.jpg Continue reading “Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: Hostel to Hostel Hiking”

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: 370 Miles North – Trail Magic
Pacific Crest Trail, Thru Hiking

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: 370 Miles North – Trail Magic

On day 17, it was decided that waking up at 4:30am and hitting the trail at 5:15 was the best option. The early breakfast was inspired by a 20 mile waterless stretch that lay ahead. Knocking out 10 miles before the heat of the day allowed me to carry only 2 liters during the waterless stretch.

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When it was all said and done, I arrived at the next water source at 2pm. I wasn’t dehydrated, I still had half a liter of water left. But, I was mentally and physically drained from the morning and afternoon hiking.
Of course, that’s when the trail provided something to uplift my spirits. A trail supporter must know of the difficult waterless stretch, so he/she setup a nice spot to relax and enjoy yourself.
Next to the water cache, this trail angel provided a couch and a garbage dumpster filled with some PCT Magic. Inside the dumpster was 8 different kinds of soda, various cookies, water, fruits, first aid supplies, and a trail log for thru hikers to sign. Continue reading “Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: 370 Miles North – Trail Magic”

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: Mexican Border to Idyllwild
Pacific Crest Trail, Thru Hiking

Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: Mexican Border to Idyllwild

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On April 17, I began my Pacific Crest Trail thru hike. Traveling north from the Mexican border, I will reach Canada sometime in early September. I’m currently in a small town called Idyllwild, about 175 miles north of Mexico.

Mornings on the PCT begin when the sun rises. After wiping the condensation off my sleeping bag, I chow down on some protein bars, force down a liter of water, and start my day. The cold desert wind is advantageous hiking weather, so 10 miles before noon has become habitual. Continue reading “Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike: Mexican Border to Idyllwild”