Backpacker Radio #135 | Hiking the PCT: Logistics, Preparation, & Gear Advice
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are diving into all things Pacific Crest Trail related. This is another panel featuring our hero and fellow PCT hiker, Elise Ott aka Sauce, and in it we share our best advice in regards to training, logistical prep, gear advice, ideal start dates, pacing, dealing with extreme temperatures, and much more. If you're planning a long-distance trek on the PCT, whether a section hike or a thru, you will glean valuable insights from this one. We wrap the show with a slew of segments in celebration of Backpacker Radio turning four years old, including some trivia, a listener voicemail, Trek propaganda, and more.
Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek” here.
Save 20% at Organifi with code "BACKPACKER"
PCT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, & Sauce
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:45 - QOTD: What’s been your most iconic moment of Backpacker Radio over the past 4 years?
00:12:13 - Reminders: Elise’s Announcement & Internship Opportunity
00:18:30 - Mara thinks she’s fired
00:27:35 - Introducing the PCT Panel
00:21:16 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: No bulking seasons
00:38:00 - Elise’s Tip #1: Don’t over plan
00:43:27 - Zach’s Tip #1: 3 steps to prep
00:49:20 - Zach’s Southbound Advice: It’s all about timing
00:52:38 - Having a good diet on-trail
00:53:52 - Zach’s healthy hiking food recommendations
00:59:48 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Shipping food on PCT
01:04:50 - Packing out morale-boosting snacks/drinks
01:08:15 - Elise’s Tip #2: PCT start dates
01:14:20 - Elise’s snow experience in September
01:20:30 - Zach’s Tip #2: Heat Training
01:29:37 - Electrolytes in the desert
01:32:00 - Gear Setups
01:32:14 - What tents did everyone use?
01:43:33 - What’s everyone’s sleep system?
02:00:40 - What backpacks did everyone use?
02:10:40 - Is the BPR crew outdated with their gear?
02:21:00 - Voicemail Question: What’s your opinion on PCT resupplying?
02:30:38 - Elise’s advice for a snow year: collaborate with a group
SEGMENTS
BPR’s Top 10 Cities
Countries w/ 1 BPR Download
4 Year Trivia Answers
- Dragonfly = 4 weeks, Houseflies = 4 months, Guinea Pig = 4 years
- Who is the 4th richest American? Larry Ellison of Oracle
- What hike did Jabba complete in 2018? Colorado Trail
- You have $4 for a meal, what do you buy?
4-Themed Trek Propaganda Articles
- Four Reasons Why I Will Thru-Hike the A.T. at Forty by Heather Oconnell
- Four Things I Will Never Hike Without Again by Claire Dumont
- Our Colorado Trail Gear Lists: The Big Four by Kate Houston
5 Star Review
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