When Linda and I stopped in Manning Park last week, my attention was immediately drawn to a young man standing alone beside an oversized back pack. His lean physique, black beard and the bulky pack suggested to me he wasn’t a casual camper. I introduced myself, then asked, “Have you been camping in the park?” “My name is Nick,” he said, “I’ve just come off the Pacific Crest Trail. I started at the Mexican-U.S. Border.”
I’ve encountered intrepid souls like Nick in the past and have invariably experienced a sharp twinge of envy. Although I’ve canoed, portaged and camped in rugged wilderness, in my mind the Pacific Crest Trail is like playing in the big leagues. According to the Pacific Crest Trail Association website, “The Trail traverses 4,286 km. (2,665 mi.), mostly in rugged remote wilderness. It rises to 4,009 m. (13,153 ft). You will be on your own and safety is your responsibility.”
“Dangers may include lightning strikes, cold weather, falling rock, swift flowing streams and wild animals. Also, there’s the possibility of encountering unfriendly men with guns guarding illegal cannabis grow sites along the way, especially in California. There may be no cell service for days, or weeks. There are basically no businesses, huts or facilities, and only minimal signage.”
The website offers essential advice for anyone wanting to challenge the Trail. “You can minimize risk with knowledge, equipment and planning. Take an orienteering class and carry paper maps and a compass. Never rely solely on digital devices. Sunscreen, lip balm, a sun hat, long sleeved shirts are also important. Carry and know how to use a decently stocked first aid kit. Take 2 lighters, matches in a waterproof container and fire starter for emergencies.” For anyone planning to hike the Trail, the website is a good place to start.
Nick’s accent prompted me to ask if he was from elsewhere, “Yes,” he replied. “My home is in Munich, Germany. I came especially to hike the trail. My first day was March 29. I hiked through 500 km. of snow in the Sierra mountains.” He said it matter of factly as though it had been an expected hurdle, not something to complain about.
Only age 22, Nick is beginning to challenge himself at a good time in his life. Prior to taking his first steps on the trail, he needed to do the extensive preparation, which included coping with the myriad expectations of U.S. bureaucracy. Hikers from other countries are usually interviewed by a representative of the U.S. State Department. In addition to complex hoops at the national level, hikers must also acquire permits to pass through some local jurisdictions. Due to the length of time and distance, it isn’t possible to carry enough food and other supplies for the entire expedition. Fortunately Nick, like other hikers, was able to arrange for shipments to gas stations and other places not far from the trail. One critical aspect of his preparation was to ensure he would be off the trail and out of the U.S. within the 6 months allowed by his passport. It was a lesson in detailed planning, preparation and persistence.
Nick’s words and demeanor told of the immense sense of fulfillment and victory he was experiencing. Talking with him reminded me of the brain cancer patient who said, “give yourself a chance. Live like you are living, not like you are dying.” It also reminded me of a time early in our marriage when Linda and I seriously contemplated cycling across Canada. What a great adventure and education that would have been! But we were diverted by the pressure of mortgage payments and other responsibilities. The cycling trip remained a dream.
Nick evidently had the vision and discipline to make his trek a reality. Almost certainly, like the brain cancer patient, he believed that to live a vibrant life it’s important to abandon the places where we are comfortable and feel safe. He was willing to take a chance, push his limits and explore his staying power. The Pacific Crest Trail was likely a life altering adventure. It’s a tad late for me, but I can, and do, rejoice that he had the courage and will to get it done.