c/backpacking-routes

Hit 500 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail last month and I'm split on whether mileage goals are helpful or hurtful

So I hit 500 miles on the PCT section I've been doing. On one hand it felt amazing to see that number and know I'd covered serious ground. But on the other hand I kept pushing myself harder than I should have just to hit that milestone. Missed a couple of killer viewpoints because I was too focused on the mileage. Anyone else feel like tracking miles keeps you motivated or does it just steal the joy from the hike?

3 comments

anthonykim•3d ago

Warning: that popular shortcut on the Pacific Crest Trail near Tuolumne Meadows is getting dangerous

I hiked that section last week and almost slid off a 30 foot ledge trying to follow the unofficial bypass. The trail is all eroded from the snowmelt this year and there's no clear path anymore. A ranger I talked to said 3 people have twisted ankles there just this month. Save yourself the trouble and stick to the official PCT route even if it adds 2 miles. Has anyone else noticed how bad the side trails are getting out there?

c/backpacking-routes

Hit 500 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail last month and I'm split on whether mileage goals are helpful or hurtful

Warning: that popular shortcut on the Pacific Crest Trail near Tuolumne Meadows is getting dangerous

Hit 500 trail miles this year without even realizing it until I checked my GPS

Hit 500 miles on the PCT this season. Surprised myself.

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