Kickoff Consternation ...

[footslogger]

Haven't monitored the pct-l in past years so I have no history on the topic but in the past week there has been A LOT of traffic regarding the Kickoff and "hurd" of hikers.

Are things in the midst of change ? ...or does this happen on a regular basis ??

[girlscout]

no, this is an annual ritual, at least for the past 3 or 4 years. basically you have a small group of troll-ish folks who make irrational, inflammatory statements filled with lies and half-truths, and everyone else feeds them.

the bottom line is that, yes, the herd is an increasing problem. is the kickoff to blame? in my (and many others') opinion, no. the herd effect is simply the result of more thrubies on the pct each year, combined with the hard fact of the narrow start window, as dictated by typical annual weather patterns.

unfortunately the discussion rarely rises above an argument about whether the herd is a problem, and whether the kickoff is the main ingredient in this problem. what really needs to happen is alot more discussions about possible solutions, because kickoff or no kickoff, the herd is a reality now that's not going to just dissipate itself.

[footslogger]

Wow ...almost makes me reconsider my plans for a PCT thru, or at least for attending the Kickoff.

Notice I said ALMOST !!

[girlscout]

the kickoff is a great event, lots of fun. if you enjoy being in the company of lots of other like-minded people, by all means go to the kickoff. if you don't like crowds of any sort, no matter how fun/friendly, avoid the kickoff.

[Ender]

The Kickoff is still 1/20th the size of any of the AT things, and almost no bigname gear people there either. It's a good time.

And the herd isn't really that big either. But if you're worried about it, start early and hitch back to the KO, and then when it's over get a ride back up to where you got off the trail. Most people hike out of the KO, so if you get even 50 or 100 miles north of there first, you'll avoid the worst of it.

[footslogger]

Well ...I'm not the worlds fastest hiker either, so getting a little headstart wouldn't be such a bad idea. Guess the only problem might be getting to KM early and having/wanting to hang for a bit. Kind of a "pay me now, pay me later" sort of thing.

[Dr Bob]

This will be my 3rd Kick-Off. Both times before I have been struck by the mojo and exuberance radiating from hundreds of like-minded souls eager to experience - or remember - their big hike. Each time I have attended one of the Gatherings in the East I have come away with that same feeling... wanting to grab my backpack and hit the trail. Only at the Kick-Off many lucky souls are about to do just that and the excitement is like a big shared joy... tinged with apprehension at the huge undertaking.

Other than the positive ambience, there are things to be learned there, pre-hike, that are helpful. Among other things, last year they had good sessions on Mt Lions, crossing streams, PCT flowers, and the annual water report, which this year will have everyone's undivided attention.

If I didn't live in the East I'd be there every year, just for selfish pleasure and fun of it.

As No Way Ray used to say, that's my story and I'm stickin' to it.

Dr Bob