North or South
This is not a post on the pros and cons of the North and the South during the civil war. (And no, just because I’m from the South doesn’t mean I fly a rebel flag from the back of a diesel engine Ford pickup truck)
Originally we had decided to hike the PCT from North to South, which would make us Southbounders (also commonly known as Sobos). But as of late it is up in the air. I found a great article (on Francis Tapon’s website) on the pros and cons of going Northbound versus going Southbound. It explains the details the northbound/southbound issue in layman’s terms, so that anyone could easily understand the dilemma we face in choosing. (There are also other great things on the website that have to do with the subject of the PCT, like a gear list.)
Personally I’m leaning towards going Southbound. Why? Less people go that way. If something is less popular I automatically like it better. My mother told me from a young age that I was contrary (adj), but it wasn’t until a few years ago that I really realized that it was truth issuing from her mouth. I don’t like to conform and I don’t like the usual or expected. Isn’t that the whole reason I’m hiking.
On the downside, hiking Southbound would have me starting at the glorious and breathtaking Canada Washington border area. I would end dismally in the California Mexico desert area. Now I’ve never been to Washington, but I have a near mythical image of Washington in my mind. So maybe that’s why the upper border sounds like a more glorious way to end.
Still, I am leaning towards hiking Southbound. Timing is tricky, but it sounds like a good adventure. Emory and Jordan hiked southbound on the AT and Jordan even has an AT tattoo signifies his Southbound choice.
Feedback? Should I go Northbound or Southbound…but don’t worry I won’t take your advice, because I’m rather contrary.
button
