Ed and I are slowly section hiking the entire AT. Since my AT thru-hike in 2024, I have a goal to section hike the entire trail again over the next few years between big thru-hikes.
In addition, this hike will serve as a shakedown hike for my upcoming PCT thru-hike starting on April 24, 2026. The goals of a shakedown hike include:
- test all my gear and clothes
- make sure I did not forget to pack anything
- double check how much for per day I need
- fine-tune my new backpack
- generally get my mind ready for another thru-hike
I have been training for the PCT for the past several months. Day hiking with 20+ lbs and/or working out in the gym 4-5 days a week. We have had some wild winter weather for Maryland including the harshest winter in a long time. That has been great training for the PCT including the heavy snow with a thick layer of ice. The weather for this upcoming shakedown hike will be a good test with nights in the upper 30s and days in the mid-80s. Plus a little rain.
I have my exact pack load that I will be carrying on the PCT including a 5.3 day food supply. That is the longest food carry that I will have on the PCT, so this is a great test.
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