TRAIL TALK
Expert Advice fromOutdoor Retailer 2018
This summer, we surveyed the reps from some of our favorite outdoor brands for their suggestions in helping ensure successful and enjoyable PCT-hiking experiences. We collected a fantastic set of tips, with no-brainers, like “Don’t forget toilet paper,” to original suggestions, like “Make up fun trail games.” Check out our faves in the gallery below. And since there’s still a good month or two of PCT hiking left here in Oregon, perhaps you can incorporate a few of these tips into your own fall outings—or take note of a few to apply to your 2019 hiking plans.
Start with a cup of coffee. Finish with a pint of beer.
Massimo Alpian
KEEN
Eliminate self-judgement and be OK with your own interests and abilities.
Lindsey Beal
Osprey
Remember to look up every once in a while.
Jennifer Burpo
Rumpl
Enjoy everything about being outdoors: the sights, sounds, smells, etc.
Mary Butler
Sea to Summit
Bring extra socks!
Julie Campagnoli
Osprey
Bring a journal to record your experience—and how to learn from it.
Cleary Chizmar
Helinox
The unexpected will happen. Be prepared to handle a variety of situations.
Rob Coughlin
Granite Gear
Pack and wear layers for a variety of weather and temperature conditions.
Jade Eaton
Balega
Identify your five success factors, e.g., sleep, food, comfort, company, etc.
Cheriss Faiola
Gear Aid
Don’t forget toilet paper!
Yusuke Igarashi
Montbell
Take small trips as often as possible—not just big ones.
Dave Jay
NatGeo Trails Illustrated
Make up fun games to play on trail and in camp.
Carl Johnson
Big Agnes
Indulge a little and bring good food you’ll want to eat.
Kate Ketchek
NEMO Equipment
Remember sunscreen!
Sierra Krebsbach
Klymit
Use a checklist so you don’t forget any essentials.
Jim Lamancusa
Cusa Tea
Stay hydrated!
Cory Lowe
La Sportiva
Give yourself more than enough time to travel, hike, etc.
Brayton Maine
Montbell
Research your destination for distance, water, elevation, etc.
Shae Martin
Green Goo
Bring lots of treats—and take breaks to enjoy them.
Kelsey McGrey
Smartwool
Enjoy being a member of the trail community.
Alexa McRoberts
MSR
Be prepared for weather and temperature changes.
Elizabeth Parsons
Yumbutter
Be flexible to deal with changes in weather, trail conditions, etc.
Kendra Samuel
Jetboil
Know where your water sources are so you don’t carry more than you need to.
Dave Simpson
Outdoor Research
Put away your phone and be where you are.
Camryn Walton
SOLE
Choose to do less than you think you can.
Scott Wilkinson
PCTA
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