Day 23 | Comparing the PCT with the AT, Big Bear Lake Zero | Pacific Crest Trail Thru Hike

[@CindyTaylor-mr4wf]

I love to hear you talk - esp “how you doin?”, “river crossing”, “dis here sofa, right dere” - I just love it!!! I really appreciate you sharing the differences of the AT & PCT - I think I’d be in a bit in a quandary over those differences too! You are an amazing vlogger… don’t let the naysayers get to you!!!

[@donnacarver5181]

I love how she talks too!

[@barbaraodonnell122]

Couldn’t agree more. She is fantastic.

[@BethPhipps-n4n]

We mentioned in an earlier post that Beth and I are trail angels up in the North Cascades. Truely free to our visiting hikers. We stay at a hotel 40 miles west of Chinook Pass, shop at a Safeway, and drive up to the Pass early to surprise and support the hikers. When they have made it this far north, they are thin, tan, hairy, and determined to make the last several hundred miles to Canada. So it is our privledge to meet them and be part of an incredible accomplishment. There are few access points to the trail up here, mostly at major passes. Last year "lookout" taught us a lot about hiker needs, and this year we will have more vegan options. Last year we made plans with "the Codgers" to meet them at Mazama, and deliver them to Seattle at the end of their journey. We (Tom and Beth, Dave and Joe, Hazel, and Riverdance) stopped at a restaurant in Sedro Wooley en route. After watching the efforts you all have put forth, it was such an honor to be part of their finish. Besides our hope that people treat you well, please be careful when hitchhiking. Some of the hikers we made friends with told us of some scary encounters. So trust your gut, stick together, and back out of a hitch if it doesn't feel good. T and B, in Poulsbo, Washington

[@mrslauri60]

I like how you pronounce everything! You are one of my favorites. I watched you on the Appalachian Trail as well. I told Lil’ Chap I jumped over to his channel because of you. I enjoy both of your videos. I work remotely from home and watch them both as soon as they come in. I really like the zero days. And I wanted you to know I also like when you guys video the same thing. Don’t feel like you shouldn’t do that because I really enjoy it.

[@frstesiste7670]

In my opinion water caches is trail magic (even if nobody is there) and the most import type on the PCT.

[@alexandraschneider5390]

that s right. don't underrate the water caches, especially if you hike sobo in the summer or autumn.

[@porterbrass]

As far as I’m concerned, you’re the expert on the AT vs PCT comparison. I feel that your information is giving people a really good idea of what type of experience to expect.

[@wendypelaez9305]

I’m a trail angel for hikers on the Florida Trail. I’ve provided shuttles, meals, items from the trunk of my car and an overnight place to stay which included laundry, showers etc. I’ve NEVER EXPECTED MONEY!! ❤❤❤

[@musingwithreba9667]

It's totally natural to compare experiences of the 2 trails. And when you get to the CDT, you'll compare all 3. It's good information for anyone who is thinking of doing either of the trails, and they know a little of what to expect. Pink shoes? Neat! 😊

[@jimc7042]

Looks like you are making pretty good time on the trail. One of your fans here just living vicariously through you. Keep the great videos coming!

[@karencaskey6210]

We Californians are actually pretty nice and generous people. I personally spend many hours volunteering for my local food pantry each week. However, most of us do not live near the PCT, but hours and hours away from it. The PCT runs through some of the most remote and least populated areas of California. Trail magic is impossible for us, especially if we're at work all week. That being said, you'll be traversing some of the most beautiful scenery our state has to offer and we love that others want to visit it. Going to the mountains, or "up the hill" as we say here in Sacramento, is our way of escaping the noise and chaos of the world. No cell phones or internet is actually a positive for us when visiting the wilderness, which is what the PCT runs through. I have spent many years hiking, camping, and backpacking in our beloved Sierra Nevada and I hope you find it as magical and special as I do. Happy Trails and best of luck!

[@Jan.harvey]

So glad you are talking about these things- I appreciate it.

[@kimtullier659]

I think your pronunciations, opinions and comparisons are great! it seems like each trail has its own personality. It's actually a good. I would imagine the trail being further from towns probably lens to that. Happy trails 😊

[@avghiker]

Having hiked both of these trails more than once it is interesting to hear your perspectives. I have always told others that all of the long distance trails are what we make of them and everyone’s reason for hiking varies. If you want a solo hike just camp more and stay in town less, and camp away from others. If you want them to be more social then do the opposite.🙂 We create our own hikes. I’m headed SOBO on the PCT this year, and I have no doubt that with your positive attitude I may meet you somewhere much further north. Have a great hike and thanks for sharing! Ellie

[@MISCIFMAKER]

Real trail angel ❤ magic happens in OREGON 🎉

[@Recycledteen]

The Blob is awesome but the pancake fits the plate!!!! BIG!

[@DS-pj3hu]

I 100% agree with you about the community of the PCT and trail angels. Im on the PCT right now, a week or so behind you, and I didn’t do the AT but I did the Colorado Trail and had a ton of trail magic and the real hiker community. I really notice the cliquiness of the PCT as you said. Glad I’m not the only one who noticed this!

[@MarlinGawith]

Some of the differences that you're experiencing is east versus west coast. The other is the number of thru hikers on PCT vs AT. If you go back to 2010 before the Wild movie you will see that there was just hundreds not thousands of thru hikers on the PCT. The PCT is younger and has exploded in growth over the last decade. As a 4 year PCT MYTH (multi year thru hiker) I am also discovering that each year brings different cohesiveness between hikers depending on the challenges for the year (snow, fire, floods, wind, landslides, hurricane, ...) . Out of the 600 miles done so far I have experience full on trail magic 1.5 times on the PCT. I'm really enjoying your journey. Enjoy the views.

[@JacobJenkins-wc7oo]

Great job with your content. Keep it up. One thing you may consider when comparing the difference between AT and PCT communities is the age of the trails. The AT was completed in 1937 where as the PCT was only completed in 1993. Also thru hiker numbers really didn't spike up until around 2015 on the PCT. The AT experience and community as had a lot more time to develop.

[@MaxZomboni]

That's what they say, but both trails were officially created at the same time by Congress in 1968. As concepts the AT is just slightly older then the PCT, but not by much. The origins of the AT go back to 1921 and the PCT to 1932. But some of the predecessor trails to the PCT are actually older than the AT. People started thru hiking the AT in the late 1940s and the PCT in the early 1950s. Like the PCT the current AT trail was mostly completed in the 1990s. The National Park Service purchased most of the current route of the AT in the 1980s and 90s. Before that the AT was mostly road walking. The AT and the PCT were pretty much developed at close to the same time.

[@JacobJenkins-wc7oo]

@@MaxZomboni 🤙🏻

[@anitamckenzie4895]

I will never understand why people just gotta be so negative!! We Love your channel and the way you talk and hike and interact will others… is why the heck we watch you. You have wonderful videos and anyone who criticizes and are hateful to you, they don’t matter to anyone and I’m amazed they are still talking 😊.

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

RR, l like and appreciate you being you. There are differences between the two trails and I think you highlighted what any hiker would want to know, much less those of us who hike vicariously through our favorite people who are hiking the trails. The was wordy, but you get the point. As the old song goes, “Don’t go changin’, tryin’ to please me /us/ I /we/ love you just the way you are.”

[@hikerJohn]

Your pronunciations are part of your nice personality It's entertaining :o) Yeah, most hikers are friendly but some wont even tip their hat as they pass.

[@theadventuresofgranolagran7868]

Ohmygoodness, you keep doing what you do!!! I do not know when I will get to do the PCT, but I have started some kind of planning (research etc...) and your comments and insights are invaluable to me! I am watching Chap's and Hammer's videos as well. (Fireball you need to start a channel, you are a hoot!!) You guys are so real and fun and I am learning a lot in preparation for my trek! (I currently have 732 days until I turn 65 so that is my soft goal... 😊)

[@JH-ku5ge]

Love your content! I especially appreciate you don't change for others, you just remain yourself and say what's on your mind. Great videos, fun to watch! Thanks for entertaining us

[@Andy-Mesa]

100% agree with all points. I hiked the PCT last year and this year, and have yet to find the kind of community I was looking for. I imagine this is even more so the case for me, a 43 year old man, than for you.

[@tammyyorysh8048]

I really enjoy learning about the trail differences and your perspective. Interesting and valuable information. It has been really fun following your channel.

[@robertclark8044]

I've lived in California all of my life. Names like San Jacinto are easy for me, and most Californians, because we have lots of Spanish language inspired names. Consider as a German you must roll your eyes at how Americans say Adidas. As for your PCT vs AT observations, consider this: The AT comes close to many towns. It makes it easier for trail angels to access the trail and also means towns are more used to seeing hikers. How many towns have you been very close to during your 250 miles on the PCT vs 250 miles on the AT?

[@JackSheahan2012]

"This here sofa right there..." Keep on keeping on RoadRunner. All the best to your and all the others. Jack NYC

[@hikingdancer]

Wohoooo.

[@robertligas250]

Thanks for Sharing,your journey so far is helping me with my plans for PCT in 2027. You guys are hoot. Thanks for putting us in a good mood. Keeping you all in our Prays.

[@jackdeangelis6585]

I really appreciate your honest commentary and I think you will find fewer fee-based "trail angels" as you go north. Unfortunately when this issue is raised in the FB trail angel groups the posts are often deleted.

[@wanderingwithbob2472]

Great video today. I really appreciate your insights about the different environments between the PCT and AT. Happy trails.

[@jujudavis65]

I told lil chap that I just found the two of you and am enjoying watching your progress, I’m on day 9 watching both of your videos together 😊 You have such a beautiful fun personality actually you both do! Looking forward to watching your progress on this journey and will definitely go watch you on the AT 😊

[@theoriginalkaro]

You are at the home of Jackie & Shadow, the famous bald eagles! Most anyone would probably point you in the direction of their nest, which you can see from a parking lot near where you showed the kayaks. Their nest is 145 feet up in a Jeffrey Pine and is about 6 feet across and 5 feet deep. I love the town of Big Bear. Thanks for sharing your journey and looking forward to more! Btw, Friends of Big Bear Valley maintains a free 24/7/365 live nest camera. Thank you for this comprehensive comparison. Now I want to watch your PCT videos. And as far as being German, I totally understand since that is my heritage as well. Some people don’t get the directness.

[@Bibs123]

Great video. I appreciate that you share your real thoughts about things!

[@hikingdancer]

Always!

[@judithpearson3968]

Great room for a great price. Julianne, thanks for sharing both the comparison beteeen the 2 trails and your impressions and plusses of the PCT. I have loved all the scenery on these videos. Ya'll take care. Stay safe. See you tomorrow. Was delighted to see that you got your new shoes.

[@DASHToTheEnd]

Love these comparisons RR. I'm section hiking the AT with asperations of doing the PCT when I'm done, so this content is super helpful.

[@bridgetrunshikessurfs]

Super appreciate your vlogging, im excited every morning to see what ya'all are up too. It also gets me so excited for my summer hiking season to begin! So thanks for the inspiration 🎉

[@yolandarocha4900]

Hi I find your opinion and perspective between AT and PCT trails very interesting and appreciate you taking the time to share your experience 😊

[@williamsaeger5883]

I love how you pronounce your words. It's the reason why I follow you.

[@Dan__S]

I like your accent, it tells a lot about you. As for the culture differences between the two trails, I think it's good that you're talking about them, I don't think it's something that many vlog channels have talked about too much.

[@thuthiehiker]

I appreciate your honesty and understand comparing the two. That’s the purpose of sharing your journey. That way people can decide what might work for them. Towns are further away on the PCT so the trail help is more difficult. It’s nice that they are so different. So you get to experience the differences. Enjoying your journey. ❤

[@johnharris7820]

It’s your channel, i’m glad you keep it real. Always going to be haters picking out everything they don’t agree with. Just do you , i’m very much enjoying following your journey on the PCT. Be safe and keep on trekking. River Crossing has me laughing every time.

[@kleenexhikes]

I'm currently in idyllwild and a couple other comparisons between the AT and PCT is the AT has shelters where you can sit on a bench or picnic table. I do miss those. Also the ground seems to be harder on the PCT which has given me more leg issues, along with the continual slant of the trail. The PCT does seem more individualistic. The views are amazing though!

[@tujungadave]

I'm not an official trail angel but I try to help PCT hikers as much as I can. I live in Hesperia Ca, so I'm close to the Mojave River Dam. I used to hike there frequently as well as Inspiration point, Mt. Baden Powell, and Blue Ridge Just above Wrightwood. I've given rides to countless numbers of through hikers from Inspiration point and Baden Powell down to Wrightwood and visa versa. I've been offered money for gas for the rides, but I never take it. It's always on my way, back and forth, so it doesn't seem fair to me to ask for compensation. For me, meeting people from different places and with brave enough spirits to make that hike is enough payment. If I was asked for a ride somewhere further away, or out of my way I'd probably ask for a little gas money, but only because it's so expensive right now.

[@keypenhikeralan4233]

I enjoy listening to you talk . Lot of empty space out west may create a different vibe

[@stone8654]

Roadrunner..by the way.. wearing your headset helped alot keeping the wind noise down 👍🏼 Go Roadrunner Go! 👟😎👍🏼

[@hikingdancer]

Good to know!

[@TheChantybb]

I agree with everything you pointed out. Pronunciation is great! Better than mine 😂 Your videos are the best! Keep them coming.

[@philipyoho8115]

Well, there is a simple solution for the lack of on trail Trail Magic! All you all have to do is turn around and go back to Barrel Springs (my usual trail magic spot) and I'll be there. Simple! Just back track 150+ miles. ;p ;p JK I know it can be hit or miss a lot on the PCT. I've never been to the AT, so I can only guess that its due to the proximity of the trail to society on the AT vs the PCT being a little bit more remote. But, I could be wrong. It could be that, here in SoCal, we are not as friendly as those in the eastern states. I whole heartedly agree with your definition of a Trail Angel. I also agree with giving a donation for the help. I've used a trail angel a few times to get from one part of the trail to another and I didn't hesitate to offer her money for her gas and time. That said, if it were me giving the rides (or in my case, providing Trail Magic at Barrel Springs) I would not and have not accepted or expected payment for anything I do for another hiker. I would also have to agree with your opinion about the "community" on the PCT. Hiker's especially here in SoCal can be a bit "clicky". Sad, but true. WiFi = location, location, location! ;p Hopefully, those who watch your vlog don't take what you say negatively. I haven't heard anything thing that wasn't true about the PCT in SoCal. And, for some who may perceive your comments as being negative, all I would say is, "The truth hurts!" Wow! Great hotel. I love that fact that they offer the room for $99 a night for PCTers. That is a great deal and obviously it's not a Motel 6 either. Anyway thanks again for sharing and for your honest perspective/opinion. Safe travels and happy trails to you all! :)

[@garylines5755]

The AT and the PCT are like apples and oranges . I hiked the PCT twice before the internet,water caches,trail angles,and we all started the same weekend after a big party it was better and the twenty miles between water sources weeded out the weak fast. For me the PCT starts at Kennedy Meadows the rest is just something to get through kind of like N MEX on the CDT.

[@lisasdayoff503]

I think maybe some people want to help hikers.but can't necessarily afford the gas but can afford to give their time.

[@QuirkHikes]

I am currently NoBo Thru hiking the AT and considering the PCT at some point. Really appreciate you pointing out differences. Followed you AT as well. Happy Trails and I Love your accent. Reminds me of my German Grandfather 💯🥰💯🌞😀😀

[@Badnewsfeminist]

I’ve done neither hike but it doesn’t surprise me to hear about the AT having more trail angels. I live on the West Coast and it’s a wonderful place but it’s less communal than the Midwest or the east coast. I find that people are very involved with their immediate community but a little less “neighborly” than other parts of the country. Also, as you mentioned, things out west are a bit more isolated and that leads to a certain atmosphere!

[@indtexcol]

I don’t find you being negative and complaining. It’s called analyzing, sharing, and contemplating. That is how people learn from others, which I call wisdom.

[@mulladylife]

So many accurate comments in your video. The only trail magic we received in 1700 miles was hikers carrying in snacks to the mountains to hand us in cali twice. We never really experienced actual trail magic that you hear about on the PCT. Sounds like you guys had better luck at that hotel…we stayed one night then checked into another hotel. We were on the bottom floor and could hear snoring and peeing above us all night🤦🏻‍♀️. I made videos for friends and family and would film at the end of an exhausting day so the last thing I was concerned about was how to say Jacinto 😂 but I was always corrected on my pronunciation. Yep cliquey bunch on the PCT. It seems once tramilies are established people no longer want to make new friends. My hubby and I are in our 50s so we just figured it was age related🤷🏻‍♀️.

[@luisahirsch5654]

I love your video! It was very interesting. Are there significantly less people that hike the PCT in comparison to the AT? I am glad you have Lil Chap and tramily with you! The PCT views are beautiful! Maybe there is less trail magic because it is further away from towns? Lol I am learning through your videos about the PCT, but with your videos, it seems like there aren't as many people and it is more secluded?

[@miteco1]

Lived in so cal for 30 years always wanted to see the pct. Seeing it through you guys ty! ps no good biscuits n gravy in socal.

[@joesoutdoorplaces]

It’s interesting how people differ across the country, and world.

[@ridgepath]

Hi Roadrunner. We met at Fresh Ground’s feed at Burrell’s Ford on the Foothills Trail this winter. I wonder if the lack of clothes washing opportunities has to do with the shortage or cost of water in that part of Southern California…. A problem we definitely don’t have on the east coast. 😊. (Suds)

[@bigdwillie8739]

I love the way you talk don't worry about the HOA Karens

[@Armchair_Backpacker]

Switchbacks cuz the PCT is graded for Equestrian use as well as Hikers.

[@jlewis5981]

Love following your experiences and the format! I look forward to watching every day! I appreciate your perspective on Trail Angels. I would never have thought that anyone using that title would expect money. I am also happy to pay for a service but I want to know that up front.

[@chrisnorris76]

Born and raised in WV. We will set aside the sadness I feel that more of my gorgeous state is not on the ACT but this gave me a surprise. Often Appalachia portrayed as remote, poor, and “back woods”. While all those things can apply, we also for the most part are raised to be friendly and supportive until given a reason. The lack or WiFi and Laundry surprises me. In my opinion Appalachians see a need we fix it.

[@lewisleake9902]

I noticed the same about the PCT trail community just by watching yours and others videos, not the same as the AT.

[@michaelbutler4961]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I'm not German. I am very direct and blunt and many people see that as offensive. I get it. Love the views of the PCT, They are Amazing! Keep up the good work. HIke~~On~~>

[@arthurjamison772]

Love your Heart...............Prayers

[@yonderplace314]

Maybe for the PCT, a new trail name... :"Biscuits n' Gravy". I love it, it is a southern thing.

[@dillonaelliott]

I have heard these comments made from other hikers, so you aren't alone :) From what I have seen, the AT is more of a friendly, get together, family trail. The PCT is more of a loner, in the middle of nowhere type of trail. I do think you will really enjoy it once you get out of the desert, but it will be tough with the snow we had in California, so be prepared! And it is Ok to like the AT more :) A lot of hikers including people like Dixie loved the AT more and that is ok!

[@rya7642]

Thanks for posting these! I want to hike so bad!!! I have to work for now, but maybe next year or the year after for the PCT

[@williamritter7054]

Check your six . a AT through hiker "FROZEN " from 2019. Is on the PCT heading north. He should catch up with you in a couple of days. Let me know if my guess is correct. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.

[@Dany-ii5lu]

Einen ganz besonders freundlichen Gruß aus Deutschland 😀 Danke, dass du mich auf deiner abenteuerlichen Reise mitnimmst. Und einen schönen 1. Mai, falls du den da drüben feierst ☺🙃

[@alswanson9]

Next zero please talk about “nutrition “ and calorie deficit, difference between women and men.

[@riverrat82]

River crossin🎉

[@EricSpriggs]

I feel like most of the differences between the PCT and the AT (other than the trail itself) are due to the difference in popularity.

[@royconnell2506]

You are making it happen.👍👍👍

[@susanb4481]

Water, is trail magic is it not? Also as you have noticed the AT runs closer to towns and communities than the PCT, so its harder to do trail magic on the PCT. Most sections of the PCT are just more remote. BTW most of the towns near the PCT are not hiker towns per se, they are getaway places. Big Bear for example is a ski area, lots of weekenders from LA. I dont believe laundry facilities in hotels/motels are typical. So there are going to be differences. Hopefully the beauty of the scenery makes up for the lack of AT camaraderie.

[@TheHikingChick1]

You ain't seen nothin' yet! Can't wait to see how your comparisons and opinions evolve as you make your way up the trail.🌻💛

[@dennisbrooks8566]

Hope you had the chance to see Jackie and Shadow , Big Bears resident bald eagles .

[@robertt9270]

Population density and the west has SO much more space than the east coast are reasons for the differences. Love your accent and channel in general.

[@emekennede]

I wonder if the lack of shelters is a factor in the cliques

[@hikingdancer]

I love that thought. You may be right .

[@GMChris56]

Love following your experiences on the PCT. Have you hiked the CDT?

[@Nana2four]

I love how you talk!!

[@stone8654]

Hi Roadrunner..water bill is pricey here in Southern California.. because of the water shortage.. that's why most places don't have a laundromat..so having no laundromat the lower the rent.. Because of the water shortage.. California is Cloud Seeding. And about trying to get a ride in someone's car is hard because of the gas prices. It's hard to be able to do and enjoy most things here in Southern California because everything is so Pricey!

[@derrickwalker538]

That is the difference between the East and the West. We have good ole southern hospitality on the AT that extends from the south all the way up north!! I truly do believe that’s the difference. Not saying their ain’t good hospitable folks out west because they are and I’ve met several of them. Just not as frequent as the AT. CDT is the same as the PCT back when I did them in 2000

[@elizabethholliman1634]

What about trail angels providing water?

[@hikingdancer]

That’s a great trail magic

[@EricSpriggs]

The reason why there are so many switchbacks is to help prevent erosion. Erosion can be a huge problem in areas with less vegetation.

[@diane4253]

Which trail has less spider encounters? That would be the deciding factor for me 😂

[@darrellmarcks6304]

I'm half wondering if the laundry situation is based on water preservation. The last few years Lake Mead has been in trouble keeping water stocks which greatly affects California.

[@Two.gingers.adventures]

I’ve always thought the pct is more about nature and at is more about people. I think you may need to change your expectations and know they are vastly different things, both thur hikes but very different.

[@MaxZomboni]

The AT is a party trail. It's there for you to hang out at hostels and shelters and party with other hikers. The PCT is a nature trail. It's there for you to get away from people and enjoy nature. Hike the AT for the parties. Hike the PCT for the views. 😎👍

[@larkangel6593]

How many AT hikers quit the PCT? How many PCT hikers either have no interest in hiking the AT, or do it merely out of some technical interest in achieving a triple crown?

[@MaxZomboni]

​@@larkangel6593 I don't know, but if I was still young enough to hike like this, I would hike the AT merely out of interest in achieving the triple crown. Even then I might just skip it and hike only the PCT and CDT. Sure there are some nice places along the AT, but I'm not sure they are enough to make it worth the while, and the whole shelter / hostel thing has never appealed to me. In my hiking days I hiked to get away from people, not to sleep with them in a shelter or hostel. But that's just me.

[@larkangel6593]

​@@MaxZombonievery year AT hikers quit the PCT Over the years, PCT FKT, yo yo's and multiple finishers either have no interest in doing the AT, or just phone it in from the TC Compare skiing, surfing, or any outdoor activity between east and west coasts - its a complete joke

[@susietopspin]

Interesting but I have to disagree with the AT being a party trail. I’m an older AT section hiker and certainly am not partying and many others are not either. Views are subjective. Yes the west coast has bigger mountains but the east coast has spectacular views also, and many along the AT. The trails, whichever one you do, is what you make it. Happy trails to you.🤘🏻🥾⛰️

[@PhoenixGenesis]

As someone who has been hiking the PCT for a decade, I disagree. There are way too many PCT hikers who are smoking weed every chance they get along the trail.

[@nam_hn]

Is peach your favorite color, or you just pick any shoes you get your hands on like me?

[@richardross7219]

They're not an "angel" if they charge. Its CA. Everything is more expensive. That's just the way it is. Happy Trails. Good Luck, Rick

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

I wonder if the one of the reasons that there isn’t anyone setup to do trail magic is because you’re in the desert? That’s a huge difference from the A.T.

[@Jerrymc1975]

If you want diverse terrain with majestic grandeur views do the PCT If you want a green tunnel with few views do the AT. Two completely different trails.

[@alicialabare5424]

Laundry not included-probably less water, less municipal water?

[@ThreadSketched]

Keep on trekking!

[@Mikey-Likes-It_101]

REGARDING PCT Social Community. What you may be aware of is the fact that most hikers have to bail before Kennedy Meadows for one reason or another (health or other). But AFTER KENNEDY MEADOWS you should notice more through hikers are friendly and especially once you get past Oregon border. I can’t help you with the German hikers. I have noticed same (even when I try my limited German vocabulary).

[@jeremymerritt5564]

I think the difference in people you talk about is just really based on region. We are much different on the east coast than those on the west coast.

[@RC-qf3mp]

I wonder how much the social experience differs depending on time of year you start hiking. Trail community changes when all the high school and college kids graduate and get on trail. As for Germans… wonder if there’s a difference between East German and west German 🤔 🔨

[@kristymoore7052]

Just wait… Sierra, OR, etc.

[@thedeafcattledog8608]

In regard to the trail angels - the difference between the AT and the PCT - culture. I would dare say that the people who live around the AT in Appalachia, are more religious by a significant margin than the people who live around the PCT. Giving without expecting anything in return is a part of their religion.

[@tbone3079]

Closeness of the population to the trail. and the amount of hikers is vastly less. So less trail magic get used to that. Once you get into the high Serra you will be very remote vastly less people near the trail and will change you.

[@manfredolson6889]

I was gonna ask if you are deaf just to tease you: I’m basically a super offensive jerk. But, to be completely honest, to quote Slingblade I like the way you talk Dont ever stop !!