We’re finally doing it… PCT 2026 Here we go!

The craziest adventure of my life

It’s November 13, 2025 and I just applied for the PCT permit. The countdown is on. I’m going to do it. Canada, here I come!

The date I requested was March 13. I originally had late March/early April in mind, but the only available date that was close enough was March 13th. My appointment time was quite late, around 2:06 p.m.

I’ll keep an eye out for any later dates that are closer to my preferred start time, although it’s only 2-3 weeks earlier than planned.

Why those dates? Some reasons:

1. I want the challenge and beauty of the Sierra snowpack.
2. I would like to experience the desert section without extreme heat or completely dry water sources. (Hopefully they will carry less long water… fingers crossed!)
3. Firm ice in the Sierra Nevada = fewer post holes.
4. Fewer detours due to fires. (Let’s hope!)

The Sierras de las Minas de Cerro Gordo

Doubtful about my start date

Although I’m technically available to start on any date, I’m still a little iffy about starting on March 13th. It’s only two or three weeks earlier than I originally wanted, but still, enough to make me a little nervous about the snowpack I’ll face.

That said, I’ll make it work with what I have. And I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for anything that opens up a little later.

Challenges

As if walking 2,650 miles across the country wasn’t a challenge in itself, my journey is even more complex. I will be uploading frequent updates on my blog here at The walkwhile also vlogging my Pacific Crest Trail experience daily on my Instagram, @outwithtavo.

How am I preparing?

When I decided I wanted to hike the PCT, I became a little obsessed with being prepared. I binged on countless YouTube videos (mostly about things I already knew, just to calm myself down). I combed through thousands of Reddit threads about gear, resupplies, route advice, and what ifs.

The biggest takeaway?

Don’t plan too much. Most people say that the road rarely turns out the way you think, and that’s what I hope!

But I didn’t stop with online research. I went outside. More day hikes. More overnight stays. And finally I tested myself with a bigger challenge: the John Muir Trail.

My JMT test

In August, I planned a two-week vacation from work, packed my gear, got my permit, and headed south on the JMT. My plan was to walk 17 to 20 miles a day to finish in 14 days, with a few days to spare.

Sunset below Donohue Pass

Things didn’t go exactly as planned. On the 12th, after a resupply in Independence, I hiked back to the Onion Valley trailhead ready to press on, only to discover that a monsoon was forecast for 4 to 5 days or more. That meant there would be no summit with Whitney and no finish before my deadline.

It wasn’t an easy decision, but 30 miles away, I decided to quit. And honestly, it was the right decision. It was my first real hike and moving forward seemed risky.

Even though I didn’t finish, the experience was incredible. I learned a lot about my gear, my trail habits, and myself. That path gave me the confidence that I can undertake something bigger.

Gear

My JMT Team

A big lesson from JMT was how important package weight really is. Before doing the JMT, my backpacking trips would consist of a base weight of around 23 pounds. I’ve since reduced it to just 11 pounds (or 10 if I drop the tripod and skip filming).

I got rid of extra clothes and unnecessary layers. I swapped out heavier items for lighter versions and really focused on only carrying what I will actually use. I’m about 90% satisfied with my setup now.

Until next time

The countdown to the PCT continues. I will soon share the reason behind all this: why I am promoting the PCT in the first place.

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