Prologue - 2 weeks before departure

"... if everything goes as planned." I have said this sentence to my friends and family so many times in the last few years that they probably can't hear it anymore. I almost always ended with this sentence whenever I talked about my plans for the Pacific Crest Trail. I probably wanted to temper my own expectations so as not to be too disappointed if something got in the way. And there was certainly plenty that could have gotten in the way. But what can I say, in the end everything went exactly as I imagined. By the end of October, it was clear that it was possible to reenter the USA. On November 9th, I was incredibly lucky in the first round of permit allocations and got my preferred start date right away. My B2 visa was approved in January and in the meantime, all the equipment is ready, the flights are booked, and all other preparations are completed. And even though the anticipation is huge and the flight leaves in two weeks, surprisingly the excitement is limited. I don't think I have fully realized yet that it's actually about to start and that I have the opportunity to fulfill my dream. If everything goes as I imagine it to...

But for those who haven't had the chance to listen to one of my extensive lectures: what have I actually set myself up for? The Pacific Crest Trail is a 4,265 kilometer long long-distance trail in the western United States and passes through the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. It starts at the Mexican border in Campo and ends at the Canadian border in Manning Park. Along the way, there are 120,000 meters of elevation gain. On average, it takes about 5 months to complete a thru-hike, hiking the entire trail in one go. So, I will be busy for the next few months. I prefer not to go into the risks that the trail presents here, so that no one worries too much. They will surely be addressed at the appropriate time. For those who are interested in what I am bringing on this tour, here is my packing list:

https://lighterpack.com/r/woc8r6

I apologize to everyone whom I constantly bombarded with my plans over the past few years, at all kinds of times. For you, I have good news: in the coming months, you can decide for yourself if and when you want to know something about my journey. As far as possible, I will keep you updated here. The bad news for you is: when I come back, it could be worse than ever before and I will talk about nothing else, so enjoy the time until then.

That's all for now, the next entry will probably be in San Diego. There I will spend 3 days after landing, acclimating, making some final preparations, and sightseeing before setting foot on the trail on April 7th.