This blogpost originally appeared on The Trek, which you can read here.

We’re starting NOBO May 5. Which puts us in the last 3rd of 2026 PCT NOBO thru-hikers. 

There’s pros and cons to starting in March, April, or May. Any time really. A good few would argue the sweet spot typically lies around mid April. Not too much snow nor too much heat — in comparison with other periods. Maybe the chance of avoiding the worst fire closures as well. 

A Late Start in an Unpredictable Year

The heat and wildfires are the main concern for late starters. Well, also snow, but more in relation to what’s left. If even some.

But this year. Damn. Weather forecasts predicting way below normal snow levels several places already in January and February. Not even reaching mid of March before several warnings about heatwaves in CA. Temperatures above 108°F. Already hikers on various PCT Facebook groups trying to decide and debating whether there’s a point to bringing ice axe and micro spikes into the Sierras. Plus scientists making the public aware of the very high likelihood of a Super-El Niño, probably beginning in end March or mid April. Meaning even more extreme heat and dryness.

Phew. Already sweating haha. And needing a cold beer too. 

Our Approach: Strategy & Preparation Over Stress

Okay, in all seriousness though. For us at least, this just has us even more focused on being clever and strategic with nutritions and hydration throughout the entire thru-hike, but especially the desert. 

Actually we bought an extra CNOC Vector 3L, so that we can both carry up to 8L of water at a time if necessary. Also we’ve been going through various scenarios in case water ressources are scarce, heat to unbearable some days, or symptoms of dehydration or heat exhaustion occur. Better be prepared. Though we know we’re both wise, and expect to be able to manage whatever this year’s heat and dryness throws at us. 

We’re preparing mentally as well — fully aware that it’ll be uncomfortable, that night hiking will be a necessity, that we might have to carry more weight in water and nutritions like electrolytes and sugar. That breaks are more than fine, it’s a must. 

And then of course physically. We’re trying to acclimate our bodies, and getting used to strenuous exercise in intense heat. So, therefore we hike and trail run throughout the warmest hours of the day. Every day. Also when tired, hungry, thirsty, sore, or just lacking the lust for it. Feels empowering for sure. And is without a doubt good mental and physical training beforehand. 

A Note to Fellow Late-Starters

Dear Fellow “Late-Starters”,
This year it might seem extra fearsome, stressful, or even overwhelming to begin this huge adventure of a thru-hike. But we got this! All of us!

With former thru-hikers, trail angels, fellow hikers who’s ahead of us, and each other — we’re supposed to get through it together. Help each other out, give and listen to advice, make smart decisions, care for one another — and always listen to that gut feeling telling you to not skip the nearest water cache, not try to hike between 1-3PM even though you’re behind schedule, not to carry less food or water because it weighs too much — and so on.

We can do this. Especially if we listen to the reason within and around us. And extremely importantly — enjoy it! Also when you hate it! It is all part of the journey, and its gonna be AWESOME. 😉

Happy hiking & see ya’ll out there.

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Hi there! We are Ditte & Benjamin, a couple going for our dream. We have said goodbye to our known life in Denmark, and hello to an unknown life abroad.

Tag along on our adventure as we explore the wide world, tell stories, embrace the journey and create a life where every horizon is just the beginning. Sharing raw, authentic, and breathtaking moments from a life without limits.