At the Consulate
It’s happening — I’m heading to the U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam to explain
Pacific Crest Trail
A long north–south line across the western United States, walked southbound from Canada toward Mexico. Deserts, high mountains, forests, heat, snow, and long stretches of nothing in between. The Pacific Crest Trail is as much about scale and continuity as it is about walking.
What to Carry
Once the route is mapped out, the numbers start to sink in. A total of
Logistical Realities
Logistics, as it turns out, are part of the adventure. You’re not allowed to
Planning, Paperwork, and Patience
And then comes the research. Reading maps, drawing lines, counting days, planning routes, digging through
Attempt Two
Your permit application is approved.
It’s getting real.
This time, it feels different. The
Approved — and Then Reality Hits
Your PCT permit is approved.
It’s getting real.
The email lands with enthusiasm and
The Permit Came Through — Almost
You’ve applied for a permit.
Congratulations on planning a trip along the Pacific Crest
Waiting for the Permit
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a 4,286-kilometre long-distance trail following the highest parts
Where It Started
After my mother passed away in 2012, I was given the book Pieterpad – Part 2.