Normally the PCTA (Pacific Crest Trail Association) issues long distance thru-hiking permits early January. It's a lottery based system where a specific amount of day passes are released and then after that it's a free-for-all. If you have a specific start date in mind, you obviously want to get your ass in gear on the permit app to get your date. For an American, it's one application form. For myself I need an itinerary that breaks down locations and times I'll be in the US, then I have to apply for a travel (B) VISA, after that apply for a Canadian re-entry visa….THEN I can apply for my permit.
They don't make it easy do they?
The PCTA threw us for a loop the other day….permits for next years class are being released November 1…a full 2 and a half months early. Holy $&@%
So needless to say I've been chipping away, thank god I have because besides cramming the itinerary last night with a few glasses of wine, I now need to power in that paperwork. It'd be a shame to miss out next year and the work I've done because of that!!!
So to say I'm stressed is a bit of an understatement.
BIG thank you to TCSI Consulting. They're hooking me up with some cool ultralight gear for my trip to keep me connected, but they are also helping me spruce up my website with a custom URL and some plugins. Check out the beginning work at either janinepct.ca or janinepct.com
Thanks Tom and the great crew at TCSI Consulting for coming on as a hike sponsor. I look forward to working with you guys.