The Calm Before the First Step

Every big journey has a quiet beginning. For my Pacific Crest Trail adventure, Week 0 was about preparation, travel, and easing into the mindset of a long trail. Before the miles started stacking up, there was gear to check, roads to drive, and one last moment to breathe before stepping onto the trail.

Wednesday to Thursday – Final Preparations

The week began with one last round of preparation. Even after months of planning, there is always that lingering question before a long hike: Did I forget something?

I laid out all of my gear and did a final check. Backpack, tent, sleeping system, water filtration, food, electronics, and all the little items that seem insignificant until you realize you need them miles away from civilization. At this point, my setup is dialed in and fairly lightweight, which should make a big difference once the daily miles begin.

This was also the week I officially launched the blog. I have been planning to document this hike for a while, and it felt fitting to start writing just before the journey truly began. The PCT is a massive undertaking, and sharing the experience in real time will make the adventure even more meaningful.

Friday to Monday – The Drive West

With preparations wrapped up, it was time to head west. I started the long drive from Austin toward Southern California, where the Pacific Crest Trail begins at the Mexican border near Campo.

Rather than rushing the drive, I took a slower approach and stopped at rest areas each night. This has become one of my favorite ways to travel. Rest stops are simple, but they are practical: free parking, bathrooms, and a surprisingly comfortable place to sleep for a few hours before continuing down the road.

There is also something satisfying about the simplicity of it. No hotel check-ins, no reservations, just pulling over, resting, and continuing the journey the next morning.

By Sunday, I reached Tucson, Arizona, and decided to take a break from the road to stretch my legs.

Sunday – Bear Canyon and Seven Falls

Tucson offered the perfect opportunity for a quick desert hike before continuing west. I headed to Bear Canyon to hike the Seven Falls Trail, a beautiful route that winds through the desert landscape before reaching a series of waterfalls tucked into the canyon.

The hike was a great reminder of why I love being outside. The desert scenery, the warm sun, and the sound of water in the canyon made for a refreshing break from the long drive. It also served as a bit of a warm-up hike before the PCT officially begins.

After the hike, it was back on the road for the final push into Southern California.

Monday – Arriving in Descanso

By Monday, I arrived in Descanso, California, where I checked into Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs. This campground will serve as my base for the first stretch of the hike.

My overall plan for the PCT is a bit unconventional. I will be working full-time Monday through Thursday, then hiking Thursday evening through Sunday night. Having my Jeep and small travel trailer nearby makes this possible. I can leave the trail at road crossings, return to the campground during the work week, and pick up exactly where I left off each weekend.

It is a different way to approach a thru-hike, but it gives me the freedom to pursue the trail while still maintaining my work schedule.

Tuesday – Oakzanita Peak

On Tuesday, I took another warm-up hike to Oakzanita Peak, which sits just above the campground. It was a short but enjoyable climb and offered a great view of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Hikes like this serve two purposes before a long trek. First, they help loosen up the legs after days of driving. Second, they help transition mentally from travel mode into trail mode.

The PCT is about to begin, and standing on a local peak overlooking the region felt like a fitting preview.

Wednesday – Rest and Anticipation

By Wednesday, the focus shifted to rest and preparation for the start of the hike on Thursday.

Long trails reward patience, especially at the beginning. Starting fresh, well-rested, and mentally ready is more important than squeezing in extra activity the day before.

So I kept things simple. Relax, organize gear, review the upcoming section, and get ready for the first miles of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Tomorrow, the real journey begins.

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Week 0 was not about miles on the PCT, but it was an essential part of the journey. Preparation, travel, and a few desert hikes set the stage for what lies ahead.

Next up: Week 1, where the boots finally hit the Pacific Crest Trail.