We went out before Mother’s Day when the mountains were still mostly empty and did eight miles for practice.
There are real differences between the Appalachian Trail and PCT style hikes—more than just the altitude.
Sunglasses are always a kind of thing on the AT. Important (to avoid snow blindness) on the more open hiking. Our tent did well, proper pitching avoids moisture problems.
Lots more thoughts, but right now I’m just enjoying the practice hikes with my love.