How much does it cost to hike a long trail?
Sunday, April 22nd, 2007The first long trail I hiked was the PCT(Pacific Crest Trail). I quit my good paying job and planned to return to work the following spring. I looked at the hike as a “trip of a lifetime” and spared no expense. But, like a lot of people that complete a long hike, once I finished the trail, I wasn’t so willing to sell my summers anymore and I still haven’t made it back to work.
Since then I have tried to practice a more sustainable hiking style. If I’m disciplined enough I will keep track of my PCT expenses this trip and see how much I spend.
There is a rule of thumb that everyone throws around that says 1-2 dollars a mile, but, Weathercarrot wrote this article on how he hiked the AT on 1,100 dollars: that’s freedom.
I was reading journals today and found a hiker who is paying for her trip by selling plasma.
Update: I spent about 3,600 dollars. That included buying a couple new pairs of shoes, a new backpack, and new rain gear. I don’t drink and I tried to get out of town as quickly as I could but sometimes got a room. I bought lots of fresh food no matter the cost.