Rant: Overheard two guys arguing about the best way to plan a 7-day trek

Honestly, I was at the trailhead for the Lost Coast last week and two guys were really going at it. One said you should plan every single campsite and water source before you even leave your house, using apps and guidebooks. The other guy said that's a sure way to miss the fun, and you should just pick a general direction and figure it out as you go. Tbh, it made me think about my own trip to the Enchantments last year where I had a rigid plan, but the best part was a side trail I found by accident. Ngl, I'm leaning toward being more flexible now, but I get why people want the security. What's your take on planning versus winging it for a week-long trip?

3 comments

3 Comments

young.michael16d ago

A good plan leaves room for happy accidents though.

ryan_black16d ago

Man, I have to totally disagree. For a week long trek, winging it is how you get into real trouble. If you don't plan your water sources, you could be stuck with a 20 mile dry stretch. Not having a set campsite means you might end up pushing too far in the dark or setting up on fragile ground. That "fun" side trail? It could easily be a washed out route that wastes your energy and daylight. A solid plan is what gives you the freedom to actually relax and enjoy the hike, not stress about your next move.

jake74716d ago

Oh man, Ryan's got a point. I learned the hard way that "winging it" on a long hike just means carrying way too much water because you didn't check the creek reports.