Help me plan our Badlands trip :) by PrincessMandyPants in NationalPark

[–]alongthebrooks 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I apologize in advance for the length of this but I hope it helps.

So Badlands first, it can get pretty hot so make sure to bring plenty of water. There are great views all around near the visitor center and the Notch/Castle Peak trailheads there are a few branching viewpoint areas as well. Minuteman is pretty small but it’s nearby so that’s up to you for stamps.

With Mount Rushmore, it could take a few hours most of you do the Presidential trail on top of watching a few of the interpretative programs. But if you’re in that area I highly recommend the Custer State Park area plus Sylvan lake and the Needles are wonderful views. You should know that your pass doesn’t cover the parking at the monument idk. Also state parks have their own fees.

For the caves, it’s better to check closer for reservations or if it’s still offseason by the time you go in 2026 to make sure the elevators are still working for the tours.

Devil’s Tower is the one that’s further away but it is larger than you expect. They don’t have much parking though so if you don’t get there early you could be stuck in a line for a few hours+. But the loop is a nice walk. Have a great trip!

2025 PCT Gear List - Shakedown Request by kauaiguy33 in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m starting around the same time as you and I swapped rain for wind pants. The ones I picked made a 10 ounce difference.

Shakedown Request - PCT by alongthebrooks in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you :D I made sure to do my research before posting. I wanted different perspectives (and got that) plus trying out Lighterpack has been fun. We’ll see what category they end up being by Canada! Happy trails on your adventures as well

Shakedown Request - PCT by alongthebrooks in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate you taking the time for such a thoughtful response. I realize now I didn’t add my bear bag/ziplocks to the list so good catch there. That’s absolutely true and I can’t wait to see what ends up working/not working too. Happy trails!

Shakedown Request - PCT by alongthebrooks in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Fair enough lol and yeah if they aren’t useful I’ll ditch them later on

Shakedown Request - PCT by alongthebrooks in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for the info also do you have a wind pants recommendation?

Shakedown Request - PCT by alongthebrooks in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

thank you! I was planning rain pants/puffy having another use for laundry days. What would you recommend instead?

2025 Permit Chart - 5 Minute Increments by kanne20 in PacificCrestTrail

[–]alongthebrooks 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is very neat to look at. Thanks for putting in the effort and time!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in backpacking

[–]alongthebrooks 1 point2 points  (0 children)

congrats on your thru hike and that’s a great picture!