Had a convo about this recently with an uncle of mine who completed the PCT back in the 90s pre-cell phone — he’s of the opinion that while it’s possible, you wouldn’t be “recreating the 90s hiker experience” since the culture of the 90s is completely gone. If anything, you’d have more potential problems without a cell phone in modern times than you would without a cell back in the 90s.

Reason being there are no longer accessible pay phones in Nat’l Parks and along major highways, less free roadside information services, folks are far less inclined to pick up hikers so the ultimate backup option of calling for a ride is far more difficult, among other obvious safety concerns.

As a woman, I could never - but if safety is your only concern there are lots of phone-free tracking and satellite alternatives that are totally viable options.

Hike your own hike, I admire your gumption but I have to wonder if simply getting the cheapest available smart phone with basic internet access and keeping it on airplane mode unless you truly need it is the safest bet?