During their long treks, distance hikers have developed a unique shared vocabulary. Here are some of the terms we have learned from reading about the PCT:
- Thru hiker – Somebody who hikes a long-distance trail from end to end.
- Section hiker – Somebody who hikes portions of a long-distance trail, in separate pieces at different times, which eventually add up to the full trail length.
- Trail name – A name given to you by the trail community. Each name is unique and often reflects an aspect of your personality or a memorable event on the trail. Some examples: Rockin, Wired, and Chinchilla. Once you receive a trail name, you assume that name, and that name only, for the duration of the hike, and for future hikes.
Wandering the Wild 