Resupply strategies are a hot topic among Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) thru-hikers. Some hikers meticulously plan and mail resupply boxes to nearly every town along the route, while others take a more flexible approach, purchasing food at grocery stores, markets, and gas stations as they go. For those with dietary restrictions, however, resupply planning requires an added layer of strategy and foresight.
What is Celiac Disease?
I have celiac disease, meaning my body cannot properly digest wheat, barley, or rye—collectively known as gluten. If I accidentally consume gluten, I experience symptoms such as headaches, body aches, and a host of digestive issues. Unlike a food allergy, which can trigger immediate reactions, my symptoms usually develop six to 24 hours later. While my reactions are relatively mild compared to some celiacs who may be bedridden for days, ingesting gluten still has long-term health consequences, including an increased risk of developing additional autoimmune diseases and even cancer.
Having lived with celiac disease for over 14 years, maintaining a strict gluten-free diet is second nature to me. Fortunately, the availability of gluten-free products has grown significantly in recent years, and I live in an area with numerous gluten-free restaurants and bakeries. However, maintaining a gluten-free diet on trail presents unique challenges, particularly when resupply options are limited.
Adding another twist to my resupply strategy is my husband, who will be hiking the PCT with me. He can (and does) eat just about anything! He currently is not planning on sending resupply boxes and plans to embrace the spontaneity of buying food in town. I’m incredibly envious of his flexibility, but I know I need to take a slightly more structured approach.
My Resupply Strategy (For Now)
For the first 700 miles, I plan to send two resupply boxes (one to Warner Springs, and one to Agua Dulce). As we approach the Sierra section, I’ll reassess my plan based on what foods I’m enjoying and where additional resupply boxes may be necessary.
Initially, I considered mailing a resupply box to every town along the way, but I ultimately decided against it for several reasons:
- Cost: Shipping multiple resupply boxes adds up quickly.
- Taste Preferences: Many hikers report their taste buds changing on trail—I don’t want to be stuck with food I no longer enjoy. For example, when I hiked the Wonderland Trail and sent ahead resupply boxes, I didn’t eat half the food I sent because much of it didn’t sound palatable while hiking.
- Uncertainty: Injuries or unforeseen circumstances could end my hike early, leaving me with unused resupply boxes.
Based on my research, I feel confident that I’ll be able to find safe food options in many trail towns. The selection may be repetitive and lack variety, but I’m used to limited food choices in my everyday life.
My husband and I have also agreed that we may need to spend extra time in town or travel further to larger grocery stores to find gluten-free options for me. We’ve budgeted for the higher cost of food, factoring in both inflation and the premium price of gluten-free packaged goods.
What does a typical day of eating look like on trail with celiac disease?
Enjoying a gluten-free Oreo on the Wonderland Trail, 2022
Eating on trail with celiac disease takes extra planning, but after years of backpacking, I’ve found a system that works. While my food choices may change on the PCT, here’s what a typical day of eating looks like when I’m out backpacking:
Breakfast
- Instant coffee (a non-negotiable)
- Dried fruit
- A gluten-free protein or granola bar (Bobo’s are my favorite!)
Snacks
- Trail mix
- Protein bars
- Candy (gotta keep morale high)
- Chips (because salty crunch is essential)
Lunch
- Tuna or jerky
- Rice cakes or a gluten-free tortilla
- More chips (never enough chips)
- More candy (never enough candy either)
Dinner
- Gluten-free ramen
- instant mashed potatoes
- instant rice and beans
- Gluten-free Mac and cheese
- Gluten-free freeze dried meal
Enjoying some Tim’s Potato Chips in Olympic National Park, 2024
What about town food?
Finding safe food in town will likely be another of the challenge of thru-hiking with celiac disease. Cross-contamination is a constant concern, and options can be limited. In larger towns or touristy areas, apps like Find Me Gluten Free are lifesavers for tracking down safe restaurants.
Smaller towns require more creativity. A bunless burger with a side salad and baked potato is always an option. Sometimes it’s frustrating to not have many choices, but I’ve learned to adapt and make it work.
This is my plan so far, and while I know flexibility will be key, I’m optimistic that I won’t go hungry on trail. I may have to adapt my expectations and be creative with what’s available, but that’s all part of the adventure! I also have some incredible trail angels at home if I need a box or two sent my way.
I will share what works, what doesn’t, and what a typical gluten-free day on trail looks like in future blog posts.
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