Is the PCT near the Mexican border really dangerous with all the illegal immigrants?
That was my same concern eventhough my chances of being killed or injured while driving the car to the store are probably a zillion times greater, but nonetheless I was concerned. As a precaution I definitely wanted to (1) Get an early first light start, (2) Begin my hike with or near a small group of people, and (3) Get 20 miles away from the border to Lake Morena State Park on that first day. That was my plan and that’s what happened. But despite my precautions I still ran into a group of five Mexican’s or rather, they ran into me while I was adjusting a shoestring alongside the trail. The first fellow spoke some broken English and we had a few short and pleasant words, then they just all filed on by me while smiling and waving. They just wanted to get into the country and had absolutely no interest in harming me. If you attend the ADZPCTKO at Lake Morena in late April, then you will find plenty of good folks willing and wanting to drive you to the border. The Pacific Crest Trail web
