Tent-site at Shelter Cove

Thru-hikers need to resupply. That  means hitching to town, or to a camp that has a store and other services.

Sometimes, it can take a while to get a hitch. You can improve your chances by doing a few simple things.

Be as neat as possible. Tuck your clothes in, wash your face, cover wild hair with a cap. Make the effort.

Don’t bunch with other hikers. More than two holding out thumbs at one spot is not wise–drivers will be reluctant to squeeze everyone in.

Pare off with a female, if possible. Your odds improve—I’ve seen it happen, and I’ll leave it at that.

Don’t look depressed or forlorn, especially if it’s a nice day. A driver would like to communicate and, perhaps, learn things. A driver is less likely to stop if he/she senses turbulence, or an attitude.

Shelter Cove Resort, near the Pacific Crest Trail, is a marina and camp on Odell Lake in Crescent, Oregon.