PCT Thru Hiker Permit: A convenience, not a requirement

[gsamelon]

Is hammock hanging allowed there?

[OldHiker]

So, if I just get a permit starting on say January 1st (OK, I know that is silly so let's say the end of February), I can still start my through hike on a later date, like the middle or end of March? Or, do you have to be "close" and if so, how close? It is tough to get the REAL start date you want when you are logged in with 4,000+ other folks.

OldHiker.

[noraft]

Thanks for this post. Based on what you've written, it seems that if one wants to sidestep the 50 permit a day cap (but still wants the convenience of a single permit), they should apply for a section hike permit going from Kennedy Meadows (or thereabouts) to the northern terminus.