We have had many threads that debate whether purple blazing is allowed or rainbow blazing. But I have seen few clearly lay out what exactly they view the principles to be that would qualify them to say they thru hiked. This is a Straight-forward forum so please don't critique others choices. So what is a thru hike?
Maltos Rules. (Based on a very snowy PCT)
1) Continuous and unbroken single set of footprints from start to finish.
2) all detours and closures are followed.
3) when snow covers the trail it becomes a route not a trail, meaning you can get from Point A to Point B by the shortest fastest route that approximately follows the trail. (This is more a navigational rule)
4) better alternates such the Eagle Creek alternative will be followed if it is better, not just because its shorter.
5) resupply cut offs such as the Warner Springs in by south road and out by north road can only be used if the total distance is greater than the trail cutoff and there are no significant missed landscape.
6) no slack packing, flip flopping.
7) if you find yourself off trail, you get back to the trail, not back to where you lost it. (Think Chin Musics Pearisburg dilemma.)
what says you?