The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a hiker’s paradise. Covering more than 2,600 miles from Mexico to Canada, the PCT crosses the three contiguous western states, California, Oregon, and Washington.

What began as a vision in the 1930s to connect six established and independent trails from the Deserts to the Cascades became a reality when the California Conservation Corp in conjunction with the USDA Forest Service added “filler” trails across the three states. The once independent trails connected to form the PCT include The California Desert Trail, John Muir Trail, Tahoe-Yosemite Trail, Washington Cascade Trail, Lava Crest Trail, and the Oregon Skyline Trail. In 1968, the Pacific Crest Trail was one of two trails (the Appalachian Trail being the other) to be named America’s first national scenic trails.

Today, the trail is enjoyed year round by hikers and equestrians. Though the PCT is most often used for day hikes and short tips, every year, a few hundred enthusiasts do hike the entire length (thru-hike) and earn recognition for the accomplishment. A thru-hike generally takes between 5-7 months to complete.

In 1977, the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) was established as a non profit organization to promote and protect the general welfare of the PCT. On their site, the PCTA offers information on trip planning, re-supply labels, entering Canada via the PCT, and much more. Photos and testimonials from experienced hikers and equestrians are also available on their site.

At the start of the season, the PCTA holds an annual event in Southern California called, “ADZPCTKO.” ADZPCTKO, (ADZ-puh-SIT- koh) stands for Annual Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kick Off. It is a weekend event filled with fun and food before the long trek north begins. Though the PCT is opened year round, the kick off is scheduled for late April to coincide with the best window of opportunity for optimal weather conditions before winter hits Canada and the higher elevations.

The arduous journey begins near Campo, Ca. and ends six miles across the Canadian border. From start to finish, the trail crosses six eco-zones, 7 national parks, 4 BLMs, 1 national monument, 33 federally designated wildernesses, 5 state or provident parks, and 24 national forests. Topography includes chaparral, meadows, alpine, coniferous forests, lakes, tarns, and canyons.

Per PCTA’s site, the Southern California section covers about 700 miles of desert valleys and chaparral covered slopes. The challenge of Southern California is the desert heat and minimal water supplies.

Central California covers the Sierra Nevada and is thought of as the most remote and scenic section. The challenge of Central California is altitude. Elevations climb to as high as 13,200 feet. And, about 200 of this 800 mile section crosses no roads.

Northern California is a transitional part of the trail. Here, hikers descend from glaciered mountains and begin entering the volcano lined Cascades.

Oregon is the shortest and least strenuous part of the trail. Climbing is milder and strong hikers can pick up the pace, squeezing in a few extra miles a day while hiking along the crests of the Cascades.

Washington’s mountainous scenery is considered the scenic rival to the Sierra Nevada. It is also the moodiest part of the trail in terms of weather. Hikers generally enter Washington around September, and the weather is unpredictable.

The PCT is within driving distance of San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland, Seattle, and is easily accessible. Only pedestrians and equestrians are allowed on the trail, and permits are required. All mechanical apparatuses are prohibited including bicycles, skateboards, wheelchairs, and strollers.

Among the wildlife scene on the PCT are mountain lions and grizzly bears. The most common equine animals accompanying hikers are horses, mules, and llamas; although, camels and goats have also marked the trail.

The PCT truly is nature at its best. It is an opportunity to explore and discover the natural beauty of the western United States. For those challenged to thru-hike the PCT, the half year it takes to trek the 2,600 miles will leave a lifetime of memories.

Sources:

Web: pcta.org Books: America’s National Scenic Trails, Kathleen Ann Cordes

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