What is the Pacific Crest Trail?

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a 2,663.5 mile trail that runs between Mexico and Canada via California, Oregon, and Washington.  The trail passes through six of North America’s seven ecozones.  The trail’s lowest point is 180 feet at the Columbia River Gorge at the Oregon-Washington border, and its highest point is 13,153 feet at Forester Pass in California’s Sierra Nevada.

About 300 people attempt a thru-hike each year, of which approximately 60 percent finish.  PCT thru-hikes are almost always northbound.  Most northbound hikers begin in late April or early May and finish by early October.  Unlike many other long-distance hikes, the PCT has a very short hiking window.  Thru-hikers want to avoid crossing the High Sierras in California too early when there is still a lot of snow but need to finish by early October before winter hits Washington.  Due to the short time frame, thru-hikers typically have many 25+ mile days. 

Regardless of how far I make it, it is sure to be an amazing journey.  I can hardly wait to begin!