Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) spans an impressive 2,650 miles from the Mexican border in California to the Canadian border in Washington. This trail is celebrated for its stunning diversity, traversing through some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the western United States. Hikers encounter arid deserts, towering mountain ranges, lush forests, and volcanic peaks. The PCT takes adventurers through numerous protected areas, including six national parks, 25 national forests, and 48 designated wilderness areas, providing a unique opportunity to explore the ecology and geology of the Pacific states. Established as a designated National Scenic Trail in 1968, it has since become a magnet for thousands of thru-hikers and section hikers each year. Notable landmarks along the trail include the John Muir Trail overlap, Mount Whitney, and the Bridge of the Gods. The Pacific Crest Trail's allure lies in its promise of solitude, spectacular vistas, and the personal endurance test it represents.
