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Pacific Crest Trail adventures

Pacific Crest Trail Adventures

The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,650-mile long-distance hiking trail that traverses through the diverse landscapes of California, Oregon, and Washington, offering unparalleled experiences for adventurers seeking the challenge of a lifetime.

Approximately 300,000
Acres Protected
2,650
Miles of Trails
Over 4,000 thru-hikers attempt the trail each year
Annual Visitors
1968
Year Established

About Pacific Crest Trail

Pacific Crest Trail
 

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.

Highlights

Highlight

John Muir Trail: A 211-mile stretch that coincides with the PCT through the Sierra Nevada.

Highlight

Crater Lake National Park: Offers stunning views and is a unique geological feature along the trail.

Highlight

Bridge of the Gods: Marks the transition from Oregon into Washington over the Columbia River.

Highlight

Mount Whitney: The highest peak in the contiguous US, accessible via a spur trail off the PCT.

Notable Natural Features

Sierra Nevada

A mountain range offering dramatic peaks and panoramic views.

Cascade Range

Home to volcanic landscapes and picturesque forests in the Pacific Northwest.

Desert Section

The Southern California segment offers unique desert flora and challenging conditions.