Difference between revisions of "Pacific Crest Trail"

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Resources the provide overview and introductory-level information about the Pacific Crest Trail:
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{{Infobox hiking trail
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| name = Pacific Crest Trail
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| photo = [[File:Ritter_Range_Pacific_Crest_Trail.jpg|200px]]<!-- Load Wikimedia Commons image here, ie CowlitzDivide.JPG -->
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| caption = The PCT in the Ansel Adams Wilderness<!-- Mt Rainier from the Cowlitz Divide along the Wonderland Trail -->
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| abbreviated_name = PCT
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| location = United States: California, Oregon, Washington
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| length = {{convert|4264|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} <!-- {{convert|93|mi|km|0}}<ref name="Filley">
 +
    {{cite book
 +
    | author = Filley, Bette
 +
    | year = 2002
 +
    | title = Discovering the Wonders of the Wonderland Trail: Encircling Mount Rainier
 +
    | publisher = Dunamis House
 +
    | isbn = 1-880405-09-1
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    | edition = 5th
 +
    }}</ref> -->
 +
| trail_agency = [[PCTA]]
 +
| trailheads = ?<!-- [[Longmire, Washington|Longmire Lodge]] <br/> [[Mowich Lake]] <br/> Ipsut Creek Camp Ground <br/> [[Sunrise (Mount Rainier)|Sunrise parking area]] <br/> White River Camp Ground <br/> Fryingpan Creek Trailhead <br/> Box Canyon <br/> Reflection Lakes <br/> Cougar Rock -->
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| use = Hiking
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| elev_gain_and_loss = ?<!-- {{convert|22000|ft|m|-2}} gain approximately<ref name="Filley"/> -->
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| highest = ?<!-- Panhandle Gap {{convert|6750|ft|m|-1}}<ref name="SpringManningMRNP">
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    {{cite book
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    | author = Spring, Ira
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    | author-link = Ira Spring
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    | author-link2 = Harvey Manning
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    | author2=Manning, Harvey
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    | year = 1999
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    | title = 50 Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park
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    | publisher = The Mountaineers
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    | isbn = 0-89886-572-7
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    }}</ref> -->
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| lowest = ?<!-- Ipsut Creek Campground {{convert|2320|ft|m|-1}}<ref name="Filley"/> -->
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| direction = ? <!--Nobo, Sobo...-->
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| season = Spring to Fall <!-- Summer to early Fall -->
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| months = March to October <!-- Mid-July through late September -->
 +
<!-- | maintainer = ?<!-- National Park Service -->
 +
| website = https://www.pcta.org<!-- [http://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/the-wonderland-trail.htm nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/the-wonderland-trail.htm] -->
 +
}}
 +
== Overview ==
 +
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a long distance hiking and equestrian trail in the Western United States. It is approximately 2,650 miles (4,265 kilometers) long. The trail's southern terminus is on the U.S./Mexico border in [[Campo, California]], and it's northern terminus is on the Canada/U.S. border on the edge of Manning Park, British Columbia. It passes through 25 national forests, 6 national parks, 7 BLM field offices and 5 state park units.<ref>https://www.pcta.org/2019/8-questions-for-u-s-forest-service-veteran-deb-davis-68069/</ref>
 +
 
 +
It is maintained by the [[Pacific Crest Trail Association]] (PCTA).
 +
 
 +
'''Length:''' {{convert|4264|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} (nominal). As with many trail in the US West, the precise length of the PCT changes frequently, often from year to year, due a variety of reasons, including wildfires, reroutes, etc. 2,650 miles is the figure used by the [[Pacific Crest Trail Association|PCTA]].
 +
 
 +
'''Standard direction(s) of travel:''' <!-- nobo, sobo, etc. -->
 +
Nobo is the most popular direction of hiking on the PCT, with the vast majority of thruhikers starting at the Mexican border. It provides a slightly longer weather window. However, as the trail has grown in popularity in the 2010's, more hikers are choosing to hike sobo.
 +
 
 +
'''Season:''' Spring through Fall
 +
 
 +
'''Trail Association:''' [[Pacific Crest Trail Association]]
 +
 
 +
== Sections ==
 +
<!-- Does the trail have recognized sections, such as the desert/sierra/norcal/oregon/washington sections on the PCT? -->
 +
The PCT is made up of 5 distinct sections, The Desert, The Sierra, Northern California, Oregon and Washington
 +
 
 +
===The Desert===
 +
 
 +
[https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-southern-california/ SoCal Section Profile on The Trek]
 +
 
 +
The Desert spans approximately 700 miles (1127 kilometers) from the the Mexican border at the Southernmost point of the PCT near Campo, California to Kennedy Meadows near Mile 700. Hikers begin their northbound ([http://www.longtrailswiki.net/wiki/Nobo Nobo]) journey around mid-spring, typical start dates range from mid-March to mid-May depending on hiker's speed and schedule, with faster hikers beginning later so as not to enter the Sierra to early and hikers who wish to start slow beginning earlier so that they can hit lower mileage days and not be pressed for time. Water management is crucial in the desert, and most hikers can expect at least some 4 to 6 litre water carries to be necessary.
 +
 
 +
The Desert is the most populated portion of the trail, both in frequency of towns and thru hikers, because of this most hikers find the Desert is the most 'social' portion of the trail. 'Trail Magic' is most common here, many towns cater to hikers and some of the trail's most well known trail angels, like Scout and Frodo, Hiker Heaven, Casa de Luna and Hikertown.
 +
 
 +
===The Sierra===
 +
 
 +
[https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-sierra-nevada/ Sierra Section Profile on The Trek]
 +
 
 +
This section is usually considered to stretch from Kennedy Meadows to lake Tahoe, a roughly 390 miles section. This is where Northbound hikers will encounter the most technical and challenging terrain of the trail, though the challenge of this section is greatly dependent on the entry date of a particular hiker and the snowpack in any given year. A typical Nobo hiker will enter the Sierra sometime between late May and late June, though both earlier and later entries are possible. Snowpack in the Sierra is the main consideration for deciding your Sierra entry date, as an early entry, especially in high snow year will require hikers to be comfortable traversing steep angle snowfields, using crampons/microspikes and an ice axe and crossing high, fast creeks. Later entries will have much less snow to deal with, however depending on entry date, creeks may be high and dangerous, mosquitos may start swarming in certain areas and the trail will be more crowded.
 +
 
 +
The two major obstacles of the Sierra are creek crossings and passes. Some strategies and advice for dealing with these obstacles will follow.
 +
 
 +
==== Passes ====
 +
The most difficult passes for most Northbound hiker will be faced in between Mount Whitney (Mile 767) and Muir Ranch (Mile 857). The first major pass being Forester Pass (Mile 779), the highpoint of the Pacific Crest Trail at 13,153ft. Passes can be dangerous as the approach or descent from a pass will often involve traversing steep angle snowfields, where a slip can result in an uncontrolled slide if it cannot be stopped. Many hikers opt to carry ice axes so that a slide can be stopped by self-arresting, it you decide to carry an ice axe, it is crucial that you know how to use it, practice self arrest and proper usage of the ice axe in a safe environment such as a snowy slope with safe runout. Crampons or Microspikes are invaluable in providing traction on these snowy passes as well. To ensure the best possible conditions going over passes, ascend early in the morning while the snow is still icy and firm, as ascending a pass later in the day will be much more difficult due to mushy snow, as well as increased avalanche risk if still in early season.
 +
 
 +
==== Creeks ====
 +
The creeks in the Sierra should not be taken lightly at peak melt, these creeks can be deeper than your head and move fast. The creek crossings in the Sierra will probably be the most dangerous aspect of your northbound hike. Difficult crossings should be attempted with groups, and done early in the morning, when snowmelt is at its lowest. Remember, the trail crossing is not always the best crossing, if the trail crossing looks beyond your comfort level, scout upstream and downstream, some crossings in peak melt may require you to go miles upstream to find a safe place to cross. Some crossings can be avoided completely if you are willing to hike enough offtrail. When scouting for crossings, look for areas where the river branches in to many forks, as this many signal that the creek is shallower and slower here, look also for log-bridges, snowbridge, though be aware, 100% of snowbridges on the PCT fail eventually, and falling through a snowbridge can have dire effects, imagine being trapped below several feet of snow barraged by ice cold water pushing you against a tree or rock, be certain of the structural integrity of a snowbridge before crossing on it.
 +
 
 +
ALWAYS consider the runout for any potential crossing, if you get 'swept' by the creek, what will happen? Be aware of 'strainers' things water can move through, but humans cannot, such as logjams and tangles of thick bushes, if the current is fast, it can trap you against, or worse, under a strainer. Stay away from these. Other things to consider in a runout are rapids, cascades and waterfalls, you don't want to go down these for obvious reasons.
 +
 
 +
When consider log crossings, consider what what will happen if you fall of the log, many logs are strainers. Consider also the surface of the log, if the log is getting spray from the creek, it may be icy. Consider wearing your traction on log crossings, and using your poles to help keep your balance.
 +
 
 +
For group crossings, consider different formations that could help ease the crossing, smaller/weaker members of the group can be aided in crossings by stronger members, you should research group crossing strategies before going into the Sierra if you are expecting high melt conditions.
 +
 
 +
===Northern California===
 +
[https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-northern-california/ NorCal Section Profile on The Trek]
 +
 
 +
Northern California, or NorCal begins after Salt lake Tahoe (Mile 1092) and continues for roughly 600 miles until the Oregon border (mile 1690). This section can be as hot and dry as the desert in segments despite being mostly forested.
 +
 
 +
===Oregon===
 +
[https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-oregon/ Oregon Section Profile on The Trek]
 +
 
 +
===Washington===
 +
[https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-washington/ Washington Section Profile on The Trek]
 +
 
 +
== Water ==
 +
<!-- Is water plentiful, scarce, seasonal? Does it vary by section? If standard water locations exist along this trail, such as on the triple crown trails, list of links to individual LTW articles. -->
 +
 
 +
== Resupply ==
 +
 
 +
* [[Pacific Crest Trail Resupply Locations|The LongTrailsWiki List of PCT Resupply Locations]]
 +
* [https://www.halfwayanywhere.com/trails/pacific-crest-trail/pct-resupply-guide-2018/ The HalfwayAnywhere.com 2018 PCT Survey: Resupply article ]
 +
* [https://www.pctplanner.com/ Craig's PCT Planner]
 +
* [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-resupply-guide/ PCT Resupply Guide on The Trek]
 +
* [https://relishhikes.com/pct-sobo-resupply-plan ''The PCT Sobo Resupply Plan,'' from Zach "Relish" Hoopes]
 +
 
 +
* Lists of resupply locations:
 +
* [https://freeoutside.com/pacific-crest-trail-resupply-locations-spreadsheet/ Free Outside list]
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/thru-hiking-long-distance-hiking/resupply/pct-resupply-towns-locations/ PCTA.org list]
 +
** [https://hikerfeed.com/pacific-crest-trail/towns Hikerfeed.com]
 +
** [https://aldha.org/labels/pct ALDHA-West]
 +
** [https://planyourhike.com/planning/resupply-points/ Planyourhike.com]
 +
*** Note that the resupply list on PlanYourHike has not been updated in several years. Some of the information on the list is out of date.
 +
 
 +
== Weather and Seasonality ==
 +
<!-- What type of weather should trail users expect to encounter? -->
 +
 
 +
== Permits and Regulations ==
 +
<!-- Permitting requirements and agencies, camping regulations, campfire restrictions, etc.. -->
 +
 
 +
===Permit Info===
 +
* [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/ PCTA.org permit info page]
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/local-permits/ List of local permit requirements on PCTA.org] Especially useful for section hikers.
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/pct-long-distance-permit/ US Forest Service PCT Long Distance Permit]. This is the "thruhike permit" or "PCTA permit", available to any hiker intending to cover 500 or more continuous miles in a single trip.
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/california-fire-permit/ California Campfire Permit]. Necessary for use of a camp stove while hiking in California.
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/canada-pct-entry-permit/ Canada Entry Permit]. It is illegal to enter Canada at the PCT Northern Terminus without this permit. It is illegal to enter the US at the PCT Northern Terminus under any circumstances. Note that the Canadian Government suspended the Canada Entry Permit program indefinitely at the beginning of the pandemic.
 +
** [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/how-to-score-a-pct-long-distance-permit-on-november-9th/ An article that describes the process of applying for a Long Distance Permit]. Current as of 2023.
 +
 
 +
===Local Permit Info===
 +
* [https://www.triplecrownoutfitters.com/pct-local-permits Triple Crown Outfitters local PCT permits list]
 +
* [http://www.pctoregon.com/pct-info/permits/ Information about permitting for Oregon section hikes]
 +
* Cleveland NF (California):
 +
** https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/cleveland/passes-permits/recreation
 +
** https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cleveland/home/?cid=FSEPRD488307
 +
** https://www.recreation.gov/permits/445862
 +
* North Cascades NP (Washington):
 +
** The PCT Long Distance Permit covers camping at Six Mile Camp and Bridge Creek Camp only. Use of other campsites requires [https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/pacific-crest-trail.htm an additional permit].
 +
 
 +
== Maps ==
 +
 
 +
=== Online Maps ===
 +
<!-- Links to longtrailsmap.net and other mapping sites -->
 +
 
 +
====Trail Maps====
 +
* [https://www.longtrailsmap.net/pacific-crest-trail/map PCT on LongTrailsMap.net]
 +
* PCTA Trail Maps:
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/maps/ Maps landing page on PCTA.org]
 +
** [https://arcg.is/10SKH41 Full screen map with 'Permit Areas' layer enabled]
 +
* [https://pcta.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=68255de6e25941f0a01a548ae63216b3 PCT Map from PCTA.org]
 +
* [https://pctmap.net/ Halfmile's PCT Maps site]:
 +
** [https://pctmap.net/trail-notes/ Overview Maps]
 +
** [https://pctmap.net/gps/ GPX downloads]
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** [https://pctmap.net/google/ Google Earth KMZ]
 +
* [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/maps/digital-mapping-and-gis-data/ US Forest Service GPS file downloads]. These are less accurate than Halfmile's data.
 +
* [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/maps/google-earth/ PCTA.org guide to how to use Google Earth to learn about the PCT].
 +
 
 +
====Wildfire Maps====
 +
* [https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ Inciweb]
 +
* [https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/ CalFire]
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* [https://arcg.is/1v5n9G PCTA Wildfires Map]
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* [https://www.latimes.com/wildfires-map/ LA Times California Wildfires map]
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* [https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/us/wildfires-air-quality-tracker.html NY Times Wildfires in the West map]
 +
* [https://www.fireweatheravalanche.org/fire/ FireWeatherAvalanche.org]
 +
 
 +
=== Printed Maps ===
 +
 
 +
* NatGeo Laminated Maps
 +
** [https://www.pcta.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php?action=cp_tx&cp_id=84439 On NatGeoMaps.com]. Purchase from this link and NatGeo will contribute 4% of the purchase price to the PCTA.
 +
** On Amazon: [https://www.amazon.com/Pacific-Bundle-National-Geographic-Illustrated/dp/1566958164 Bundle] or [https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/59C9EFAB-1FB7-4FDB-BAB2-7C6E62A7911E/?_encoding=UTF8&store_ref=SB_A03650102HZY2CFX5TZIF&pd_rd_plhdr=t&aaxitk=d033510b5c3f9d24f4a535207890ef8a&hsa_cr_id=9463532140601&lp_asins=1566958164%2C1566958172&lp_query=nat%20geo%20pct%20map&lp_slot=mobile-auto-sparkle-tetris&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_scm_brand_0_logo&pd_rd_w=ESGwN&pf_rd_p=22aaccd3-32f1-4e8a-8b82-495782857be5&pd_rd_wg=LUTYA&pf_rd_r=RQNK6CN8XW61GSHWGVZD&pd_rd_r=18dfdd6e-5a7c-4f50-bae5-6375c4784bc6 Individual Maps].
 +
 
 +
== Information Resources ==
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 +
=== Websites ===
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<!-- Ie www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail -->
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 +
====Water Crossing Safety====
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* [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/water/stream-crossing-safety/ PCTA.org Stream Crossing Safety article].
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* Andrew Skurka's Sierra Creek Crossings Guide:
 +
** [https://andrewskurka.com/psa-hazardous-high-sierra-creeks-list-map-alternates/ Blog post]()
 +
** [https://caltopo.com/m/J5JJ Caltopo map]
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** [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vR5eDHpKFcx9mKOYHLvYAdHiuqjIE48aENiMtf8kYwd2AggNUNAfyO9SDacSmy_QULXa0stsGzbJ6uD/pubhtml?gid=255011542&single=true Spreadsheet]
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** [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vR5eDHpKFcx9mKOYHLvYAdHiuqjIE48aENiMtf8kYwd2AggNUNAfyO9SDacSmy_QULXa0stsGzbJ6uD/pub?gid=255011542&single=true&output=pdf PDF download of the spreadsheet].
 +
 
 +
====Resources that provide overview and introductory-level information about the Pacific Crest Trail:====
  
 
* The English language [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Crest_Trail Wikipedia entry for "Pacific Crest Trail."]
 
* The English language [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Crest_Trail Wikipedia entry for "Pacific Crest Trail."]
  
 
* The [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/ "Discover the Trail" section at PCTA.org].
 
* The [https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/ "Discover the Trail" section at PCTA.org].
 +
 +
* The PCT on [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Pacific_Crest_Trail Vikivoyage]
 +
 +
* [https://www.halfwayanywhere.com/pacific-crest-trail/ Halfway Anywhere does an annual survey of Pacific Crest Trail hikers]
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 +
* [https://shrinks.guide/ Shrinks Sobo PCT Guide]
 +
 +
* [https://www.pctsouthbound.com/ PCT Southbound: A guide for SOBO Hikers]
 +
 +
* PCT Section Overview articles on TheTrek.co:
 +
** [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-southern-california/ SoCal]
 +
** [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-sierra-nevada/ Sierra]
 +
** [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-northern-california/ NorCal]
 +
** [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-oregon/ Oregon]
 +
** [https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/pacific-crest-trail-section-profile-washington/ Washington]
 +
 +
[https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/closures/ PCTA.org's Official Trail Closures List]
 +
 +
=== Apps ===
 +
<!-- Ie Guthook -->
 +
 +
=== Guidebooks ===
 +
<!-- Ie Yogi's, Wilderness Press -->
 +
 +
=== Other ===
 +
 +
* [https://pctmap.net/trail-notes/ Halfmile's Trail Notes]
 +
* Official [https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/pct/land-resources-management US Forest Service page] with Planning and Regulating documents for the PCT.
 +
 +
== Getting To and From the Trail ==
 +
 +
* PCT Transportation page on PCTA.org: https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/pct-transportation/
 +
* PCT Public Transit Map on LongTrailsMap.net: https://www.longtrailsmap.net/pacific-crest-trail/map?transit=on
 +
* [https://pctsouthernterminusshuttle.com/ PCT Southern Terminus Shuttle]
 +
* As of 2022, Yellow Blaze Transit is no longer in service.<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/siza2o/yellow_blaze_transit_not_operating_out_of_business/</ref>
 +
 +
Shuttle company [https://www.methowmotion20.com/ Method Motion] has routes to Harts Pass, Rainy Pass, and other destinations near the PCT Northern Terminus..
 +
 +
Reaching Mazama, Washington (to get to Harts Pass, near the Northern Terminus) from Seattle, Washington:<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/10t3y1c/is_there_a_shuttle_service_between_seattle_and/j75x1zx/</ref>
 +
 +
* Seattle to Wenatchee: Amtrak bus or Wenatchee Valley Shuttle
 +
* Wenatchee to Pateros: Apple line bus
 +
** If it's necessary to overnight in Pateros, there is a small, self-pay city campground on the river. $15/site in 2021.<ref>https://old.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/10t3y1c/is_there_a_shuttle_service_between_seattle_and/j76qusn/</ref>
 +
* Pateros to Winthrop: Okanogan transit bus (possibly with a transfer in Twisp)
 +
* Winthrop to Mazama: hitchhike
 +
 +
== Geographic Features ==
 +
<!-- Mountain rangers, rivers, deserts, glaciers, etc. -->
 +
 +
== Administrative Territories ==
 +
<!-- Nations, states, national and state parks, national forests, etc., that this trail passes through. -->
 +
 +
* List of [[Pacific Crest Trail Land Management Agencies]] on LongTrailsWiki.
 +
 +
== Online Communities ==
 +
<!-- If there are active online communities for this trail, where are they? -->
 +
 +
===Pacific Crest Trail Facebook Groups for Trail Angels:<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/118lkuh/what_apps_do_you_use_on_trail/j9k20o2/</ref>===
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 +
====General====
 +
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/PacificCrestTrailAngels/ Pacific Crest Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/511447945932386/ Pacific Crest Trail, Ride Share, Transportation, and Ride Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/pctangels/ PCT Trail Angels]
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 +
====Desert====
 +
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/PCTSouthernTerminus/ PCT Southern Terminus Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2481621295262169/ Julian PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/idyllwildtrailangels/ Idyllwild PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1575749589389424/ Wrightwood PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/610755067050575 PCT Pit Stop at The Rocks Agua Dulce NoBo 452]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/562139267482068/ Tehachapi Pass (Tehachapi and Mojave) PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/3286861301542262/ Tehachapi-WalkerPass-Kennedy Meadows PCT Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/838235759666205/ Walker's Pass Trail Angels]
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 +
====Sierras====
 +
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/472730211325167/ Sonora Pass PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/586513422751656/ Eastern sierra trail angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/tahoetas/ Tahoe Trail Angels]
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 +
====NorCal====
 +
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/577078084082169/ Quincy CA PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1476637455735365 Chester PCT Trail Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1417205281692769/ Burney PCT Angels]
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* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/485493951880710 Siskiyou/Shasta County PCT Community]
 +
 +
====Oregon====
 +
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/261198301038546/ PCT - Southern Oregon / Ashland Trail Angels]
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/366740954028576/ Central Oregon PCT Trail Angels]
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/632849986783874/ Central Oregon PCT Trail Angel Network]
 +
 +
====Washington====
 +
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1715221845230849/ Columbia Gorge Trail Angels (PCT)]
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1138994346676895 PCT The Lion's Den]
 +
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/pctwashingtontrailangels/ PCT Washington Trail Angels]
 +
 +
== References ==
 +
<references />
 +
 +
== External Links ==
 +
 +
[[Category: Pacific Crest Trail]]
 +
[[Category: Long Trails]]
 +
[[Category: US National Scenic Trails]]
 +
[[Category: California]]
 +
[[Category: Oregon]]
 +
[[Category: Washington]]

Latest revision as of 21:18, 17 September 2023

Pacific Crest Trail
Ritter Range Pacific Crest Trail.jpg
The PCT in the Ansel Adams Wilderness
Length4,264 km (2,650 mi)
LocationUnited States: California, Oregon, Washington
Trailheads?
Elevation
Elevation gain/loss?
Highest point?
Lowest point?
Hiking details
SeasonSpring to Fall
MonthsMarch to October
Websitehttps://www.pcta.org
Direction?
Trail agencyPCTA
Abbreviated namePCT

Overview

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a long distance hiking and equestrian trail in the Western United States. It is approximately 2,650 miles (4,265 kilometers) long. The trail's southern terminus is on the U.S./Mexico border in Campo, California, and it's northern terminus is on the Canada/U.S. border on the edge of Manning Park, British Columbia. It passes through 25 national forests, 6 national parks, 7 BLM field offices and 5 state park units.[1]

It is maintained by the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA).

Length: 4,264 km (2,650 mi) (nominal). As with many trail in the US West, the precise length of the PCT changes frequently, often from year to year, due a variety of reasons, including wildfires, reroutes, etc. 2,650 miles is the figure used by the PCTA.

Standard direction(s) of travel: Nobo is the most popular direction of hiking on the PCT, with the vast majority of thruhikers starting at the Mexican border. It provides a slightly longer weather window. However, as the trail has grown in popularity in the 2010's, more hikers are choosing to hike sobo.

Season: Spring through Fall

Trail Association: Pacific Crest Trail Association

Sections

The PCT is made up of 5 distinct sections, The Desert, The Sierra, Northern California, Oregon and Washington

The Desert

SoCal Section Profile on The Trek

The Desert spans approximately 700 miles (1127 kilometers) from the the Mexican border at the Southernmost point of the PCT near Campo, California to Kennedy Meadows near Mile 700. Hikers begin their northbound (Nobo) journey around mid-spring, typical start dates range from mid-March to mid-May depending on hiker's speed and schedule, with faster hikers beginning later so as not to enter the Sierra to early and hikers who wish to start slow beginning earlier so that they can hit lower mileage days and not be pressed for time. Water management is crucial in the desert, and most hikers can expect at least some 4 to 6 litre water carries to be necessary.

The Desert is the most populated portion of the trail, both in frequency of towns and thru hikers, because of this most hikers find the Desert is the most 'social' portion of the trail. 'Trail Magic' is most common here, many towns cater to hikers and some of the trail's most well known trail angels, like Scout and Frodo, Hiker Heaven, Casa de Luna and Hikertown.

The Sierra

Sierra Section Profile on The Trek

This section is usually considered to stretch from Kennedy Meadows to lake Tahoe, a roughly 390 miles section. This is where Northbound hikers will encounter the most technical and challenging terrain of the trail, though the challenge of this section is greatly dependent on the entry date of a particular hiker and the snowpack in any given year. A typical Nobo hiker will enter the Sierra sometime between late May and late June, though both earlier and later entries are possible. Snowpack in the Sierra is the main consideration for deciding your Sierra entry date, as an early entry, especially in high snow year will require hikers to be comfortable traversing steep angle snowfields, using crampons/microspikes and an ice axe and crossing high, fast creeks. Later entries will have much less snow to deal with, however depending on entry date, creeks may be high and dangerous, mosquitos may start swarming in certain areas and the trail will be more crowded.

The two major obstacles of the Sierra are creek crossings and passes. Some strategies and advice for dealing with these obstacles will follow.

Passes

The most difficult passes for most Northbound hiker will be faced in between Mount Whitney (Mile 767) and Muir Ranch (Mile 857). The first major pass being Forester Pass (Mile 779), the highpoint of the Pacific Crest Trail at 13,153ft. Passes can be dangerous as the approach or descent from a pass will often involve traversing steep angle snowfields, where a slip can result in an uncontrolled slide if it cannot be stopped. Many hikers opt to carry ice axes so that a slide can be stopped by self-arresting, it you decide to carry an ice axe, it is crucial that you know how to use it, practice self arrest and proper usage of the ice axe in a safe environment such as a snowy slope with safe runout. Crampons or Microspikes are invaluable in providing traction on these snowy passes as well. To ensure the best possible conditions going over passes, ascend early in the morning while the snow is still icy and firm, as ascending a pass later in the day will be much more difficult due to mushy snow, as well as increased avalanche risk if still in early season.

Creeks

The creeks in the Sierra should not be taken lightly at peak melt, these creeks can be deeper than your head and move fast. The creek crossings in the Sierra will probably be the most dangerous aspect of your northbound hike. Difficult crossings should be attempted with groups, and done early in the morning, when snowmelt is at its lowest. Remember, the trail crossing is not always the best crossing, if the trail crossing looks beyond your comfort level, scout upstream and downstream, some crossings in peak melt may require you to go miles upstream to find a safe place to cross. Some crossings can be avoided completely if you are willing to hike enough offtrail. When scouting for crossings, look for areas where the river branches in to many forks, as this many signal that the creek is shallower and slower here, look also for log-bridges, snowbridge, though be aware, 100% of snowbridges on the PCT fail eventually, and falling through a snowbridge can have dire effects, imagine being trapped below several feet of snow barraged by ice cold water pushing you against a tree or rock, be certain of the structural integrity of a snowbridge before crossing on it.

ALWAYS consider the runout for any potential crossing, if you get 'swept' by the creek, what will happen? Be aware of 'strainers' things water can move through, but humans cannot, such as logjams and tangles of thick bushes, if the current is fast, it can trap you against, or worse, under a strainer. Stay away from these. Other things to consider in a runout are rapids, cascades and waterfalls, you don't want to go down these for obvious reasons.

When consider log crossings, consider what what will happen if you fall of the log, many logs are strainers. Consider also the surface of the log, if the log is getting spray from the creek, it may be icy. Consider wearing your traction on log crossings, and using your poles to help keep your balance.

For group crossings, consider different formations that could help ease the crossing, smaller/weaker members of the group can be aided in crossings by stronger members, you should research group crossing strategies before going into the Sierra if you are expecting high melt conditions.

Northern California

NorCal Section Profile on The Trek

Northern California, or NorCal begins after Salt lake Tahoe (Mile 1092) and continues for roughly 600 miles until the Oregon border (mile 1690). This section can be as hot and dry as the desert in segments despite being mostly forested.

Oregon

Oregon Section Profile on The Trek

Washington

Washington Section Profile on The Trek

Water

Resupply

Weather and Seasonality

Permits and Regulations

Permit Info

Local Permit Info

Maps

Online Maps

Trail Maps

Wildfire Maps

Printed Maps

Information Resources

Websites

Water Crossing Safety

Resources that provide overview and introductory-level information about the Pacific Crest Trail:

PCTA.org's Official Trail Closures List

Apps

Guidebooks

Other

Getting To and From the Trail

Shuttle company Method Motion has routes to Harts Pass, Rainy Pass, and other destinations near the PCT Northern Terminus..

Reaching Mazama, Washington (to get to Harts Pass, near the Northern Terminus) from Seattle, Washington:[3]

  • Seattle to Wenatchee: Amtrak bus or Wenatchee Valley Shuttle
  • Wenatchee to Pateros: Apple line bus
    • If it's necessary to overnight in Pateros, there is a small, self-pay city campground on the river. $15/site in 2021.[4]
  • Pateros to Winthrop: Okanogan transit bus (possibly with a transfer in Twisp)
  • Winthrop to Mazama: hitchhike

Geographic Features

Administrative Territories

Online Communities

Pacific Crest Trail Facebook Groups for Trail Angels:[5]

General

Desert

Sierras

NorCal

Oregon

Washington

References

  1. ↑ https://www.pcta.org/2019/8-questions-for-u-s-forest-service-veteran-deb-davis-68069/
  2. ↑ https://old.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/siza2o/yellow_blaze_transit_not_operating_out_of_business/
  3. ↑ https://old.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/10t3y1c/is_there_a_shuttle_service_between_seattle_and/j75x1zx/
  4. ↑ https://old.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/10t3y1c/is_there_a_shuttle_service_between_seattle_and/j76qusn/
  5. ↑ https://www.reddit.com/r/PacificCrestTrail/comments/118lkuh/what_apps_do_you_use_on_trail/j9k20o2/

External Links

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