PCT (Pacific Crest Trail)
Overview
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a long-distance hiking trail spanning approximately 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington.
Key points
- Designated a National Scenic Trail.
- Traverses deserts, mountain ranges, forests, and alpine environments.
- Known for significant elevation change and varied seasonal challenges.
- Popular for thru-hikers, section hikers, and long-distance backpackers.
Details
The PCT passes through diverse ecosystems, including the Mojave Desert, Sierra Nevada, and Cascade Range. Its management involves collaborations between the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, BLM, and the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Hikers often face temperature extremes, snow navigation, wildfire impacts, and long water carries. The trail is central to modern long-distance hiking culture.
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Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.