December, 2005, Sacramento, California:

What do American bullfrogs, Bering Glacier, Mount Washington, Gateway Arch, Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) have in common? They are among the forty remarkable places, structures, plants, and animals depicted on the United States Postal Service's 2006 Commemorative stamp pane titled "Wonders of America: Land of Superlatives."

"Pacific Crest Trail Association [PCTA] members have long known that the Pacific Crest Trail is a national treasure," says Liz Bergeron, PCTA Executive Director. "It's gratifying to now have the trail's unique value recognized by the U.S. Postal Service as well. The Travel Industry Association of America estimates that after the stamps are released next May, at least 7 million consumers will be exposed to them every day. This is wonderful publicity for the trail. The resulting increase in public awareness will strengthen our efforts to protect the PCT and its corridor for the future enjoyment of hikers and equestrians."

The new PCT stamp, like the others in the series, includes on its front, in large letters, words that describe its superlative nature. Text on the back further describes why the trail is counted among America's superlatives. This text is the result of collaboration between the PCTA and the stamp developers. It reads:

Longest Hiking Trail: Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is the nation's longest continuous designated hiking trail, running for 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, through California, Oregon, and Washington. It passes through various climate zones and types of terrain and is open to foot and horse travel only.

The stamps will be available beginning in May 2006 after an official dedication ceremony at the World Philatelic Exhibition in Washington, DC, on May 27th. If you would like to attend the ceremony, pre-registration is suggested. Registration is free. For information visit: www.washington-2006.org.