Interested in riding on the PCT? We've got answers to many of your questions. If you don't find the info you need here, check out Additional Equestrian Resources.

Are you a long-distance rider or an aspiring one? Visit this article (March 2004) by Joanne Lennox.

Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding Using Horses & Pack Stock on the PCT

Can I use pack llamas on the PCT?

Llama use on the PCT has additional restrictions in Yosemite National Park. The reason for this is the potential hazard associated with mixing horse and mule traffic with llamas. Please refer to:  http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/stock.htm and specially the "regulations" section.  
"Llamas are not allowed on the High Sierra Camp Loop, the Vernal/Nevada Falls corridor, or the river trail from Nevada Fall to Merced Lake.”

Exceptions may be made for Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail users with written permission of the Superintendent (PO Box 577, Yosemite, CA 95389). Requests usually take 3-6 weeks to get through the process so llama users travelling those sections of the PCT (basically from Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulin) should plan well in advance.  

Is there enough water along the trail and how do I find it?

Most years there are ample sources of water along the trail. There are, however, some sections where it's necessary to travel a short distance off-trail to find water. Refer to the PCT Guidebooks for more information.

How much grass pasture is available?

Not enough to depend upon, and in some areas you're not allowed to graze your horses or stock. If you'd like to complete the entire PCT in one season (thru-ride) you'll need 6 pounds of grain or pellets per animal/per day (2 pounds/3 times per day). During a thru-ride, a support person(s) is needed to bring hay, grain and provisions to the riders. It's possible to complete two-week trips without support.

How many miles per day can I expect to travel?

A good pace is 20 miles per day for six days with one day of rest. Remember, you want to enjoy the trail, not race through it.

How often should the stock be re-shod?

Once a month or every 500 miles, whichever comes first.

How many pounds should I pack per animal?

About 150-160 pounds per mule, maybe a little more per horse.

What type of first-aid kit should I bring?

First, consider prevention and be sure that your stock are vaccinated with a "4-Way" (for tetanus, toxoid, inf1uenza, and sleeping sickness). Next, invest in a good first-aid kit like the one available from the Backcountry Horsemen of California, Kern Sierra Unit in Bakersfield, California.

Is it a good idea to bring hobbles with me?

Only for short periods of restraint.

Should I bring an electric fence?

An electric fence can work out o.k. if stock are trained to it. Otherwise, it may be wise to tie one animal (preferably a mare) while the others graze. It's not recommended to leave stock loose at night in country that's unfamiliar to them or you. If you do, you many end up spending a lot of time looking for them in the morning.

How much weight should I put on my riding animal?

Given your weight and the weight of the saddle you don't want to add too much more. Use small saddlebags(6" x 6" bags are big enough). Keep in mind also that because the weakest part of the animal's back is at the back of the saddle you don't want to put any significant weight there - ideally no more than that of a slicker or jacket.

What kind of horse should I use?

Your horse should be at least six years old and well broken. Be sure your stock are accustomed to crossing bridges, logs, streams, and rocky areas as these are common during backcountry travel. Remember, the PCT is not a speed trail and that most gaited horses like flat roads.

Approximately how many people thru-ride each year?

Not very many, we're still working on finding an answer to this question. Historically, only a handful of thru-riders have successfully completed the trail. Section-rides tend to have a higher success rate.

Additional Equestrian Resources

Below you'll find a list of organizations that can help you learn more about riding on the PCT and other trails in the West.

Backcountry Horsemen of America

www.backcountryhorse.com
Back Country Horsemen of America is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates and at large members.

They are dedicated to preserving their historical right to use recreational stock in the backcountry. BCHA, their many chapters and individual members also do a great deal of volunteer trail work, on the PCT and access trails. They work closely with agencies and other trail groups.

One can also reach them via: 1-888-893-5161, FAX 360-832-2471 or write P. O. Box 1367, Graham WA 98338-1367.

Backcountry Horsemen of California

www.bchcalifornia.org
The Backcountry Horsemen of California is a large and very active equestrian group. With 20 local chapters, they offer many recreational activities as well as work to promote and protect backcountry riding. They also sponsor many public service volunteer projects, in cooperation with the US Forest Service and other agencies, as well as the PCTA and other trail groups.

Backcountry Horsemen of Oregon

www.bcho.org
The BCHO is a group of Oregon men and women dedicated to the preservation of the right to the common sense use and enjoyment of pack and saddle stock in the state's backcountry and wilderness.

Bay Area Equestrian Network

www.bayequest.com
The BAEN website focuses on equestrian businesses, groups and activities in Northern California. They offer extensive resources, links, etc.

Central Cascades assistance

www.mikereidconstruction.com
Mike and Patti Reid have kindly said they would like to help any equestrains planning PCT rides in the central Cascades with resupply and other issues. Email the Reids

Central Oregon Equestrians

Interested in doing trail maintenance work with fellow equestrians in central Oregon? The attached document contains appropriate contact information.

High Desert Trail Riders Back Country Horsemen

www.hdtrbch.org
This Oregon-based Back Country Horsemen group is involved in many activities throughout the year including trail maintenance work and pack clinics.

Oregon Equestrian Trails

www.oregonequestriantrails.org
Oregon Equestrian Trails is an active equestrian group, with many recreational activies. They work hard to promote and protect backcountry riding. They also do a great deal of public service volunteer work on the PCT and other trails, in cooperation with the US Forest Service and other agencies, as well as the PCTA and other trail groups.

Backcountry Horsemen of Washington

www.bchw.org
The Backcountry Horsemen of Washington is a very active equestrian group. They offer many recreational activities and work to promote and protect backcountry riding. They also do a great deal of public service volunteer work on the PCT and other trails, in cooperation with the US Forest Service, National Park Service, other agencies, the PCTA and other groups.