Updated 9/1 at 9 AM
The Pacific Crest Trail is closed on all national forests in California.
The Pacific Southwest Region manages 18 national forests and their closure started Aug. 31, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. These forests are fully closed. It’s not just the PCT that’s closed. If you are out there now, it’s time to start walking out to the trailhead.
In addition, Humboldt-Toyiabe National Forest has closed the PCT, and some lands around it, on the lands that they manage north of Yosemite.
Near Mammoth Lakes, Devils Postpile National Monument is also closed.
A crew heading out to fight fire on Klamath National Forest. U.S. Forest Service photo by Kari Greer.
The Forest Service will be assessing the situation daily. While the current Pacific Southwest Region closure order is written to expire on September 17, it may be extended or rescinded at any time.
This widespread closure has a huge impact. Hikers and horseback riders may need to think about ending their trips in California for the season. Our hearts go out to our friends, staff, partners, volunteers, donors, and community members who live in places that are impacted by these devastating fires and public lands closures.
To ensure the safety of our volunteers, the PCTA is pausing all on-trail volunteer activities in California. The safety and well-being of our volunteers is the highest priority and as we continue to evaluate this temporary pause, we will keep you updated on any important information.
More closures may follow. We will update you when we know more.