PCT region renamed to Central Cascades from Columbia Cascades

PCT Trail Skills College 2024, Photo by: Shonda Feather

Starting at Windigo Pass in Central Oregon and traveling to the north of Mt Adams in Southern Washington, the region spans about 370 miles of adored terrain. You will see the Three Sisters Wilderness, Mount Jefferson, Mount Hood, dense low-elevation forests, and then, of course, Mount Adams. We have the joy of working both on the Cascade crest and the lush, lowest-elevation section of the PCT in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

Photo by Missy Fant.

Crossing the Columbia River is an iconic part of the PCT experience, finishing one state and starting another; it is a landmark for those section hiking, beginning or ending their hike, and thru-hiking. The towns of Cascade Locks and Stevenson are immensely significant for the trail, our volunteer crews, and hikers.

For many reasons, this region’s name, the “Columbia Cascades,” makes sense when we think about the Columbia River crossing as a milestone of so many PCT adventures. Considering it is where our regional office is located, it is easy to think of this area as the heart of the region.

Photo courtesy of Paloma Ayala.

And while the regional office is just one building, there are many other communities in the 370-mile long area contributing to the trail. In fact, the PCT is in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area for just over 20 of those miles. In reflection, the name “Columbia Cascades” does not truly encapsulate all the assets and experiences of the region, focusing too much on just one area.

So, if the name is too exclusive, then it should be changed to be more inclusive.

Photo by Teresa Hunt.

PCTA knew that we needed a name that would make sense to volunteers seeking projects on PCTAConnect and would also align with our agency and community partners—it also needed to resonate with volunteers, locals, and trail users.

Therefore, we are excited to announce that this region has been renamed to the “Central Cascades.”

Photo by Lauren Ruhe.

Hold for applause.

From the Deschutes National Forest, the Columbia River, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and all the communities in between, the Central Cascades is truer and more inclusive of this magnificent (and, in my biased opinion) best region.

Author: Jeanine Russell

Jeanine is PCTA’s Central Cascades Regional Representative, overseeing the PCT from Windigo Pass, Oregon through the Columbia River Gorge. Jeanine loves long trails, long books, and gardening.