Hazel Platt is PCTA's Volunteer Engagement Associate, working to support the PCTA volunteer community and connect prospective volunteers with opportunities to get involved. Hazel is a self-proclaimed nature nerd, and loves long-distance hiking.
Big snow is the story of the moment as the Southern Sierra snowpack soars above 280% of average. One of the most concerning aspects of a large snowpack is the potential for avalanche, when unstable layers of snow give way and send snow and ice rapidly down a slope. Avalanches ... Read more
The Trail Skills College program is PCTA’s premiere trail maintenance educational program. Every year, PCTA hosts a series of events along the trail where new and experienced volunteers and outdoor professionals can learn critical skills for designing, building and maintaining backcountry trails. But what does it look like to take ... Read more
This winter’s extreme snowfall in California has everyone talking. While thru-hikers wonder about the closures in Southern California and traveling through the Sierra in high snow, and residents of trail towns scramble to shovel out, PCTA reckons with the impact of a historic winter on the upcoming season of trail ... Read more
I approach the trail junction at Haypress Meadows after the long climb from Echo Lakes. It’s great to be back on trail again, and I have big aspirations for my weekend adventure. Working behind the scenes helping to coordinate volunteers to make the trail possible is something I’m passionate about, ... Read more
Some say that getting to the trailhead is the hardest part of the journey for those who are starting a hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Spending countless hours doing research, gathering gear, and planning ahead finally leads to that special moment. In 2022, Trailhead Hosts Toni Baker and Jay ... Read more
With input from Training Coordinator Landon Welsh.
Trail Skills College is back in session!
It’s finally summer, and field season is well underway across the Pacific Crest Trail—check our Project Schedule for a long list of upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Whether you’re brand new to trail work, or a seasoned volunteer ... Read more
With input from Susan Tracy and Susan McDonnell
The Eagle Creek fire of September 2017 changed the face of the Columbia River Gorge and its trails for generations to come. But it also changed the face of local trail volunteer organizations —for the better. Trail organizations including PCTA’s Mt. Hood ... Read more
Welcome to the blog of the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Check back often for news about the trail.