The mission of the Pacific Crest Trail Association is to protect, preserve and promote the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail as a world-class experience for hikers and equestrians, and for all the values provided by wild and scenic lands.
PCTA Business Member Amy Stork grew up in a cabin her parents built in the woods of northern Vermont. She recalls walking in the cold when the snowy winters made it difficult to drive up to the cabin. Yet, she still cherishes and has fond memories of her childhood ... Read more
Our partners at the U.S. Forest Service are hiring trail crew positions to work exclusively on the Pacific Crest Trail in Washington for the 2024 season. It’s a great opportunity to work on the trail in one of the most spectacular places on the entire trail: Washington’s Glacier Peak Wilderness.... Read more
We’re excited to announce our new 2024-2026 Strategic Plan (PDF view/download link). The plan was written and developed by our communities and partners, and has been the most involved listening process we have ever undertaken. The new plan also includes updated mission and vision statements for the PCTA. So ... Read more
All of us in the trail community were heartbroken to hear of the passing of Donna Saufley on October 6 after a long and difficult battle with cancer. A long-distance hiker, former PCTA board member, and volunteer, Donna—along with her husband Jeff Saufley—helped create the generous culture of trail angels ... Read more
In the past few decades, the outdoor recreation industry has produced many innovations—much of them aimed at people already experienced in backcountry travel. The majority have revolved around lighter and more versatile gear—such as footwear, packs and tents—and digital maps and GPS-based navigation. But very little of this innovation has ... Read more
We’re excited to announce that Megan Wargo has been named CEO of the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA). The PCTA’s Board of Directors unanimously voted to appoint her to the position at their July meeting. She had been serving as the acting CEO since May 2022.
Megan’s career includes more ... Read more
What a year it’s been! Last winter’s record snowpack lingers in the highest reaches of the Sierra Nevada.
Get the right local permits.Many northbound thru-hikers made the choice to skip and bypass the Sierra due to the record snow year. Are you looking to come back to hike the ... Read more
We’re excited to announce the permanent protection of 2.5 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail and 1,172 surrounding acres of land in Northern California.
Known as Girard Ridge, the newly-protected land lies near the towns of Castella and Dunsmuir and near where the PCT crosses Interstate 5. Access to ... Read more
Welcome to the blog of the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Check back often for news about the trail.