Fifty-four years ago this week, in October of 1968, the National Trails System Act was passed—and granted National Scenic Trail status to the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s worthwhile to remember the efforts of so many people who made the PCT possible. Below, we’re publishing the introduction ... Read more
Editor’s Note: The PCTA does not maintain records, manage, nor monitor Fastest Known Times on the Pacific Crest Trail. That information is the responsibility of Fastest Known Time, LLC. We neither encourage nor discourage efforts like these, and believe in celebrating the PCT as a place of accomplishment for everyone, ... Read more
In the face of ever-increasing wildfire threats and a changing climate, the iconic Giant Sequoia groves of the Sierra Nevada are in the crosshairs.
“Six of the seven largest wildfires in California history have occurred in the past two years, and in that period, up to nearly one fifth of ... Read more
On Friday, July 29th, thru-hiker Jen “Gets-there” Olson was hiking through Northern California on the PCT when the group of twelve hikers she was with camped for the evening about eleven miles northeast of Seiad Valley. “I knew that fire season was upon us at this point and that ... Read more
Hello, PCT Class of 2023!
We can’t wait to meet you and we’re thrilled that you’re coming to the trail. It’s an incredibly special place. As you plan your trip, from building physical strength and preparing your body for your adventure, to refining your wilderness skills, we know that getting ... Read more
UPDATE: Most of the PCT previously closed by this fire has been reopened. For the latest information see our trail closure page.
On Friday July 29th, the McKinney Fire started along the Klamath River upstream and east of Seiad Valley, California. Threatening communities and homes along the river, ... Read more
Stacey Lee lives in Portland, Oregon and describes herself as a “second-and-a-halfish-generation” Chinese American. “My great-grandfather came here to work on the railroads in Arizona in the mid-1800s. My grandparents on my mother’s side owned a grocery store, and my grandparents on my father’s side owned a laundry in Seattle. ... 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