On August 17-18 thousands of outdoor enthusiasts and hundreds of PCT thru-hikers gathered at the beautiful Cascade Locks Marine Park in the Columbia River Gorge for the 16th annual PCT Days—a celebration of hiking, backpacking, and outdoor stewardship. This year’s event was bigger than ever and featured over 100 ... Read more
PCTA Blog
RightOnTrek Helps Make Wilderness More Accessible to Everyone—Responsibly
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
Megan Wargo named Chief Executive Officer of the Pacific Crest Trail Association
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
Returning to the Sierra: local permits and being prepared
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
Call to Action: PETITION—Please urge Oregon and Washington Legislators to fund improvements to the Bridge of the Gods
The Bridge of the Gods is an iconic crossing over the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It’s also the official route of the Pacific Crest Trail.
The Pacific Crest Trail Association and the Port of Cascade Locks, ... Read more
Girard Ridge Land Acquisition Protects 1,172 Acres of Land Along the Pacific Crest Trail
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
Application dates for the 2024 interagency PCT Long-distance Permit
Hello, PCT Class of 2024!
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 physical training to prepare for the adventure to refining your wilderness skills, we know that getting a permit is ... Read more
Tuolumne Meadows Campground still closed in 2023 due to ongoing construction
UPDATE for July 19, 2023: Yosemite National Park is moving slowly toward the opening of Tioga Road due to the huge and lingering snowpack—and with that, their limited services. As a reminder, the Tuolumne Meadows Campground is still closed in 2023 due to ongoing construction. There is no backpacker’s campground ... Read more