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
By Tristan Oliver
I recently finished reading Falling Upward by the ecumenical teacher Richard Rohr and it resonated deeply with me. I was struck by his passage,
... Read moreWe are here to give back fully and freely what was first given to us—but now writ personally—by us! It is probably the
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
My time on the PCT in 2021 shifted my perspective about my Footprints for Change mission. A beautiful aspect of Footprints for Change is that change is ever-evolving—like Nature and like myself.
Yes, I still believe we need more BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) representation outdoors, and I ... Read more
It’s officially Spring and if you’re like us, you’ve had enough screen time. Here’s our little nudge to get out on the trail.
Sure, the PCT is epic backpacking—whether for a weekend or for months. But if you live close enough, lace up and head out for the day.
Right ... Read more
By Doug Laher and Sally Fowler
The PCT is challenging and passes through more miles of designated Wilderness than any other National Scenic Trail. The trail, and wilderness itself, exists in part as a rare place to meet untamed nature and experience great physical challenge and accomplishment. Self-reliance is one ... Read more
Blue skies abound. We’re thinking about this sunny and warm winter and looking forward to the quickly approaching start of another incredible hiking season. We’re thinking of the mixed, painful, sometimes beautiful, and just plain weird past two years of global pandemic, wildfires, and challenges; meanwhile, being truly excited and ... Read more
As more people venture into the outdoors, properly protecting our food and other scented items is becoming more important than ever. It’s a popular belief when camping in the backcountry that we protect our food from wildlife for our own benefit—but in this video, BearVault owner Tracy Twist explains ... Read more
Welcome to the blog of the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Check back often for news about the trail.