The Pacific Crest Trail Association and our federal partners are very proud of the volunteer commitment to protect and manage the trail. This recognition program is offered by PCTA and the U.S. Forest Service PCT Manager as a means to thank volunteers for their contributions. The Hours of Service recognition program is based on the cumulative hourly contributions of volunteers to the Pacific Crest Trail, and is administered by PCTA.
“The Congress recognizes the valuable contributions that volunteers and private, nonprofit trail groups have made to the development and maintenance of the Nation’s trails. In recognition of these contributions, it is further the purpose of this Act to encourage and assist volunteer citizen involvement in the planning, development, maintenance, and management, where appropriate, of trails.” – National Trails System Act
PCTA Annual Reward
Collect a unique, limited-edition t-shirt every year by volunteering 40 hours or more on the PCT!
| 40 hours | Trail Crew T-shirt (or equivalent for non-trail crew service) |
PCTA Lifetime Rewards
Reach total volunteer hour milestones and earn cool stuff with PCTA’s new Lifetime Rewards Program!
| 1 hour | Pin |
| 100 hours | Bandana |
Agency Rewards
The U.S. Forest Service offers rewards to thank America’s volunteers for making our public lands better. As you volunteer your time on the PCT, you are eligible for free public lands passes and special recognition awards. The pass rewards are reoccurring.
| 16 hours | Northwest Forest Pass (Oregon and Washington only) |
| 100 hours | Adventure Pass (Southern California only) |
| 250 hours | America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass |
| 1000 hours | US Forest Service Chiefs Award (certificate, pin, patch) |
| 4000 hours | Take Pride in America, Presidential Award (certificate, lapel pin, letter) |