Pacific Crest Trail 2022

The Pacific Crest Trail spans 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, crossing California, Oregon, and Washington. It was my first thru-hike, and I had no idea what to expect. Due to previous surgeries, I wasn’t sure how far I could go. My first day was just 4 miles, and my initial goal was to reach Idyllwild. I checked in with myself at every town, reassessing my progress and moving forward step by step.

Terrain & Landscapes

The PCT takes hikers through deserts, volcanic terrain, old-growth forests, and high alpine regions, offering a variety of ecosystems and challenges. Some of the key areas along the trail include:

  • Southern California: Starts in the Mojave Desert, crossing dry, arid landscapes before reaching the Sierra Nevada.

  • Sierra Nevada: Features dramatic mountain scenery, high passes, and the John Muir Trail overlap.

  • Northern California: Includes volcanic landscapes, rolling forests, and rugged terrain near Lassen and Shasta.

  • Oregon: A relatively "easier" section with dense forests, Crater Lake, and the Cascade Range.

  • Washington: A rugged and remote section featuring the North Cascades before ending at the Canadian border.

Thru-Hiking & Challenges

A full thru-hike typically takes 4 to 6 months, with hikers facing extreme weather, long water carries, high elevations, and physical and mental endurance tests. Many hikers attempt the thru-hike northbound (NOBO), starting in April or May, or southbound (SOBO), starting in late June or July.

Key challenges include:

  • Water shortages in the desert

  • Snow and high-altitude passes in the Sierra

  • Mosquitoes and fire closures in Northern California & Oregon

  • Rain and cold conditions in Washington

Permits & Regulations

Thru-hikers need a PCT Long-Distance Permit, issued by the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA), covering most of the trail. However, it is possible to hike it without the singular permit, you would need to obtain permits from each forest you travel through.

Cultural Significance & Community

The PCT has a strong trail culture, with hikers adopting trail names and forming close-knit communities. Trail angels—volunteers who provide support like water caches, meals, and lodging—are a beloved part of the experience.

The trail gained widespread recognition after Cheryl Strayed’s memoir "Wild", bringing attention to its transformative and challenging nature.

Why should you hike the PCT?

The Pacific Crest Trail is more than just a hike—it's a journey through some of the most beautiful and remote wilderness in the U.S. Whether completing a section hike or a full thru-hike, it offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, solitude, and personal growth.