Where do you sleep on PCT?

There are a handful of cabins, pavilions and shelters down a side or adjoining trail, but these are not considered officially part of the PCT. Instead hikers on the PCT stay overnight on trail camp in established campgrounds on or near the trail or improvised sites found near the trail.



People Also Ask

From near Siskiyou Summit (elev. 4,310') in southern Oregon to the Washington border, this section is both the shortest and the easiest to hike or ride. Oregon's Cascade Range is a subdued volcanic landscape, with a gentle crest that is fairly constant in elevation.

MORE DETAILS

There's no two ways about it: Section K is tough. In fact, only California's infamous John Muir Trail section is considered more challenging on this iconic trail. But for those with the skills and desire, the hike from Stevens Pass to Rainy Pass is also one of the PCT's most rewarding.

MORE DETAILS

Goat Rocks is commonly expressed as the prettiest part of Washington, and therefore one of the prettiest parts of the PCT. For me, this was especially true on our side-trip to Old Snowy Mountain, an easy trip to a peak that took us above the clouds and showed us what it was like to stand on top of the world.

MORE DETAILS

Most northbound thru-hikers start the PCT in mid-April through early May. Southbound hikers generally start in late June through early July. Many people want to start early. Beware.

MORE DETAILS

The Pacific Crest Trail Association estimates that 700 to 800 people attempt to thru-hike it each year, and about 15% to 35% (versus the AT's 25%) actually succeed.

MORE DETAILS

The PCT has great views from day one. You're guaranteed a pretty panorama every day, and not just at viewpoints. Think about some of the PCT highlights. San Jacinto, Forester Pass, Kings Canyon, Crater Lake, and Goat Rocks, among others.

MORE DETAILS

Of the hikers I spoke with, those who have thru-hiked both trails seem to agree that the PCT is physically easier despite the higher mileage days. They also agreed that the PCT is more mentally taxing than the AT.

MORE DETAILS