Pacific Crest Trail: A Beginner’s Guide to the Hike of a Lifetime

Dreaming of a long, long walk up the spine of the West Coast with a few good friends? Here's what you need to know.

The Pacific Crest Trail, also known as the PCT, is the second-longest of America’s Triple Crown long trails, stretching from Mexico to Canada through the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. Adventurous hikers looking for a challenge will take the high route through the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges and witness some of America’s most scenic and varied terrain—from scorching desserts to snowy mountains—along the way. Whether you decide to thru-hike the PCT or enjoy its beauty in sections, here is everything you need to know to prepare for this life-list wilderness adventure.

Continue reading the full article here.

LAST UPDATED

February 7, 2025

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

Backpacker

Media Mentions from Backpacker

At BACKPACKER, we inspire and enable people to enjoy the outdoors by providing the most trusted and engaging information about backcountry adventure in North America.

We are committed to honesty, respect, and cooperation in all our relationships.

We understand and respond in a timely fashion to the product and service needs of our consumers.

We take a leadership role in educating and partnering with others who share our interests and values.

We support programs, policies, and behavior that encourages protection of our current wilderness areas and well-considered designation of new ones.

We are committed to display the highest quality of compelling photographs and inspiring stories.

We provide our industry with superior service, resources, and audiences. </p>

We promote sustainable, low-impact use of wilderness.

We support and encourage one another to innovate, lead, grow, take risks, share ideas, and express a passion for the wilderness.

Explore More Content

No items found.

Media Mentions

The Sawyer Mini is super lightweight, fits in your pocket, and filters up to 100,000 gallons of water.

Menachem Kossowsky
Writer

Media Mentions

Sawyer’s picaridin spray works up to 12 hours, and the company’s picaridin lotion is effective up to 14.

Bruce Ingram
Contributing Writer

Media Mentions

The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter earns our top pick for its unbeatable mix of weight, longevity and versatility.

Meg Carney
Contributing Writer