Treeline Review writers share their Favorite Gear for a PCT Thru-hike

9 PCT THRU-HIKERS SHARE THEIR TOP GEAR FOR PACIFIC CREST TRAIL BACKPACKING

Everyone has a favorite piece of gear.  We asked 9 of our writers and editors (who have all thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail at least once). This list shows what we find to be essential gear items for PCT thru-hikers.

While you’re at it, we thought you may enjoy some of our favorite Thru-hiking and Backpacking gear stories:

  • PCT Gear List and Strategy
  • PCT Southbound Gear List & Strategy
  • Backpacking Essential Accessories
  • Thru-hike the JMT: Gear List & Strategy
  • The Best Hiking Watches

NAOMI "THE PUNISHER" HUDETZ'S FAVORITE PCT GEAR:

SIX MOON DESIGNS SILVER SHADOW CARBON ULTRALIGHT UMBRELLA

There’s no question about this one - my favorite piece of gear on the PCT was my Chrome Dome Umbrella. I’ve always struggled in the heat (even as a little kid), and the sun protection given by the chrome dome is a game-changer for me.

The sun in Southern California is much more intense than I’m used to in my home of the Pacific Northwest, so keeping it off my head and upper body is vital. It also means I don’t have to wear my sun hat when using the umbrella, which cools me off even more.

Continue reading the full article here.

LAST UPDATED

February 10, 2025

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