Pacific Crest Trail Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) travels 2,650 mi (4,260 km) along the western mountain crests of the United States, from Mexico to Canada. It passes through California, Oregon, and Washington State. The PCT is one of the original National Scenic Trails established by Congress in the 1968 National Trails System Act. It is administered by the US Forest Service. The Forest Service partners with the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, California State Parks, and the Pacific Crest Trail Association to provide effective management and protection of the trail.

The PCT ranges in elevation from just above sea level at the Oregon-Washington border to 13,153 ft (4,009 m) at Forester Pass in the Sierra Nevada. The route passes through 25 national forests and 7 national parks. Its midpoint is in Chester, California (near Mt. Lassen), where the Sierra and Cascade mountain ranges meet.

The Pacific Crest Trail was proposed by Clinton C. Clarke as a trail running from Mexico to Canada along the crest of the mountains in California, Oregon, and Washington. The original proposal was to link the John Muir Trail, the Tahoe-Yosemite Trail (both in California), the Skyline Trail (in Oregon) and the Cascade Crest Trail (in Washington).

The Pacific Crest Trail System Conference was formed by Clarke to both plan the trail and to lobby the federal government to protect the trail. The conference was founded by Clarke, the Boy Scouts, the YMCA, and Ansel Adams (amongst others). From 1935 through 1938, YMCA groups explored the 2000 miles of potential trail and planned a route, which has been closely followed by the modern PCT route.

In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson defined the PCT and the Appalachian Trail with the National Trails System Act. The PCT was then constructed through cooperation between the federal government and volunteers organized by the Pacific Crest Trail Association. In 1993, the PCT was officially declared finished.

Thru hiking is a term used in referring to hikers who complete long distance trails from end-to-end in a single trip. The Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Continental Divide Trail were the first three long-distance trails in the U.S. Through-hiking all of these three trails is known as the Triple Crown of Hiking. Thru-hiking is a long commitment, usually taking between four and six months, that requires thorough preparation and dedication. Although the actual number is difficult to calculate, it is estimated that around 180 out of approximately 300 people who attempt a thru-hike complete the entire trail each year.

The most common cause of failure to complete the PCT is lack of preparedness. It is important to begin regular walks in the months and weeks leading up to the thru-hike, beginning with low-impact day-hikes in easy terrain while carrying a minimum of weight. When these day-hikes become nearly effortless, increase the distance and include several multi-day hikes that require a full backpack with food, water and gear. In addition, hilly terrain should be incorporated as soon as possible in order to build up strength in the muscles required for climbs and descents. Performing regular hikes that continually push the body's current limits will not only toughen the body but will also go a long way toward mentally preparing oneself for the constant strain on body and mind.

Much of this info is available in the Wilderness backpacking travel section, but generally equipment should be purchased well in advance of the PCT start date and should be used as many times as possible to both allow the hiker to become familiar with the gear (backpacks adjusted properly, boots broken in, etc.) and to identify any broken, impractical or unsatisfactory items. Prospective thru-hikers should get in contact with local hiking clubs and solicit advice on what pieces of equipment are completely unnecessary, which are luxury items and which are essential. Different hikers have different philosophies on how much gear should be taken, from those in the "lean and fast" school of thought which advocates a minimum of everything - no stove, no tent, hiking sandals instead of boots and little else - to the "slow and comfortable" school which sacrifices speed and low weight for comfort. One should get as many opinions as possible and attempt hikes with various levels of gear until an acceptable amount of weight and speed has been achieved.

Fire permits are needed in many areas, and fire closures may exist during extremely dry times of year. Above certain elevations or in some areas fires are not permitted. Please check ahead of your trip to determine if a fire permit is needed and where it can be obtained.

Many of the wilderness areas, National Parks and other special management areas require an overnight use permit. Please check with the local area to determine if a permit is needed and where it can be obtained. People undertaking a trip of 500 miles or longer should contact the Pacific Crest Trail Association for a permit.

Water is essential when traveling on the PCT. Depending on what location you are in, time of year and if there are water sources along your travel route will help determine how much water to carry. Filter and purify all water obtained from any natural source along the PCT.

The Pacific Crest Trail Association cites Ray Jardine’s book, Beyond Backpacking, as a great resource for hikers during the planning process. Beyond Backpacking is a “how-to” book for ultralight hikers. In this book Jardine explains how to trim every extra ounce from one’s pack weight by doing everything from cutting extra straps off your pack to eating only food that does not have to be cooked

Useful information about the trail is provided by the Pacific Crest Trail Association. To understand the trail it has been divided in many guidebooks into 3 sectors.

• Southern California (Mexico-Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite)

• Northern California (Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite-Oregon)

• Pacific Northwest (Oregon-Canada)

The US Forest Service has broken the trail down into 10 different maps, which are available online through the National Forest Store.

Map #1 Southern California, Map #2 Transverse Ranges, Map #3 Southern Sierra, Map #4 Central Sierra, Map #5 Northern Sierra, Map #6 Not Yet Available, Map #7 Southern Oregon, Map #8 Northern Oregon, Map #9 Southern Washington, Map #10 Northern Washington

Preparing financially and logistically are also essential to a successful thru-hike. The cost of a hike will range from several hundred dollars a month on the low end to upwards of a thousand dollars a month for the high end. Each person has a different minimum level of comfort and nourishment; it is vital to discover what one's own level is as early as possible and to make supply arrangements accordingly. Study the route and identify towns that will serve as likely resupply centers and map out distances between post offices. An experienced thru-hiker resupplies his or her dry goods every 10-14 days, either through the post offices' general delivery drop-box system or through local purchases. The average thru-hiker plans for six to eight months before the actual hike. In a few cases, the PCT passes through or near towns and resorts where supplies can be purchased. In other cases the trail users may need to get off the trail and travel to a town. Contact the PCTA website for additional information on resupplying along the trail.

There are many sections of the trail that can be hiked individually, but the PCT departs from the Mexican border near the small town of Campo, and ends at Monument 78 on the Canadian border. The first thing prospective thru hikers have to do before attempting a thru hike is to plan out and sketch out their trip. In general the decision of which route to take needs to be considered. While most hikers travel from the Southern Terminus at the Mexico Border northward to Manning Park, British Columbia, some hikers prefer a southbound route. In a normal weather year, northbound hikes are most practical due to snow and temperature considerations. If snowpack in the Sierra Nevada is high in early June and low in the Northern Cascades, some hikers may choose to 'flip-flop.' Flip-flopping can take many forms but often describes a process whereby a hiker begins at one end (on the PCT, usually the southern end) of the trail and then, at some point, like reaching the Sierra, 'flips' to the end of the trail (Manning Park in B.C.) and hikes southbound to complete the trail. However, it is not possible to legally enter the United States from Canada by using the Pacific Crest Trail.

To reach the southern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail, start by flying into San Diego International Airport (SAN), the closest major airport. Take a bus to Santa Fe Depot, then board a trolley heading south to El Cajon Transit Center. From there, transfer to a bus that will take you to the town of Campo, California. Campo is the nearest town to the southern terminus, but the actual starting point of the Pacific Crest Trail, located at Monument 78 on the U.S.-Mexico border, is about 1.5 miles south of the bus stop. You can either walk this final stretch or arrange for a ride with a shuttle service or a local trail angel.

If you prefer to drive, you can reach the terminus by heading to Campo and continuing to the border. However, parking near the terminus is limited, and leaving a vehicle for an extended period is not recommended. Some hikers also opt for private shuttles from San Diego, which can provide a direct and convenient way to reach the start of the trail.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

The trail begins at 32.605326-116.4678671 Campo (Mexican Border) (mi 0), marking the southern terminus at the Mexican border. It traverses the arid yet striking landscapes of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the rugged terrain of Cleveland National Forest. 32.682537-116.5171322 Lake Morena (mi 20) is a popular first-day stop with a campground. The trail climbs into the Laguna Mountains, passing 32.872222-116.41753 Mt Laguna (mi 42.8) which offers resupply options. Descending from the mountains, hikers endure the heat of the desert before reaching 32.869602-116.4246124 Scissors Crossing (mi 77), a gateway to the trail town of Julian through Hwy 78. The section ends at 33.306389-116.6238895 Warner Springs (mi 109.5), a well-known hiker rest stop with natural hot springs and a community center.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Departing from Warner Springs, the trail continues through oak woodlands before ascending into Cleveland National Forest and then San Bernardino National Forest. The high-elevation ridges of the San Jacinto Mountains bring breathtaking views and challenging climbs. Afterwards, the trail reaches 33.774166-116.6731196 Saddle Jct. (mi 179.4), where the Devils Slide trail leads to the charming mountain town of Idyllwild. The ascent continues toward the flanks of San Jacinto Peak before plunging into the arid desert floor near 33.92424-116.6945477 Interstate 10 (mi 209.5), where the iconic wind farms mark the passage into the next section.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Crossing the harsh, exposed lowlands near Cabazon, the trail begins a steady climb into the cooler forests of San Bernardino National Forest. Hikers reach 34.290771-116.8027838 Hwy 18 (mi 266), where a side trip to Big Bear Lake provides resupply opportunities. The path weaves through pine forests, craggy ridges, and remote stretches of wilderness before descending toward 34.306021-117.4661279 Cajon Pass (mi 342), a well-known stop for hikers craving a meal at the famous fast-food joint just off the Interstate 15.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Leaving Cajon Pass, the trail enters the arid and rugged beauty of the Angeles National Forest and the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This section is known for its long, dry stretches and spectacular mountain views. Hikers reach 34.49-118.3310 Agua Dulce (mi 454.5).

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

The trail continues through rolling hills and the final stretches of the Angeles National Forest, passing by the stunning rock formations of Vasquez Rocks. From there, hikers encounter long, exposed desert terrain with limited water sources. The section culminates at 35.102222-118.28277811 Tehachapi Pass (mi 566.5), where the towns of Tehachapi and Mojave provide essential resupply options before the trek into the Sierra foothills.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section marks the transition from the Mojave Desert into the southern Sierra Nevada. With sparse water sources, long ridge walks, and dry, windy conditions, it tests hikers’ endurance. The landscape shifts from desert scrub to the rolling foothills of the Owens Peak Wilderness, offering expansive views of the high mountains ahead. The section ends at 35.663056-118.02694412 Walker Pass (mi 652), which allows access to Onyx and Kernville, a key landmark before the approach to the Sierra Nevada and the gateway to the High Sierra.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section marks the transition from the dry deserts of Southern California to the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada. Hikers begin at Walker Pass and soon reach 36.0078-118.1113 Kennedy Meadows (mi 702), the famous gateway to the High Sierra where many celebrate the end of the desert section. The trail then winds through the remote beauty of South Sierra Wilderness and Golden Trout Wilderness, offering pristine alpine meadows and stunning views. Further along, hikers encounter 36.428768-118.17837914 Trail Pass (mi 745.3), a key exit point for resupply in Lone Pine. The journey culminates in Sequoia National Park at 36.551603-118.35675815 Crabtree Meadows) (mi 767), where hikers can take an optional side trip to summit Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section traverses some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Sierra Nevada. The trail ascends over 36.694103-118.37203916 Forester Pass (mi 779.5), the highest point on the PCT at 13,153 ft (4,009 m), before entering Kings Canyon National Park. Hikers looking to resupply can take the side trail at 36.768219-118.41142717 Kearsarge Pass Trail (mi 788.9) to Independence. The trail continues through the remote backcountry of the John Muir Wilderness, passing iconic landmarks like 37.225802-118.86124218 Muir Trail Ranch (mi 857.7), a popular resupply point. Hikers also have the option to take the 37.41255-118.92453919 VVR Ferry Trail (mi 878.7), which provides access to the Vermillion Valley Resort. The trail then passes through the striking scenery of the Ansel Adams Wilderness and the unique basalt formations of Devils Postpile National Monument. Nearing the end of this section, hikers can take the shuttle at 37.610113-119.0754920 Reds Meadow (mi 906.7) for a shuttle to Mammoth. The journey concludes in Yosemite National Park at 37.877035-119.35290821 Hwy 120 (mi 942.5), with Tuolumne Meadows offering resupply and a chance to explore the park.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section continues through the stunning high-altitude landscapes of Yosemite National Park, where hikers navigate granite peaks and lush meadows. The trail leads to 38.3278-119.63622 Sonora Pass (mi 1016.9), a remote but scenic pass offering access to Bridgeport through Hwy 108 for resupply.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Winding through the rugged terrain of El Dorado National Forest and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, this stretch features a mix of exposed ridges and densely forested valleys. The section ends at 38.833889-120.04166723 Echo Lake (mi 1092.3), a gateway to South Lake Tahoe and a popular resupply point for hikers.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section begins in the stunning Desolation Wilderness, renowned for its granite landscapes and crystal-clear alpine lakes. The trail continues through rugged, high-elevation terrain before reaching 39.34351-120.33564924 Donner Summit (mi 1157.1), a historic crossing point with Interstate 80 to Truckee for resupply and rest.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Hikers descend towards 39.576475-120.61266725 Hwy 49 (mi 1195.4), Sierra City is a small town nearby offering resupply options.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

The trail meanders through the diverse landscapes of Lassen National Forest and Plumas National Forest, offering a mix of dense woodlands and exposed ridgelines. The section ends at 40.00639-121.252526 Belden (mi 1286.9), a historic crossing along the Feather River and a notable stopping point before hikers continue northward.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section of the Pacific Crest Trail stretches from Belden and leads through Lassen Volcanic National Park, offering breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Hikers will pass the 40.219126-121.3561827 PCT Mid-way Post (mi 1323.2), marking the halfway point of the entire trail. A short distance ahead, the trail reaches 40.261597-121.33879328 Hwy 36 (mi 1328.8), close to Chester (California). Further along, the scenic and welcoming 40.44248-121.39499329 Drakesbad Guest Ranch (mi 1350.1) provides a unique stop for weary hikers. Continuing north, the trail reaches the Old Station Post Office (mi 1373.4), a convenient place for picking up resupply packages. Past this point, hikers will cross 40.963591-121.57719330 Hwy 299 (mi 1411.3), where they can resupply at Burney, before reaching McArthur-Burney Falls State Park, home to the stunning 129-foot Burney Falls. The section ends at 41.010735-121.65305431 McArther-Burney Falls State Park (mi 1419)

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Leaving McArthur-Burney Falls State Park, the trail meanders through the vast Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offering striking views of Mount Shasta. This section provides a remote wilderness experience as it winds through dense forests and rugged terrain. The journey concludes at 41.162279-122.29737532 Interstate 5 (mi 1501.2), near the jagged peaks of the Castle Crags Wilderness, a dramatic and awe-inspiring granite landscape that is a highlight of this stretch. Interstate 5 provides access to the town of Castella for resupply and rest.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Continuing north, hikers traverse the heart of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This section is defined by its rugged and scenic terrain, as the PCT ascends into the Klamath Mountains and passes through the beautiful Trinity Alps Wilderness. The route is challenging but rewarding, with sweeping vistas of alpine ridges and deep valleys. The section ends at 41.395033-122.99406633 Etna Summit (mi 1599.7), a gateway to the charming city of Etna (California), known for its warm hospitality and excellent resupply options.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Leaving Etna Summit, the PCT traverses some of the most stunning wilderness areas in the Klamath Mountains. Hikers journey through the rugged and remote Russian Wilderness and the dramatic Marble Mountain Wilderness, named for its unique white limestone formations. The trail eventually descends into 41.8406-123.19134 Seiad Valley (mi 1655.9), a small but well-known trail town with a legendary pancake challenge for hungry hikers.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Hikers begin a strenuous climb out of the valley, gradually ascending the ridges of the Klamath Mountains. This section marks the final miles of the PCT in California. At 42.003548-122.90920235 California / Oregon Border (mi 1691.7), hikers celebrate their entrance into Oregon, leaving behind the Golden State after over 1,600 miles. From here, the trail continues to 42.066427-122.60283836 Interstate 5 (mi 1718.9), where hikers can detour to Ashland (Oregon), a popular stop known for its Shakespeare Festival and excellent resupply options, or Callahan’s Lodge for a cozy retreat.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

In this stage the PCT traverses the scenic landscapes of the Cascade–Siskiyou National Monument, an area renowned for its biodiversity. The trail then winds through the Rogue River National Forest, offering sweeping views and lush forested sections. This section concludes at 42.395629-122.29147137 Hwy 140 (mi 1773.4), near Fish Lake, a popular stop for hikers looking to rest and recharge before continuing northward.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

The first point of resupply is Mazama Village, which can be reached from 42.870732-122.18032338 Hwy 62 (mi 1820.9), providing access to Crater Lake National Park. Hikers traverse through Rogue River National Forest and Winema National Forest, experiencing dense forests and volcanic landscapes. The trail meanders through Sky Lakes Wilderness, known for its pristine alpine lakes, before reaching 43.088992-122.09186539 Cascade Crest (mi 1847.8), marking the transition into new scenic terrain after crossing Hwy 138.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Starting from Cascade Crest, this stretch offers stunning views of Mount Thielsen, a sharp volcanic peak dominating the skyline. The route passes through Umpqua National Forest before crossing into the Diamond Peak Wilderness, where hikers encounter vast alpine meadows and glacially-carved basins. The journey ends near 43.589292-122.04266740 Shelter Cove Resort (mi 1906.6) and 43.59711-122.03375441 Willamette Pass (mi 1907.9), a key resupply point within the Willamette National Forest, crossing Hwy 58.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Departing from Willamette Pass, the trail skirts the edge of Waldo Lake, one of the purest lakes in the world, before entering the vast Three Sisters Wilderness. This area is dominated by the snow-capped peaks of the Three Sisters, offering spectacular volcanic scenery. The trail continues through old-growth forests within the Willamette National Forest and Deschutes National Forest, finally reaching 44.259774-121.80522442 McKenzie Pass (mi 1983.8), near lava fields and scenic vistas. Here, Hikers can access the towns of Sisters and Bend for resupply and rest from Hwy 242.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

In this section, hikers encounter lava fields before reaching 44.375285-121.86670543 Big Lake Youth Camp (mi 1995.1), a popular resupply stop. The trail crosses 44.425635-121.91098644 Santiam Pass (mi 2000.9), Here, Hikers can access the towns of Sisters and Bend for resupply and rest from Hwy 20. before entering the Mount Jefferson Wilderness, where jagged peaks and alpine lakes define the landscape. Passing through the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, the trail leads to 44.814344-121.79117145 Olallie Lake Resort (mi 2045.6), a serene retreat surrounded by wilderness. The journey ends at 45.283153-121.68130946 Barlow Pass (mi 2091.7), nestled within the Deschutes National Forest along Hwy 35.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Leaving Barlow Pass, the trail ascends through the Mount Hood National Forest, offering spectacular views of Mount Hood, Oregon’s highest peak. Hikers pass through the Mount Hood Wilderness and can take a detour to 45.331223-121.71125347 Timberline Lodge (Mt Hood) (mi 2097), an iconic historic lodge sitting high on the mountain’s slopes. The trail descends through Lolo Pass, then follows the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, entering the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness before finishing at 45.6624-121.90148 Cascade Locks (Bridge of the Gods) (mi 2146.9), the lowest elevation point on the entire PCT.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Crossing the Bridge of the Gods, hikers leave Oregon and enter Washington, traversing the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area before climbing into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The route passes through the lush Indian Heaven Wilderness, known for its volcanic lakes and berry-filled meadows. At 46.161813-121.63174849 Forest Rd 23 (to Trout Lake) (mi 2228.9), hikers can access the town of Trout Lake, a common resupply point. Approaching Mount Adams Wilderness, they are treated to close-up views of Mount Adams, the second-highest peak in Washington. Continuing north, the route reaches 46.518955-121.45520250 Goat Rocks (mi 2277), an area renowned for its rugged alpine ridges and the breathtaking Knife’s Edge traverse. The section concludes at 46.64372-121.37939451 White Pass (mi 2294.9), a key access point near Packwood along Hwy 12.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

This section begins at 46.64372-121.37939452 White Pass, leading hikers through the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Rainier National Park. The trail crosses 46.871886-121.51590153 Chinook Pass (mi 2323.5) along Hwy 410. Continuing through the rugged terrain of Norse Peak Wilderness, the route follows ridgelines and alpine meadows before concluding at 47.392222-121.454 Snoqualmie Pass (mi 2393.2) along Interstate 90, a popular resupply stop nestled in the Cascade Range.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Leaving 47.392222-121.455 Snoqualmie Pass, the trail enters the dense forests and alpine terrain of Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This section features dramatic mountain scenery as it winds through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, renowned for its glacially-carved lakes and rugged peaks. The journey concludes at 47.744919-121.08788256 Stevens Pass (mi 2464.1), where Hwy 2 provides access to the town of Skykomish for resupply and rest.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Departing from Stevens Pass, this section takes hikers deep into the rugged wilderness of the North Cascades. The trail traverses the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness and the remote valleys of the Glacier Peak Wilderness, where towering peaks and glacial rivers create some of the most challenging terrain on the PCT. Passing through Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, hikers reach 48.380591-120.83899357 High Bridge (mi 2571.9), an access point to the small, remote town of Stehekin. The section ends at 48.514772-120.73380458 Rainy Pass (mi 2591.1), a gateway to the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. Hwy 20 provides access to the towns of Mazama and Winthrop for resupply and rest.

Map of Pacific Crest Trail

Starting from Rainy Pass, this final stretch of the PCT takes hikers through the dramatic alpine terrain of North Cascades National Park. The trail passes through remote sections of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest before reaching the northern terminus at 49-120.801959 Monument 78 (Canadian Border) (mi 2652.6), where thru-hikers celebrate their journey’s completion. From there, hikers can continue a few more miles to 49.062769-120.78269260 Hwy 3 (mi 2661.4), entering Manning Provincial Park in British Columbia, the official endpoint of the PCT.

The trail traverses through some of the most extreme wilderness in the continental USA. Trail users should be prepared for any emergency and accordingly plan ahead. It is best to be familiar with outdoor travel by reading about the area you may be traveling in and learn about potential hazards. Basic understanding of how to prevent hypothermia and heat exhaustion or how to avoid and treat poisonous plants and animals among other potentially life threatening situations can help to ensure that your time on the PCT will be rewarding. Always letting others know where you are going and when you plan to return is a basic premise when traveling in remote areas.

There's no reason to fear the mountains, as long as you approach them with proper respect and preparation. As with anywhere else, recklessness and a lack of forethought can get you into trouble, especially in areas with vast and remote back country.

• Altitude sickness - Can lead to dizziness, headaches, nausea, even blackouts and pulmonary edema. Give your body a few days to adjust to the high altitudes before going full throttle with your hiking.
• Dehydration - When you engage in strenuous outdoor activities, be sure to replenish your fluids as you go. You may be losing moisture through your mouth and nose and through sweating, but be completely unaware due to the arid mountain air. May result in dizziness, intense thirst and elevated heart and breath rates.
• Giardia - Drinking untreated water from regional streams is not a good idea owing to Giardia parasites, but tap water is not a problem.
• Hypothermia - Prolonged exposure to the cold can result in confusion, a slowed heart rate, lethargy, even death. Dress warmly in non cotton clothing to allow any sweat to wick away from your body and evaporate. Otherwise, it may thoroughly chill you later in the day when temperatures drop.
• Frostbite - During periods of severe cold, your circulatory system pulls all your warming blood into the core of your body to protect your vital organs. This makes your extremities such as your ears, fingers and nose especially vulnerable. Wear a face mask, insulated gloves and other heavy gear on the worst winter days.
• Sunburn - Lather up with sunscreen, even if there's cloud cover. The high mountain elevations means you have less protection to the sun's powerful ultraviolet rays. The rays are reflected off the snow and hits the underside of your jaw. Don't forget to wear UV-rated goggles or sunglasses, as well.
• Know your 10 essentials when going on a hike, because cell phones won't always work in many rural areas, and may not be depended on in an emergency situation.

1. Navigation 2. Hydration & Nutrition 3. Pocket Knife 4. Sun Protection 5. Insulation 6. Fire! 7. Lighting 8. First Aid 9. Shelter 10. Whistle

There is significant illegal border crossing activity near Campo, California and throughout the first 30 or so miles on the PCT. You should avoid camping near the border, especially if you are traveling alone. In the southern segments especially there is a possibility of encounters with undocumented aliens and drug runners. While the US Border Patrol is familiar with the Trail route and water cache locations, Trail users should be prepared to provide identification.

• Do not leave vehicles at the Mexican border.
• Lock your vehicle, storing valuables and water out of sight.
• For safety reasons especially, please sign in and out at trailhead registers.

• Pacific Northwest Trail - The Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT) is a long-distance hiking trail that runs from the Continental Divide in Montana to the Pacific Ocean in Washington, passing through Glacier National Park, the Rocky Mountains, the North Cascades, and the Olympic Mountains. It intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) near Baker Lake in Washington’s North Cascades, allowing hikers to connect between the two iconic long-distance trails.