The Pacific Crest Trail spans 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington.  The PCT boasts the greatest elevation changes of any of America's National Scenic Trails, allowing it to pass through six out of seven of North America's ecozones including high and low desert, old-growth forest and artic-alpine country. From scorching desert valleys in Southern California to rain forests in the Pacific Northwest, the PCT offers hikers a unique, varied experience. 

Over the past decade, the PCT has become a favorite target of thru-hikers (the hearty souls who attempt to hike an entire long-distance trail in one "season"). Each year, in fact, an average of 300 hikers attempt to cover the full length of the PCT. Around 180 complete the hike each year. Most thru-hikers start from the Mexican border and reach the north end of the trail before the first hard snow. 

To learn more about the Pacific Crest Trail, please visit www.pcta.org

PCT Photos follow: