The Pacific Crest Trail spans 2,650 miles (4,265 kilometers) from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. It is a National Scenic Trail. It reveals the beauty of the desert, unfolds the glaciated expanses of the Sierra Nevada, travels deep forests, and provides commanding vistas of volcanic peaks in the Cascade Range.

The Pacific Crest Trail is one of the best trail experiences on Earth. We’re on a mission to protect it forever. Join us.

You're beginner's guide to hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. From gear, to food, to maps and permits. Start here for basic PCT hiking information.

Whether you’re staring at a map after a long day on the trail, or putting one up on your bedroom wall, we hope you enjoy the resources we’ve collected for you. Paper maps Please carry paper maps.

What’s the best time to start the Pacific Crest Trail? Most northbound thru-hikers start the PCT in mid-April through early May. Southbound hikers generally start in late June through early July.

For thousands around the world, the Pacific Crest Trail is a highlight of a life well-lived. Weeks or months spent in nature is good for body and soul. It’s a magical experience. You’ll meet countless wonderful people and join them in the PCT community. Stunning scenery is the rule. Long-distance hiking on the PCT should not be underestimated.

Magellan’s trail-wide PCT overview map Click to download a high-quality PDF of this map that’s good for printing. Magellan’s two-page PCT overview maps with public transit

Traversing 700 miles of deserts and mountain ranges, the Pacific Crest Trail is striking and easily accessible in Southern California. Central California The Pacific Crest Trail through the famed Sierra Nevada is one of the premier trail experiences in the world.

Pacific Crest Trail Association 2150 River Plaza Drive, Suite 155 Sacramento, CA 95833; 916-285-1846 main 916-200-3502 fax; PCTA is a 501(c)(3). Tax ID#: 33-0051202

Traversing 700 miles of deserts and mountain ranges, the Pacific Crest Trail is striking and easily accessible in Southern California. Central California The Pacific Crest Trail through the famed Sierra Nevada is one of the premier trail experiences in the world.