Pacific Crest Trail Distance Calculator

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches approximately 2,650 miles from its southern terminus at the Mexican border near Campo, California, to its northern terminus at the Canadian border in Manning Park, British Columbia. This long-distance hiking trail traverses diverse terrain, including deserts, mountains, and forests, offering a challenging and scenic journey for hikers.

Trail Name	Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)
Total Distance	Approximately 2,650 miles (4,265 km)
Termini	Southern Terminus: Campo, California
	Northern Terminus: Manning Park, British Columbia, Canada
States Covered	California, Oregon, Washington
Average Time to Hike	5 to 6 months
Direction of Travel	Northbound (NOBO) or Southbound (SOBO)
Elevation Range	1,300 feet (396 meters) to 13,153 feet (4,009 meters)
Terrain Types	Deserts, Mountains, Forests, Alpine Meadows, River Crossings
Scenic Highlights	Sierra Nevada, Cascade Range, High Sierra, Desert Landscapes
Challenges	Extreme Weather, Snow Crossings, Water Availability, Physical Endurance
Permit Requirements	Required for some sections, especially in the High Sierra
Trail Associations	Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA)
Popular Resupply Towns	Kennedy Meadows, South Lake Tahoe, Cascade Locks, Ashland
Estimated Completion	Over 5,000 hikers have completed the PCT since its inception

FAQs

How many miles a day to hike the Pacific Crest Trail?

• On average, hikers aim to cover about 20 to 25 miles per day on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).

How long does it take the average person to walk the Pacific Crest Trail?

• The average time to thru-hike the PCT is approximately 5 to 6 months.

Which is harder Appalachian trail or PCT?

• It’s subjective, but many hikers find the PCT to be more physically demanding due to its longer stretches without resupply points and exposure to extreme weather conditions.

What is the most difficult part of the Pacific Crest Trail?

• The Sierra Nevada section, especially in a heavy snow year, can be one of the most challenging parts of the PCT due to steep terrain and snow crossings.

Can you hike 12 miles in a day?

• Yes, most reasonably fit hikers can cover 12 miles in a day.

Can you hike 25 miles a day?

• Some experienced hikers can consistently cover 25 miles a day, but it’s considered an above-average pace.

Is it safe to hike the Pacific Crest Trail alone?

• Many hikers do the PCT solo, but safety depends on individual experience and preparedness. It’s essential to take precautions and be self-reliant.

How many people have finished the Pacific Crest Trail?

• Approximately 5,000 to 6,000 people have completed the entire PCT since its inception.

How many people attempt the Pacific Crest Trail?

• An estimated 1,500 to 2,000 people attempt the PCT each year.

Is the Pacific Crest Trail well marked?

• The PCT is generally well-marked with trail markers, but navigation skills and maps are still necessary, especially in challenging conditions.

Is there scrambling on the PCT?

• There are sections with mild scrambling, but it’s not a prominent feature of the trail.

What is the easiest part of the PCT?

• The easiest sections are subjective, but many hikers find the southern California desert to be relatively straightforward in terms of terrain.

What direction do most people hike the Pacific Crest Trail?

• Most hikers go northbound (NOBO) from the southern terminus in California to the northern terminus in Washington.

What is the most beautiful part of the PCT?

• Beauty is subjective, but the High Sierra and the Cascade Range in Northern California and Washington are often considered the most visually stunning parts of the PCT.

How much water do I need for a 12-mile hike?

• A general guideline is to carry at least 2-3 liters of water for a 12-mile hike, but this can vary based on climate and personal needs.

How far should a beginner hike?

• Beginners should start with shorter hikes, around 2-5 miles, to build stamina and experience.

Can the average person hike 10 miles?

• Yes, most moderately fit individuals can complete a 10-mile hike.

How far is too far for a day hike?

• A day hike distance of 15-20 miles is often considered the upper limit for most hikers.

How many miles a day do people average on the Appalachian Trail?

• On the Appalachian Trail (AT), hikers often average 12-15 miles per day.

Can I carry a gun on the PCT?

• Regulations regarding carrying firearms on the PCT can vary by state and jurisdiction. Research local laws and restrictions before carrying a firearm.

Where do you sleep on the Pacific Crest Trail?

• Hikers typically sleep in tents, shelters, or campsites along the trail, and some may use established backcountry campsites or lean-tos.

Are there Grizzlies on the PCT?

• Grizzly bears are not typically found on the PCT; black bears are more common.

How long did it take for Cheryl Strayed to walk the PCT?

• Cheryl Strayed completed her PCT hike in about 94 days.

How old was Cheryl Strayed when she hiked PCT?

• Cheryl Strayed was in her mid-20s when she hiked the PCT.

Are dogs allowed on the PCT?

• Dogs are allowed on many parts of the PCT, but regulations and restrictions vary. Check with the managing agencies for specific rules.

How crowded is the Pacific Crest Trail?

• The PCT can be crowded in popular sections, but it varies by location and time of year.

How much of the Pacific Crest Trail is in Oregon?

• Approximately 430 miles of the PCT pass through Oregon.

What is the longest hiking trail in the world?

• The Great Trail in Canada is one of the longest hiking trails globally, spanning over 24,000 kilometers (15,000 miles).

How cold does it get on the PCT?

• Temperatures can range from very hot in the desert sections to below freezing in the high mountain passes. Snow and freezing conditions are possible in some areas.

When should I start the Pacific Crest Trail?

• Most PCT thru-hikers start in April to May, depending on snow conditions and their direction of travel.

What is the halfway point of the Pacific Crest Trail?

• The halfway point of the PCT is approximately at Kennedy Meadows, California.

Is it easy to get lost on the PCT?

• It’s possible to get lost if you don’t pay attention to trail markers and maps, but the trail is generally well-defined.

Do people go missing on the PCT?

• Occasionally, people do go missing on the PCT, but with proper preparation and safety measures, the risk is reduced.

What is the hardest thru-hike in the world?

• The difficulty of thru-hikes is subjective, but some challenging ones include the PCT, Continental Divide Trail (CDT), and Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand.

What is the lowest elevation on the Pacific Crest Trail?

• The lowest elevation point on the PCT is at the Columbia River in Oregon, which is near sea level.

Are there redwoods on the PCT?

• Yes, there are sections of the PCT that pass through redwood forests, primarily in Northern California.

Which trail is harder the Pacific Crest Trail or the Continental Divide trail?

• The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is often considered more challenging due to its rugged terrain and less-developed infrastructure.

Where is the best 2-week section of the PCT?

• A popular 2-week section of the PCT is the High Sierra in California, offering stunning scenery and challenging terrain.

What town does the Pacific Crest Trail start?

• The PCT begins in Southern California at the Mexican border near Campo.

Should you drink water during a hike?

• Yes, it’s essential to stay hydrated during a hike to prevent dehydration.

Can you drink too much water while hiking?

• While rare, overhydration (hyponatremia) can be a concern. It’s best to balance water intake with electrolyte replenishment.

How do you carry water while hiking?

• Hikers typically carry water in bottles, hydration reservoirs, or containers and use water purification methods when necessary.

What is the golden rule of hiking?

• The golden rule of hiking is “Leave No Trace,” which emphasizes minimizing your impact on the environment.

What is the average hiking age?

• The average age of hikers can vary widely, but many hikers are in their 30s to 50s.

How far can the average person hike in a day?

• The average person can comfortably hike 8-12 miles in a day.

What is considered an experienced hiker?

• An experienced hiker typically has a good understanding of hiking techniques, navigation, gear, and safety practices.

How far is too far to hike?

• “Too far” varies by individual fitness and experience levels, but for most people, 20-25 miles in a day is a significant distance.

How much weight can the average person hike with?

• The average person can comfortably carry 20-30% of their body weight while hiking.

How many miles a day should you walk on the PCT?

• A good daily goal on the PCT is about 20-25 miles, but individual capabilities and trail conditions can vary.

How often should you stop on a hike?

• It’s recommended to take short breaks every 1-2 hours and longer rest breaks for meals and to rest tired muscles.

Why am I so tired the day after a hike?

• Fatigue after a hike is normal and results from physical exertion, muscle strain, and dehydration. Rest and recovery are essential.

How many pounds of food per day on the Appalachian Trail?

• Hikers typically carry 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of food per day on the Appalachian Trail.

How much money do you need to hike the AT?

• The cost of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike can vary widely, but budgeting $4,000 to $6,000 is a common estimate.

How much weight does the average person lose on the Appalachian Trail?

• It’s not uncommon for thru-hikers to lose 10-30 pounds during their AT journey due to increased physical activity and calorie expenditure.

Can you hike 25 miles in a day?

• Yes, many experienced hikers can cover 25 miles in a day, but it’s considered a long and challenging day of hiking.

Can you hike 30 miles in a day?

• Hiking 30 miles in a day is possible for some experienced ultralight hikers, but it’s an ambitious goal.

Can you hike 10 miles in a day?

• Yes, most reasonably fit individuals can complete a 10-mile hike.

Can I carry a loaded gun while hiking in California?

• Carrying a loaded firearm in California is subject to strict regulations. Research and follow local laws and obtain necessary permits.

Should hikers carry guns?

• Whether hikers should carry firearms is a personal choice, and it depends on individual preferences, concerns, and legal considerations.

Are there bathrooms on the PCT?

• There are limited restroom facilities on the PCT, and hikers often practice Leave No Trace principles by digging cat holes for waste disposal.