How long does it take to hike the Sierra section of the PCT?

The trail is 2,650 miles and it generally takes the entire snow-free season to walk. That’s about 5 months. Elite athletes who are experienced on the PCT have finished the trail in as little as two months. The few who achieve sub-100 day hikes average well over 30 miles per day.

What section of the PCT should I hike?

“The best section hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, to me, is Goat Rocks Wilderness because everyone will (rightfully) pick the John Muir Trail, but the Goat Rocks is nearly as spectacular and has far fewer people!”

How long is the California section of the Pacific Crest Trail?

2,650 miles
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) begins in southern California at the Mexican border and travels a total distance of 2,650 miles through California, Oregon, and Washington until reaching the Canadian border.

Is hiking the PCT worth it?

As hard as it will be, it’s 100% worth it. The Pacific Crest Trail is notorious for having the lowest completion rate of any long distance trail, and you’ll see why when you’re on it. If you’re planning to hike the PCT, it takes commitment. Don’t give up on yourself too quickly when the going gets tough.

Will the PCT be open in 2022?

The 2022 permit season opens on November 9, 2021, for trips starting near the Mexican border. All other itineraries will open on January 11, 2022. It’s important that you read, understand and follow all the information outlined on our permit page.

Will the Pacific Crest Trail be open in 2021?

The Pacific Crest Trail is closed on all national forests in California. The Pacific Southwest Region manages 18 national forests and their closure started Aug. 31, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. These forests are fully closed.

Are there Grizzlies on the PCT?

Yes, there are still technically grizzly bears (also known as brown bears) on the PCT, your chances of coming across one are slim to none. This is in the area that encompasses the North Cascades, through which the Pacific Crest Trail travels for just 18 miles.

What are the sections of the Pacific Crest Trail?

The prettiest sections of the Pacific Crest Trail you can tackle this fall 1. Mount Adams to Mount Rainier, South-Central Washington 2. North Cascades, North-Central Washington 3. The Sierra Nevada, Central California 4. Sky Lakes Wilderness , Central Oregon 5. San Jacinto Peak , Southern California

How far is the Pacific Crest Trail?

The Pacific Crest Trail is a long-distance backpacking and hiking trail that runs 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington. I’ve hiked about 4,000 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail in the last six years, including a northbound thru-hike in ’07.

When to start PCT hike?

Most northbound thru-hikers start the PCT in mid-April through early May. Southbound hikers generally start in late June through early July. Many people want to start early. Beware. Snow covers sections of the trail in the spring and early summer.

How long to hike PCT?

Expect the Hike to Take Five Months to Complete. A lot of variables play a role in how long it takes to hike the PCT. Covering more than 2,650 miles will take a considerable amount of time, even at a rapid pace.