Pacific Crest Trail Mileage
Introduction
The Pacific Crest Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that spans 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington. The trail offers an incredible experience for hikers, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, majestic mountains, and diverse landscapes. This travel guide aims to help you plan your journey by highlighting top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Mt. Whitney
Mt. Whitney is the highest peak in the continental United States, standing at 14,505 feet. Hiking to the summit is a popular challenge among PCT hikers, with breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Permits are required, so plan ahead.
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, formed by the collapse of a volcano. The stunning blue color of the lake is a must-see on the PCT, with hiking trails and campsites around the park.
Mt. Rainier National Park
Mt. Rainier is an active volcano and one of the tallest peaks in the Cascade Range. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, and winter sports.
Hidden Gems
Three Sisters Wilderness
The Three Sisters Wilderness is a stunning area in Oregon with three volcanic peaks, numerous lakes, and wildflowers in the summer. It’s a great spot for backpacking and camping.
Goat Rocks Wilderness
The Goat Rocks Wilderness is a beautiful area in Washington with jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflowers. It’s a popular spot for hiking and camping, but it’s less crowded than other areas on the PCT.
Food Scene
The PCT passes through a variety of towns and cities, offering a diverse food scene. Some popular spots include:
Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its food culture, with a variety of restaurants, food trucks, and breweries. Some must-try spots include Pok Pok, Salt & Straw, and Voodoo Doughnut.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle offers a variety of seafood options, including fresh salmon and oysters. Some popular spots include Pike Place Market, Elliott’s Oyster House, and Shiro’s Sushi.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The PCT can be expensive, but there are ways to save money on your journey:
Camping
Camping is the most affordable option for accommodation on the PCT. There are many free campsites along the trail, but be sure to check regulations and permits.
Resupply
Plan your resupply stops ahead of time to avoid buying expensive food and supplies on the trail. Look for grocery stores and resupply points in towns and cities.
Outdoor Adventures
The PCT offers a variety of outdoor activities, including:
Hiking
Hiking is the main attraction on the PCT, with stunning views and challenging terrain. Be sure to have proper gear and plan for the weather.
Fishing
There are many opportunities for fishing on the PCT, with streams and lakes along the trail. Be sure to have a valid fishing license and follow regulations.
Family-Friendly Activities
The PCT can be a great experience for families, with opportunities for:
Day Hikes
There are many shorter hikes along the PCT that are suitable for families, including scenic trails and waterfalls.
Camping
Camping can be a fun and affordable option for families, with many campsites along the trail.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences on the PCT, consider:
Hot Springs
There are several hot springs along the PCT, including Deep Creek Hot Springs in California and Bagby Hot Springs in Oregon.
Wildlife Viewing
The PCT offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bears, elk, and mountain lions. Be sure to follow regulations and safety guidelines.
Natural Wonders
The PCT passes through some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the United States, including:
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a must-see on the PCT, with stunning waterfalls, granite cliffs, and giant sequoias.
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a scenic area in Oregon with waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Columbia River.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for nightlife on the PCT, consider:
Portland, Oregon
Portland offers a variety of bars, nightclubs, and music venues for a night out on the town.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Local Markets
Local markets can be a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of the areas along the PCT, including:
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market in Seattle is a must-visit for foodies, with a variety of fresh seafood, produce, and artisanal products.
Farmers Markets
There are many farmers markets along the PCT, offering fresh produce and local products. Check local listings for markets in each area.
Beaches and Mountains
The PCT offers a unique combination of beaches and mountains, including:
San Diego, California
San Diego offers a variety of beaches and outdoor activities, including surfing, hiking, and beach volleyball.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington offers a variety of landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and mountains.
Cultural Immersion
The PCT passes through many areas with rich cultural history and traditions, including:
Mission San Luis Rey
Mission San Luis Rey in California is a historic site with beautiful architecture and gardens, offering tours and educational programs.
Makah Cultural and Research Center
The Makah Cultural and Research Center in Washington offers exhibits and educational programs on the culture and history of the Makah Tribe.
Art and Music Scene
The PCT passes through many areas with vibrant art and music scenes, including:
Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum in Oregon offers a variety of exhibits and collections, including contemporary and traditional art.
The Crocodile
The Crocodile in Seattle is a music venue with a rich history, hosting many famous musicians over the years.
Walking Tours
Walking tours can be a great way to explore the cities and towns along the PCT, including:
Seattle Underground Tour
The Seattle Underground Tour offers a unique look at the city’s history and architecture, with tours of underground tunnels and passageways.
Portland Walking Tours
Portland Walking Tours offers a variety of tours, including food tours, ghost tours, and city tours.
Architectural Marvels
The PCT passes through many areas with beautiful architecture, including:
Space Needle
The Space Needle in Seattle is an iconic landmark, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House
Hollyhock House in Los Angeles is a stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture, with beautiful gardens and art collections.
Historical Sites
The PCT passes through many areas with rich history, including:
Manzanar National Historic Site
Manzanar National Historic Site in California is a reminder of the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, with exhibits and educational programs.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site in Washington is a reminder of the fur trade and early settlement of the area, with exhibits and tours of the fort and gardens.
Biking Routes
If you’re looking for biking routes on the PCT, consider: