Its easy to meet people on the PCT—but not all of them stick around.

How do I find people to hike the PCT?

How to find a hiking partner onlineMeetup.com is the most active place online to find hiking partners. Join your local hiking groups and start attending trips, classes and information sessions. Ask your personal social networks. Join the conversation on the PCT social media channels.

Has anyone died on the PCT?

Deaths on the PCT There are relatively few deaths on PCT thru-hikes, considering the number of hikers, and the main causes of death are heat exhaustion, falls, and drowning due to either misadventure or bad luck. There have been 15 deaths on the PCT since 1983.

Is the PCT crowded?

The PCT can feel crowded depending on which month you start and in which direction. The Pacific Crest Trail Association estimates that somewhere between 700 and 800 individuals attempt the complete thru-hike each year, with a 60% completion rate. And the busiest starting date for northbound hikers is mid April.

How long does it take most people to hike the PCT?

about 5 months The trail is 2,650 miles and it generally takes the entire snow-free season to walk. Thats 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 is the hardest section of the PCT?

Section K By far the most difficult stretch of PCT in Washington, Section K puts hikers through a grueling 127-mile trek over harsh terrain and treacherous conditions.

How many people finish the PCT every year?

While only 700-800 make the attempt each year, about sixty percent of those actually finish. And, according to the PCTA, there are 57 really intense people out there who have walked the whole thing more than once.

Can you carry a gun on the Pacific Crest Trail?

Carrying firearms is generally discouraged They could be turned against you or result in an accidental shooting and they are extra weight most PCT hikers find unnecessary. Horseback riders may consider firearms to put down injured and sick animals.

Are there shelters on the PCT?

There are no shelters or cabins on the PCT like those on the AT. The AT and PCT are choc full of areas for tenting or hammocking along the trail at established or designated sites, improvised “stealth” sites and shelters, cabins or huts in some cases.

Can you camp anywhere on the PCT?

Can you camp anywhere on the PCT? The answer is: No, you cannot camp just anywhere you want on the trail. While the PCT might sometimes look like one big campground with plenty of flat spots, you cannot make any place you want your campsite.

How often do you resupply on the PCT?

Generally, you can buy food every 4-10 days and save the effort and cost of resupply boxes. We recommend spending your money in the communities along the trail, shipping to a small number of remote locations and keeping it simple. Resupply – what and how to eat – is full of highly personal decisions.

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

The average thru-hiker will take about five months to walk the entire trail, averaging 20-plus miles a day after factoring in rest days.

Can I carry a gun on the PCT?

Carrying firearms is generally discouraged.

Can you camp anywhere along the PCT?

Can you camp anywhere on the PCT? The answer is: No, you cannot camp just anywhere you want on the trail. While the PCT might sometimes look like one big campground with plenty of flat spots, you cannot make any place you want your campsite.

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 is the average age of a PCT hiker?

34 PCT THRU-HIKER AGE The average age of survey respondents was 34 (σ = 12).

Are there grizzly bears on the PCT?

So, are there grizzly bears on the Pacific Crest Trail? 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.

How difficult is the Pacific Crest Trail?

“Hiking the PCT is hard, sometimes very hard. But compared to the life off-trail, the life on the trail is easier. There are fewer concerns. You still have some, but they are very basic.

What is the longest hike in the world?

The Great Trail The Great Trail, formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail, runs for a rather daunting 14,912 miles (or 24,000km) and is currently the longest hiking trail in the world. There are also some stunning options elsewhere, travelling through Italy, Japan and even along the coast of England.

What is a Pee rag?

A “peedanna”, or pee rag, is a bandanna or similar cloth that is designated for wiping after urinating in the woods. A lot of women opt to use a pee rag instead of toilet paper. There are a multitude of reasons why youd want to make the switch to a pee rag. For me, the ease and convenience were the biggest factor.

Can I carry a gun on the Pacific Crest Trail?

Carrying firearms is generally discouraged They could be turned against you or result in an accidental shooting and they are extra weight most PCT hikers find unnecessary. Horseback riders may consider firearms to put down injured and sick animals.