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The Pacific Crest Trail Guide

You don’t have to embark on an epic solo adventure like ‘Wild’ author Cheryl Strayed to appreciate the Pacific Crest Trail.

You don’t have to embark on an epic solo adventure like ‘Wild’ author Cheryl Strayed to appreciate the Pacific Crest Trail.

 

You can explore the trail, made even more famous by Reese Witherspoon in the film adaption of the book, with our guide to hiking along the spectacular area.

Crest Trail 1

Starting in the South on the US border with Mexico and ending in the North on the US, Canada border in British Columbia, the 4,286 kilometre route boasts dramatic terrain and breathtaking scenery as it passes through 25 national forests and 7 national parks across the states of California, Oregon and Washington.

From day hikes to month long journeys of self-discovery, choose a section of the trail most suitable for you.

 

Tehachapi Pass, California

Crest Trail 2

If you’ve read ‘Wild’ or seen the movie you’ll remember Cheryl’s struggle to lift her backpack and her first strenuous hike north from Tehachapi Pass. Experience this moderately difficult trek with a 10 km day hike. The dry, rugged section of trail is not dramatically beautiful but you’ll traverse rocky terrain, spy lizards (watch out for rattlesnakes) and pass Joshua trees, yucca and junipers.

 

Marble Mountain Wilderness, California

Crest Trail 3

Many PCT enthusiasts consider Marble Mountain Wildernesses to boast scenery as beautiful and dramatic as that found in the Sierra Nevada. On this 24 km hike, trek to the top of the summit of Marble Mountain against a backdrop of deep green forests and blue skies. You’ll be rewarded with outstanding views and see over 500 different plant species from tigerlilys to pussypaws.

 

Sky Lake Wilderness Walk, Oregon

Crest Trail 4

The Sky Lakes Wilderness of Southern Oregon starts from the Summit Trailhead off Highway 140 and is a good starting point for half day or full day hikes. It’s a moderate to easy walk so suitable for children, who can discover the scent of the red fir and western white pine and spot golden-mantled ground squirrels. Make a holiday out of it and camp overnight or simply refresh tired feet with a swim in the lake, which is a popular boating spot too.

 

Bridge of the Gods, Oregon

Crest Trail 5

In the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, hub of world-class hiking and bicycling, the Bridge of the Gods sits at the convergence of The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, three National Historic Trails, and the Pacific Crest Trail. It is the PCT’s lowest point where Cheryl Strayed concluded her pilgrimage. Embark on the nearby Eagle Creek Trail, which is an unofficial stretch of the PCT but a highly-recommended one where you can expect to be find deep rock pools a dramatic waterfall and the famous Tunnel Falls where the trail passes underneath a cascading waterfall – an experience not to be missed!

 

Hiking tips:

  • Be prepared –  essential skills such as navigation, surviving foul weather and first aid can be learned and practiced. Read stories from other hikers and join a walking club to get your fitness in tip top shape.
  • Essential equipment – a compass and a detailed topographic map of the area is a must so you don’t get lost in the wilderness (always carry it in a protective case or plastic covering to protect it from the elements). Headtorches or a flashlight with a spare set of batteries. Set of lighters in a waterproof container. Sunscreen. First aid kit for the inevitable blisters and scratches. Repair kit. Knives are also useful in first aid, for food preparation and gear repairs. Think MacGyver!
  • Clothing – basic hiking clothes include socks, footwear, underwear, pants, shirt, warm jacket, hat, mittens or gloves, and rain gear. Pack additional layers that would be needed to survive bad storms – staying warm can keep you alive.
  • Food and water – Remember: food = fuel. The food should require no cooking, and be easily digestible. For short trips, a one-day supply of extra food is a reasonable emergency stockpile. Carry extra water in a bottle or collapsible water sack and have the skills and tools required for obtaining and purifying more.
  • Safety first – your safety is your own responsibility. You can minimise most of the risk with knowledge, equipment and proper planning. In an event of an emergency ensure you have a Personal Locator Beacons, which uses satellites to track your location.
  • Pick up a permit – overnight campers, especially in National Parks and Wilderness Areas, usually need permits. Either fill out a permit at the trailhead of the ranger station.

Would you like to explore the PCT like Cheryl Strayed in ‘Wild’?