Congratulations to These 2026 Pacific Crest Trail Finishers (Part 1)

The Pacific Crest Trail is one of North America’s most beautiful and iconic thru-hikes, stretching 2,650 miles from the Mexican border all the way to Canada. Every year, thousands of hikers set out on this unforgettable journey, pushing their limits both physically and mentally as they navigate this incredibly diverse terrain.

This year, wildfires devastated many thru-hikers’ plans. In July, the northern section of the PCT from Harts Pass to the Canadian border was closed due to the Ptarmigan Fire. Because of this, many finish photos look different than in years past.

Thru-hiking teaches lessons in perseverance and resilience, and many hikers were able to pivot from a traditional finish and found creative conclusions to their multi-month journey before the northern terminus officially reopened. We’re thrilled to spotlight the incredible hikers who completed this journey in 2026!

Have you just finished your PCT thru-hike? If so, please celebrate your finish with us by submitting a photo through the form below so we can feature you in a subsequent post. We can’t wait to share your incredible achievement!

Submit Your PCT Finish Photo

Bee
@beeswildlife
Finish date: August 25, 2026

“I had to end the trail early due to fire closures, but I’ll be back next year to wrap up the last ~250 miles once they reopen!” -Bee 

Chipmunk
@snowsemperfi
Finish date: August 25, 2026

Disco
@etalbo
Finish date: August 10, 2026

Early Bird
@seuleaveclemonde
Finish date: July 31, 2026

“Thanks PCT, Pacific Crest Therapy 👣🪷” -Early Bird

Scissors
@47rabbits
Finish date: August 13, 2026

“This was my first thru-hike, and it’s only been a few weeks, but I feel like a little part of me will always wish I was back on trail. And who knows… check in with me next spring, but I just might be :)” -Scissors

Milk
@wubbie
Finish date: July 9, 2026

“Our tramily name was ‘The Royal Court of Queen Turbo Diesel’.” -Milk

El Gato
@a_walking_mistake
Finish date: August 27, 2026

JayRoyUSA
@jayroyusa
Finish date: August 29, 2026

“Not the ending we wanted but an unbelievable experience. Had a blast. Let’s do it again!” -JayRoyUSA

Tooth Fairy
@jeffrey scott swallows
Finish date: September 4, 2026

“What an amazing journey!” -Tooth Fairy

Cookie
Finish date: September 3, 2026

Perfect Day
@clintbogard
Finish date: August 21, 2026

“That was f*cking amazing!” -Perfect Day

Tiger
@wellevk
Finish date: September 1, 2026

“Finished at Monument 47 on the Canadian border after taking an alt route to avoid wildfire closures.” -Tiger

Barfight
@cracker_13_
Finish date: August 28, 2026

“Monument 47-no fire closure would stop me and my triple crown! Had to get to Canada!” -Barfight

Alchemist
@david__whitehair
Finish date: September 2, 2026

“I came to the PCT looking for something I couldn’t quite put into words. Months later, I’m leaving with more than I ever expected. Grateful for every mile, every person, and every moment that brought me here.” -Alchemist

NODAK
Finish date: August 30, 2026

“After 48 years of wanting to do a thru-hike of the PCT, I have made it to the Canadian Monument #47 on August 30 as a continuous path from Mexico. I hope to return next June to restart from Snoqualmie Pass to Monument #78 due to the fires closing the PCT trail in upper Washington this year. I want to say a huge thank you to all the trail angels who helped me by picking me up and returning me to the trailheads, and for some offering their homes for the night. All of you are truly angels who made this amazing adventure possible! And of course thank you to all the amazing people who provided trail magic to all of us starving hikers. Seeing a vehicle and chairs by the trail is an indescribable feeling of pure joy and happiness!!! I hope to always remember these moments. Best wishes to all!!” -NODAK

Congratulations to all the 2026 PCT finishers — your achievements are remarkable and worth celebrating!

Submit Your PCT Finish Photo