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2021 PCT Long-distance Permits Will be Issued; Portal to Open January 19
The Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) announced on January 5 that 2021 PCT Long-distance Permits will be issued at normal levels starting January 19th at 10:30 am PT. The decision...
A Complete List of Individual Permits Needed to Hike the PCT
Every (normal) year, prospective PCT thru-hikers queue up in an online waiting room to apply for a PCT Long-distance Permit. This interagency pass is aimed at trail users who plan...
Uncertainty and Strife: Thru-Hiking Permits in the Time of COVID-19
As 2020 winds down, a third wave of COVID-19 infections is engulfing the United States, with the number of daily cases more than tripling over the previous August high and...
Which Triple Crown Trail is Right For You? Choosing Between the AT, PCT, and CDT
At almost 8,000 miles, the Triple Crown trails of the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail are some of the best hiking in the world. No matter...
A Guide to Volcano Loop Hikes in the Pacific Northwest
Dotted with wildflower-filled meadows, stunning waterfalls, and inviting alpine lakes, these Cascade volcano loop hikes belong on every backpacker’s bucket list.
Bear Canisters: Which Fit in Which Packs, Where You Need Them, and How to Pack One
So you need to bring a bear canister on your next backpacking trip. Find out how to be comfortable while keeping your food and bears safe.
Why Are the 2020 Wildfires so Bad, and How Will They Affect the PCT?
The American West is burning—but then, you probably already knew that. Even if you’re not one of the millions who currently live in eerie, red, smoke-darkened proximity to the flames...
Meet Barney “Scout” Mann: Triple Crowner, Trail Angel, Author
Few people have hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Appalachian Trail. Known as Triple Crowners, those who carry this title are known throughout the trail community. Barney
Best of Southern California Backpacking and Day Hiking
I've lived in Southern California for five years and still feel like I'm scratching the surface of available adventure around me. The beaches are great, but within three hours of...
Most of PCT Closed in California and Oregon, Warning Issued for Washington as Fires Rage Across West
Wildfires spreading ferociously across the West have shut down national forests and most of the Pacific Crest Trail in California and Oregon. Fires are also threatening the trail in