Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Experience one of the world’s most iconic long-distance hiking trails with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a legendary 4,265km (2,650-mile) journey stretching from Mexico to Canada. Traversing California, Oregon and Washington, the trail passes through vast deserts, the snowbound High Sierra, ancient forests, and rugged mountain wilderness, including Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Crater Lake and North Cascades National Parks. It is typically completed over four to six months. This unique three-part guidebook set is designed specifically for the demands of such an epic trail, where preparation, clarity and weight truly matter. Created with long-distance hikers in mind, the set splits essential information into lightweight, pack-friendly booklets, ensuring you only carry what you need on the trail while keeping critical details always to hand.The introductory booklet (130g) focuses on planning and preparation, helping you make informed decisions long before you set foot on the trail. Whether you’re aiming for a full thru-hike or a shorter section, it provides the essential background needed to approach the PCT realistically and safely. Practical guidance on permits, timing and logistics is included, essential for navigating regulations across multiple US states and land agenciesInsight into gear selection and managing pack weight on long-distance trails, helping you prepare efficiently and avoid costly mistakes before you goClear guidance is provided on resupply strategy, trail towns and food planning, allowing you to plan supply boxes and resupplies well in advanceIncludes a detailed overview of the entire Pacific Crest Trail, including terrain, climate and seasonal challengesSuggested itineraries for 110-, 120-, 130- and 140-day thru-hikes, including an easy-going start option, are described to help you plan a realistic and achievable timelineFor use while hiking, the set includes two compact map booklets (200g and 170g), designed for clarity, durability and minimal weight. These booklets are intended to be carried on trail or sent on in supply packages, giving you immediate access to critical navigation and planning information without the burden of a single heavy volume. Clear, easy-to-read mapping covering the full length of the Pacific Crest Trail: one covering the southern stages from the Mexico border to northern California at Interstate 5, the other detailing the northern stages in Oregon and Washington to the Canadian border.The route is presented as 100 one- to three- day stages for easy planning of either day, section or thru hikes, with stages starting and ending at trailheads where possible1:100,000 topographic maps for the whole PCT, allowing you to supplement or replace digital mapping apps in areas with limited battery life or signalKey features such as water sources, camping locations and resupply points are clearly marked on the map, supporting confident decision-making in remote sections of the trail like the Sierra Nevada Whether you’re preparing for a life-changing thru-hike or planning to explore the Pacific Crest Trail in stages, this three-part guidebook set offers a rare combination of thorough preparation, practical on-trail navigation and lightweight design. Written by two-time PCT thru-hiker David Jordan, you'll get advice from someone who has been there and walked the trail, invaluable when tackling such a challenging long-distance hike. For every copy of Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail sold, Cicerone will donate $1.50 to the PCTA.