Advocacy, Connection, and Conservation

For more than half a century, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) has invited people to experience the wild in its purest form. Stretching 2,650 miles, the trail winds through some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes in the American West. From the deserts of Southern California to the breathtaking terrain of the North Cascades, it’s the adventure of a lifetime. Whether people are seeking a multi-month-long thru hike, looking to section hike, horse ride, or enjoy a day-hike, the PCT welcomes all.  

It is a trail that has a way of tugging at people’s heartstrings and evoking a commitment like no other. In return, it provides the truest form of community sealed with memories that connect individuals far and wide. That’s the real beauty of the Pacific Crest Trail; people from all around the world and from all walks of life being called to the same dream. The Pacific Crest Trail Association(Se abre en una nueva ventana) (PCTA) shares the great honor and mission to protect the trail for generations to come.  

What we do 

Since the trail’s designation as a National Scenic Trail in 1968, its existence has depended on a collective commitment to stewardship. That’s where the Pacific Crest Trail Association comes in. We consider ourselves to be the eyes, ears and voice for the trail. What that means is that our mission is to advocate for the Pacific Crest Trail as an inspirational outdoor experience, to connect people to the PCT, and to conserve the trail. Throughout California, Oregon, and Washington, PCTA staff, volunteers, partners, and the PCT communities at large share responsibility for the trail. It’s this mutual responsibility and admiration that keeps the PCT alive. We love what we do; from managing visitor use, organizing volunteer maintenance projects, advocacy and policy, land protection, and providing marketing and communications, all for the betterment of the trail. What we do involves countless partners who collaborate with us to look after the PCT and show up day in and day out to help keep the trail experience an inspiring one.  

The PCT community  

We consider ourselves lucky to do what we do, tending to an ecosystem of care connecting land, people, and communities. It is the community of alum, members, donors, enthusiasts, storytellers, creatives, and volunteers that provide such an impactful and rewarding experience. Protecting our public lands, speaking up for the trail, and volunteering time and energy is what makes the difference in our work and lets us know that the PCT is deeply loved.  We hope to see you out on the trail very soon. If you’d like to support our work and get involved, here are a few ways to do so.