Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail - Online Map and Guide - From Mexico to Canada

Northern Terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail

View of Mica Lake and surrounding mountains

Administration & Use

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Overall responsibility for the management of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) is with the Pacific Southwest Regional Forester, www.fs.fed.us/r5, 877.496.5548. The trail passes through National Forests in the Pacific Southwest Region (California), Pacific Northwest Region (Oregon and Washington), www.fs.fed.us/r6, 503.808.2200 and touches the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in the Intermountain Region, www.fs.fed.us/r4, 801.625.5605. The PCT passes through several National Park units, which are in the Pacific West Region, www.nps.gov/pwro. In southern California, the trail passes through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered lands, www.ca.blm.gov. In southern Oregon the BLM can be contacted at www.or.blm.gov. The PCT also passes through several California State Parks, www.parks.ca.gov, 800.777.0369.

The best source of information regarding the PCT can be found at the Pacific Crest Trail Association's (PCTA) website, www.PCTA.org. The non-profit PCTA is the chief advocate for the trail and has a dedicated toll free phone number 888-PCTRAIL. The PCTA can issue permits for those persons traveling 500 miles or more on the trail. They also provide up to date information on trail conditions, maps and other sources of detailed information about the trail.

Safety - The PCT is classified as a non-mechanized trail. Bicycles, off-road vehicles of any kind, or other mechanical means of travel are not allowed, as they can present a significant danger to hikers and equestrians on narrow sections of the trail. There are a variety of poisonous snakes, bears, and mountain lions along the PCT. Humans are the visitor in their home and should act accordingly. It is advisable to hike or ride with at least one companion at all times. Filter and purify water from any natural source along the PCT.

Route Finding - The PCT is not a blazed trail and may remain under snow much of the year. Always carry a compass and topographic map or guide book, and know how to use them.