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Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
The Pacific Crest National Scenic trail is a continuous path along the spectacularly scenic crest of the Pacific Mountain ranges between Mexico and Canada.
The Pacific Crest National Scenic trail is a continuous path along the spectacularly scenic crest of the Pacific Mountain ranges between Mexico and Canada. The Pacific Crest Trail connects people to world-renowned desert, alpine, volcanic, and forested landscapes, and favors lands that appear wild and free from development. All people can find a sense of awe, personal challenge, and a respite from mechanized society on the PCT.
Whether experienced in a day’s outing, a season, or over the course of a lifetime, the Trail provides unparalleled year-round opportunities to journey on foot or horseback through remote and rugged terrain. Through art, stories, recreation, or volunteerism, the Trail inspires transformative and lifelong connections with its land, people, and communities. Collaborative management ensures the Trail is preserved for the conservation, public use, enjoyment, and appreciation of the nationally significant scenic, historic, natural, and cultural quality of the areas through which the Trail passes.
National Trails System
The National Trails System was created by the National Trails System Act of 1968. The Act established the Appalachian and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trails as the first components of the System to promote and provide opportunities for the public. The Forest Service manages and cares for many National Scenic, Historic, and Recreational Trails with the help of countless volunteers and partners.
Our National Scenic and Historic trials were specially designated by Congress to provide all of us with access to the great outdoors and a window into America’s history and cultural diversity. Our nation’s 11 National Scenic Trails travel through the country’s most beautiful landscapes and are long-distance trails (more than 100 miles long).