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Pacific Crest Trail Recreation

The Pacific Crest Trail, or the PCT, is arguably the most famous of the nation's designated National Scenic Trails.  Winding its way through spectacular vistas from Mexico to Canada, the PCT stretches 2,650 miles through California, Oregon, and Washington.  The Almanor Ranger District is home to 66 miles of the trail (including the 1,325 mile halfway point!) and provides multiple trailheads and access points.  

Hat Creek Ranger District has 64 miles along mountain ridges, deep forests and open country. The views from this portion of the trail are outrageous -- Lassen Peak and Mt. Shasta! Elevations along the trail range from 3,200 to 5,500 feet. Portions of the trail are under snow until late spring. There is often no water available for approximately 26 miles along the Hat Creek Rim portion of the PCT

The Almanor Ranger District is home to 66 miles of the trail (including the 1,325 mile halfway point!) and provides multiple trailheads and access points.  

The PCT is a non-motorized trail designed for hiking and equestrian use.  Portions of the trail are covered by snow in the winter months, but snowshoeing is encouraged.

A snow-covered volcanic peak rises above a valley rimmed by conifer forest.
Site Open

Hat Creek Rim Overlook will open mid to late April.

Interprative signs along a concrete walkway, leading up to a historical A-frame building with a wooden porch. Steps and ramp access shown. Tall pine trees and shade all around.
Site Closed

The Old Station Visitor Information Center is the hub of the Hat Creek Recreation Area.

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Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) feeder trail from Carter Meadows. Follow Carter Creek upslope to meet up with the PCT. 

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PCT trailhead - stock water available

A small pond at the base of a rocky area

PCT trailhead located just west of Domingo Springs Campground

A trail sign surrounded by burned trees on a steep rocky mountainside.

PCT trailhead on Humboldt Road (Fh 118) east of Butte Meadows

A trail sign marks the Pacific Crest Trail in a rocky area with sparse trees

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Access. Seasonal vault toilet, hitching rail, tables and fire rings. The trailhead is near the Hat Creek Rim Overlook.

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PCT trailhead - dispersed camping

A large sign for a campground surrounded by conifer tree forest
Site Open

Domingo Springs is a developed campground with 18 designated sites.  Maximum of 8 people per site.  Campfire rings and tables are provided.  T

A forested area with snow-covered mountain in the distance

Hat Creek Ranger District has 64 miles along mountain ridges, deep forests and open country. The views from this portion of the trail are outrageous -- Lassen Peak and Mt.

A snow-covered mountain rises in the distances beyond some pine trees and volcanic rocks.

The self-guided interpretive trail traverses through the origin of the Hat Creek Lava Flow.

View towards distant snow-covered peak with a rocky butte and tree in the foreground

The Almanor Ranger District is home to 66 miles of the PCT (including the 1,325 mile halfway point!) and provides multiple trailheads and access points.  

Last updated May 28, 2026