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What gear do I need to hike the PCT?

by Rhyley Bryan

What gear do I need to hike the PCT?

Note: Included in this checklist are the Ten Essential Systems you should have on every backcountry trip: navigation; sun protection; insulation; illumination; first-aid supplies; fire starter; repair kit and tools; nutrition; hydration; emergency shelter. To learn more, see our Ten Essentials article.

What are the 13 essentials for hiking?

The Thirteen Essentials

  • Map and compass. While one of the two is useful, together, and with the right knowledge, these two tools can be indispensable.
  • Extra clothing.
  • Extra food and water.
  • Headlamp (with spare batteries)
  • First aid kit.
  • Whistle, noise maker.
  • Knife/multitool.
  • Lighter, metal match, firestarter.

How many hikers finish the PCT?

5,406 people
According to the Pacific Crest Trail Association website, 5,406 people have completed the PCT as of 2018, and 87 of those people did it more than once.

Has anyone died hiking the PCT?

Deaths on the PCT There are relatively few deaths on PCT thru-hikes, considering the number of hikers, and the main causes of death are heat exhaustion, falls, and drowning due to either misadventure or bad luck. There have been 15 deaths on the PCT since 1983.

Are there Grizzlies on the PCT?

Yes, there are still technically grizzly bears (also known as brown bears) on the PCT, your chances of coming across one are slim to none. This is in the area that encompasses the North Cascades, through which the Pacific Crest Trail travels for just 18 miles.

What should you not take on a hike?

To help you pack light, here is a list of things you should consider not packing for a trip.

  1. Jewelry and Valuables.
  2. Heavy Zoom Lenses For Your Camera.
  3. Extra Toiletries.
  4. Too Many Cotton Clothes.
  5. More Than One Pair of Jeans.
  6. Those Nice Shoes.
  7. Hiking Boots.
  8. More Than One Heavy Jacket.

What are the tips in saving yourself while hiking?

Make sure to follow them before and during every hike.

  • Consult a park ranger.
  • Bring at least one friend.
  • Create an itinerary and share it with someone outside of the group.
  • Agree on an emergency plan.
  • Prepare for the weather.
  • Pack the 10 Essentials.
  • Customize your first aid kit.
  • Buy proper hiking boots and socks.

Is hiking the PCT worth it?

As hard as it will be, it’s 100% worth it. The Pacific Crest Trail is notorious for having the lowest completion rate of any long distance trail, and you’ll see why when you’re on it. If you’re planning to hike the PCT, it takes commitment. Don’t give up on yourself too quickly when the going gets tough.

What is the average age of a PCT hiker?

34
PCT THRU-HIKER AGE The average age of survey respondents was 34 (σ = 12).

Can you carry a gun on the Pacific Crest Trail?

Carrying firearms is generally discouraged They could be turned against you or result in an accidental shooting and they are extra weight most PCT hikers find unnecessary. Horseback riders may consider firearms to put down injured and sick animals.

Is it safe to hike the Pacific Crest Trail alone?

The point is that we can’t take risk away—solo hiking or not. You will be afraid of some things on the trail. You might not sleep much the first few nights you camp alone. However, there are things you can do to mitigate the risk on your hike.

What kind of gear do you need for the PCT?

This ultralight backpacking gear list requires some extra skills to manage. Attempting a Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike or any long-distance section hike of the PCT has similar strategies, even as you go through different distinct ecosystems.

What kind of gear do you need for the Pacific Crest Trail?

In the third part of this year’s Pacific Crest Trail Thru-hiker Survey, we take a deep dive into Pacific Crest Trail hikers’ gear. PCT gear lists vary wildly between hikers and (spoiler alert) it’s impossible to find a perfect PCT gear list.

What should I pack for a PCT thru hike?

1 Puffy Jacket. No matter your hiking style or goals, you’ll want a lightweight puffy to help manage the extreme temperature swings on trail. 2 Raingear. 3 Lightweight Gaiters. 4 Hats. 5 Undergarments. 6 Shoes. 7 Socks. 8 First Aid and Emergency Bag. 9 Compass, Watch, Maps, Permit. 10 Light.

Why did I end my thru hike on PCT?

Running out of money is one of the most common reasons people end their PCT thru-hike. Choose your gear well the first time and you won’t have to spend your limited thru-hiking dollars on replacing damaged gear or switching out gear that didn’t work for you.