*** OUTDATED - SEE DESCRIPTION *** Applying for a PCT permit? See the ACTUAL process here!

**THE PROCESS HAS CHANGED FOR 2023. THE INFORMATION IN THIS VIDEO IS OUTDATED. NEW VERSION TO BE RELEASED ON 9/29/22. THIS VIDEO WILL BE PULLED DOWN SOON.**
Check out my gear list: www.jonallenout...

[@DCombz]

Even though it's changed to the lottery system (I'm cursed with a spot in the final 30 minutes) I found this video informative for what info you need and what the site looks like.

[@PCTALONGWALKNORTH]

Great video! 2023 is our year and your video helped me see what the steps are. Very much appreciated!

[@robertlamont4749]

While this is out of date, it provided me the background to get a permit for 2023. My “random” time was 2.15 and I was still able to get within 10 days of what I wanted. Thank you for putting this out. Best advise in the video, “Go to the PCT web page.” Thank you and happy hiking!

[@bionicdan1959]

Jon, you are Da’Mannnn!! This was VERY HELPFUL!! Thanks for sharing your process and adding your insight. I’m feeling much better about what to expect!

[@GrislyAtoms12]

TYVM! I am considering a SOBO through hike starting in late June 2023. I guess I would start at Hart's Pass.

[@jonallenoutside]

This year only 35 permits were made available on November 9th. They filled up in less than 2 1/2 hours, but there are 15 more available beginning on January 11th so you still have a chance. Also, you always have the option of getting individual permits along the way as well. Kind of a pain, but it's always an option.

[@jonallenoutside]

@@rossb48 I decided not to attempt the PCT again in 2022. I have big plans for the 2022 hiking season though so stay tuned.

[@Lilllingstoner]

I was reading and people suggest getting a permit for lets say mile 600- mile 2650 and then only had to get 2 or 3 local permits..instead of local all the way. Because obviously some of us wont be able get one of those remaining 15 spots next week

[@RoyADane]

I was in line 15 minutes before the process started. By the time my number came up, every slot was taken. Hopefully I can get a slot on Tuesday, if not I will hike the AT instead.

[@tharrylock]

I appreciated the last few minutes where you expressed a desire to reduce the amount of gaming of the system having me and 4 other friends that attempted to get permits this year and only 2 were able to get permits. Hopefully, your suggestions will be listened to as I hate these situations where you feel like your getting cut out of a permit because you chose not to log in to the PCT site through multiple devices.

[@leannerive]

Thank you Jon, excellent video, good tips thank you! hope to be there in 2024

[@jackiemcdonnell3155]

Please don't pull this video down yet. Many hikers use it, and I recommend it frequently!

[@jonallenoutside]

They should watch the new one I just released last week instead.

[@jackiemcdonnell3155]

@@jonallenoutside What is the link to the new video? :)

[@lightwalker4558]

Very nice how-to video and naaration. Thank you. Goog guesses on why fewer people are hiking the PCT. Another factor may be the wild fires, scaring people off the PCT onto other trails. While hiking the AT in ME 2 weeks ago, a hiker told me they pulled everyone off the JMT due to the wildfires.

[@jonallenoutside]

Yeah, I’m likely holding off on another PCT attempt for now due to the fire situation. Lots of other amazing trails out there.

[@kayceeg5464]

Thank you ! Starting to get ready for the October pre register !

[@EsaPaloniemi]

This was really informative and interesting video. I have seen several PCT-videos, but no one has told important information like this. I did not know that getting a PCT-permit was this complicated. This helps a lot even my PCT-hike is somewhere in future. Thanks and greetings from Finland.

[@jonallenoutside]

Thank you! So cool to hear from Finland!

[@kristymoore7052]

Super helpful. Thanks. Class of 2023 here.

[@raymaroney8355]

Thanks Jon Good job walking us through the permit process

[@enilkja]

ABSOLUTELY agree with your tips at the end. Great video.

[@davidzander7725]

Today I learned you can do the PCT on a mule. Kline, start growing your prospector beard, we're doing the PCT!

[@enilkja]

@@davidzander7725 It better not be like those Grand Canyon burros where they weigh you first and you have to be under 200#. This mule better have a good suspension. I’m in, but only if we can rig a cribbage board between saddles.

[@IndigoSkies]

Wow! This was enormously helpful. Thanks for documenting the process with such detail. The permit is my main worry (more so than snow in the Sierras or the anticipated fire closures) and this will help me sleep easier. Just about everything can be figured out while on trail but the permit feels like something completely outside of my control. Hopefully my computer and my browser don’t lock up while I’m in line. November 9th can’t come fast enough. Thanks again

[@bluezombiefish]

This has been extremely useful

[@doreenblanding3107]

Thank you! Here's hoping my daughter and I can get permits close together! THANK YOU FOR THE WALK THROUGH

[@douglas2835]

Curious if you got a permit. i waited 2 1/2 hours and got the "sorry, we're full" BS.

[@jonallenoutside]

I decided to hold off on another PCT attempt until my wife retires in a few years. I'll be hiking two other long trails in 2022.

[@NewbieNikki]

Thank you SO much for making this video. I want to hike the PCT in 2022 and I didn't realize there was a specific time you had to apply for a permit. I went on to apply today and discovered I missed the window by a week. Fingers crossed I can get in during the January 11th application!

[@Chris_Martin707]

Thank you Jon. Very informative.

[@oregonrain4249]

What a great video, Thank you! Going to follow you!

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

This coming year will be slammed!!!

[@christopherhaak9824]

Yeah, I think there is some pent up demand,

[@antoniabaker7770]

Great info. Thank you.

[@MarkusSenior]

Great info. Thanks for sharing. Cheers from LA.

[@pamellick]

thank you for this! i have been so nervous about tomorrow!!

[@Henning_Rech]

Your experience was completely atypical because it was in 2020 (for 2021). I was there myself for a section permit (which I could not realize because not allowed to enter the US in June/July 2021) and also had had a section permit for 2020 (also not used for the same reason) and have one now for 2022, so I experoenced 3 years of the PCTA application process. - 2021 had so low demand, a completely different ball game than the year before and after.

[@805gregg]

The Pacific Crest Trail Association have no control of the PCT whatsoever, the trail is under the control of the USFS, no need for a permit except in certain forest areas, who will stop you? Are they going to give you a ticket for hiking?

[@LovesHighGround]

Kind of outrageous right? To limit permits to 50 per day? Like WTF? I'm a law abiding citizen, I respect the law, and I think it's important to inform the State (and others) for safety and accountability reasons, even pay a fee to help fund State Park projects. But now I'm thinking about just getting my backpacking gear hitting the trail. To hell with it.

[@Henning_Rech]

@@LovesHighGround It is not the law that you hold a PCTA permit when you hike the PCT. You only need a valid permit for each permit area. This can be a permit from the local administration. It is tedious but not impossible to get one for each of the around 10-15 areas. Most are quota-free. The PCTA permit just combines all nesessary permit and thus makes it much easier - if you got one. @805gregg Yes, rangers may fine you a few 100$ and lead you out of the wilderness if you do not have a valid permit.

[@TheBigboy453]

@@Henning_Rech how often does that actually happen is what he is saying, my guess probably not very often

[@Henning_Rech]

@@TheBigboy453 On my 2019 JMT thruhike my permit was checked by rangers twice in three weeks. I cannot tell you what would have happened if I had none ;)

[@TheBigboy453]

@@Henning_Rech so 3 years ago? Before covid? Yea with literally every company and or government branch using covid as an excuse to ignore non essential aspects of their industrys I highly doubt the ranger service has non permitted hikers at thier high priority for the time being. Next time come with more relevant info

[@stephens1115]

Amazing videos I hope to see you out there

[@carmenhernandez6102]

Thanks for the info

[@tdreyer419]

Great video. Very informative.

[@StonieBear420]

yoo im 16 going on 17 in sep when i graduate im taking my cousin and older brother and this was very helpful

[@annikar7609]

thank you so much!! this was very helpful!!!

[@christopherhaak9824]

It is too bad that they can't have some sort of a qualifier like they do for the Boston Marathon, but I don't know how you would do that. There are far too many people who get permits and are done by the time they reach the Sierras and frankly there really isn't much to limit traffic on the trail until then. But, things will all work themselves out and adjustments will be made in the future if necessary.

[@davelipsiea1553]

Another great video Jon! Are you going to hike a long trail in '23?

[@jonallenoutside]

Planning several hikes. Nothing concrete yet. So many great trails!

[@davelipsiea1553]

@@jonallenoutside I hike for a week in the Glacier NP back country - it was fantastic. Took Amtrak out there and that worked well. I'm going to thru hike the Superior Trail in a couple of weeks. Hoping to do the PCT in '23. Not sure if the CDT or AT will be my 2nd choice.

[@jonallenoutside]

Please let me know how your SHT hike goes. I’ve really been thinking about that one.

[@davelipsiea1553]

@@jonallenoutside Will do. I'm sure you enjoyed the CT after hiking the The Long Trail. If you go back to the CT, consider the section between Lake City to Silverton and/or to the finish in Durango.

[@jonallenoutside]

100%! My grandfather was born in Lake City so it’s for sure on my list.

[@jacklondon71]

Very helpful, thanks a lot!

[@AmericanDrainWorks]

THANK YOU - SO HELPFUL

[@jonallenoutside]

You are welcome!

[@ParisBosserman]

heyyyy love the videos! just curious how often to park ragers ask for to see your long distance permit o the PCT?

[@jonallenoutside]

Depends where you are. In some places almost never, but in other places more often. I was checked several times on the JMT section of the trail in the Sierra.

[@ParisBosserman]

@@jonallenoutside super appreciate the reply ad the info. JMT is full this year so i might skip it. do you know what the penalty is if i get caught without a permit o the trail?

[@jonallenoutside]

@@ParisBosserman No idea. My approach has always been to get a permit or find a trail that does not require one. Much of the PCT requires no permit and many other sections you can get one as you go fairly easily (not the Sierra though).

[@thawk5987]

@@ParisBosserman NOBO JMT from what I've heard is very easy to get a permit for. Just walk up to the ranger station. Way easier than SOBO, which everyone seems to prefer for some reason.

[@ching2957]

Thanks a lot! This is really helpful🤩

[@madi3006]

Super helpful thank you!

[@lancairdriver]

Thanks for making this helpful video Jon. I just completed my application for 2022 and there were a couple differences this year. As expected there are only 35 permits given each day, since there will be the addition permit day in January. We weren't give a place-in-line number, only what time to expect and how many minutes left until that time, (and of course the little walking person icon progress bar.) It appears the process has been streamlined on the PCTA end (or I was just lucky) as I only had to wait 40 minutes. It's 11:30 and I'm already finished.

[@douglas2835]

So incredibly bummed out. Waited 2 1/2 hours and there were no openings. Sold my house, quit my job and have been training only to NOT be able to get a permit.

[@jonallenoutside]

I'm sorry. You must be pretty bummed. There will be 15 more per day available on Jan. 11 so hopefully you can get one then.

[@lancairdriver]

also, PCTA Website says monitor the permit application site for cancellations. Must have been a lot of pent up demand to hike the trail. All days were taken by 12:30 today.

[@douglas2835]

@@jonallenoutside It never really crossed my mind that most people (myself included) cannot actually get a permit. I guess I should have used a bot farm to flood the system and ensure my chances. So bogus.

[@MK-mp1ku]

Thank you sir

[@PK-qe5oe]

Thank you

[@ulrichschluter9120]

Great video and information. Unfortunately not so realistic after today's pct opening day experience. It looks way too relaxed and almost "fairy tale" like. One has to be a hacker or a good friend of the Putin system to get in :) For a moment I felt like being part of the Squid Game. At the same time I wondering how the computer selection process works. Well, there is always next time. Thanks for the detailed explanation.

[@ulrichschluter9120]

@@olympic-view8881 I had the same happen to me. Some days had yellow when I clicked on, but could not go on. Quickly choose another under 35 day and was denied. Then time was up....!

[@kikionthetrailoflove7036]

Thank you for this video, I'm hoping to hike the Pacific Crest Trail too in 2022, just waiting to hear what the B2 visa situation will be in November when apparently the Biden administration will open the applications for B2 visas again. I'll be a SOBO hiker, we may meet on trail all going according to plan. Wishing you all the best from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@jonallenoutside]

Best of luck!

[@noralee6959]

I’ll be hiking in 2022 too!! Love to hear of more Irish people hopefully getting on trail! 🇮🇪 Fingers crossed that the embassy opens up B2 visas!! 🤞🏻

[@kikionthetrailoflove7036]

@@noralee6959 Absolutely

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

TBH, I'd just come, if you can fly in. We have 30 million illegals, and no one is going to check for your visa on the trail. Just say you're from Boston. Actually, buy a Red Sox hat and you'll be indistinguishable from a native. We don't really have borders now.

[@kikionthetrailoflove7036]

@@scottslotterbeck3796 Yes I'll break the law, no I will not.

[@a.sen.9422]

Super helpful, thank you for sharing! Do you what it is like for international hikers at the address section - like is it still okay to type in your address from your home country or would an address from the states be required? :) Thanks again!

[@jonallenoutside]

You should be able to type in your home address from your home country. You do get to pick your country from a pick list as well.

[@johnnygrrl]

As much as I understand it can be frustrating to have people "gaming the system", does this account for multiple people getting permits to hike together from the same household? I feel like limiting by those means excludes anyone who is not a solo hiker. Also, there are enough pay-to-win aspects in this world already, I don't need another reminder that I'm too broke to have conveniences.

[@TheBigboy453]

I gotta say, the whole concept of getting permits to walk a trail really discourages me from even wanting to make trips to do it. I feel like permits severely reduces the point of going out and hiking and exploring

[@jonallenoutside]

If you haven’t checked out the Wind River Range, that’s an amazing place to hike and explore with no permit required.

[@bionicdan1959]

I didn’t get a permit during the initial 2022 application yesterday. So it looks like I’ll be trying again on the January drawing date. Did you score a permit?

[@20Hikecdt23]

So why is this required? Is it a law? Wil i be ticketed or put in jail? So i assume ALL PCT hikers are “permitted”? I mean, i need or must have a permit to hike cdt? So if i go on the trail they will come after me?

[@jonallenoutside]

It’s a blanket permit that covers all of the various permit areas the trail goes through. It saves you having to get a bunch of individual permits along the way. If you don’t have a permit in an area where it’s required you can get a fine.

[@tiger2too18]

Is there any way of getting the same day if travelling with your wife or husband etc? I guess you could try to get a day close to the person who got their permit first, or choose a day where there is more permits available. If you have to give notice at work it is only 4 months notice. What if you quit your job and then don’t get a permit are any available after January?

[@jonallenoutside]

Getting the same day is tough in peak season. What you mentioned is a good approach. You can always get permits from individual agencies along the way. Not convenient, but it works. There are several posts on the PCT Facebook group with details on this.

[@charlottedunlay4397]

Are you going to be vlogging your PCT hike?

[@jonallenoutside]

Not doing the PCT this year. Stay tuned for several other hikes though.

[@thatoneguywithtwothumbs]

Maybe I missed it but what is the entire point of even having to get a permit.

[@jonallenoutside]

It covers all the individual permits you’d need along the way. You can hike without the official permit, but then you have to get a whole bunch of smaller ones as you go, which is an inconvenience to say the least.

[@thatoneguywithtwothumbs]

@@jonallenoutside so either way I need government permission to walk in the woods. (Please do not read this with any amount of disrespect towards yourself)

[@rachelwakelin3811]

Does the permit come electronically once it has been approved by the pcta?

[@jonallenoutside]

They send you an email with instructions. You can log into their website and print your permit.

[@hikebot]

The process is wait 2 hours online to not get a permit while some other jackhole who’s never hiked in their life and won’t make it past Julian gets one.

[@SigfridSWE]

Do I need to have some kind of login or membership tjat I need to get beforehand? Or can I just go to the website and klick the link and que??

[@jonallenoutside]

Just go to the site and click the link.

[@Hobomountainwander]

Do you still need California fire permit still ?

[@jonallenoutside]

Yes, but it’s easy to get.

[@Hobomountainwander]

@@jonallenoutside I appreciate the confirmation on this

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

When is the earliest time to start?

[@jonallenoutside]

March 1 is the earliest date for a PCT permit. You can start earlier but you’ll need to get individual permits along the way.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

@@jonallenoutside Yup. I just want to do the hike. I figured I could start further up the trail, after actually starting in the border in February. Then do a lot of zero days until it's passable.

[@hikerJohn]

It's obsolete already, they are changing the process for 2023 permits.

[@jonallenoutside]

Thanks for letting me know.

[@frankiebehira3769]

What are the changes? More chance of getting permit?

[@jonallenoutside]

@@frankiebehira3769 I’ll review the changes and post a message on here. Give me a couple days.

[@hikerJohn]

Go read about it at PCTA though I think I can say the *odds of getting one* will never increase unless fewer people apply.

[@frankiebehira3769]

@@hikerJohn thank you

[@nuggethikes]

Thank you