PACIFIC CREST TRAIL - 2025 : Thru-Hiking the PCT on Local Permits

[@bberenson001]

Great explanation!!! Thank you so much! Given your experience on the trail, do you have any suggestions for shorter hikes. Is there a 100-200 mile section you would suggest for someone who is less experienced or maybe would like a taste of the trail but can’t take off weeks or months to do the full trail or even a full section? Thanks again!!

[@lothar8194]

There are lots of sections I could suggest, any preference, CA, OR, WA ? And what months would you be thinking - as that would affect things ?

[@bberenson001]

@@lothar8194 thank you!! Honestly, I could probably go whenever and wherever but I’m not sure what would be good for a beginner hiker. I’m confident I could about 200ish miles but I’m stuck in which 200 mile piece is best. And I can work around the calendar so if any one piece you might suggest would be better in May vs Aug, I’m indifferent. For example, I don’t think 200 miles in the Sierra in April would be good for someone w little experience. Another YT vlogger suggested the piece from Echo Lake to Donner Pass. Suggestions that include good weather (on average) and good views that are doable for a beginner are appreciated. That said, I know weather on any given day will vary so I wouldn’t hold to anything. Thank you so much!!!

[@lothar8194]

Understand - Your’re right the Sierra is not the place to start. Just so you know April in the Sierra is never a good idea - only for the highly experienced mtn snow ppl. Thru hikers normally aim to enter there in June and still expect some snow to deal with. If you want a taste of a section of the PCT and easy exits and nice scenery, would consider the Tahoe Rim Trail which overlaps with part of the PcT. Nice July/August.

[@bberenson001]

@@lothar8194 thank you so much for the suggestion!!

[@gavinjacobson-p7g]

the online PCT long hike (>500 mi) permit application seems to suggest that the Inyo Wilderness sections can be included in the request. we are looking at a southbound hike this summer from Castle Craig (I-5) to Tuolumne (which includes some Sierra/Inyo/Yosemite sections) and are certain on our start and end dates. Do you know if they would approve such a request if we made it now?