Since 2019, I (Elyse) have been training on and off for a thru-hike of the entire Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) travels 2,655 miles from the Mexican border to the Canadian border through all of California, Oregon, and Washington. A thru-hike, as opposed to any other hike, is defined by the completion of the entire trail in one season.

I carry everything I need (in theory) on my back and visit towns along the trail every week or so, to resupply my food and take a shower (or two, or three). The whole journey takes 5 months to complete, on average. The PCT passes through sandy deserts, dense forests, over snow, through water, up and down mountains.

I first attempted the PCT in 2020, and then again in 2021, completing roughly 1,500 miles. During that time, I backpacked mainly solo, but in 2024 Tom offered to follow me in our 4×4 campervan, Ogre!

  • PCT Gear List
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