How much water should I bring on PCT?

However, don’t rely on these caches: Always carry at least 2 liters of water when going through the desert or through areas without reliable water sources—more in extra-long dry sections. On most parts of the PCT, you will drink from streams.

When should I hike the PCT?

Summer and early fall are generally the best time to hike in the mountains, while low-lying parts of California are most pleasant in spring and fall. Winter snow buries most of the trail from around October or November into early July. Those looking for normal dry-trail conditions wait until the snow has melted.

What are the sections of the PCT?

The 5 sections of the PCT

  • Southern California (the desert) Campo (mile 0) to Kennedy Meadows (mile 702)
  • Sierra Nevada. Kennedy Meadows (mile 702) to Echo Lake (mile 1.092)
  • Northern California. Echo Lake (mile 1.092) to California/Oregon border (mile 1.692)
  • Oregon.
  • Washington and the Cascade range.

What is the longest stretch of the PCT without water?

35.5 miles
There are long stretches without any water available — the longest is 35.5 miles (57 kilometers) north of Tehachapi in the northern part of Southern California — and you have to be prepared for emergencies as well [source: Pacific Crest Trail].

Are there Grizzlies on the PCT?

So, are there grizzly bears on the Pacific Crest Trail? 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.

Can you flip flop the PCT?

Beginning in 2020, thru-hikers will be required to travel through the Southern Sierra (Kennedy Meadows South to Sonora Pass) in a continuous hike without skipping or changing in direction. In other words, no flip-flopping.

How much weight do you lose hiking the PCT?

Assuming your goal is to lose no more than 30 pounds and that you plan to complete the entire PCT in approximately 5 months, losing 30 pounds, on average, works out to be a deficit of 700 calories per day.

What is hardest part of PCT?

Section K
By far the most difficult stretch of PCT in Washington, Section K puts hikers through a grueling 127-mile trek over harsh terrain and treacherous conditions.

What is the best section of the PCT?

The Prettiest Sections of the Pacific Crest Trail You Can Tackle…

  1. Mount Adams to Mount Rainier, South-Central Washington. Photo: Tim Nair/Shutterstock.
  2. North Cascades, North-Central Washington.
  3. The Sierra Nevada, Central California.
  4. Sky Lakes Wilderness, Central Oregon.
  5. San Jacinto Peak, Southern California.

How do you carry water on PCT?

You can carry your water in water bags/bladders, water bottles, or canteens. Water bags and bottles are the most common. Most water bladders have sipping tube attachments available, and many hikers find them convenient. Bladders take up very little space when empty.