The Pacific Crest Trail runs 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada. Most people who experience it hike sections, not the whole thing. The Trinity Alps section in northern California is one of the most accessible and rewarding 4-5 day section trips.
The route
Park near Etna, California (Etna Summit trailhead). The PCT crosses Highway 3 here. Hike north 50 miles to Castle Crags State Park, where you can park a second car or get a shuttle.
Highlights along the way:
- Marble Mountain Wilderness (granite peaks, alpine lakes)
- Russian Wilderness (less-visited, mid-elevation forest)
- Trinity Alps Wilderness (the cinematic granite cirques)
- Castle Crags (towering granite spires at the southern end)
Logistics
- Wilderness permit required (free, self-issue at trailheads)
- Bear canister required
- Best window: late July through September
- Resupply in Seiad Valley or Etna (small towns; bring your own food planning)
What to pack
- 50L pack with proper hipbelt
- 3-season tent (afternoon thunderstorms)
- 30°F sleeping bag
- Bear canister (BV500 or similar)
- Sawyer filter or BeFree
- Trekking poles
- Sun hoodie + brimmed hat
- Hard-shell rain jacket
- 5-7 days of food
The PCT culture
Even on a section hike, you'll meet thru-hikers — people walking from Mexico to Canada. Trail names, trail magic, trail registers. It's a small community on a long line.
Section hikes are the right introduction to long trails. You learn the rhythms without committing 5 months of your life.
PCT-ready kit: backpacks, sleep systems. Plan the trip: PCT destination page.