right-hand man and the love of my life, Greg Speicher. Not only did he join me on almost every step of my journey in researching this book, but his curiosity, undying support, and zest for life made this project one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Thank you so much, Greg.
Preface
THE PACIFIC CREST TRAIL WAS DESIGNATED as one of the first National Scenic Trails way back in 1968. As it traverses the “high road” from Mexico to Canada, incredible views are not only commonplace but also uniquely diverse, because the trail connects six of North America’s seven eco-zones. The PCT’s familiar, well-worn path is a special place for hikers from all walks of life on walks of all lengths and for all reasons.
In my travels on the PCT and surrounding connector trails throughout Northern California, I’ve often envied the strength and dedication of the 300 or so folks who attempt to hike its 2,650 miles each year. And as I’ve wandered into the PCT’s more remote regions, I’ve pondered the footprints this path has seen and the handful of thru-hikers who have actually placed one foot in front of the other day after day, from Mexico to Canada. (If you’re interested in thru-hiking the PCT in Northern California, check out Pacific Crest Trail: Northern California, From Tuolumne Meadows to the Oregon Border by Jeffrey P. Schaffer.)
I freely admit that I’m not in the same league as these hikers. How many of us would be willing to hike all day and sleep on the ground all night for four or five months straight? Are there ways to experience the trail without that kind of commitment?
The answer is an unqualified yes. Instead of guiding you through the arduous task of hiking the entire PCT, the goal of this book is to help you plan trips that incorporate hiking on the PCT in Northern California, whether you have just an afternoon to spare or you want to escape for the entire weekend. And because I’m sucker for scenery and a lake lover at heart, my hike choices most often include the opportunity for a wilderness swim or a summit hike to take in outstanding views. This cargo-pocket guide offers advice to help you make the most of your time away from civilization, however long (or short) that stretch may be.
Please enjoy yourself on the trail and make memories with your family and friends that will last a lifetime. But also remember to tread lightly and respect the incredible, often fragile natural environment therein. When you travel off-trail, do so only in small groups. Don’t feed the wildlife. Obey all laws on the trail. Be careful when you’re using matches. And by all means, pack out all the trash you’ve packed in, and help out everyone by picking up trash on the trail that is not yours. Above all, remember that you’re a guest in one of the greatest kingdoms in the world—a natural kingdom far superior to the artificial world.
Recommended Hikes
MOST SCENIC
| 1 | Agnew Meadows to Thousand Island Lake |
| 4 | Sonora Pass to Leavitt Lake |
| 14 | Emerald Bay to Lake Aloha |
| 15 | Barker Pass to Twin Peaks |
| 24 | Burney Falls |
MOST DIFFICULT
| 2 | Tuolumne Meadows to Ireland Lake |
| 4 | Sonora Pass to Leavitt Lake |
| 19 | Warren Lake |
| 28 | Paynes and Big Blue Lakes |
| 29 | Little Elk Lake |
EASIEST
| 8 | Ebbetts Pass to Upper Kinney Lake |
| 18 | Glacier Meadows Trail to Donner Pass Road |
| 20 | Loves Falls |
| 22 | Warner Valley Road to Terminal Geyser |
| 24 | Burney Falls |
BEST FOR WILDFLOWER
| 3 | Tuolumne Meadows to Waterwheel Falls |
| 11 | Carson Pass to Showers Lake |
| 14 | Emerald Bay to Lake Aloha |
| 26 | Middle Deadfall Lake and Mount Eddy |
| 31 | Paradise Lake |
BEST FOR SOLITUDE
| 6 | Clark Fork to Disaster Creek |
| 9 | Carson Pass to Fourth of July Lake |
| 27 | Statue Lake |
| 28 | Paynes and Big Blue Lakes |
| 30 | Shadow Lake |
BEST FOR SWIMMING
| 13 | Echo Lake to Lake Aloha |
| 14 | Emerald Bay to Lake Aloha |
| 19 | Warren Lake |
| 23 | Cluster Lakes |
| 28 | Paynes and Big Blue Lakes |
BEST FOR STARGAZING
| 2 | Tuolumne Meadows to Ireland Lake |
| 5 | Sonora Pass to Sonora Peak |
| 11 | Carson Pass to Showers Lake |
| 28 | Paynes and Big Blue Lakes |
| 30 | Shadow Lake |
BEST FOR SUNSETS
| 2 | Tuolumne Meadows to Ireland Lake |
| 4 | Sonora Pass to Leavitt Lake |
| 19 | Warren Lake |
| 21 | Sierra Buttes Lookout |
| 26 | Middle Deadfall Lake and Mount Eddy |
BEST FOR CHILDREN
| 8 | Ebbetts Pass to Upper Kinney Lake |
| 13 | Echo Lake to Lake Aloha |
| 22 | Warner Valley Road to Terminal Geyser |
| 24 | Burney Falls |
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