To lower your stress and connect to nature, consider camping along Washington's Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). One of two national wilderness trails, the PCT stretches 2,650 miles from Mexico to the Canadian border. Washington's PCT runs 500 miles from the Bridge of the Gods on the Columbia River north to Monument 78 at the Canadian border. Whether backpacking for a few days or hiking longer stretches of the trail, you'll find good camping along the PCT.
Benefits of Camping
A Countryside Recreation study shows that active engagement in green activities, including camping, provides a number of health benefits that include raising self-esteem, lowering stress and increasing physical activity. Camping by a stream, hiking a trail and exploring nature in the forest are refreshing and healthy activities. Enjoy quality time with your family and friends. Take time for reflection, meditation or yoga on a mountain top or under starry skies. Connect to the beauty of nature on your next camping trip along the Pacific Crest Trail.
PCT Conditions
Washington's PCT winds through the Northern Cascades, and large sections of the trail lie in the storm track, often making it wet and snow covered. Rugged conditions and unpredictable weather make the PCT challenging and potentially dangerous. While tent camping is the rule, some emergency shelter is available along the trail. The PCT Association's website provides a good source for checking on lodging as well as information on fire danger; water levels in the streams, creeks, and rivers; mosquito hatching; snow levels; and trail and weather conditions.
Regulations and Permits
Camping is permitted along the PCT for hikers and equestrians. No motorized vehicles are permitted. Campers must obtain overnight camping permits from the U.S. Forestry Service visitor centers or from the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Check with the forestry service to find out about fire conditions and fire permits.
Plan to pack out whatever you pack in. Do not feed animals---especially bears. For an enjoyable camping experience, visit the PCT Association's website for other health and safety precautions.
Camping Recommendations
The PCT offers camping for all levels of expertise. The following options are just some of the abundant camping and trails open to you.
Along the northern section of the PCT, the Golden Horn to Snowy Lakes Loop has numerous campgrounds, including Peggy's Pond---accessible along a flat but rough trail from Cathedral Pass.
In the Central Cascades, camp at the Meander Meadow-Dishpan Gap-Cady Ridge-Lake Sally Ann Loop, where you can enjoy views of the Cascades, Glacier Peak and wildflower-covered hillsides.
In the Southern Cascades, camp in Snowgrass Flats and Cispus Basin, and along the Nannie Ridge Loop where camping is abundant.
Indian Heavens Wilderness teems with camping and hiking trails. One favorite is the Cultus Creek Campground outside of Trout Lake, Washington.
Preparations and Gear
Due to the rugged and unpredictable nature of some PCT trails, the PCT Association urges you to prepare well for camping. Select your hiking routes and sites ahead of time. Plan for food and water supplies. For longer hikes, send supplies ahead to resupply. Leave hiking dates and daily destinations with someone in case of emergency, and sign in with the forestry service stations along the PCT. Always check current weather and trail conditions.
Proper hiking and camping gear includes sleeping bags, tent, bear container to hide food, food and water, clothes for warm and cold weather, hiking shoes, first-aid supplies, water purification supplies, cooking equipment, permits and supplies such as ice axes or snowshoes.
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