Iconic Structures of the PCT

Learn about the Pacific Crest Trail and thru-hiking culture

Introduction

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) was established on October 2, 1968 by the National Trails System Act. Stretching from the U.S.-Mexico border to Canada, the trail traverses roughly 2,650 miles. Each year, hundreds of ambitious people attempt to hike the entire PCT in a single season. These people are known as "thru-hikers." For those who succeed, it will take them on average five months.

While on this journey, thru-hikers will spend the majority of there time in the wilderness without access to basic amenities. However, the PCT is not a renouncement of civilization. In fact, many of the places that have great significance to the thru-hiking community and are deeply intertwined with the culture of the PCT are structures. A number of these structures are located in "trail towns" which are the small communities near the trail where thru-hikers resupply. This StoryMap highlights a sampling of the iconic structures that are a crucial part of the PCT's culture while exploring the trail.

Orientation

Before you begin your journey, please take a moment to review the following information so you can orient yourself and learn how to navigate this interface. Below is an interactive  map  showing the ten structures that are highlighted in this StoryMap. Click the buttons on the left to either "Show All" of the structures or show a specific category of structure. You can find a clickable legend in the bottom left corner of the map. Click the various icons on the  map  to see a pop-up to learn the name of the structure, its address, what it looks like, and any additional details.

Once you are ready to begin your trek, continue scrolling down. You will then find a brief introduction to the first state of the trail,  California . The PCT passes through three states, California, Oregon, and Washington. This StoryMap is organized by state since these are three distinct sections of the trail. After reading the state's introductory paragraph, scroll down and start experiencing the PCT.

While you are on trail, there are two additional things to note. If you would like to see the credit information for any image, look for the "(i)" icon in the top left corner of that image and hover your mouse over it. If you would like to review the sources I consulted, please explore the "Resources" section. With that, happy trails!


Overview Map



California

Nearly two-thirds of the PCT is in California. With diverse terrain and topography, hikers travel through the scorching, windy desert to the majestic snowy mountains of the Sierras to the green, yet dry land of Northern California. Six iconic structures from this section are spotlighted. They were selected, like all of the structures in this StoryMap, due to their importance to the PCT community and for how they provide insight to thru-hiking culture. Continue scrolling down to begin your journey on the PCT. Pay attention to the changing ecosystems and learn about the significant structures that you encounter on your way.

Your journey starts in Campo, CA at the PCT Southern Terminus.

PCT Southern Terminus

Perched on a slight hill next to the Mexico-U.S. border wall is the PCT Southern Terminus. For all thru-hikers, this monument causes a whirlwind of emotions. It represents the official start (or end) of their life-changing trek to Canada. As a result, it is mandatory to take a picture at the monument.

Hopeful thru-hikers smiling for their photo

Some prefer a serious and reflective photo.

Shrink looking off into the distance

Others prefer something lighthearted.

Pink Lady showing off her excitement

Taking your picture at the PCT Southern Terminus is a tradition that allows thru-hikers to document their journeys while expressing themselves. For this reason, it is an iconic structure of the PCT.

Location of structure on Overview Map

Your first hundred miles are through dry chaparral.

Paradise Valley Cafe

Upon reaching the Paradise Valley Cafe, hikers are ecstatic for a break from the Southern Californian heat and the chance to enjoy food.

West of PCT mile 151, along a lonely stretch of Southern California's Highway 74, the Paradise Valley Cafe had been feeding hungry travelers since 1939, and it did not disappoint. The manager was hiker-friendly, the beer selection impressive, and the portion sizes were big enough to fuel a weary hiker with 2,500 miles ahead of him.

Andrea Lankford, Trail of the Lost, 2023

While the cafe may seem harmless, it has a well-known reputation on the PCT, not only for its homemade sandwiches, but also for being run by an infamous religious group.

The Twelve Tribes or Yellow Deli cult operate cafes all over the world and have historically targeted thru-hikers.

Sensing that many thru-hikers are open to alternative ways of living, the Twelve Tribes actively tries to recruit these wanderers by offering them a chance to work on their farms and join their community.

Nonetheless, thru-hikers eagerly look forward to their visit to the Paradise Valley Cafe and know that they will be welcome with open arms. Watch the video clip below to see what the restaurant is like and how hiker-friendly it is.

Little Skittle's perspective of the Paradise Valley Cafe

As can be seen in Little Skittle's video, thru-hikers are very excited about food and that is the primary reason why the Paradise Valley Cafe is a popular stop along the PCT. Hiking all day leads thru-hikers to be very hungry. Many thru-hikers also get tired of their on-trail diet rather quickly. Therefore, the few restaurants that are conveniently near or along the trail acquire legendary reputations, since they are where hikers can attempt to satisfy their appetites and eat something other than trail mix or peanut butter. However, the Paradise Valley Cafe is particularly iconic because of its controversial ownership and overt support of the thru-hiking community.

Location of structure on Overview Map

You now begin making you way through the Peninsular Ranges of Southern California.

Vistas reveal dry mountains that exacerbate your persistent thirst and growing appetite.

Cajon Pass McDonald's

The Cajon Pass McDonald's is one of the most recognized structures on the PCT. With AC, electrical outlets, and high-calorie, cheap food, it is truly an oasis in the desert.

There, between the sky islands, a trail legend loomed---the one set of Golden Arches on the PCT, a trailside McDonald's

Barney "Scout" Mann, Journeys North, 2020

Thru-hikers are known for overtaking this fast food restaurant. During the height of the PCT season, every table is crowded and their are countless boisterous reunions occurring. Since the McDonald's is such a popular stop, many thru-hikers catch up and reconnect with hikers they have not seen on trail for a while. Notice in the video clip below how happy people are to reunite.

Elina Osborne arriving at the Cajon Pass McDonald's

Relationships are a big part of thru-hiking culture. Though nearly 70% of PCT thru-hikers start alone, based on Halfway Anywhere's 2023 survey, the majority will join a group or partner up. People call their group their "tramily" or "trail family." At this point on the PCT, tramilies are still forming so being able to meet up and reconnect with thru-hikers at the Cajon Pass McDonald's is an important moment that can help you find your tramily.

Location of structure on Overview Map

The next stretch of the trail is through the Transverse Ranges.

You then descend down to the Mojave Desert.

It is a notoriously parching section.

Hiker Town

The desert is known for being the place of the eccentric. Hiker Town is by all definitions just that. When you arrive at Hiker Town, it feels like a seedy movie set where the buildings all look like they belong in a low-budget Wild West film.

What signaled the start of the Mojave for hikers was one of the oddest resupply stops on the entire trail: Hikertown.

Barney "Scout" Mann, Journeys North, 2020

While many thru-hikers would prefer to skip this stop, it is practically mandatory since it is the most convenient place to resupply before a long waterless stretch. Over the years, Hiker Town has acquired a mixed reputation with some describing it as being creepy and run-down while others just view it as quirky. Watch the video clip below to get a sense of the atmosphere.

Starburst arrives at Hiker Town

An aspect of thru-hiking culture is experiencing and staying at unconventional, somewhat gritty places. When thru-hikers are resupplying and staying a night in town, they are not rushing to a luxury hotel. Instead, low-budget motels or hostels are the standard. Hiker Town is an example of a unique resupply point thru-hikers get to experience on the PCT.

Location of structure on Overview Map

It is very windy through the rest of the Mojave and the whooshing of the wind turbines echoes in your ears.

You then start climbing up your final section of dry mountains.

Kennedy Meadows General Store

While the desert is filled with its own unique beauty, the majority of PCT thru-hikers are eager to see what they think will be the most beautiful section of the trail: the Sierra. The Kennedy Meadows General Store is at the start of this new section and a place of high spirits.

The heart of Kennedy Meadows is the store. Often called 'The Gateway to the Sierra,' it's more than a trail icon, more than hot food, a shower, and a cold beer. It heralds the end of the desert.

Barney "Scout" Mann, Journeys North, 2020

The Sierra promises water, cooler temperatures, and a challenge. When thru-hikers arrive at the store, they are cheerfully welcomed and congratulated by their fellow PCT thru-hikers. Watch the video clip below to see the fanfare.

Outlaw arriving at Kennedy Meadows

At the store, thru-hikers resupply. In addition to food, people are getting additional gear like microspikes, ice axes, and bear cans which they will need for traveling through the snowy mountain range. The Kennedy Meadows General Store is important as a place of transition and shows how being a supportive community is a big of the PCT's thru-hiking culture.

Location of structure on Overview Map

Water is plentiful now and the forests denser.

As you begin increasing in elevation, the snowy mountain range dominates your horizon.

Deep in the High Sierra, you cross multiple mountain passes, including Forester Pass, the highest point along the PCT.

White snowfields are punctuated with the dark-gray scree of the mountains.

John Muir Memorial Shelter

Referred to as Muir Hut, this stone shelter resides at Muir Pass. Named after the famous writer, nature advocate, and adventurer, John Muir, the shelter was built to honor Muir's dedication to protecting the High Sierra and to help people, like PCT thru-hikers, who seek its beauty.

The pass offered up the stunning sort of beauty which I find most able to absorb when alone. The snowy sweep of landscape was broken only by a picturesque stone hut built by volunteers nearly a century earlier to assist any travelers stranded there in storms.

Gail "NightinGail" Francis, Bliss(ters), 2015

With a unique architecture and location, Muir Hut is a memorable structure of the PCT that all thru-hikers experience since it is directly on the trail. Many thru-hikers like to take a nap, explore the inside, and (if they notice them) read the National Register plaques. Watch the video clip below to see inside Muir Hut.

The Wander Women arriving at Muir Hut

Once thru-hikers reach this shelter, they have made it past most of the difficult mountain passes. Muir Hut is where people can momentarily rest and reflect. Thru-hikers LOVE the opportunity to sleep and this is also where thru-hikers can wait for the rest of their tramily if they got separated during the trek up.

Location of structure on Overview Map

As you reach the end of the Sierra, snow lessens and the rocks of the mountains become more prominent.

Northern California offers green forests but water is sparse once again.


Oregon

Known as the "freeway" or "moving sidewalk" of the PCT, Oregon is defined by its comparatively flat and (some would claim) monotonous terrain. As a result, a majority of thru-hikers increase their daily mileage during this section, with +30 mile days being common. Despite this reputation, Oregon features incredibly scenic landforms and the two most famous PCT structures. Continue scrolling down to resume your journey.

Upon crossing the border into Southern Oregon, you feel you have entered a never-ending tunnel of evergreen forests.

After miles of forest, you opt to do an alternate route. Though not part of the official PCT, the Crater Lake Rim Alternate is the most popular detour of the entire trail. You find the cerulean lake entrancing and revitalizing.

In Central Oregon, you pass through Three Sisters Wilderness. It is breathtaking and rivals the grandeur you saw in the Sierra.

Timberline Lodge

Nested in Mount Hood National Forest, Timberline Lodge is a legendary building. Even to those unfamiliar with the world of the PCT, it is recognizable. The Timberline Lodge was filmed as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in The Shining. However, among the PCT thru-hiker community, the lodge is famous for an entirely different reason: it has a buffet.

Mount Hood is home to Timberline Lodge, which in turn is home to an all-you-can-eat buffet...we were blown away by the quality of the luncheon...I am certain the establishment lost money by the time we finally threw in the napkin around 1:30.

Gail "NightinGail' Francis, Bliss(ters), 2015

As mentioned when we were at the Paradise Valley Cafe, food is a huge part of thru-hiking culture. At this point on the trail, many thru-hikers suffer from the notorious "hiker hunger" which is when you have an insatiable appetite. People also have intense cravings for foods they do not have access to on trail like salads, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Therefore, an all-you-can-eat buffet is a dream come true for most thru-hikers and they eagerly anticipate the day they arrive at the lodge. Watch the video clip below to see the inside of the Timberline Lodge and the dining room where they have the buffet.

Jay enters the Timberline Lodge

Once thru-hikers have gotten their fill of the buffet, most have food comas and rest for a while before returning to the trail. During this time of digestion, they are able to enjoy the lovely, rustic architecture of this listed  National Register  building. While the majority of thru-hikers will leave unaware Timberline Lodge was the pioneering building of Cascadian architecture, most will remember its charm and delicious buffet.

Location of structure on Overview Map

As you near the border, you pass by Mount Hood which officially convinces you that Oregon is an underrated section of the PCT.

Bridge of the Gods

Functioning as the official crossing between Oregon and Washington on the PCT, reaching the Bridge of the Gods is a monumental moment. However, it was Cheryl Strayed's 2012 memoir Wild and the subsequent 2014 movie adaption starring Reese Witherspoon that firmly made this structure iconic and changed thru-hiking culture forever.

I didn't plan to stop until I touched my hand to a bridge that crosses the Columbia River at the Oregon-Washington border with the grandiose name the Bridge of the Gods. I looked north, in its direction---the very thought of that bridge a beacon to me.

Cheryl Strayed, Wild, 2012

Cheryl Strayed's story triggers mixed reactions within the thru-hiking community. Strayed spontaneously decided to hike the PCT to help her process grief. She was unprepared and did not complete the whole trail. However, her story was (and continues to be) an inspiration to people that also want to find themselves but have limited experience outdoors. The most powerful scene is when Strayed reaches the Bridge of the Gods and finally makes peace with herself. Strayed turned the bridge into a symbol of redemption and self-acceptance. Watch the video clip below.

The Bridge of the Gods in the 2014 movie Wild

After the memoir and movie, the amount of thru-hikers who attempt the PCT each year rapidly increased. As a result, the PCT went from being isolated to crowded. The "Wild Effect" changed the demographics of the trail and people's motivations for doing the PCT were more varied. The Bridge of Gods is now for many thru-hikers that are inspired by Strayed a pilgrimage site where they can also experience peace.

Location of structure on Overview Map


Washington

As the last section of the PCT, Washington is a state of much anticipation and restlessness. Thru-hikers are so close to reaching the end of the trail. However, weather will be the main decider whether a thru-hiker will actually make it to Canada. At this point, thru-hikers have been on the trail for many months and it is September or early October. Snow can occur at anytime and, once it starts falling, the Cascades quickly become too dangerous. While people may feel like they are racing against nature the moment they enter Washington, this section offers stunning forests and mountains that urge even the most scheduled hiker to slow down. In addition, the structures in this section are known for being places of self-reflection. Scroll down to finish the final section of your PCT journey.

After crossing the Bridge of the Gods, you enter a wet, mossy evergreen forest that is the hallmark of the Pacific Northwest.

Soon you begin gaining elevation until you find yourself on picturesque ridges like Knife's Edge in Goat Rocks Wilderness.

Stehekin Pastry Company

Located in the last trail town before the Canadian border, the Stehekin Pastry Company is somewhere PCT thru-hikers have been dreaming about for months. They have nearly finished the trail and what better way to celebrate then enjoying sweets at a nationally renowned bakery?

I know nothing of Stehekin except that it's not really big enough to call a town, it sits on a lake, and there is a bakery there. Not just any bakery, but a bakery of legends. A bakery that Martha Stewart visited, a bakery that appeared in Sunset magazine. A bakery I've been hearing about for the last two thousand miles

Carrot Quinn, Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart, 2015

Consistently named as the best restaurant along the PCT, thru-hikers enjoy homemade cinnamon buns and other baked goods that supposedly are worth the distance. In addition to satisfying a sweet tooth, the Stehekin Pastry Company is where thru-hikers really consider what comes after the PCT and it is therefore is a place of self-reflection. Watch the video clip bellow to get a sense of the peaceful setting and see the famous pastries.

Jupiter and Sprocket in Stehekin

Some thru-hikers decide to stock up on baked goods and have pastries be their primary food source for the remaining miles until Canada. Thus, thru-hikers leave Stehekin on a sweet note (as long as snow or wildfires have not caused trail closures), and continue their journeys that are soon to end.

Location of structure on Overview Map

Deep in the Cascades, you feel Canada beckoning to you. Steadily you continue onwards and savor the remaining vistas while you can.

PCT Northern Terminus

The PCT Northern Terminus marks the official end of the PCT. Everyone reacts differently when they reach the monument, but people all do at least one thing. They take a picture like they did at the PCT Southern Terminus and, in that way, can reflect on how they have changed (or stayed the same) while on their journeys.

Elina Osborne's before and after photos

How do you feel after walking roughly 2,650 miles in less than a year? Proud? Exhausted? Disappointed? Excited? The number of ways you can feel are endless. What makes the PCT Northern Terminus iconic is it marks the completion of what seems like an impossible goal and is where thru-hikers display their raw reactions to their accomplishment.

Notice the joy captured in the embrace of these thru-hikers

Thank you for going on this journey. Please continue scrolling down to read the StoryMap's conclusion and to review resources.

Location of structure on Overview Map


Conclusion

Congratulations! You have completed your virtual thru-hike of the PCT.

Along the way, you have learned about ten iconic structures of the PCT and what they reveal about thru-hiking culture. I hope you have gained a sense of what this community values, the beauty of their journeys, and the unique structures that are a part of their experience.


Resources

Are you feeling eager to learn more about the PCT and want to know where I learned all this information? Explore the resources below. Bold indicates my top favorites.

Books

  • The High Adventure of Eric Ryback (1971) by Eric Ryback
  • Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail (2012) by Cheryl Strayed
  • Girl in the Woods: A Memoir (2015) by Aspen Matis
  • Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart (2015) by Carrot Quinn
  • Pacific Crest Trials (2016) by Zach Davis and Carly Moree
  • Bliss(ters): How I Walked from Mexico to Canada in One Summer (2017) by Gail Francis
  • Journeys North (2020) by Barney "Scout" Mann
  • The Pacific Crest Trail: A Visual Compendium (2021) by Joshua M. Powell
  • Trail of the Lost (2023) by Andrea Lankford

Websites

YouTube Channels

Movies and Videos

While Into the Wild, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and Mile...Mile & a Half are not specifically about the PCT, they capture the spirit of adventure and that desire to live wildly which is at the heart of the PCT experience.

Podcast

Playlist

Music can communicate feelings in a way unlike any other medium. When preparing for my upcoming PCT thru-hike, I like to listen to music that puts me in a certain mood and mindset. This abridged playlist includes songs that evoke a feeling of adventure and the desire to live life to the fullest. Listen to understand the feelings of an aspiring PCT thru-hiker.

Credits: This StoryMap was created in Columbia GSAPP's 2024 Digital Heritage Documentation course.

Creator

Lily Garcia (PCT '25)

Professer

Bilge Kose

Teaching Assistant

Charlotte Boulanger

Hopeful thru-hikers smiling for their photo

Shrink looking off into the distance

Pink Lady showing off her excitement

Elina Osborne's before and after photos

Notice the joy captured in the embrace of these thru-hikers