The Magic of Oregon on the Pacific Crest Trail
For an adventure that’s absolutely worth writing home about, hiking the Oregon section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a must. Imagine playing hide and seek with tame deer in the morning, laughing with new trail friends over dehydrated meals in the evening, and sleeping beneath a sky so full of stars it makes your heart ache. Let’s dive into the heart of this unforgettable journey.
When to Start
Oregon’s seasonal window for hitting the trail is from July to September. Those familiar with Oregon weather know that any earlier will likely see the trail decorated with snowflakes and any later might mean getting up close and personal with Oregon’s well-known rain. July to September offers hikers the best chance of getting consistently good weather across this section of the PCT.
Finding Your Way on the Trail
Navigation on the Oregon section of the PCT isn’t something to take lightly. It’s not as scary as trying to find a parking spot in downtown Portland during rush hour, of course, but dwindling cell service and long stretches of wilderness make it a touch more serious. Invest in some honest-to-goodness paper maps. They won’t lose signal at inconvenient times and won’t drain your battery either.
Fuel Up on Local Delights
Even through the wonders of backpacking, you’ll still have to find creative ways to keep hunger at bay. Hello, local culinary wonders! The town of Ashland is known for its Growler Guys, where you can refill your nourishment tanks with fresh, local brews and hefty sandwiches. The local grocery store, the Ashland Food Co-op, has a stunning array of organic, local food. Try not to buy the entire store!
Camping Along the Trail
Remote wilderness is an absolute luxury, but sometimes it’s comforting to know there’s a pit toilet within reasonable distance. Crater Lake National Park isn’t just home to the deepest lake in the U.S.; it’s also where you’ll find designated camping sites, complete with pit toilets. Mazama Campground is a gem, but locals might recommend Lost Creek Campground instead. It’s less crowded and offers equally stunning views.
Keeping Bears at Bay
Oregon’s black bears are more interested in picnicking on berries than in investigating your trail mix. But, as anyone from these parts can tell you, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Investing in a bear canister and learning how to hang a bear bag might be your best bet here. And remember, knocking spoons together is a classic yet effective scare-off method.
Historical Moments
There are a few spots along the trail where the history buff in you may feel like it’s hit a goldmine. For instance, walking through Donomore Meadows will remind you of the role the PCT played in the U.S Forest Service’s fire lookout system. And there’s a run-down cabin near Santiam Pass that has played host to many a weary hiker. The old, sturdy structure holds stories that date back decades.
Preventative Measures
Poison oak may not be everybody’s idea of a good time. And here in Oregon, it’s practically a pastime to warn newcomers about it. If your pants brush against some shiny, triple-leafed nuisance during your journey, make sure to wash them ASAP! Time is of the essence in avoiding irritating rashes.
The Journey’s Grand End
When you finally hang up your boots in Cascade Locks, treat yourself to a reward that only the locals would know. Visit the Eastwind Drive-In for a burger bigger than your misadventures on the trail and a soft serve tall enough to salute Mount Hood with. And if there’s still space in the tummy, an ice-cold Thunder Island brew would be the perfect applause on this wonderful journey.
Wrapping up this spirited escapade, it’s safe to say the journey through the Oregon section of the PCT is much more than just a journey; it’s an exercise in memory-making that sticks with you long after your blisters heal. Don’t shy away from the nuances and challenges of a robust Oregon backpacking adventure. Instead, pack light, carry plenty of water, and let the magnificence of Oregon hold you closely in its charm. Adventure awaits!