A Guide to Backpacking Oregon’s Stretch of Pacific Crest Trail
If the idea of a ramble through lush green forests, over snow-capped peaks, and past serene alpine lakes quickens your heart, you’re in the right place. Here’s a handy guide with local cues on backpacking Oregon’s spellbinding section of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Seasonal Snapshot and Starting Point
The Oregon section, covering about 455 miles from Siskiyou Summit to Bridge of the Gods, is glorious during late summer, particularly August and September. Fighting fewer bugs, and little to no snow, makes these months ideal for a hike. Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit, and it’s also a convenient starting point due to its midway location on the trail.
Gear Up at REI
If you’re looking to upgrade your gear, hit up REI in Bend, Medford, or Portland. This outdoor gear co-op is quite popular among Oregonians and carries everything from lightweight cookware to trekking poles. Don’t miss checking out their “garage sales” where gently used gear is sold at discounted prices.
Navigating the Natural Wonders
Be prepared to be swept off your feet by the volcanic majesty of Mount Thielsen and the surreal beauty of Obsidian Limited Entry Area. Make sure to have your camera at the ready for the jaw-dropping views at Diamond Peak Wilderness and the sky-touching giants of Three sisters Wilderness.
Safeguard Local Wildlife
Oregon is home to a diverse range of wildlife that we locals are pretty proud of. Remember to pack your food and scented items in a bear canister to keep bears and other wildlife safe. Also, watch out for rattlesnakes around the Lower Bridge area.
Stay Hydrated
Water is plentiful along the Oregon PCT, but it is necessary to filter or treat it to avoid any lurking pathogens. Many trusts the Sawyer Squeeze water filter or SteriPen to get the job done.
Sharing the Trail with Horses
It’s not unusual to cross paths with horseback riders on the trail. They have the right of way, so step off the trail on the lower side and avoid spooking the horses.
Know Before You Go: Leave No Trace
Oregonians are serious about their love for nature and the “Leave No Trace” ethos. Be sure to brush up on these principles before starting on your journey. And please, pick up the colorful square-shaped “toilet paper flowers” left behind by less knowledgeable hikers.
Hearty Meals on the Trail
There’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal at the end of a long day’s hike. Bend’s Let-It-Be-Foods offers ready-to-cook trail meals that are not only delicious but contain natural, locally sourced ingredients. Available at food co-ops and health food stores across the state.
Resupply Points
There are ample resupply points in Oregon, with some of the most popular being at Mazama Village Store at Crater Lake, Shelter Cove Resort, and the hiker-friendly towns of Ashland, Sisters, and Cascade Locks. Oregonians are always ready to lend a helping hand, so never hesitate to ask for assistance.
Local Weather Wisdom
Weather in the Cascades can be unpredictable, even in summer. Afternoons often bring rain showers or thunderstorms, particularly in higher elevation areas. Pack some warm layers and a trusty rain jacket. A quick-drying towel will also come in handy.
A Night to Remember: Timberline Lodge
If you fancy a comfortable bed and a scrumptious breakfast, Timberline Lodge is the perfect stop. This historic lodge located on the south slope of Mt. Hood is only a half-mile detour from the trail.
Closing Thoughts
So, ready to lace up those boots and hit the trail? Remember, it’s not a race but a journey. This isn’t about the miles covered but the serenity, the views, the wildlife, and the sheer joy of immersing oneself in Oregon’s magnificent landscapes. To quote our beloved poet Gary Snyder, “Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.” Let’s keep it that way.
Backpacking the Oregon section of the Pacific Crest Trail may seem like a mammoth task, but armed with this insider knowledge, any moderately experienced hiker should find their footing. Set your pace, respect the trail, enjoy Oregon’s natural bounties, and maybe even make a few friends along the way. This is more than a trail. It’s a testament to Oregon’s wild heart, and its magnetic allure will keep inviting you back.