The Pacific Crest Trail begins in the dry valleys of southern California, follows the crest of the snow-capped Sierras, and ends in the ancient forests of Washington's Cascades. Along the way, national treasures such as Yosemite, Crater Lake, and Mount Rainier make this trail one of the premier hiking destinations in the world. This guide to the ultimate long-distance hiking trail begins where other trail guides leave off. The authors describe each section of the trail in detail and recommend the best day hikes and short backpacks from each trailhead. They describe the natural, geological, and human history of the region, and in a thousand other ways enrich the experiences of the journey. Together, Berger and Smith have logged more than 12,000 miles on the PCT. They draw on this vast experience to give tested advice on trip planning, gear and safety, seasonal considerations, trailheads and resupplies, permits, and much more.