A brochure and a patch—a perfect gift for trail enthusiasts—are displayed. The brochure showcases trees and mountains along the Pacific Crest Trail, stretching from Mexico to Canada. The patch, featuring the PCTA logo, includes a tree and mountain design with the trails name.

Gifts from the PCTA!

When applying for a Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike permit, you have the option of also joining the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA).

Since I am taking advantage of the countless man-hours needed to maintain this 2,600-mile trail across the country, I decided it would be only fitting that I make a donation and join the ranks of the PCTA.

Today, I received a letter affirming my joining the PCTA community. Along with the letter, I was pleased to find a PCT sticker (I don’t know why, but I like stickers) and a map of the trail (wall space will need to be made available). Apparently, the PCTA magazine, the PCT Communicator, should also be on its way (I’m not sure how I feel about that name). Hopefully, it arrives before I start my trek into the desert.

According to the letter, my donation is being used for the following purposes:

  • The advocation of federal funds to purchase 200 miles of the PCT is still on private property (give the government your land already).
  • Organization of trail repair work to reach their goal of 100% trail maintenance (currently, gremlins and bridge trolls are holding out on approximately 10% of the trail).
  • To promote the trail via their new website (which is far superior to their old website).
  • To work with the Forest Service to ensure the entire trail is safe to use (aka free of man-eating bears and booby traps).

To join the PCTA, you can check out their website at PCTA.org (link opens in new window).

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2 Comments

  1. they only gave a map and a letter this year – a fucking travesty! would easily trade both for the sticker.

    i have been lurking around your site in these past few months as i plan on starting the hike in may. all your articles are gold!

    OT: you stayed with my current roommate in stehekin last year! i showed him ur blog and he said he recognized you, small world. any way keep up the good work and thanks for writing

    1. I misplaced my sticker and have basically been in a downward spiral of depression ever since. Perhaps it would have been better to have never gotten one in the first place.

      That’s crazy you are roommates with someone I met on the trail! It was awesome for him to take me and by buddy in – tell him thanks again.

      Best of luck in May!

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