Use of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail

The Pacific Crest Trail Association supports use of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail by hikers and equestrians. It opposes use of the trail by mechanical means, including motorized vehicles and bicycles.

The mission of the Pacific Crest Trail Association is (in part) "…to protect, preserve and promote the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail…for the enjoyment, education and adventure of hikers and equestrians."

Motorized vehicles and bicycles are prohibited on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and that prohibition should be maintained.

The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) includes major segments of trails originally built in the 1930s, such as the John Muir Trail in California, the Oregon Skyline Trail, and the Cascade Crest Trail in Washington. These trails were constructed primarily to accommodate hikers and equestrians. Many segments of the PCT have since been designated in Wilderness Areas, which have significant use restrictions, as do national and state parks. All segments of the trail were constructed to accommodate equestrian and hiker use. The design and construction did not anticipate vehicle use, which can adversely affect the condition of the trail itself, and the safety of its users.

The Association urges the US Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and other agencies to not only post vehicle prohibitions effectively, but to also increase enforcement efforts in areas where prohibited vehicle use occurs.

Adopted by the Pacific Crest Trail Association Board of Directors, October 22, 2000