9 Tips for Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2026 (BPR #348)
Backpacker Radio · Mar 9, 2026 · 2:15:31
Backpacker Radio · Mar 9, 2026 · 2:15:31
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In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we are breaking things down for the class of 2026 PCT thru-hikers with another edition of our top tips for hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. Chaunce and I are joined by everyone's favorite sauce/SOS, Elise Ott to share some brand new tips for trekking between Mexico and Canada, including advice about managing the sun, thoughts for approaching the trail during a high snow year, tips for dealing with wildfire, the beauty of cowboy camping, the importance of rolling with the punches, and much more.
We wrap the show with some important news from the PCT southern terminus, the most overrated month for backpacking, the bucket list of animal sightings, and I give my one minute gear reviews on a slew of new items I tested on the SDTCT, including the a new pack, shelter, and trekking poles.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek .
Mountainsmith: Use code "TAKEAHIKE" for 20% off at mountainsmith.com .
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Panel with Elise "SOS" Ott
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:25 - Reminders : Apply to vlog or blog for the Trek , sign up for the Trek's newsletter , and listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon !
00:08:17 - Introducing Elise
00:13:53 - Tell us about your upcoming running goals
00:22:30 - Introducing today's panel
00:24:01 - Elise's Tip #1: Roll with the punches
00:27:06 - Chaunce's Tip #1: Look up side quests in advance
00:30:41 - Zach's Tip #1: Have a plan for the sun
00:34:44 - Elise's Tip #2: Save more money than you think you need
00:36:45 - Chaunce's Tip #2: Prepare for encountering wildfires
00:48:40 - Zach's Tip #2: Consider going southbound in high snow years
00:56:05 - Elise's Tip #3: See it for yourself before making decisions
01:03:15 - Chaunce's Tip #3: Cowboy camp if you haven't yet
01:05:40 - Zach's Tip #3: Break it down into small sections
01:08:00 - Honorable mentions
01:13:52 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking?
Segments
Trek Propaganda: Barrier Construction Set To Begin at CDT Southern Terminus by Kelly Floro
QOTD: What's the most overrated month for backpacking?
Triple Crown of bucket list animal sightings
One-Minute Gear Reviews
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
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