The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches over 2,650 miles, offering diverse landscapes and experiences—from the deserts of Southern California to the forests of Washington State. And, for this reason, top bloggers like Carrot Quinn, Mac of Halfway Anywhere, and Erin of Walking With Wired bring the trail to life by documenting their experiences.

These top bloggers offer a window into the PCT world, sharing their physical journey and emotional experiences.

In this article, we look into:

• The blogs of some of the most engaging PCT hikers
• What makes these top PCT blogs resonate with adventurers
• Tips for aspiring PCT bloggers such as finding your niche and being authentic

Several blogs document hike experiences at the PCT. But we have our favorites that you, as a nature enthusiast and hiker, must bookmark. These include:

Carrot Quinn

Blog URL: CarrotQuinn.com

Carrot Quinn’s evocative writing style and raw honesty take readers on an emotional journey along the PCT.

Key highlights of the blog:

• Personal and evocative: Carrot’s captures the mental and physical challenges of long-distance hiking, going beyond mere trail descriptions.
• Inspiring: Her accounts of overcoming obstacles provide real insight into the resilience required for such a trek.
• Must-read: A collection of challenging moments, joyful encounters, and reflections that reveal the heart of the PCT experience.

Mac of Halfway Anywhere

Blog URL: HalfwayAnywhere.com

Mac’s approach is data-driven and analytical, making his blog a goldmine for those who love details and numbers.

His PCT Hiker Survey series is particularly notable. It sources responses from hundreds of hikers to provide statistical insights into everything from gear choices to average budgets. This makes his blog an invaluable resource for planning and preparing for the PCT.

Liz ‘Snorkel’ Thomas

Blog URL: EThomasOutdoors.com

Liz ‘Snorkel’ Thomas brings an expert eye to the PCT, with a focus on ultralight hiking techniques and urban hiking adventures.

Her experience as a long-distance hiker and advocate for trail stewardship shines through in her writing, which is both informative and inspiring.

She offers a unique perspective on how to enjoy the trail responsibly and sustainably.

You’ll enjoy reading her guides on ultralight backpacking. These are both practical and align with a minimalist, low-impact approach to hiking.

The Trek (Formerly Appalachian Trials)

Blog URL: TheTrek.co

The Trek is a collective voice of the long-distance hiking community. It features contributions from numerous hikers. This provides a multifaceted view of the PCT.

The site is a comprehensive resource for:

• Personal narratives
• Hiking gear reviews
• Trail news and advice

The diversity of content is the biggest strength of The Trek. Whether a reader is looking for emotional stories, practical advice, or the latest trail news, this site has it all.

Erin of Walking With Wired

Blog URL: WalkingWithWired.com

Erin ‘Wired’ Saver’s blog is a great chronicle of her PCT journey, offering readers a day-by-day account of her experience.

Her attention to detail is remarkable, covering:

• Daily hiking mileage
• Weather conditions of trails
• Personal feelings and interactions with other hikers

This comprehensive approach gives a thorough sense of what life on the PCT is really like.

What you’ll love most are her daily logs. They provide an almost real-time look at long-distance hiking.

These posts are especially valuable for those looking to understand the daily realities of life on the PCT, including the small joys and challenges that don’t always make it into more summary-style accounts.

The Pacific Crest Trail, with its varied landscapes and intense challenges, attracts a special kind of storyteller.

While each featured blogger has a unique voice, they all resonate with a wide audience by sharing common aspects of their experiences on the trail.

These blogs:

• Share authentic experiences: Captivate readers with genuine stories and insights from the trail, fostering a connection through shared knowledge and struggles.
• Offer diverse perspectives: Provide a range of voices and viewpoints on the PCT experience, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious newbie.
• Provide practical guidance: Equip hikers with valuable advice on gear, resupplies, trail conditions, and mental preparation, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable.
• Foster a supportive community: Create a space for hikers to connect, share advice, offer encouragement, and celebrate successes, strengthening the bond among those who love the trail.

Sharing your journey through a blog is rewarding. If you’re considering starting your own PCT blog, here are some essential tips to guide you on your way:

Starting Your Own PCT Blog: First Steps and Finding Your Niche

• Test the waters: Consider a shorter backpacking trip or an RV adventure to gauge your comfort level with the outdoors and a nomadic lifestyle.
• Find your niche: Explore what sets you apart. Are you passionate about ultralight gear, trail recipes, wildlife encounters, or the spiritual aspects of long-distance hiking? Focusing on a unique angle will attract a dedicated audience.

The Importance of Honesty and Personal Perspective

To share your PCT story on a blog:

• Be authentic: Share the highs and lows, the blisters and the breathtaking views, the moments of doubt and the triumphs of perseverance. Your honesty will resonate with readers who crave genuine experiences.
• Add a personal touch: Infuse your writing with your personality, humor, and insights. Share anecdotes, reflections, and the lessons you learn along the way. Your unique voice will make your blog stand out.

Technical Tips: Platform, Design, and Photography

• Choose a platform: Research popular blogging platforms like WordPress, Blogger, and Squarespace. Consider factors like ease of use, customization options, and pricing to find the best fit for your needs.
• Design your blog: Create a visually appealing layout with clear navigation and easy-to-read fonts. Use high-resolution images and videos to showcase the beauty of the trail and your experiences.
• Use high-quality photos: Invest in a decent camera or smartphone with good photo capabilities. Learn basic photography techniques to capture stunning landscapes, candid moments, and the details that make your journey unique.

Engaging with the Hiking Community and Readers

• Build a community: Interact with your readers through comments, social media channels, and online forums dedicated to hiking and the PCT. Share tips, answer questions, and participate in discussions to foster a sense of belonging.
• Be responsive: Reply to comments and messages promptly and thoughtfully. Show genuine interest in your readers’ feedback and experiences.
• Collaborate: Connect with other PCT bloggers and outdoor enthusiasts. Guest post on each other’s blogs, collaborate on social media campaigns, or even plan joint hikes to cross-promote your work and expand your reach.

The Pacific Crest Trail bloggers help us experience the joy, the challenges, and the beauty of one of the world’s most famous long-distance hikes.

These bloggers share their experiences and tips and—by extension—a part of themselves that resonates with hikers and adventurers.

These blogs can inspire you to start your own PCT blog. They can also encourage you to lace up your boots for a day on the trail.

The path of the PCT is open to all, inviting not just to be walked, but to be felt, experienced, and shared.