Pacific Crest Trail California Section A

As a section hiker, there is something extra special about starting at the border since you are always saying no to that question on the trail. Having watched endless video of previous through-hikers, the first hundred miles is much more entertaining to watch than some middle segment. This section can be hiked in winter, a nice bonus to avoid the dreaded heat and dry water sources. The trail scenery is fantastic and the remote feeling is surprising given the numerous roads nearby. The first 20 miles is the trek to Lake Morena. Carry enough water to get you there. But upon arrival, there is a county campground with showers and running water. A store is available as well making this first leg pretty safe and doable for anyone. Next up is getting to the base of Laguna Mountain, the highest point of this section. Enjoyable hiking will get you to the base and then the slow trek up the mountain was surprisingly long and somewhat isolated. A few miles of trail are forested at the top, but the rest of the summit area is open and very exposed to the elements. Laguna has a tourist road along the top so you will see many day hikers here. Once you start dropping down the mountain, everyone disappears. Another big area in this section is San Felipe Hills north of Scissors Crossing. The trail climbs high into the hills, then wraps in and out of creek drainages for 20 miles. There is no water, but mid-way is Third Gate Station where volunteers have made a water cache. The final section before Warner Springs crosses some large open fields that look like Montana. Here you find the Eagle Rock feature before dropping down into Canada Verde Creek and the town of Warner Springs.

Pacific Crest Trail - First 110 miles