The 2700-mile Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail runs from Mexico to Canada through the mountains of three American states. Purpose built exclusively for backpackers and horse-riders it visits spectacular scenery, usually under clear and sunny skies.

The mountains and deserts of Southern Califormia are followed by the magnificent mountains of the High Sierra, Yosemite National Park and the Cascade Mountains of Northern California, Oregon and Washington, dominated by 14,000ft volcanoes.

Most walkers hike the short sections, but several hundred each year take on the ultimate challenge of thru-hiking the entire route in one summer.  This comprehensive guide provides all the information needed to tackle any part of the epic trail.