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The Pacific Crest Trail remains one of the most iconic long-distance hikes in the world, drawing thousands of adventurers each year. But the cost of completing the journey is steeper than ever. The 2024 PCT Hiker Survey, conducted by Halfway Anywhere, reveals a striking increase in expenses, with the average thru-hiker spending over $10,000 on their journey—nearly double the cost recorded in 2019.
One of he most scenic long hikes in the world, the PCT Runs through the redwood forests of the Pacific North West, Yosemite, and the Mojave Dessert. Photo: Shutterstock
A Pricey Adventure
For those setting out on the PCT, the cost of gear alone has climbed to an average of $1,708 in 2024—up nearly $500 from previous years. But the total trip expenses are where the real shock lies. The survey found that thru-hikers spent an average of $10,149 on their journey, including resupply, lodging, and transportation.
To put this into perspective, when the survey first began tracking total expenditures in 2019, hikers reported an average cost of $6,561, equating to roughly $38.68 per day. In 2024, that daily figure has jumped to $71. Inflation is undoubtedly a key factor, particularly when it comes to food prices. However, the rise of ultralight backpacking has also played a role, as hikers increasingly invest in high-performance, lightweight gear—often made from premium materials.
Bliss on the summit of a pass on the PCT. Photo: Shutterstock
Are First-Timers Driving Costs Up?
At first glance, you might assume that the rising number of first-time thru-hikers is contributing to the increased costs, as beginners often spend more on gear and creature comforts. However, the data suggests otherwise.
In 2019, 67.6% of survey respondents were attempting their first long-distance thru-hike. In 2024, that figure had dropped to just 50.2%. The PCT has become a destination for experienced hikers, many of whom first tackled the Appalachian Trail (AT) before moving on to the PCT and, eventually, the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). With more seasoned hikers on the trail, the growing expenses seem to be more about shifting spending habits and rising costs than newbie splurging.
The Role of Tech on the Trail
Long gone are the days when a paper map and compass were the standard tools for PCT navigation. Today, nearly all hikers rely on smartphone apps for guidance, with 99% of respondents reporting that they used at least one app during their trek.
FarOut Guides (formerly known as GutHook) remains the most popular choice, with 96% of hikers using it to track distances, water sources, and real-time updates from other hikers. Other popular tools include GAIA GPS (33.9%) and CalTopo (12.3%), which provide detailed topographic maps and route planning features. Many hikers use multiple apps to ensure accuracy and efficiency on the trail.
Gone are the days of using paper maps and compasses to find your way; nowadays apps such as FarOut and AllTrails are the standard for navigation. Photo: Shutterstock
What’s Next for PCT Thru-Hikers?
Despite rising costs, the allure of the Pacific Crest Trail remains as strong as ever. The increasing popularity of long-distance hiking—bolstered by books, films, and social media—continues to inspire new generations of hikers. If you’re considering a 2025 trek, now is the time to start budgeting, researching, and gearing up for one beast of a trip.
For those looking to dive deeper into the data, check out the full 2024 Pacific Crest Trail Hiker Survey. Whether you're a seasoned thru-hiker or dreaming of your first long-distance trek, understanding the trends shaping the PCT can help you prepare for the journey ahead.