Am I the only one who thinks the Pacific Crest Trail got way more crowded after that book came out?

I hiked a section near Crater Lake in 2018 and saw maybe 3 people a day, then went back to the same stretch last summer and could barely find a place to pitch my tent because it was packed. That Wild book and the movie turned it into a bucket list item for everyone and their mom. Has anyone else noticed a huge jump in traffic on certain routes over the last 5 years?

2 comments

2 Comments

robert_hayes28d ago

Man, I used to roll my eyes at people complaining about this. I figured it was just gatekeeping and that any new hikers on the trail was a good thing. But after doing a section near Stevens Pass that I'd done back in 2016, I get it now. Last time it was quiet and peaceful, this time it felt like a busy sidewalk in the city with people blasting music and groups taking up the whole path. The permit system can't keep up and it ruins the whole point of getting away from crowds in the first place. That book turned a hidden gem into a circus and I can't blame anyone for being annoyed about it.

luna_craig5828d ago

So you’re saying new people showing up is a problem? @robert_hayes I get the frustration with crowds and blasting music, but I have to say I’m glad more folks are getting outside and seeing these places. A busy trail beats one nobody gets to enjoy, even if it means a little more patience finding a spot to camp.