Backcountry route choice: follow the ridge or drop into the valley on the Pacific Crest Trail?

I had this big choice last summer on the PCT in Oregon near Mount Jefferson. The ridge route looked faster on the map but had exposed sections with no water, while the valley trail was longer but had creeks and shade. I went with the ridge because I wanted the views, and honestly it was amazing but I ran out of water with 5 miles to go. Has anyone else gambled on a ridge route and regretted it or loved it?

2 comments

2 Comments

gonzalez.grant8d ago

Did you read that article in Backpacker magazine a few years back about the guy who did almost the whole PCT on ridge routes only? I remember he said he learned to carry way more water than he thought he needed after a few close calls like yours. Sounds like you made the right call for the views though, even if it got a little sketchy at the end.

benflores8d ago

Took the ridge route on a section near Yosemite and never again. Views were killer but I spent half the day panicking about water and the other half getting sunburned because there was zero shade. The valley trails might be longer but at least you can filter water and take a break under some trees. I'd rather have a chill hike with okay scenery than a stressful one with epic views. Live and learn I guess.