PCT Northern Terminus Backpacking Trail

Route Description for PCT Northern Terminus Backpacking Trail

The PCT Northern Terminus Trail is a 26.7 km out-and-back hiking route that is best completed as a multi-day trip with an overnight stay at the Monument 78 Camp. The route features a good variation in terrain, including dense tree cover and more exposed sections of trail. This, in addition to rapidly changing weather patterns in the region, means that hikers should come prepared for a variety of trail conditions and pack accordingly for the long duration of the hike. Another thing to note is that there is no official border crossing at the end of this hike. Anyone looking to set off on the Pacific Crest Trail will need to cross the border at an official government checkpoint to properly enter the United States, at which point they will need to make their way to the Northern Terminus from the American side.

Setting out on the trail off of Gibson Pass Road, make your way east along the Windy Joe Trail as it skirts alongside the Similkameen River. Take the junction to the right to climb uphill and past Windy Joe Mountain on a course south towards the Canada-U.S. border. This section of forested trail will cross over countless streams on the way to Monument 78 Camp, where you will be able to set up camp for the night. Just beyond the camp to the south, hikers will be able to make their way to the PCT Northern Terminus that straddles the border. After exploring the area and spending a few moments in two different countries at the same time, make your way back along the trail to return to your vehicle at the trailhead off Gibson Pass Road.