PCT — California Section A
7 days · 106.3 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the PCT — California Section A is known for
The opening leg of the Pacific Crest Trail: 171 km (106 mi) from the Mexican border monument at Campo to Warner Springs, climbing through the Laguna Mountains and the San Felipe Hills. A 7-day desert shakedown with long water carries.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 7,867 ft to 19,764 ft over 106.3 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 37.3 mi · 35%
- Downhill 52.9 mi · 50%
- Flat 15.9 mi · 15%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the PCT — California Section A?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the PCT — California Section A scores 49/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Frequently asked questions
How much elevation gain is on the PCT — California Section A?
The PCT — California Section A climbs roughly 18,720 ft total — about 176 ft per mile, topping out near 6,050 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.