PCT — California Section O

5 days · 80.3 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance80.3 mi

Days out5

Elevation gain17,280 ft

Gain / mile215 ft

High point6,158 ft

What the PCT — California Section O is known for

130 km (81 mi) of the Pacific Crest Trail from McArthur-Burney Falls State Park west to Interstate 5 at Castle Crags, traversing the ridges above the McCloud River country. A 5-day section with constant views of Mount Shasta.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the PCT — California Section O on OpenStreetMap terrain

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Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 7,234 ft to 20,095 ft over 80.3 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

Uphill 33.0 mi · 41%
Downhill 41.1 mi · 52%
Flat 5.6 mi · 7%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

Frequently asked questions

How much elevation gain is on the PCT — California Section O?

The PCT — California Section O climbs roughly 17,280 ft total — about 215 ft per mile, topping out near 6,158 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.