Oregon Hike in July

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#1

I’m a newbie to distance hiking but am planning a hike from Ashland to the Bridge of the Gods this July. I have the Wilderness Press Oregon book as a starting point for my research. Any ideas as to how long I should plan for the trip? My guess is 3 to 3 1/2 weeks? I could start as early as last week of June but I need to be done by July 28th or so. How big are the Mosquitos gonna factor in during this time? I’d be happy to hear tips, suggestions, thoughts on preparing for the Oregon section of the PCT, including ideas on essential gear and planning resupplies. I’m planning to fly into Medford and connect with the PCT. Thanks all!

Andrew

#2

Andrew, Check out Craig’s PCT Planner on the net. SNOTEL reports for Oregon snow pack show 80 to 100% of normal, so an average year. There will be skeeters. Just carry some DEET and a tent with insect netting. I had a head-net with me on my hike but only used it a couple of times. Re-supply as often as you can even if you have to go several miles off-trail.

bowlegs

#3

How long it will take really depends on what kind of shape you are in when you start. Water is scarce through part of the trail (i.e. around Crater Lake) which means you’ll either need to carry a lot of water or do big miles.

Ginny

#4

Thanks for the tips. I like to think I’m in pretty good shape but I’m sure the hike will humble me a bit! I’m hoping to average around 20 miles per day. Is this a reasonable figure through most of Oregon? I’m hitting REI this weekend to start working on the gear. Bowlegs, thanks for the tip on the planner website, definitely is gonna help me pin down my resupply stops. Any other tips or thoughts on the Oregon leg of the PCT I would love to hear!

Andrew

#5

Andrew, 20 miles a day in Oregon is about right. I strongly recommend: Day 1 5 miles, Day 2 10 miles, Day 3 15 miles, Day 4+ 20 miles. It’s hard to hold yourself back those first few days but you’re feet and legs will really appreciate it down the trail.

bowlegs

#6

Did this hike last summer. Left June 20th Finished July 20th. Can definitely be done much faster. I think thru hikers take on Oregon in 2 1/2 - 3 weeks… Mosiquitos will be gnarly. From Fish Lake North to around Jefferson Park. Worst areas: Mt. Mclouglin/Sky Lakes Wilderness; Summit Lake (just south of Diamond Peak Wilderness), Mirror Lake in Jefferson Park. Great Hike, absolutely beautiful terrain. Enjoy

rsurridge

#7

I am looking to hit the Oregon portion of pct around beginning of july and hope to finish end of july/beg. of august. Im looking to find a hiking partner, would you possibly be interested?

meg