PCT from the Yuba River to Fowler Peak

On the Pacific Crest Trail, you'll be heading from the Yuba River to Fowler peak. This backpacking trip is 51 miles, one-way, so you'll want to park shuttle car at the Fowler Peak Trailhead. This stretch of the PCT is less crowded than its southern part - that could be due to the 2 miles of exposed switchbacks to start the trek, but we'll let you decide! Once you get to the top of the Sierra Buttes, the trail heads north and passes along the western edge of Gold Lakes Basin, where you could decide to camp for a night or keep heading along the trail. Once you're back in switchback mode, you'll continue on the PCT passing Mount Gibraltar (7,343'), Stafford Mountain (7,019'), Mount Etna (7,019'), and Pilot Peak (7,457'). To head out on the trail, you'll need to get a wilderness permit, which you can get from the Yuba River Ranger Station (530) 288-3231.