PCT Southbound Gear List & Strategy 2025

Mike Unger is one of few people in the world to thru-hike the PCT northbound (NOBO) twice and once southbound (SOBO). Together, with input from editors Naomi Hudetz and Liz Thomas, this PCT gear list explains differences between northbound and southbound PCT thru-hikes and section-hikes, what gear to carry, and how to prepare for each section of a southbound PCT hike.

Our goal is to set you up for success on your hike from Canada to Mexico using what we’ve learned from our southbound thru-hikes, including 7 PCT thru-hikes, and more than 50,000 miles of trail experience.

Continue reading to learn more about hiking the PCT, written by Mike Unger & Liz Thomas & Naomi Hudetz.

IMESASISHWA MWISHO

February 25, 2025

Imeandikwa na
Mwandishi wa Blogu ya Picha

Mike Unger & Naomi Hudetz

Contributing Writers

Mike Unger & Naomi Hudetz are contributing writers.

Chunguza Maudhui Zaidi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Our products are well-loved by the outdoor community, which allows us to be generous with our charity work worldwide.

Russ McLeod
Founder of Mightyhum

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Similarly, whenever I need water, it takes time and effort to collect water from a stream, and then push it through my Sawyer Squeeze filter into my water bottles.

Jared Zornitzer
Hiker

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer Mini filters remove 99.9% of bacteria—pair with reusable bottles to minimize plastic waste.

Machu Picchu Getaway
Travel Site