On January 27, 2025, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced it will discontinue the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) entry program, effectively closing the border crossing for American hikers hoping to access British Columbia on foot. This significant policy change means hikers now must present themselves at designated ports of entry, such as Osoyoos or Abbotsford, rather than crossing the border directly via the trail.
The PCT, which stretches approximately 4,265 kilometers from Mexico to Canada, includes a 13-kilometer extension through E.C. Manning Provincial Park. Previously, northbound hikers could apply for permits through the CBSA to traverse this stretch. But with the latest announcement, these permits have been revoked, leaving many hikers feeling disappointed and uncertain about their hiking plans.
Jack Haskel, from the Pacific Crest Trail Association, expressed the disappointment shared among the hiking community, stating, "This is disappointing news. We can appreciate (CBSA's) points, and the fact this policy is consistent with the United States' policy which does not allow for entry via the PCT." His remarks reflect the growing tension between the logistical needs of hikers and the stricter border enforcement rules put forth by both Canada and the U.S.
The CBSA justified this decision by indicating it would facilitate compliance monitoring, enhancing security at the border—all measures presumably aimed at aligning with U.S. Customs and Border Protection's procedures. The CBSA's new rules require U.S. hikers who complete the northern terminus of the PCT to double back, adding considerable effort and time to their journeys.
Vern Schram, the General Manager of Manning Park Resort, shared insights on how these changes will impact operations at the resort, which has historically welcomed numerous PCT hikers seeking rest and recovery. Schram noted, "It's quite an impediment to the last 13 kilometers... I'm not sure how many people will actually go through with it," referring to the now-required detour to reach designated entry points.
Previous restrictions on the PCT entry program occurred during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the initiative was suspended from 2020 until 2023. Given this backdrop, it's evident the PCT has had its share of operational challenges. With the pandemic's impact slowly easing, the recent policy change appears to mark another complication for trail-goers.
Online forums, including Reddit, have seen mixed reactions from the hiking community, where some expressed disappointment yet also recognized the potential for positive experiences. One hiker noted, "That sucks, but on a positive note – the walk back to Harts was an awesome experience. You get to pass by so many of the people you met on trail as they are about to finish their hike..." Such community sentiment points to the resilience among hikers, unwilling to let the closure discourage their passion for the trail.
The distance to designated ports adds logistical difficulties for retirees and newcomers alike, as these crossings are not only far removed—approximately 100 kilometers from the border—but also require additional planning and transport arrangements. Hessel's remarks hinted at the possibility of increased rideshare options and shuttle services around Harts Pass, which may emerge to accommodate those needing returns to nearby airports such as Seattle, instead of using Vancouver, as had been the norm.
Given the closure's potential impact, many anticipate hikers might opt to forego the Canada leg altogether, as this previously enjoyable detour may now seem more burdensome than rewarding. The opportunity to celebrate completing over 4,200 kilometers with additional Canadian miles might no longer carry the same appeal.
Overall, the CBSA's decision to halt permits for Pacific Crest Trail hikers is set to radically alter the experience of many dedicated trekkers who have long celebrated this remarkable stretch of wilderness. While the reasons behind the change are grounded primarily in national security and management of cross-border travel, the sentiment running through the hiking community remains one of disappointment and anxiety about how this may shape their future adventure plans.