All Your Trail Questions, Answered

Our trips run with a normal minimum of five hikers. We evaluate enrollment about 30 days before departure. If a departure is short, we may cancel it (you'd receive a full refund including your deposit, or a voluntary transfer/credit) or we may choose to run it with a smaller group. Booking stays open up to our capacity of eight.

A guided group backpacking trip led by two experienced long-distance hikers, first and last nights of accommodation, transportation to and from the trailhead, trail permits, and trail education. Not included: flights, meals (you'll resupply together as a group), and personal backpacking gear.

A $250 nonrefundable deposit reserves your spot. If you pay a deposit, the remaining balance is due 28 days before the trek start date.

Your $250 deposit is nonrefundable if you cancel. If you cancel more than 30 days before departure, any amount you paid beyond the deposit is refunded; 30 days or fewer, payments are nonrefundable (unless we can fill your spot). If TCT cancels a departure, you receive a full refund including the deposit, or a voluntary transfer/credit if you prefer. See the full Cancellation & Refund Policy for details.

Some are. We offer both women-only and co-ed departures — you'll see which type each trek is on its trek page.

Yes! As an EMT-founded company, Triple Crown Treks is proud to offer $50 off our treks for verified EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement officers. Email hello@triplecrowntreks.com before booking to request your discount code.

Nope! None of our treks require prior backpacking or camping experience — not even our more challenging Oregon trek. We'll teach you how to filter water, pitch your tent, pack your gear, and resupply food — all in a supportive, encouraging environment. What matters most is your fitness level, not your experience. You don't need to be “outdoorsy” to start.

Yes — and you won't be alone. Many of our participants are total beginners. Our goal is to meet you where you are, answer all your questions, and help you feel confident and capable on trail. You'll learn as you go.

Neither trek requires prior backpacking experience — we'll teach you everything either way. The real difference is physical difficulty: California is designed for a moderate baseline of fitness and includes a mid-trek food resupply, making it a more forgiving introduction. Oregon is a step up — a stronger baseline of fitness, no mid-trek resupply (so you'll carry more food weight from the start), and higher elevation. If you're reasonably fit and ready to train a little, Oregon is a great choice even as your first trek. Still not sure? Reach out and we'll help you choose.

We currently guide trips on the Pacific Crest Trail — Southern California and Oregon. We plan to keep expanding to new sections and, eventually, the Appalachian Trail and Continental Divide Trail as routes are scouted and approved.

We hike 8–12 miles a day, take breaks, eat lunch in beautiful places, and set up camp before sunset. You'll learn real trail routines like filtering water and managing your pack weight.

You should feel comfortable walking 8–12 miles a day with a 25–35 lb backpack. We build in breaks and go at a group-friendly pace. If you're active and can do some cardio or hiking in the months before the trek, you'll be in great shape.

Some light prep is a great idea. We recommend walking or hiking a few times a week and slowly building up mileage with a backpack. We'll share a simple prep guide once you're signed up.

Not necessarily — most of our hikers are beginners without a full setup. Bring your own gear, or rent the items you're missing à la carte after booking. After you book, your interactive gear checklist shows exactly what to bring, what you can rent, and what TCT provides.

No problem. Since you're choosing and carrying your own food, you can tailor meals to your preferences and needs — we'll give you tips based on your restrictions.

Expect limited or no service on most days. Guides carry a GPS communicator for emergencies, and you'll have a chance to let loved ones know your plans ahead of time.

Your safety and comfort come first. We build check-in points into each trek and will always help arrange an early exit if needed. You'll never be pressured to push beyond your limits.