15th Annual Pacific Crest Trail Days

Pacific Crest Trail Days (PCT Days) is an annual trail festival celebrating the PCT and all things hiking.  With numerous onsite vendors which include backpacking gear, footwear, hiking apparel, gear repair, and everything else you would need to hit the trail, it’s a great opportunity for hiking enthusiasts to meet and check out the latest offerings on the market.  One big benefit is many of the brands on site are cottage gear manufacturers and this is one of the few chances most people will have to see the gear in person and try it out.

Besides the on-site vendors the event also has a great lineup of speakers covering everything from gearing up for your first thru-hike to new trails and routes in the region.  The full schedule of speakers and classes can be found at www.pctdays.com/schedule/

 History of the Event

Ron Moak enjoying the view at PCT Days 2009

PCT Days is celebrating its 15^th year in Cascade Locks, and it has grown leaps and bounds since its inception.  The event started in 2007 when PCT Alumni class of 2005, Jason “Nabor J” Waicunas threw basically a hiker feed BBQ at the marine park in town.    As the event grew over the next few years it became apparent that there was a desire and need for a more structured event in the area.  Attendance had been doubling each year and these folks had a desire to camp and see gear.  “Nabor J” was able to get the support of local brands and shops to come out and spend the weekend meeting with people.  From 2008-2011 PCT Days was a small local event with the main attendees being thru-hiking alumni, PCT thru-hikers on trail, and local hiking enthusiasts.

 In 2012 the event took a major leap forward as “Nabor J” was able to recruit major outdoor brands to come to the event to exhibit.  With the support of the local community and the Cascade Locks Tourism Council the event became a must-attend for anyone into the PCT.  During this event and others, the annual PCT Days Gear Raffle grew to be one of the largest selections of backpacking gear in a raffle anywhere.  The PCT Days raffle is not only a great way to win a prize but all the proceeds go to the Pacific Crest Trail Association and American Long Distance Hiking Association – West to help with their non-profit missions.

SMD at the event

Six Moon Designs has been a cornerstone brand of PCTS Days since its’s early days in 2008 when a few local brands were on site.  The event has always had a great vibe, and it’s been instrumental in our business thanks to the user feedback we receive at this event.  The event allows us to show people new to our brand our product line up and helps our current customers explore and try their next tent or backpack from us.

Once again Six Moon Designs will be co-hosting the PCT Days Pre-Funk Party with Thunder Island Brewing at the brewery located at 601 Wa Na Pa St.  Come join us Thursday evening for a fun night of food, beer, music and gear.

On Friday and Saturday make sure to swing by our booth to see our latest shelters, backpacks and accessories and take a spin on the prize wheel for a chance to win some sweet swag!

Attending the event

PCT DAYS is free to attend, with a fee for overnight camping.  Vendors will be offering great food, coffee, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.  No drone cameras, dogs, glass, or alcohol may be brought to PCT DAYS and parking outside of the Marine Park is free.  Don’t miss out on a great time at the 15th annual PCT DAYS, August 19th & 20th, 2022!  For more info or to register to camp, visit:  https://www.pctdays.com/

 

 

Event photography by Magnify Photo