Oregon Hiking Steps Forward at Pacific Crest Trail Fest

Discover Oregon's Pacific Trail at a special event later this month.

Many people do not realize that a trail spans the entire pacific coast. Courtesy: drake.marin.k12.ca.us

(SALEM, Ore.) - For anyone who has ever spent time on, or wondered what it would be like to set foot on the Pacific Crest Trail, this event is for you.

Pacific Crest Trail Fest 2009 takes place March 27th through 29th at the Doubletree Hotel at Lloyd Center in Portland.

The annual Trail Fest arrives in Portland at the end of March. It hasn't been held here since 2005 and it won't be back in P-Town till 2013.

The main day to attend for workshops and presentations will be Saturday, however the whole event is well worth checking out.

Friday evening will be a presentation by someone who actually ran the whole trail, and Sunday will include some local hosted hikes (reservations required).

This spectacular trail stretches from Mexico to Canada for 2,650 miles and will take you through every type of geology and scenery that the Cascade Range has to offer.

Whether you're interested in learning about local day-hike destinations, or you want to hike the whole thing, this event is your premiere opportunity to collect information and network with knowledgeable people about this spectacular trail.

Go to the following link to learn more about Trailfest 2009: pcta.org/Trail_Fest_2009/Schedule_Highlights.asp

=========================================================

After growing up in the state of New York, Gerrit and his family moved to Oregon in 1996. As an experienced firefighter, Gerrit became a Lieutenant with Marion County Fire District #1. From there he made the decision to join the law enforcement community and undertook the necessary academy and training to become a Salem Police Officer. Then, after September 11th 2001, he joined the firefighters who went to New York's ground zero. Gerrit's experience in life is both awe-inspiring and honorable. When it comes to our Outdoor writers, Salem-News could not ask for more likable, uniquely qualified, energetic and down to earth people. Gerrit helps fill the void when it comes to articles about all of the amazing things Oregon has to offer to those who have a connection with nature; be it through hiking, fishing, photography, hunting, or so many other outdoor activities here.