Canada Blocking Pacific Crest Trail Hikers from Crossing the Border

Canada is no longer allowing Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikers to cross into the country at the trail’s northern terminus in E.C. Manning Provincial Park without first presenting themselves at a designated port of entry. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced the change on Monday, stating that it aligns with U.S. policy, which already prevents southbound hikers from entering the country via the trail.

“The CBSA announced today it is discontinuing the issuance of permits to enter Canada on the Pacific Crest Trail without presenting yourself to a port of entry. This change will facilitate monitoring of compliance of trail users, enhance security at the border, and aligns with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) who does not allow travellers to enter the U.S. from Canada on the trail,” the agency said in its January 27 news release.

The Pacific Crest Trail stretches approximately 4,265 kilometres from Mexico to Canada, with a 13-kilometre extension into British Columbia. Under the new policy, hikers wishing to complete the Canadian portion must now first enter Canada through an official border crossing, such as Osoyoos or Abbotsford.

Northbound thru-hikers will now need to backtrack about 30 miles to the nearest road crossing at Harts Pass. Those who still want to hike into Canada must travel separately to one of the designated ports of entry before continuing on the trail.

The Pacific Crest Trail Association called the decision “disappointing” but acknowledged that it reflects long-standing U.S. policy. The organization advised hikers to turn around at the Northern Terminus and urged them to follow Leave No Trace principles, as this section of the trail will now see increased use.

This decision comes amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Canada. The White House has threatened tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports unless both countries take stronger action to prevent unauthorized crossings. Meanwhile, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police has increased border enforcement, deploying new Black Hawk helicopters.