Crest Runner Pacific Crest Trail Association

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

October 9, 2026

Seasonal Employment Opportunity – Crest Runners (Two positions available)

Protecting the PCT experience and natural resources along the trail is largely dependent upon having well-informed, safe, and responsible trail users, providing real-time conditions, and collecting high-quality visitor use information data. One of the most effective ways to do this is through in-person contacts on the trail.

The Crest Runner serves as a key member of the PCT team, providing information and education to trail users while also collecting key visitor use data and information. The Crest Runner authentically engages with and supports trail users by providing information about the PCT and PCTA, local regulations, safe and responsible trail use and trail conditions. They also compile, collect, and report on visitor use data.

To accomplish this work, in Southern California the Crest Runners will spend most of their time hosting an information table at the Southern Terminus while also spending time hiking on the trail and interacting with trail users. In the Southern Sierra Nevada mountains, the Crest Runners will spend the majority of their time hiking and backpacking on the PCT between Kennedy Meadows and Mammoth Lakes, CA, sharing safe & responsible use information and collecting visitor use and permit data.

The Crest Runner season is from mid-February through mid-August with a regional transition typically occurring in May.

In this position, you will have the opportunity:

• Welcome PCT users to the PCT’s Southern Terminus to provide trail information and encourage safe & responsible use of the trail through tactics such as campsite selection, human waste disposal and dry camping considerations
• Provide information about the PCT including fire closures, snow levels, and local conditions
• Collect and report on visitor use data using standard protocols
• Conduct voluntary permit checks to collect information related to visitor use management and distribute PCT hang tags
• Work closely with PCTA staff, agency partners, and volunteers to understand visitor use management issues and develop strategies to reduce visitor use impact
• Effectively communicate visitor use management issues and strategies to local, national, and international users
• Day-hike and backpack along beautiful stretches of the PCT, often for multiple days at a time, interacting with and providing education to trail users

See full job description on our website at: https://www.pcta.org/about-us/jobs/

What makes you a great fit for this position?

• Minimum of one year of professional experience in a field that could include education, relationship building, interpretation, outdoor recreation, or other related fields
• Experience with long distance backcountry travel that required complex resupply logistics
• Experience and ability to camp self-reliantly in the backcountry
• Experience providing education and interpretation while interacting with the public
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to effectively communicate and interact with a wide range of people
• Ability to remain flexible and adapt to changing conditions in the field. A few specific considerations that may affect the duties of this position include environmental conditions such as snow and wildfires, among others.
• Ability to create a welcoming environment for all people
• Strong organizational skills and experience with data collection
• Ability to work as part of a small team
• Ability to work independently and be self-motivated

Desirable:

• Long-distance hiking experience greater than 500 miles
• Desert backpacking experience

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to day-hike and backpack up to 15 miles per day on the PCT and side trails, while carrying backpacking equipment and…