u/Specific_Date

PCT 2026 SOBO Mid-Summery
Made awesome German and American friends, and we formed a really fun trail family out here.
The night skies are incredible—way too many stars to ever see back home in Seoul. This is my first time visiting a Western country, and my first time in the US too.
I’m spending way too much money lol, but it is honestly such a priceless experience.
To every hiker out there on the trail: I love you guys! And tell me my feet aren't the only ones hurting right now? Haha

I am Jesse (Trail name Pinkman) from South Korea.

Hey everyone, I'm planning a PCT SOBO hike starting in early July. (Got b2 visa, and permit.)
I've been training on Korean trails the last few months with a ten-kilogram pack (about 20 Pounds and 4 liters of water included) and honestly, it's been pretty tough on my ankles, especially on the rockier climbs.

I'm curious if the PCT terrain is mostly like this, or if I should expect different conditions? I can share some pictures of my local hike if that helps

Terrain: Is the trail mostly manageable, smooth dirt/pebbles, or should I expect a constant grind of uneven, technical rocks where you have to watch every single step to avoid rolling an ankle?
The "Where & How Much": Roughly what percentage of the PCT is really rocky? Is it mostly concentrated in the Sierras, or is it a persistent issue throughout the whole trail?