Hikers forge their own paths on the Pacific Crest Trail

A monument marks the southern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail, which stretches from Canada to Mexico.

Recent fires in the area have caused gaps to form on the famed PCT. As a result, backpackers can take shuttles to go forward — or find their own way around.

Every year thousands take to the famed Pacific Crest Trail for one of the most famed hikes in Southern California.

The path is 2,650-miles and runs from Mexico to Canada and inspires the inner adventurer in everyone who makes the journey.

But previous wildfires that broke out along the trail, this trek isn't as straight forward as some may expect.

For more, we're speaking with Anitra Kass, Southern California Regional Representative for the Pacific Crest Trail Association.

To hear the full conversation, click the blue player above.

The audio incorrectly identifies Kass's organization as the Pacific Crest Trail Organization. It is actually the Pacific Crest Trail Association. KPCC regrets this error.