CBSA closes Pacific Crest Trail to American border crossers

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced it will no longer issue permits to American hikers who wish to use the Pacific Crest Trail as a port of entry into B.C.

The Pacific Crest Trail is a hiking and equestrian route that follows the length of the Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, eventually crossing the border between B.C. and Washington state.

The CBSA says hikers who wish to complete the Canadian portion of the trail will have to present themselves to a designated port of entry.

The government says the change will enhance border security and align with U.S. Customs and border protection rules that bar Canadians from entering the United States on the trail.

The CBSA will monitor the compliance of trail users, forcing those who want to enter Canada on the trail to turn around and visit the nearest ports of entry at Osoyoos or Abbotsford.

The Pacific Crest Trail Association based in Sacramento, Calif., issued a statement saying the change was “disappointing news,” but the group appreciates the fact the new policy aligns with the American approach.

The group advises hikers and horse riders to turn around after reaching the northern terminus of the trail at the Canada-U.S. border.

—With files from The Canadian Press