The PCTA was first chartered as the Pacific Crest Trail Conference in 1977. PCTA is the only nonprofit organization dedicated solely to protecting the entire Pacific Crest Trail through California, Oregon and Washington. Money donated through memberships, private and corporate gifts and government grants is used to organize and train thousands of volunteers who keep the trail safe and passable for hikers and horseback riders. PCTA staff and volunteers advocate for the trail and the surrounding landscape with government land managers and decision makers. They monitor development and resource extraction projects and ensure the trail is considered and protected. PCTA promotes the trail to increase public support for the resource and the value it provides. And through volunteer and educational programs, PCTA brings young people to the trail, creating tomorrow’s stewards and advocates.