What follows is a select, annotated bibliography of practical, informative and inspirational readings devoted to the Oregon and Washington sections of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Three Sisters Wilderness

Fire and Ice: The Geology of the Pacific Northwest
By Stephen L. Harris
Seattle: The Mountaineers, 1976.

Harris provides a peak-by-peak description of each of the Cascade volcanoes, all of which are familiar sights to PCT hikers. For each peak he provides a clear explanation in language digestible by amateurs of its geological and its recorded volcanic history. His description is blended with material from Indian folklore and early pioneer accounts. If you want to understand what you're seeing in Oregon and Washington, this is the book for you.

Washington's South Cascades Volcanic Peaks
By Marge G. and Ted Muellar
Seattle: The Mountaineers, 1995.

The evolution of each major Cascade volcano is clearly explained. Information about access points as well as climbing and hiking routes makes this an excellent source of information for"Peak Baggers."

Washington Mountain Ranges
By Robert U. Steelquist
Helena, Montana: American Geographic Publishing, 1986.

Contains beautiful full-page pictures of the mountains, plants and animals of Washington's major ranges. These are combined with explanations of the geology and ecosystems of the state. Another good orientation to what you will see along the PCT.