Norovirus Outbreak Spreads Along Pacific Crest Trail in California, Causing Dozens of Hikers to Suddenly Fall Ill
A norovirus outbreak has affected hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail in California, particularly near Wrightwood. The outbreak has resulted in several confirmed cases and numerous others experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. Public health officials are investigating the source of the outbreak, which may be linked to a water cache in Swarthout Valley.
- ▪The norovirus outbreak began around May 8, 2026, with seven hikers diagnosed and many others reporting symptoms.
- ▪Public health experts are monitoring the situation and investigating the potential source of the outbreak.
- ▪Water caches along the trail may contribute to the spread of norovirus, prompting the Pacific Crest Trail Association to advise caution.
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For dozens of hikers in California, a sudden outbreak of norovirus has soured excursions on the Pacific Crest Trail. The contagion started to circulate along a stretch of the trail near the mountain village of Wrightwood, just 77 miles northeast of Los Angeles, in early May, leaving seven hikers infected with norovirus and several others dealing with debilitating gastrointestinal symptoms. Local hikers are now raising questions on where the outbreak began and how it spread. Many suspect that it may be linked to a water cache in Swarthout Valley, where Good Samaritans known as “trail angels” leave water and other resources for hikers. While the source of the outbreak hasn’t been confirmed yet, public health experts are actively monitoring the situation in hopes of finding answers.
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