In Memory of June Mulford: PCT Equestrian Pioneer
It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of pioneering Pacific Crest Trail equestrian and Pacific Crest Trail Association Legacy Society member June Mulford.
June and her husband, Don, were the first to ride the entire PCT in a single season. They completed their monumental 2,400-mile journey over five months and one week in 1959, long before the PCT became the well-maintained and well-traveled trail it is today. The only thing predictable was the trail's regular disappearance from maps and the ground.
On April 19, 1959, Don and June Mulford saddled up. They took everyone's refrain—"Can't be done"—and threw it to the wind. Starting at the Mexican border, Don, June and their four horses set off to thru-ride the PCT through California, Oregon and Washington. They carried both movie and still cameras to document the trip.
June recalled their adventure in an episode of Oregon Public Broadcasting's series Oregon Experience entitled "Pacific Crest Trail: A Ride to Remember," which includes original footage along with June's storytelling.
June passed away in Vancouver, Washington, on May 21, 2021. Thank you, June—for your contagious enthusiasm for the trail, for your boundless energy, and for the many ways you supported the trail and inspired trail users young and old. You'll be greatly missed.
With a gift in your estate plan, you can ensure the Pacific Crest Trail is protected and maintained for future generations. Contact Angie Williamson at 916-285-1849 or awilliamson@pcta.org to explore your options.
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