pacific crest trail

We hike the PCT really early in the season at the trail head on snoqualmie pass. There was still plenty of snow covering the trail and even more as we got higher in elevation, eventually we started drifting on and off the trail. Our 8 mile intended journey turned into a 5 mile 9 hour hike. We didn't reach our destination due to the weather so we set up camp where we could and settled in for the night on a slope on the side of the mountain. Dangerous, scary, and stupid. However the view the next morning was breath taking. Definitely a great learning experience and make sure you hike certain sections of the PCT during the right times.

I've only hiked a few sections of the PCT - Rainy Pass to Canada and again around the Harts Pass area. The trail is very well maintained. There are trail crews out there every Spring clearing blow downs, re-routing wash-outs where necessary and the grade is usually moderate - at least in my experience. Because the trail was originally a horse trail the grade is not as intense as some other trails. The section from Harts Pass to Rainy Pass is very scenic. You can even drive to Harts Pass (highest road in WA) and car camp. From there you can do some day hiking. The trail is generally high and views can be breathtaking. One fun over-nighter is to hike about 8 miles North from Hart's Pass. Great views as you already have the elevation from the drive. Slate Peak is a short distance from the Ranger Station. If you drive up to the lookout be prepared for a very tricky maneuver to turn your vehicle around. As you walk to the lookout pay attention to the rock in the road cuts. The rock is filled with fossils (shells). There is also a ghost town near Harts Pass. Lots of fun to be had in this little slice of the PCT. If you are up there late season and see some emaciated, smelly hikers moving quickly they may be "thru-hikers" finishing their trek from the PCT Southern terminus at the Mexican Border. Consider offering them some food in exchange for some stories about their 3-5 month hike. They will consider you a "trail angel" and you will be entertained with some interesting stories from their great adventure. Maybe they will inspire you to make the trek someday.