Section J of the PCT is a pretty popular backpacking route for Washington hikers. The trail travels exclusively through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness from Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass. I was ready to be back on trail and excited to traverse this exception section of Washington’s PCT.
hiking
-
-
I’ve had a number of hikers and non-hikers alike ask me what my routine is like when I’m on trail. I figured I’d share some of the details here, including morning stretches, ways to keep your brain busy, and my daily schedule.
-
After hiking the first half of the Washington Pacific Crest Trail, it was time to do some cross-Canada adventuring. One of my best and longest-standing friends was having a wedding vow renewal ceremony near his original family home in Newfoundland. While planning our trip, I had done a little bit of research on hiking in Newfoundland. I laid my sights on the East Coast Trail and decided to figure out how to hike a couple short segments.
-
Day 7: Powerline Corridor to Mirror Lake (13 miles)
Day 8: Mirror Lake to Snoqualmie Pass (8.3 miles)
My last couple days on trail for Section I passed in a bit of a blur. There were a lot of ups and downs, dirt forest roads, clear-cuts, douglas firs, and the occasional stream crossing to keep it interesting. -
Day 6: Blowout Mountain to Powerline Corridor. I woke up this morning to a windy, wet world. The cooler weather provided a bit of a relief from the sun. I also saw things a bit differently as I hiked my 15 miles for the day.
-
Day 4: Bear Gap to Arch Rock Spring. The views along today’s trail were awesome as I travelled along a crest a couple ridges east of Mount Rainier. The clear blue skies and unique terrain made for a fantastic day.
-
Before starting back onto the next section of the PCT, hubby and I spent a couple nights camping in Mount Rainier National Park. We had a picture perfect day of hiking in Sunrise.
-
Day 6: Junction Lake to Mosquito Creek.
The north end of Indian Heaven Wilderness was a beautiful area, but unfortunately choked in snow. I had a long tough day of snow travel, and newborn hungry mosquitoes. It was time to make a decision about whether to keep going. -
Day 5: Lava Bed Camp to Junction Lake
Today took me into the Indian Heaven Wilderness, a historic meeting area of local tribes and a gorgeous collection of lakes, ponds, tarns, and meadows. -
Day 4: Panther Creek to Lava Bed Camp
12 miles, 3000+ feet of elevation gain, only a handful of other hikers, and lots and lots of trees! Day 4 on trail was a challenging one, but also included some great rewards.