Backpacking the Pacific Crest Trail and Beyond
Day 137: Snag Creek (Mile 2174.5)-Near Big Huckleberry Mountain (Mile 2197.5); 23 miles
We began the day with a 1500 foot climb, then immediately dropped, losing all the elevation we had just gained. Washington was already showing us its steepness and greenery.
Close to lunchtime, we ran into North Star’s friend Stephen coming towards us on the trail! We had arranged to meet him, but planning on-trail meetings can be challenging. We were excited that it worked out.
Day 129: Near North Cinder Peak (Mile 2025.5)-Near Ruddy Hill (Mile 2049); 23.5 miles
A doe and her fawn visited us early in the morning, snacking on some of the nearby flowers.
In a few miles, we reached Russell Creek. Our map marked this creek as a possible ford. We were surprised to find the creek buried under a few feet of snow. Instead of walking through the water, we walked above it on a snow bridge. A solid snow bridge works as well as a wooden one.
Day 121: Near Tipsoo Creek (Mile 1869.5)-Near Timpanogas Lake (Fire detour, off trail); 28 miles
Since it was North Star’s 28th birthday, we decided to walk 28 miles. We began the day on the PCT, but a couple miles in, the trail was closed due to a forest fire. We were prepared and already had the map of the reroute, which initially led us through a forested area.
As the detour continued, it turned off a trail and onto a gravel road.
Wandering the Wild 