The hike into Stevens Pass is not easy but it is short. Going up grades more than 8% is still very difficult and today ranges from 8 to 12. It feels great to make it to Stevens under my own power and not in a helicopter with a broken arm. I get there about noon and there is a crowd of PCT’ers going both north and south that are taking a break here. There is a nice lodge here that is not open and a restaurant that is not open but also importantly there are restrooms that are open. There are chairs to sit on and tables to sit at and both are nice.
Once again, I have a good nights sleep except for hearing the cussing every once in awhile that the campsite is not available. In the morning I look around an notice how beautiful it is. I never notice at the end of the day. I am too tired to notice. In the morning, I am always amazed.
Morning Star over Surprise MountainI’m above the fray. Thunder Mountain out there
Already packed up but the picture below shows my campsite. Yes it is very rocky here BUT the rocks on the trail here at least do not move underneath your feet.
Campsite
About 9 I am looking down at Trap Lake. The PCT does not go down there but looks like a nice place to hang out for awhile.
Trap Lake
About 11 I am walking through a meadow. Been awhile since the hike was this easy.
A meadow??
I thought I might make it to Stevens Pass today. But, that was not going to happen. I am 5 miles away and just have to stop. I need water, I am tired, and I am by Lake Susan Jane. I find a campsite and go immediately to lake to slurp up some water with the lifestraw. I have about 5 miles tomorrow to get to Stevens Pass but there is a peak I have the climb along the way.
