PCT 2022 #10 Washington Finish

SNOQUALMIE PASS (mile 2394.1) to STEHEKIN (mile 2572.9). We were able to walk ourselves easily out of town back to the trail and its familiar sense of home. It is from this point that we come to realize that the “W” in Washington parallels the landscape. We climb, we descend, we climb and we descend again and again. We are softened from the flat forest walks of Oregòn and lower Washington and weakened slightly from the virus so the effort required to gain and lose elevation so consistently was a little rough. However, this hiking paradise, because of its rewarding views, inspired us onward. Sleep came easily that night.

It seems to me that the Washington part of the trail has more culverts and switchbacks than anywhere else. The land is steep and clear, water is abundant.

As we stop off at Stevens Pass to pick up our resupply the PCT hikers are huddling around trying to decide what to do about the new fire closure. The final 30 some miles to the terminus of the trail at the Canadian border in Manning Park has been closed due to wildfires in the area. Umph. It is difficult for some people to accept that they can’t properly conclude their journey as they had planned. Depressed faces on hikers surround us. Many leave for home. We pack up and head for Stehekin, 5 days down the line to reassess the situation.

The clarity of the sky and the colours of the world make me want to skip along the trail!

In pockets there remain protected old growth of firs and cedars along the Suiattle River. You feel hushed with awe as you pass them by, and oh so small. When these big trees blow down they create jungle gym scenarios involving heaving your body up, over and under to get around them.

Zip and Jobie going home with so much to reflect on! So thankful for family, each other, and life!