We packed up our gear and headed to the Landing at Stehekin around 7:30 this morning. We and about 20 other hikers are heading back to the trail. On a good note, the shuttle did stop again at the amazing bakery, where everyone loaded up on sticky buns, cinnamon rolls, and other pastries.
It was past 9am by the time we were ready to hike. Today is a day that both Balance and I have been waiting for since the start of our trip. We spend the entire day hiking through the North Cascades National Park. A favorite park of ours, one that we have visited many times, because Rosemary is a ranger in the park (Balance's sister).
We did have to climb 2600', but it was gradual and the trail was in good condition. Best of all, the weather was perfect. The next few days look to be nice. We know firsthand how rainy the weather can be here, so we feel lucky to have a nice stretch of weather now.
After close to a 20 mile day, we crossed highway 20 at Rainy Pass. We have been here many times as well. We even biked over this pass during our 2008 Northern Tier cross country bicycle tour. What a feeling, being at Rainy Pass. 60 more miles to the Canadian border. I can feel goosebumps at the sound of that.
Just last year Stef (Balance's dad), Balance, and I hiked this next section from Rainy Pass to Cutthroat Pass and it had amazing scenery. We are excited about tomorrow.
Hikers loading on the shuttle from Stehekin to High Bridge (PCT).
Balance showing off her name crossing the ford.
We had to detour around this mangled bridge that got damaged in a flood.
Even more Balance.
Rainy Pass at sunset.
The PCT crosses Highway 20 at Rainy Pass.
We camped just past the Rainy Pass trailhead parking lot, in a horse camp. It was getting dark and cold so we wanted to set up camp. Other hikers we know are also camping here.
Familiar sights!
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