An inspiring day, hiking from pass to pass to pass beneath steep mountain ridges.

For two days I hiked almost exclusively uphill. I’d ascend over 5000 feet from the trailhead just north of Stehekin through Bridge Creek Valley, up into Rainy Pass and then a big climb to the top of Cutthroat Pass.

After a challenging couple days I was ready for a break. Instead of hiking the long detour trail to Stehekin, I left Holden by bus to join my husband and friends on the Lake Chelan ferry. I was grateful to be with my friends and to have time off to rest, recuperate and to explore the unique town of Stehekin.

Taking the detour to avoid the fire meant climbing through one more pass. It was worth it though for the beauty on the other side! The alpine lakes were gorgeous and the trail took me to a touch of civilization in Holden Village.

One of my highest mile days around Glacier Peak included a young bear, old trees, rivers and creeks. It was an easy mileage day, but ended with a bit of unnerving news…

Halfway through Section K on the Pacific Crest Trail! I found myself on a roller-coaster of a trail, passing through river valleys and over wildflower filled ridges.