Did a day hike from the trailhead up to the PCT and back.
Small branch lying across part of the road but easy to maneuver around.
Trail is snow free and shaded most of the way, only the last mile of the climb is exposed. I had a breeze at 11a and it was only 70 (60 in the shade). Pretty good hike for a hot day
Several small creeks cross the trail before you get to the climb which starts around 5-6 miles in, right after the camp. The footbridge across a larger creek has a few missing handrails but is manageable. Didn't see any water on the 3mi climb except towards the bottom (down a sketchy chute), and towards the top (small creeks crossing the trail).
Wildflowers are out in force, starting when you get to the exposed area on the climb. Amazing!
Bugs weren't bad, a few at the trailhead but otherwise pretty pleasant.
Saw about 50/50 backpackers and climbers. Not too crowded though.
Beautiful area! I was scouting paths to the PCT for a future section hike and this is a pretty nice access route (although the climb up is steep).
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Comments
Kjmorty on North Fork Sauk River
I hiked this route last year to the PCT and then down to Steven’s Pass. The 3 mile climb was the hardest of the whole trip. Once on the PCT, it was a nice and pleasant and easy to get 20 miles a day.
Posted by:
Kjmorty on Jul 19, 2025 05:28 AM