Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail — Friday, Jul. 18, 2025

What a beautiful hike! Please note there are two main ways to Cutthroat Pass: 1) via the Rainy Pass trailhead along the PCT (this route) and 2) via the Cutthroat Lake trailhead (which is further east on Highway 20 after Washington Pass); the latter route would pass Cutthroat Lake. If you are not carpooling with your hiking buddies, make sure everyone is on the same page about your meeting spot.

The forest road to the parking lot is very short once off Highway 20. There are potholes but these are navigatable in any type of vehicle when driving slowly. Restrooms at the trailhead are clean and stocked with toilet paper, an air freshener, and a small garbage can. Bugs were an annoyance at the trailhead and at the pass; these were less problematic when actively moving along the trail. 

The trail itself is well maintained and gently graded. It winds through the forest. It looks like there's a western spruce budworm infestation affecting many of the trees. There are multiple small creek crossings and a few small waterfalls to filter water if needed. Once out of the forest, the wildflowers are in full bloom, and there are sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. We even saw the uncommon white paintbrush. There's no snow or major obstacles. Up at the pass there are multiple spots for lunch as well as small campsites higher up. This would be a lovely spot to return to in the fall!