Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail — Wednesday, Jul. 23, 2025

Hiked up to spend the night in my hammock to get Milky Way Photos during the new moon.  I was not disappointed, as the clouds dissipated as the evening went on.  I had the whole pass to myself as there were no other overnighters.  What a peaceful, otherworldly night.  Mosquitoes were bad, but controllable with lots of DEET! 

I really like this hike as I think it is the friendliest hike in the area. Very gradual incline almost the whole way through beautiful forests with streams and small waterfalls. It doesn't feel like a 5 mile hike. All streams are easily crossed this time of year.

 The first third of the hike is a gradual incline through forest until you get to Porcupine Creek.  After crossing, you slowly assent through the forest with small waterfalls and minimal switchbacks until you reach the final climb to the pass. Many switchbacks soften the climb. Water is scarce this time of year, so I got a gallon of water at the last nice stream to carry the last mile or so.  There is a small spring near the top of the pass that is almost dried up, but was flowing better than last week, due to a recent rain. You should not rely in it in August or later. The views from the top of the pass are world class and you can spend hours exploring the area.

The nighttime skies were amazing. Being able to watch the Milky Way float by while alone in the wilderness was a magical experience. I even saw bats the size of ravens flying around, hopefully, devouring mosquitoes!

Throughout the day, I only saw a handful of hikers and only 11 all the way down the next morning.  This is a highly recommended day hike.