North Fork Sauk River, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section K - Stevens Pass to Rainy Pass — Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

This hike and these two days ended up being the perfect way to end a summer full of new and glorious adventures. Although I don't backpack by myself very often, when I do, I am reminded of the glory of the solitude and wonder of living in the midst of so much mountainous beauty. The first six miles of the North Fork Sauk trail is truly memorable with old growth forests and lush trail that is soft underfoot and always following the river. Just past Mackinaw Shelter (a fine break spot but not an inviting shelter), the trail starts to gain elevation and as it does, the magestic Sloan Peak comes into view as do the huckleberries, fall leaves and wildflowers! What a special time of year! I arrived at White Pass to stare in awe at the valley below and to plan future loop trips south. I then headed up the ridge to the summit of White Mountain where Glacier Peak burst into view. Incredible! And so I continued along the ridge to Red Pass as I enjoyed the views in all directions. I camped near Red Pass where I enjoyed a spectacular sunset. The next day, I hiked from Red Pass to the summit of Portal Peak and then to Point 6910 where I found a summit register! I returned from Red Pass via the PCT to the North Fork Sauk Trail and back to the trail head. This hike includes around 24 miles in two days on trail that was all new to me and it was pure joy.