Ventured out for a two night overnight along the Pilot Ridge Loop. Here are some highlights from the ~30 mile trip:
Day 1 - Trailhead to White Pass (Saturday, Sept 1)
- Forest road 49 was no problem. Some potholes and ruts, but passable by most vehicles with a bit of clearance.
- Trailhead was full of cars at 10 AM when we arrived. We encountered several groups planning to climb Glacier Peak and others planning to head north on the PCT.
- Hiking along Sauk River was pleasant, shaded, and mostly flat.
- We took a good rest after ~5 miles at what used to be the Mackinaw Shelter. It's completely collapsed now. There are some nice campsites here with access to the river where we pumped water.
- The switchbacks leading up to White Pass were brutal as we had read and exposed to the afternoon sun. We went slowly and took many breaks to regulate our body temperature. Gorgeous hillside though with wildflowers and blueberries galore.
- Before reaching White Pass we found about three little streams of water crossing the trail. Plenty for pumping water again.
- We found established camping below White Pass with a water source. Many parties had already arrived so we snagged one of the few remaining sites in the trees. Others who arrived after us had to camp out in the open.
- Watched an incredible sunset and turned in.
Day 2 - White Pass to Blue Lake (Sunday, Sept 2)
- Woke to see the sunrise from White Pass with views of Sloan Peak in the distance (pictured below).
- Enjoyed a wonderful day of ridge walking along the PCT and Pilot Ridge Trail. More heather, wildflowers, marmots, and blueberries.
- Did a quick side scramble up Kodak Peak and had incredible views of Glacier Peak, Indian Head, and even Mount Rainier!
- Chose to take the high route to Blue Lake which involved less mileage but more steep uphill switchbacks.
- Once at the saddle of the high route it's a very steep, dusty downhill to Blue Lake - poles are definitely recommended here.
- After a hot day on the exposed ridge, Blue Lake sparkled like a blue gem. We jumped in to cool off and found a great campsite near the water. It was another crowded night of camping with all sites taken, but folks were quiet and respectful of their surroundings.
Day 3 - Blue Lake to Trailhead (Monday, Sept 3)
- Got an early start to make our way back to the trailhead. From Blue Lake, we saw no water until we were back at the river so pump what you need before leaving the lake.
- From Blue Lake the trail climbs steeply to the ridge again. Lots of pleasant, open ridge walking but then there's a few miles of downhill which were tedious and painful on the knees.
- Lots of fascinating mushrooms to look at - many I'd never seen before.
- Once back the Sauk River, there's a log bridge to cross and then it was 2 quick miles back to the car.
- Celebratory burgers and shakes at Burger Barn in Darrington of course.
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