Many larches are now golden, with lots changing and some yet to change. So go within the next two weeks if you wish to see golden larches this year.
Had a spectacular hike today up to the Pass for lunch and then back - 11.7 miles according to Apple health. I didn’t expect much in terms of golden larches but with no opportunities to go next weekend and with a blue sky forecast today, just decided to do this fun hike anyways. Coming in from the Eastside, smoke was noticeable in Newhale, Diablo Lake and Ross Lake, but by the time we exited the car at the trailhead, the air was clear. Fall foliage is peaking right now with reds, oranges, yellows, bright greens and golds shining through along with our regular dark greens. The rockcress(?) was especially gorgeous. Trail in great shape, no bugs, perfect time to go!
Trip Report
Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail — Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022
North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20
Type of Hike
Day hikeTrail Conditions
Trail in good conditionRoad
Road suitable for all vehiclesBugs
No bugsSnow
Snow free
Comments
loveoflandscapes on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Super helpful report - thank you. I was thinking of backpacking up to the pass but wasn't sure of water sources near the pass given how dry it's been. Do you know if there any streams still running near/before the pass?
Posted by:
joyoflandscapes on Oct 01, 2022 09:17 PM
Jolee on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
The closest running stream I remember, was around the forest area just before the larches start to turn but below the major ascent up the main rise. I would estimate about 3 miles in, so you would still have to pack in water at least 2 miles up. I noticed at least 5 tents set up plus quite a few hikers with full packs and sleep mats attached, as we descended (starting around 11:15am). The stream at the final ascent area was not running; I remember that it was running last year.
Posted by:
Jolee on Oct 01, 2022 09:31 PM
loveoflandscapes on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Thank you - much appreciated!
Posted by:
joyoflandscapes on Oct 01, 2022 09:57 PM
blondeshellbuffy on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Did you have to wade through a creek ? The WTA description makes it seem like you do
Posted by:
blondeshellbuffy on Oct 02, 2022 06:14 AM
Jolee on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
You do cross creeks but all are running low this year and are easily crossed with any type of shoes. Some years the areas around the creeks are very muddy and you would risk getting your running shoes and socks wet if you’re not wearing hikers.
Posted by:
Jolee on Oct 02, 2022 07:35 AM
Juniverse on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
In order to see the larches in full effect do you think going 10/8 or 10/15 would be best? Thanks!
Posted by:
Juniverse on Oct 02, 2022 08:23 PM
Jolee on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Honestly - just go on the 8th. You risk a major storm system coming in or a wet and rainy weekend if you wait to the 15th, and then the overall fall colors will be much muted. And try to get to the trailhead for 7:30/8am - the light is better as the sun rises and the trail will not be as dusty or hot.
Posted by:
Jolee on Oct 02, 2022 08:47 PM