Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail — Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022

The larches are out and stunning! We arrived to the parking lot around 1:30pm on a Tuesday and got a spot in the lot. We hit the fully stocked toilets and headed up the trail with our packs. The water crossings are all very doable and the trail is in excellent condition . We encountered 40+ people coming down the trail. Everyone was so excited to see the larches and many said they wish they were spending the night.

The larches start appearing in earnest after 3 miles. I like the sense that you’re working to see them. The switchbacks up to the pass are breathtaking. When we arrived at the top the wind was picking up and we were hoping to find a somewhat sheltered campsite. There are spur trails both to the left and right that have a number of sites scattered throughout. We set up camp and had the pass to ourselves. The wind died down by morning and the sun was downright warm despite the chilly temperatures. Also, the wind had blown the smoke away from the surrounding peaks.

A note that the last true water source for humans is about 2.5 miles from the trailhead. So be prepared to get water there or pack it in.

It was magical to see the larches and surrounding peaks in various lights. We packed up camp and headed down the trail around 9:30. Encountered just as many folks coming up as we did the day before. A few unleashed dogs. Overall an amazing overnight that I highly recommend.