Absolutely stunning time of year to hike this trail. GO NOW! Endless meadows of wildflowers.
My dog and I left Seattle and arrived to the Chinook Pass Overlook TH at 8am. Both lots were 90% full. Privy was open and plenty of TP, but wouldn’t hurt to bring your own in case it runs out.
Since I was hiking with my dog, we did not do the whole loop. Instead, we continued on the PCT Southbound to Dewey lake and went for a wonderful alpine swim. If you choose to this, bring plenty of bug spray. I was okay since I used Permethrin on my clothing, but my poor dog was surrounded by mosquitoes when he was not in the water.
The obvious part but I’ll say it- this hike (the Naches loop part) is insanely popular. I’m glad we arrived so early to beat the crowds and heat.
The trail is pup friendly with a few water sources and mostly sand/dirt. PLEASE leash your dog. Not only is it the law, but these alpine meadows are extremely fragile. Off leash dogs running up and down the fragile meadows is disheartening to see. I asked a group of off leash dog owners to leash their dogs and they gave my the cold shoulder. A bummer to see no trail etiquette for people who think they’re above the rules.
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