Directions to TH: Google directions to Cathedral Pass TH is accurate. The last 12 miles once you turn to Cle Elum Valley Rd/NF-4330 is all dirt road. No potholes, but still a little bumpy due to ripples on the road. Like the rumble strips you encounter in the highways. All vehicle types are ok
Parking Lot: The parking lot is pretty big. I got to the lot around 7:22a and I was the 3rd car there and by the time I came back around 4:30p, there were still a lot of spaces available. Though this was on a Friday.
Weather: Mostly clear skies with some clouds. Was cooler in the morning when I started. Maybe around the high 30s, but by the time I reached the car, temps were around the 60s. The ascent had nicer temps than the descent, but that was ok with me
Equipment I used: 10 essentials.
Water Usage: Brought 3 liters of water, but I only drank 1.5 liters. There are several water sources you can filter from on the trail. Starting a few feet from the TH. There are also several lakes and ponds to get water from. Though a couple of them looked nasty to even drink from.
Trail: Trail conditions to Cathedral Rock and Peggy’s pond were pretty great. There were no obstacles to overcome. No snow to walk on. A little muddy in some places, but not difficult to walk or go around it. The trail was pretty obvious to follow. The trail is mostly rocky with lots of roots. The ascent wasn’t too steep. Was more of a gradual incline and there were sections of the trail where it leveled off a bit and walked on pretty flat terrain. I’ve seen lots of campsites to choose from. The last trail section to Peggy’s Pond is where you really need to hike with caution. Once you see the trail sign that says, “Hiker Trail Trail closed to Pack and Saddle Stock.” This begins the last section of the trail to Peggy’s Pond. This section is pretty narrow and steep with lots of loose rock. Also some parts of this trail section are washed out and kind of tricky to maneuver. So be careful on this trail section.
Experience: I had a wonderful time. Weather was great. Cathedral Rock was nice. Peggy’s Pond was also nice and worth the time to go and see it.
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