American Ridge — Thursday, Aug. 4, 2005

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

Headed south from Crystal Mountain on the PCT, my buddy John and I ended up taking a side trip to American Lake--off the American Ridge trail, about 4 miles or so from Dewey Lakes (south of Chinook Pass) and just off the PCT. A charming lake it was. Green, darned warm, jumping fish and all framed by an inviting ridge line that looks down to the Cougar Lakes. We were the only ones there. Tread lightly--many of the campsites are under repair from apparent past use. The next day we continued the PCT slog to White Pass. An excellent trip--mind the horses if you're heading to White Pass on the PCT south--they're everywhere!