Pacific Crest Trail: Washington Section I

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Section I of the Pacific Crest Trail is a 99-mile section between White Pass and Snoqualmie Pass, south of Seattle. This part of the trail features some of the state's most famous landmarks like Goat Rocks and Mount Rainier. Beginning in well-protected sub-alpine wilderness and descending into heavily-logged, privately-owned land, this stretch of the PCT offers a dramatic illustration of the effects of public land protection and private industry on Washington's landscape.

• Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)

In this section, the trail passes by the ancient volcanic remnants of the Goat Rocks Wilderness and right by Mt. Rainier, the most glaciated Peak in the lower 48 states. The journey features long stretches with alpine lakes, ponds and meadows with areas of old growth forest. The northern section is of a different character, and suffers from sun-exposed miles through long patches of logged slopes.

This is a point to point segment which requires a shuttle or car drop off in advance. The trail is suitable for running, hiking, backpacking, and backcountry camping. June through September are the ideal months to visit this area.

Highlights and mileages (Starting from White Pass heading north)

• 00.00 - White Pass
• 06.90 - Pipe Lake/Cowlitz Pass
• 15.50 - Fish Lake
• 28.90 - Chinook Pass
• 35.30 - Blue Bell Pass/Crystal Ski Resort
• 77.00 - Chinook Pass
• 87.00 - Mirror Lake
• 99.00 - Snoqualmie Pass