Day 1 Washington PCT section hike- pct miles 2148.2- 2161.0
I’m finally back on the PCT! After being off trail for two months, it was great to start hiking again. In the morning I took a bus from Portland to Cascade Locks, a trail town on the Oregon side of the Columbia River. The trail crosses the river on the Bridge of the Gods, a narrow steel bridge without any pedestrian sidewalks. Thankfully the traffic was moving slow so it wasn’t too scary.
The first several miles were full of ripe blackberries, which slowed me down a little bit as I snacked. The trail mostly went through forest with the occasional clearing. In these clearings I was able to get the first views of Mt Hood and Mt St Helens. I came across many thru hikers and section hikers, but so far I haven’t recognized anyone from the desert section.
Most of the day was a steep uphill, going from around sea level to over 3000 feet. Around 10 miles in I came to a surprise water carry of 9 miles. Not wanting to push for the next water source, I filled up with enough to camp at the top of the climb. I set up camp at mile 2161, a total of 12.8 for the day.
Have fun, be safe!
ReplyDeleteOnwards! Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteSo cool Ian! Good luck and great adventures!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy my dear
ReplyDeleteI can see by your smile that you’re happy to be back at it.😁
ReplyDeleteGreat start! So happy to be following your adventures once again! Have fun and be careful👍😊
ReplyDeleteSounds like you are off to a good start, it was great to see you in Everett. Happy Trails.
ReplyDelete