Field trip: Conditioning Hiking Series

CHS 2 Hike - Pacific Crest Trail: Snoqualmie Pass to Windy Pass

CHS hike led at a CHS 2 pace (2.0-3.0 mph) This out-and-back hike follows the Pacific Crest Trail south out of Snoqualmie Pass to lovely Olallie Meadow, a place to see native carnivorous sundew plants, and on to Windy Pass. While we are on the PCT, the trail has moderate elevation gain and loss. At Windy Pass, we will leave the PCT to climb Mount Catherine! Where can you find unobstructed views of Mount Rainier and the mountains of Snoqualmie Pass and go berry-picking, all in return for a modest 1330-foot elevation gain? Mount Catherine, of course! This off-the-beaten-path summit hike is one of the most rewarding climbs along the southern wall of Snoqualmie Pass. When you reach the top, from left to right, Mount Rainier, Tinkham Peak, and Silver Peak dominate the view. To the east, in the distance, is Mount Stuart. North of you lie Chair Peak, Kaleetan Peak, Red Mountain, and Snoqualmie Mountain. To the northwest, if you squint, you can make out the fire lookout atop Granite Mountain. And to the southeast is glorious blue Keechelus Lake. Note: There is a cable to assist with the last 20 feet of ascending Mount Catherine. This final 20 feet is a completely optional part of the hike.