Washinton and Walker pass to Big Bear city

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#1

I plan on hiking the PCT across Washington starting at Cascade Locks, OR around July 8th. Do I need to bring an Ice Ax? I heard Goat Rocks can have some snowed in areas. I also wondered if I should buy some instep crampons since I fell twice last year in the sierras. I guess the bugs will be really bad too at that time of year there.

At the end of May I plan to go from Walker Pass CA south to Big Bear city where I will catch a flight to Portland Or. Any tips for this So Cal segment? Am a little worried about the first 150 miles if it is hot and the trail and water is hard to find in some places. I am taking classes so I can’t start any earlier.

Pika

#2

The Northwest has been getting snow, and is supposed to get more. Some ski runs are open now, and some highways closed. It is too soon to tell what wil happen here, but I think July 8 is a fine time to start north from the Columbia. The Goat Rocks will have some snow, but I suspect it won’t be much. I wouldn’t bother with crampons. Everyone falls down in the Sierra. I fell exactly 109 times, so only falling twice makes you very stable footed.

Walker Pass south to Big Bear should be fairly pleasant for a while. The first 150 miles should be quite enjoyable, as you may have some flowers and it may not be bastard hot yet. Water is spaced fairly far out, but isn’t super bad. And, you’ll run into northbound hikers who can fill you in on the waer situation.

Remember that the sun will eat you alive. Cover up and leave the sunscreen for your neck and hands. Big hat, long sleeved shirt, and long pants. Wear running shoes, not trail runners. Cook only when you are at water, never haul water for cooking. This means you will rarely sleep at a water source, but it also frees you to find some gorgeous campsites.

Suge