I got skunked on the Wonderland Trail lottery so the backup is this 71 mile backpack on the PCT. I got the latest Halfmile data but looking for any additional info. I am also looking for shuttle options from SeaTac. Looks like there are plenty of commercial shuttlesi n the Redmond area but if I can help out someone focused on hikers and have them help me its always a plus. This would be in September after Labor day so presumably a bit less busy.
Looking at the profile its a ridgeline hike in the south end while the north end is in the rain shadow of the higher summits immediately to the west. My thought is plan it both ways and when we fly in look at the 10 day forecast and pick the best weather days for the south end due to potential weather exposure. The Mountaineers Steven Pass lodge sounded like a nice but funky place to stay, but their website lists it as closed due to Covid with no indication of when it will reopen. Halfmile lists it as open to the thru hikers later in the season. Anyone know which is true, we dont need it, just a taste of a west coast AMC hut.
Any particular must stop campsites?. Seems to be a lot of small lakes on the north end. My assumption is that this is section used by horsepackers as there are a few established trail camps. I did a hike years ago south of there (South of Whites Pass) on the PCT and once I got used to walking in dried up horsemanure on occasion I got spoiled by the incredibly well graded trail bed. I used to hiking the rocky trails in the whites so if I know its smoother sailing on the PCT, I can be bit more optimistic on daily miles.
Any help or opinions would be appreciated.