PCT Day 166 – A Four Pass Day

Rainy Pass (mile 2591) to Brush Creek (mile 2609)

We leave Rainy Pass under patchwork blue skies which have clouded over into a bubbling grey quilt by the time we reach the top of the first climb. This far north the tree line has dropped to 6,000 feet, affording us an unimpeded view from the top of Cutthroat Pass. Rock spires crowd the ridgelines, black against tan, looking like peaking waves made stone. All the more imposing for the heavy clouds that push to the horizon and begin to sprinkle the lightest rain as we descend and then climb again towards Methow Pass. It would seem that the ominous weather forecast we received from the USFS ranger was correct. Falling temperatures and rain which may turn to snow at higher elevations are quickly approaching, the sort of weather that can slam shut the season. I’m all the more grateful we are so close to the finish.

With each pass the wind is a little more wild, the clouds heavier and darker. By mid afternoon it feels almost like nightfall. Yet despite this, I find myself lingering at the top of each pass, the more impressive views stacking up behind me rather than ahead. Though, with less than 60 miles left until we reach Manning Park in British Columbia, perhaps there is no better metaphor made physical.