The journey actually begins on the gravel, windy road that leads you up one of the highest roads in Washington to Hart’s Pass and the PCT trailhead. Beautiful alpine meadows, rugged ridges and mountain peaks of the Paysayten Wilderness.
Route:
Follow the PCT north for about 18 miles to the junction with Rock Creek Trail #473. This section of the PCT offers incredible views and alpine meadows filled with wildflowers.
Follow the Rock Creek trail for 7-8 miles. This trail is not as well traveled as the PCT so keep an eye out for the trail as it crosses numerous streams and meadows.
Turn Right at the junction with TR #478/498 (Buckskin Ridge) and continue to follow the Buckskin Ridge Trail #498 for the remaining 16 miles. This high ridge trail passes by two beautiful mountain lakes and offers amazing views across the Middle Fork of the Pasayten River and the impressive peaks just beyond.
The trail dumps you out at the Slate Pass Trailhead just above where you started. Simply walk ¼ mile down the road to your car back at the PCT Trailhead.
