Short version:
Great early season weekend base camp backpacking trip. Revel in the incredible views, but bring bug nets for the mosquitos.
Report:
We were looking for spot to backpacking to in the North Cascades region. We wanted to hike in on Friday and set up base camp, hike around on Saturday, and head out Sunday morning. Being early season (June) We didn't want to camp very high due to the snow level. We were really happy we chose Cutthroat pass. The hike in had beautiful mountain and forest views with mixed shade and a fantastic trail. Of course there were roots and rocks, but no trees, no difficult water crossings, no washouts etc. Wildflowers and birds were abundant with tons of green huckleberries which won't be ripe for a while still. Cutthroat lake was a lovely short side trip. You're not allowed to camp within 1/4 mile of the lake but you wouldn't want to anyway due to the mosquitos! Trail traffic was light up to the lake, and and even fewer between the lake and the pass.
We found a nice established campsite about 4 miles from the trailhead with ideal locations for our three tents and room for more if it had been needed. The next day we hiked up to the PCT and at the junction there was an established campsite with panoramic views, but it looked like it would be too windy for my taste. We explored the PCT going both North and South. There were gorgeous views both directions, but going North there were several significant snowfields across the trail that we were able to safely cross, but would no doubt be a deal breaker for some.
Water:
There were several very good water sources near Cutthroat lake, and more closer to the PCT junction. We didn't find any going North for several miles, but there was an excellent stream about half a mile South of the junction.
Bugs:
Mosquitos were relatively bad in many areas. When we were stopped we were very happy to have closed toe shoes, long sleeved clothes, and bug nets for our heads/necks.
A very enjoyable trip to be sure!
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