Hiked northbound Stevens Pass to Rainy Pass for six days. Lots of southbound hikers, great flowers everywhere, tons of marmots, plenty of water, only a few snowfields that were easy to cross (no microspikes needed).
Challenges:
- mosquitoes were out in force for the first thirty miles, particularly bad at lakes including Valhalla and Pear (enough to be tent-bound).
- tons of blowdowns, especially between Mica Lake and Suiattle Ridge.
- badly overgrown sections on both sides of Milk Creek (hold your hands in front of your face as you push through and keep your eyes on the rocky tread).
Caution: if you're Sobo, top off your water before starting the climb south of the Suiattle River. Saw a couple hikers who had run out and were struggling on the long, hot ascent. There's plenty of water at the top.
Best: well-maintained trail in the national park! Saw a 3-person Chelan County saw crew heading south from the Stehekin River, so some blowdowns might be gone in that area.
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