Beautiful day on the PCT!!
Arrived at the trailhead at 7:30am on a holiday weekend. Snagged the last spot in the main parking lot (right up front - score!). Trailhead privy was clean and stocked with TP.
Trail was in beautiful condition, no obstacles. Cleanest trail I've been on in the Snoqualmie Pass area recently.
Elevation gain is steady throughout but never steep. The last ~400ft of vertical gain up to the pass was, deceptively, a butt kicker on tired legs. It is all open talus and would be hot in the peak of the day. I was glad for my early start which afforded me shade during this stretch.
The Katwalk itself was busy but wide enough for hikers going opposite directions to pass comfortably. A beautiful place to rest and have a bite to eat! The chipmunks were bold and came right up to me looking for handouts (sorry buddy, no can do!).
One thing to mention is that there are not a lot of opportunities to stock up on water. The small stream at 4300ft / 3.3mi from the trailhead is really your last chance before Gravel and Ridge Lakes which is quite a trek. The talus slopes are hot and exposed and I saw a lot of thirsty dogs. Make sure to bring enough water for yourself and your pups!
Saw a good number of people during my 6.5hrs on the trail, mostly at the Katwalk. On the hike up and down there was plenty of space to enjoy some solitude for decently long stretches of time.

Comments
chilge on Kendall Katwalk
Oh and how could I forget?! Ripe blueberries!! The ones growing on open sunny skies are sweeter than the ones in the shade. :)
Posted by:
chilge on Aug 30, 2025 07:25 PM
chilge on Kendall Katwalk
slopes*
Posted by:
chilge on Aug 30, 2025 07:26 PM