Glacier Lake, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section J - Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass — Wednesday, Sep. 17, 2025

Out-and-back run up the PCT to Chikamin ridge, then followed the faint trail to Glacier Lake before returning to Snoqualmie.

PCT is in great shape and was surprisingly quiet, given the nice weather. Streams are dry through the high terrain, but there's still easy water access at Ridge Lake just a mile from the Katwalk.

Glacier Lake is a climber's trail, quite a steep descent from the PCT but otherwise easy enough to navigate. Recent trip reports give an accurate understanding of conditions. The lake itself is stunning - much cooler than the other Glacier Lake at the north end of Section J, in my opinion!

Air quality was ok but definitely hazy to the south and east, especially later in the day. As much as I love summer in the PNW, looking forward to a bit of rain!