Left lot about 45 minutes before sunrise and only encountered a handful of others before reaching Cutthroat Pass. The larches are a spectrum from yellow-green to golden. Very few have turned straw color and begun to lose needles. They seemed more golden east of the passes and greener on the west side. I thought the stretch from Cutthroat Pass to Granite Pass was, by far, the best scenery. I guess I like rocks more than trees. And so, all these images are from the route between the two passes. The large rocky knob with a use trail to the top overlooking Granite Pass has amazing 180 degree views. Some clouds today mid-morning, but no smoke.
Trip Report
Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail — Monday, Oct. 6, 2025
North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20
Type of Hike
Day hikeTrail Conditions
Trail in good conditionRoad
Road suitable for all vehiclesBugs
No bugsSnow
Snow free
Comments
SKblonde on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Neat pictures DCHK.I was out there today and was wondering if I’d bump into you!
Posted by:
SKblonde on Oct 07, 2025 08:08 PM
dchk on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Missed you by that much, again. You would have easily seen my car parked on Monday... I had the post position right next to the trail sign and start. Perfect days for the hike. Looking at the forecast, maybe last sunny days for golden larches this year.
Posted by:
dchk on Oct 08, 2025 06:21 AM
SKblonde on Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail
Agreed, I knew Tuesday was going to probably be the last blue bird day with larches close to peak and they were stunning. I’m not gonna lie tho, I might try to get another one in since i’m off this week.
Posted by:
SKblonde on Oct 08, 2025 07:26 AM