Greenwater and Echo Lakes, Arch Rock & Government Meadows — Monday, Jul. 16, 2012

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

As a training and equipment test hike for the Wonderland Trail, this seemed like a good candidate - similar elevation and a good climb. The dog and I started at 8am, we were at Echo Lake by noon, and to the PCT by 3:30pm. I had planned on camping at Arch Rock, but it was so early and low on water, I went on to Government Meadow (a tough 19 mile day). As usual, the trail to Echo Lake was great - well maintained, etc. Other than being a little buggy at the lake, it was perfect and snow free. The camp site on the south end of the lake where the river comes in is ideal. Trail #1187 to the PCT was everything expected - namely steep! Contrary to previous reports, I didn't have any route-finding problems except when I hit patches of snow at 5,400 ft. A keen eye could have done it, but the GPS came out for the first time here. Note: When you get to the meadow with the sign naming the PCT, look left for the cairns across the meadow (this is Airplane Meadow). I didn't see a single person the whole time. I was disappointed with the PCT (#2000) between junction and Government Meadow. I had expected more views. The travel was flat and easy, though. There is no significant water for this stretch, so either stock up or take advantage of the runoff streams when you can. I ended up without water for 6 miles before Government Meadow. Also, pay attention at Arch Rock. There are several side trails that can take you off the main trail. Again, GPS is handy. I ran into one young guy who is doing the Washington section of the PCT (Go Eric!). I had planned on camping Government Meadow was gorgeous! There were elk in the meadow when we got there, flowers were starting to bloom, and the cabin is in great shape (even though the dog and I slept in the tent in order to watch the stars and catch the sunrise). Other than two ATV riders who walked by to use the pit toilets, we had the meadow to ourselves. Starting down the Naches Trail (#1175), I expected an easy morning. I was wrong. Except for coming up on three elk, this was the worst! Most of the trail is really a Forest Service Road (rocky, muddy, uneven, uninteresting). There were no markers, so this was the hardest section to navigate. I don't think I could have done it with just a compass. The last .5 mile changes into a VERY steep and unmaintained trail that I would not recommend going up. The sign says that the Longmire Party lowered wagons down this 1000' in the 1850's. Incredible. I don't know how else I would have looped back to the trailhead, but I'll find a different way next time. Overall, it was a really good trip and great preparation. I was worth it for the meadows alone. In my opinion, a better trip would have been to camp at Airplane Meadow or Arch Rock and then backtrack down by Echo and Green Lakes.