Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) southbound from Willamette Pass (Highway 58) is like an old friend. I’ve hiked this almost every year for the last 5-6 years, and this is the third year for a September day hike (2022, 2021). This section of the OR PCT is fast, very well maintained and easy to notch 20-25 miles / day. A great day hike to lose one’s mind in the woods.
The Route
Started at Trapper Creek TH around 6:45 and went first SOBO on PCT as far as the Mountain Stream, and then reversed NOBO and taking the last few miles on Yoran Lake trail.
Humans were few; a total of 6 the entire day. 2 PCT SOBO hikers and 4 local campers. Wildlife was scarce, but the weather perfect. Right after crossing the railroad tracks from the TH, Trapper Creek needs to be crossed – the bridge is a balance test.
The Ponds and Lakes
Both on the way up to higher elevations and above the trees, there are lakes and ponds scattered the entire way. In September, the water can be low and hardly drinkable; but earlier in the summer, they are bug factories that create 6-legged hells.
Above the trees
Diamond Peak Wilderness is not atypical OR Cascades, but smaller than Hood or South Sister. The right lower corner photo is the Mountain Stream starting from a spring in the mountain side … wonderful clean water.
Looking north
South Sister, North and Broken Top in the distance had very little snow – surprisingly after all the snowpack this year. Odell Lake (where I started) contrasts the scars from ski resort.
Tough life
Fireweed blooms held on to summer with all they got, and fungi with the muscles to move dirt.
That “bridge” looked a bit tricky!!!!