Frog Mountain
5 days ago
Fall color is arriving and peaking
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Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section J - Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass
Central Cascades
updated 1 month ago
Reports from July and August 2026 indicate that Section J of the Pacific Crest Trail, from Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass, has a significant number of blowdowns and overgrown sections, particularly between Deception Lakes and Deception Pass, and on the ascent of Escondido Ridge. While most obstacles are manageable, they can be time-consuming. Water crossings at Waptus River and Lemah Creek have had bridges out, requiring wading. Some reports mention difficult stream crossings, though others found them passable with poles or by rock hopping. Snow is no longer an issue. Road conditions vary, with some reports stating suitability for all vehicles, while others recommend high clearance or note roughness.
Generated from 28 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.
What hikers ask about Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section J - Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass
Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 1 month ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.
No trip reports on this trail in 1 month, so everything below is at least that old.
The bridge at Waptus River is out and requires wading, with reports describing it as hip-deep but without whitewater. The bridge across Lemah Creek is also out as of July 2, 2026.
This section has a significant number of blowdowns, described as the worst section of downed trees. While manageable, they can be annoying and slow down hikers. This was noted as of July 2, 2026 and August 11, 2026.
One report from July 2, 2026 described the crossing between Deception Pass and Cathedral Pass as 'gnarly,' requiring wading through hip-deep whitewater. Another report from July 17, 2026 mentioned a tricky stream crossing a few miles south of Deception Pass that could be navigated with logs over the stream.
Beyond the blowdowns and brush, the PCT is generally in good condition. Reports from July 31, 2026 and July 17, 2026 indicate great shape with stunning views, though some sections had minor obstacles like rocks requiring scrambling.
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Trail notes generated from recent reports. Conditions change fast.
Sources
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West
Through-hike the Alpine Lakes and Henry M. Jackson Wilderness, from Tucquala Meadows to Stevens Pass North. Planned as a 4-day trip but turned into 5 once we got a jump start the first evening; about ...
Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass
Due to Three Queens Fire, many trails on the Cle Elum Ranger district and within the Alpine Wilderness are closed.Closure Order 06-17-03-2026-32Thank you for understanding, stay safe!
Older1 month ago
Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass
The Pacific Crest Trail is one of the true treasures of Snoqualmie Pass, delivering a memorable mix of sweeping mountain views, sparkling alpine lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers, rugged peaks, and impre...
Older1 month ago
Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass
WTA Trip Report: Escondido Loop (July 29 -30, 2026)This was a 3 day, 2 night backpack loop from the Pete Lake Trailhead, out to Salmon La Sac, up the Waptus River, over Escondido Ridge on the PCT, the...
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West
Day trip to Surprise Mountain via Tonga Ridge RoadDrive:*There is currently one berm that requires higher clearance, ideally shorter wheel base to clear it on Tonga. (Past the cutoff for Tonga ridge ...
Older2 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West
Now that the Tunnel Creek road is open, due to some fabulous work by the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) North 350 Blades group, I was finally able to complete my PCTA steward duties and scout ...
Older2 months ago
Snoqualmie Region > Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Fire Activity Alert.Due to difficult access and limited evacuation options. Please avoid day use and do not plan to camp in the following areas:Pacific Crest Trail Section J, north of Ridge Lake (mile...
Older2 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
I hiked to Lake Josephine for the first time. I had read of a rockslide that could be difficult to cross, above Lake Susan Jane, so I was not sure I could get to Lake Josephine.This is my view of that...
Older2 months ago
Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass
Hiked from Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass in 3.5 days: 70 miles and 17000 ft of cumulative elevation gain, navigating countless blowdowns, multiple river fords, and swarms of ravenous mosquitoes. All...
Older2 months ago
Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass
Started in Snoqualmie and hiked to Stevens Pass over four days. Camped at Spectacle Lake, Deep Lake, and Trap Lake.Trail in great condition from Snoqualmie to Spectacle Lake.Quite a few blowdowns head...