Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section J - Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass

Snoqualmie Region

updated 2 weeks ago

The Pacific Crest Trail section from Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass is mostly snow-free as of late October. Recent reports from October 21 mention lingering fall color and dry waterfalls near Snoqualmie Pass, with the trail in good condition and easy to access. Further north, August 12 noted blowdowns across the trail between Hyas Lake and Deception Lakes, and a bridge was reported out on the Waptus River as of July 28. Road access varies, with the Tonga Ridge Road recommended for high clearance vehicles only as of July 25, while other access points were suitable for all vehicles in July and August.

Generated from 29 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 2 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The road to the PCT trailhead near Snoqualmie Pass is reported as suitable for all vehicles as of October 21. Parking lots can fill quickly, even on cooler mornings.

More in Snoqualmie Region

Trail notes generated from recent reports. Conditions change fast.

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Sources

Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass

This is a good option if you want easy trail head access, and you can make your hike as long or short as you want.  I was surprised how many cars were in the lot when we arrived around 9:00, especiall...

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

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...

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 ...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...