[pct-l] Southbound Questions

[Bob Bankhead]

Actually, it's 31.4 trail miles from Harts Pass to the border, and Linsey is spot-on about the beauty of those miles. IMO, not to be missed if at all possible.

That said, BE ADVISED there is NO public transportation of any kind to or from the closest trail town, Winthrop, WA. So first you have to get there. Seattle is about 150 miles away; good luck! I'd consider this plan viable ONLY if you have a dedicated driver who can take you all the way to Harts Pass. I have first-hand experience with this - twice!

Then, while it is easy to get a ride for the short hop from Winthrop to Mazama (about 3 miles away on Harts Pass Road 5400), getting a hitch for the last 18.7 miles from Mazama (virtually all uphill) to Harts Pass can be a real @#$% unless it's hunting season, and you really do not want to walk that rocky, dirt road. It is  far easier to hitch down from the parking lots at Harts Pass, but then you're stuck in Winthrop with no public transportation.

Rainy Pass trailhead is a much better option, unless you have a driver to take you to Harts Pass itself. It is 62 miles from Rainy Pass (hwy 20) to the border; 124 miles round trip. You might consider digging in a covert resupply cache at the Rainy Pass day use picnic area or north along the trail itself for your return, but it's only another 19.8 miles from Rainy Pass south to the Stehekin River Road. Total distance = 144 miles +/- 1. Could be done without a re-supply, if you're in good shape.

Wandering Bob