Day 10. Still hiking

7/18/23 Day 10
Hopkins Lake to about 1 mile south of Rock Pass

Washington section of the Pacific Crest Trail

Even though I've finished the PCT, there are still more miles to hike to return to Harts Pass, where Jan's car is waiting. We are in no rush since we've got a few more day's of food and my parents don't meet us for a while.

Last night was our coldest yet- 38 degrees - and was a good reminder for why I always take my down booties and puffy jacket. It was nice to stay toasty!

PCO Jan

Today was a fantastic day on the PCT with outstanding scenery! I know we saw this terrain before but this time we took our time and stopped even morw than usual. Lakeview Ridge had crystal clear views off to the North Cascades and down to the lakes. Mags had told me that this is one of the most memorable parts of the PCT and he was totally right on! The section between Woody Pass and Rock Pass was also filled with butterflies and flowers. I chased them up and down the trail (but thankfully not off any cliffs) to snap photos for iNaturalist.

There were so many butterflies, including some alpine favorites like this one.

Our big plan for the day was to check out a lake that we spotted on the map. Win! It was lovely enough for a swim and plenty of relaxing on the shore. The butterflies were puddling along the shore and also swooping over the water. 

Fantastic lake off the PCT. This was one that we found using our maps (i.e. it's not on guthooks).

What a sweet bonus lake!

Then we found a campsite above the lake just a short walk to the open meadows views for dinner. We basked in the sun and looked at plants and spent the long evening relaxing. Time well spent, without any mileage goals.