9.5 miles of hiking • 2000' elevation gain •
Today was exceptionally clear in contrast to the previous smoke filled days. The temperature reached into the low 70s and was refreshingly cool in the shade, but we all got burned from the hot sun at the high altitude. The views on the Alternate PCT rim trail were spectacular and continuous throughout the hike. We decided on a side trip up to The Watchman where the view was breathtaking and Mt. McLoughlin to Mt. Thielsen were clear with minimal haze. We met two PCT through hikers, Taka and Hollywood, but the hikers are arriving at the Mazama campground in larger numbers. It is interesting to note that the PCT hikers are looked at of as homeless people by the vacationers as they look dirty and with long hair, and very suntanned(at least from one hikers perspective)! There is concern that they need to push hard if they want to finish before the cold temps and snow make hiking difficult in the North Cascades. After four day's my family is getting tired and tomorrow we will visit Mt. Lakes Wilderness for our last full day of hiking, before driving home on friday!
