PCT Hiker Encounters Aggressive Mice, Glaciers in Washington

A Pacific Crest Trail hiker, reporting for The Trek, has flipped north to Washington to avoid cold weather further up the trail. Their account details encounters with aggressive mice, shifting glaciers, and a dramatic ridge walk before wildfires forced logistical changes.

The journey began at Cascade Locks during PCT Trail Days. Crossing the Bridge of the Gods offered views of the Columbia River Gorge. The trail in Washington presented a lush, dense forest immediately different from California's terrain. The hiker found blackberry and huckleberry bushes alongside giant slugs.

Aggressive Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife in Washington proved surprisingly bold. The hiker reported a mouse scaling a trekking pole and tent mesh, ripping holes in the material. Other hikers have also reported mice eating their gear. A more alarming incident occurred at Steamboat Lake. A camper's screams in the night were initially feared to be a bear attack. The cause was a mouse running across her face. This experience ended the hiker's consideration of cowboy camping.

Mountain Landscapes and Sounds

The trail opened up near Trout Lake, offering views of Mount Adams. Camping in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, the hiker heard elk bugling. Later, a low rumbling sound reverberated from Mount Adams. The hiker identified it as the sound of a shifting glacier, a new wilderness experience.

Handling Goat Rocks Wilderness

The terrain grew rugged approaching Goat Rocks Wilderness. After a misty morning, the hiker attempted to cross Packwood Glacier directly against warnings. A slip led to an unintended glissade down the ice. The slide stopped just short of a cold pool of glacier water. Following this, the hiker reached the anticipated Knife's Edge. This two-mile ridgeline segment provided panoramic views, including Mount Rainier. Sunset over Rainier from camp marked a favorite day on the trail.

Trail Closures Halt Progress

Continuing north, the PCT travels along the eastern side of Mount Rainier National Park toward Snoqualmie. There, the hike encountered a major obstacle. The trail is closed in four separate places north of Snoqualmie due to wildfires. This made continuing north on the PCT impossible. The hiker stopped to research options, leaving the journey to be continued.