PCT Hiker Reaches Rainy Pass Terminus Amid Smoke
A Pacific Crest Trail hiker completes a two-year journey at Rainy Pass, navigating smoke and trail closures before finding respite at the Lion's Den hiker
A hiker and companion Eugenia reached the Rainy Pass terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail on the tenth day of their second-year effort, concluding a journey spanning thousands of miles. They arrived at the highway crossing by 10:30 AM, finding a temporary monument and a serendipitous pair of cold beers left behind.
The final 8.66-mile push began at Six Mile Camp, following Bridge Creek through persistent smoke that obscured mountain vistas. The hiker reported alternating between a drive to finish and a nostalgic desire to linger, reflecting on the previous year's abrupt halt due to gear failure and weather. Wildlife signs, including a probable black bear in the berry bushes, marked the climb.
Reaching the Northern Terminus
At Rainy Pass, the pair took photos, ate lunch, and celebrated with the found beers before parting ways. Eugenia headed back south toward Stehekin, while the hiker hitched a ride to Mazama. The hitch took only seven minutes, help by a retired local named Steve who was returning from Seattle.
The Lion's Den Hostel
The hiker's destination was the Lion's Den, a trail angel operation run by Mary, also known as Lion. Greeted by substitute caretaker Jerry, the hiker received a tour of the extensive facilities designed for long-distance hikers.
The setup included multiple dedicated areas for comfort and convenience, as detailed below:
Jerry apologized for non-functional Wi-Fi, and the hiker, who had software experience, attempted to help troubleshoot. Later, Jerry offered the hiker a ride back to Stevens Pass the next day in exchange for help with gas, simplifying the return to finish remaining trail sections.
Community in Mazama
A short walk revealed Mazama's handful of buildings, including a general store and bakery where the hiker purchased a sandwich and a pain au chocolat. Back at the hostel, Jerry received better Wi-Fi instructions from Mary, and the hiker assisted with the technical aspects.
Another hiker, SkyBird, arrived from town. She was hiking the Pacific Northwest Trail and, in a small-world moment, she and the hiker discovered they had started the PCT on the same date the previous year. The hiker recalled seeing SkyBird resting on the trail's first day due to back problems. The trio went to the local pub for dinner and a beer.
Opting not to pitch tents, the hiker and SkyBird shared the large teepee for the night. The hiker noted the hostel's decorative Christmas lights but particularly liked the colored spots projected into the tree branches.
