Journey Day 163 | PCT Day 163

Dramatic views compensated for tough climbs.

9/26/85

Up early, I finish the climb and catch Jeff and Keith at a rocky saddle where they camped. Nice views on the way up.

Onward we see Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, other great sights. Athletic hiking across passes including Pickhandle. Many low lakes, wild rock formations. Ridge walking to saddle with views of Adams, Rainier.

Meet day hikers, including a Washington state ranger past Park Lakes. Jeff and Keith catch me at a waterfall and resolve to go for the top of Escondido Ridge. Push down, then back up grueling switchbacks. I die at a flat spot as darkness nears. Keith and  Jeff make the top. A deer through my camp site wakes me.