July 4

Distance today: 21.9 miles

Mile marker: 75.7

We started the day slow, blowing past our 6am alarm to finally wake at 6:45. When we got moving out of our mosquito infested campsite, we immediately stumbled upon some weekend backpackers out with their dog. They were curious about Alex’s bear can strapped to the top of her back. Their dog had no trouble sprinting up and down the trail and jumping through the snowpack. It was a very cute black lab with her own little backpack.

We worked our way up and over the ridge and were greeted by more spectacular views. But we soon descended below the treeline. Today was our approach to Stehekin, ending in North Cascades National Park.

As we approached Rainy Pass, we saw many more day hikers, trailrunners, and dogs accompanying.

We stopped for lunch at Rainy Pass, but didn’t explore thoroughly enough. Apparently there’s a picnic area on the south side of Highway 20, but we just holed up in the parking lot on the north side. Jason had banana walnut chocolate oatmeal and Alex had mac and cheese with broccoli. See parents, we’re doing our best to eat healthy!

We crossed Highway 20, looking both ways, and started towards North Cascades National Park. It was a long and steady descent. In total, we dropped nearly 4200′ in elevation.

We hiked into the park and followed Bridge Creek for miles. Occasionally we’d catch a glimpse, but the trail was surrounded by greenery, although nicely maintained.

Eventually we stopped for dinner near a brand new bridge spanning the river. Jason had coconut carrot dahl and Alex had Thai peanut noodles. We carried on to our campsite another few miles before setting up for the night. In total we covered 21.8 miles, although most of it downhill so it doesn’t really count. Tomorrow will be a very short 5 mile hike to the Stehekin Shuttle pickup tomorrow morning.