DISTANCE (round-trip) | DIFFICULTY | TIME | ALTERNATIVE TO | SOLITUDE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
80 mi (129km) | 4-8 days | Pacific Crest Trail |
Head Deep Into the Pasayten Wilderness
If you’ve never been alone out in the middle of some of the most remote and beautiful areas of the Western United States, it’s time to go do it.
Over 80 miles of backpacking you’ll be quite alone with alpine lakes, great views, and gorgeous sunsets. Make no mistake, though, because you’re way out there and on your own. Make sure your skills are up to the task.
You’ll want to make sure that you wait until the snow moves off the trail before you head out, too. Otherwise, you’re sure to be way over your head hiking powder snowpack in these rugged mountains.
When to Go
The trail is closed by the Forest Service until July and sees medium traffic (for a wilderness area trail) which is still quite light compared to most trails.
Hiking this trail in August is all but certain to be the best possible time. The snows have long since moved off and temps are warm. Wait too long, though, and the cold unpredictable mountain weather will creep back in by mid-September.
Getting To The Boundary Trail
To get out here you’ll have to make a long and rugged drive. In fact, you’ll have to take a truck because the last stretch of road is, “maintained for high clearance vehicles only and is not recommended for passenger cars.”
The nearest town is Tonasket, WA.
There are few shuttle services in the area but you can try talking to Classic Mountain Cabby in Twisp, WA.
Know Before You Go
For More Information
A view of Amphitheater Mountain.
