Glen Pass to Pinchot Pass. Mile 807

Let me tell you, the scenery is gorgeous.  Mosquitoes and all.

Benson Pass was very sketchy. Most of the trails are covered in snow so hikers have made their own,  evident by snow tracks.  Most switchbacks are also covered by snow.  You must be careful not to slide into the lake at the bottom of most passes. See the line on the right side of the picture, yes, that is the trail. Also, yes, it is as steep as the picture depicts. 

We made it carefully and lived to tell the tale.

Once you go up don't forget you have to go down the other side.  Most North sides of a pass have way more snow.

Once the snow becomes patchy it is always an interesting hunt for the trail.

Alpine lakes = Breathtaking

The posted sign says: One person at a time on bridge. I am not sure if most know this. I DO NOT like swinging suspension bridges. This one even was missing some bolts. I was overjoyed! :(  In addition, most moving bodies of water do not have bridges. We have been lucky with logs and careful crosses. Sorry, I am usually busy when crossing streams; so alas no pictures.

Crimson Columbine. This was my Aunt Maggie Reich's favorite flower. I think of her every time I pass them. RIP. It is really special to see this flower in it's natural habitat. 

For about 180 miles the PCT and the JMT share the same trail. This JMT marker has been my favorite so far. 

Alpine Shooting Star.

Typically you summit one or two passes a day. You then proceed to camp as close to the next pass' base. So that you can easily summit in the AM.

We hit Pinchot Pass at 0530. Second time using crampons and pick axe. Typically not needed if the snow is slushy,  but at 0530 there is a frozen ice layer. The pass is essential the mountain space directly in the middle of the picture. Cathy is preparing our little campsite for bedtime. 

This is hiker chic. Staying warm while you wait for your bestie to summit the pass.

All said and done,  Pinchot Pass was not too bad.  Had fun sliding most of the way down the north side of the Pass.