Stevens Pass, WA. Mile 2461

Ahhh, snow!? Not again. This time it was much more intense than in the Sierra Nevada.

When precipitation goes from rain to snow, snow to rain, rain to snow, you are in trouble. It is difficult to keep gear dry and yourself warm. 

Every time I approached 5000 ft the snow would reappear. I will say, that despite the cold and wet, it was soooo beautiful.

Occasionally the sun would peek out just to taunt me. Luckily it did allow for some pretty inspiring views.

It Alaska, the first snow on top of a Mt is called Termination Dust. This signals the beginning of Winter. I would say, Winter is coming to Washington.

These two beauties are below 5000ft. Rain, so beautiful and yet dangerous in really cold temperatures.

Onward ho. The only way to get out is to keep moving. Once you are two days into a four day leg, the only option to get out is to keep moving.

Powder!

The first sign of hope; blue skies near Stevens Pass.

No matter how much I was nervous about being wet and cold; it was worth it. The views were spectacular.

By the last night, all my gear was wet. I probably could have survived one more night, but thankfully I did not have to.

Dearest Aunt Patty was at Stevens Pass to whisk me away to Leavenworth, WA; where we warmed ourselves with authentic German cuisine.

I spent four days with soaked feet. I had to put on wet socks every morning. Talk about torture. On the first encounter of snow, I texted Scott and had him overnight all my snow gear. I WILL be ready for snow the next leg of the journey. I got my snow shoes and said good bye to these well worn shoes.

Took a small detour to Cashmere, WA to go see my Dad. It was nice to visit with his earthly remains. P.S. also enjoyed visiting with my other relatives interred there. 

Off I go. Stehekin, here I come. Auntie sends me off ready for bad weather and in high spirits.