Took the PCT section through Washington two years in a row and the trail had completely changed

Went back to the same stretch near White Pass that I hiked in 2021. In 2022, half the side trails were gone from a landslide and a creek had rerouted itself through the main path. Had to bushwhack for like an hour to get back on track. Anyone else notice how fast the Pacific Crest changes season to season?

3 comments

3 Comments

margaret_williams58h ago

Used to think trails stayed put but you just PROVED me wrong.

grace_allen2h ago

Oh they definitely move on their own though lol. Ever hike a trail in spring after winter runoff? It's a whole different path by summer.

charlie_ellis4h ago

I mean, you're not wrong that trails change, but they usually don't move on their own - it's more like they get rerouted by maintenance crews or wear down from foot traffic over time.