We made our usual early start from the Cascade Locks camping ground. There were many more hiker tents than last time we were there.

The PCT actually follows the road bridge across the Columbia River. There is no separate path for pedestrians so we had to watch out for cars. But a sign welcomed us into Washington and soon we were on the usual earthern track.

Since this is the lowest point on the PCT, there was only one way – up. It was a long steady climb of about 3500′ over 8 miles.

Towards the top, we met Brian aka “Has Feet” who was waiting in his 4WD for his friend to help him do some slack packing. Brian gave us each a cold can of Coke – thanks Brian!

Today was one of the busiest days on the PCT we have had for a long while. We met 5 northbound hikers (like us) and 24 southbound hikers, most having started at the Canadian border.

We have enjoyed snacking on huckleberries and blackberries which are coming into season. We did not enjoy large amounts of poison oak near the track for the first six or seven miles.

We have made a good start into Washington, doing nearly 25 miles. The weather was beautiful and we hope it continues. One southbound hiker told us they had had 17 days of rain and 3 sunny days.