This is a short (6 miles to the pass), challenging, views galore trail right near Washington Pass. Makes for a great half day ride.
This is a short (6 miles to the pass), challenging, views galore trail right near Washington Pass. Makes for a great half day ride.
How to Find It
Starting in Winthrop, head west on SR20 towards Mazama and Washington Pass. You will see a sign for Cutthroat Lake/Pass and the turnoff is around MP167 on the north (right) side of the road. From downtown Winthrop to the turnoff from SR20 is approximately 26 miles. Drive about one mile to the trailhead parking area. NW Forest Pass is required to park.
There's pretty decent camping right across the road at lone pine (or fir?) campground.
Typical Conditions
Typical east side conditions. Expect a dusty trail to the lake and progressively rockier, less dusty and more technical as you climb. You will climb to approx. 6,800 feet so be aware of weather changes and snow levels. Expect wind at the pass.
Local Points of Interest
Lone Fir Campground(Pit toilets, water) is about 3 miles east of the trailhead. A nice place to camp. You are "allowed" to camp overnight at the trailhead - no water no services - tear the tent down in the morning etc.
Turn by Turn
From the parking lot the trail gradually climbs to the lake in 2 miles. Go left if you wish to descend to the lake or go right to go to the pass. From here the trail gets steeper and more rocky. Cross a few easy creeks and begin the big switchbacks finally ending on a long switchback to the pass. (about 4 miles from the lake). Remember that this is the upper limit for bikes. The trail continues down to Rainy Pass (no bikes) or across the Pacific Crest Trail (no bikes). It is worth it to drop the bikes here and hike up either sidehill for stunning views (Silver Star Peak and Kangaroo Ridge especially prominent). When you have had enough, turn around and enjoy the fast challenging ride back to the car.
