Pacific Crest Trail: Section L Rainy Pass to Monument 78

Pacific Crest Trail: Section L is a 60-mile segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Located between Rainy Pass and Monument 78, it is the last section for northbound hikers and the first for southbound hikers. This section continues the traverse across the North Cascades, featuring scenic ridgelines, jagged peaks, and alpine lakes. 

From Rainy Pass, the trail passes through Pasayten Wilderness and continues along the Cascade Crest northward. In this mountainous area, you'll find dramatic views, alpine lakes, beautiful meadows, and deep canyons. In the early fall, when the leaves change colors, the area is especially beautiful. Anyone looking for a challenging, and strenuous adventure through a remote wilderness will love this section. The trail is suitable for running, hiking, and horseback riding. 

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

There is no vehicle access at the northern terminus therefore it is likely that visitors will need to hike additional miles to complete this section. Below are some options to consider. More information can also be found at https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/pct-transportation/directions-northern-terminus-pct/. 

• Backtrack to Hart’s Pass (30 miles) and arrange a shuttle. 

• Complete this section as an out-and-back and return to Rainy Pass. 

MILES AND DESCRIPTIONS

00.00 - Rainy Pass

30.00 - Harts Pass Trailhead (car access possible).

33.00 - Pasayten Wilderness southern boundary.

60.00 - Northern terminus, wilderness boundary, Monument 78.

WHEN TO VISIT

Late summer/early fall is the best time to hike through this section. From October to May, this section can receive snow, and that snow may last through August.

WATER

For information about the crowd sourced water report for the Pacific Crest Trail please visit https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/water/pct-water-report/. 

PERMITS

For information about regional and/or long distance permits please visit https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Pasayten Wilderness: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=79431. 

Pacific Crest Trail Association: https://www.pcta.org/. 

Day and Section Hiking: https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/day-and-section-hiking/