50-Miler Day 1

My annual 50-mile backpacking trip with the boy scouts began on the Pacific Crest Trail about 40 miles south of the Canadian border. From there we hiked south on the PCT and other trails to the remote village of Stehekin, accessible only by boat and float plane. But first we hiked to the top of Slate Peak, shown in the background.

Pedicularis racemosa (sickletop lousewort). I named this the "Troop flower" about 15 years, because we always see it on the 50-miler.

Epilobium latifolium (broad-leaved fireweed) is very similar to regular fireweed, but it is not the same. We found both at this spot.

Nice wildflower display among the rocks (mostly buckwheat (white) and paintbrush (red) )

Typical scenery along the PCT near Harts Pass.

First 50-miler for the dog (he did fine!).

Can you see the switchbacks far below? We descended about 1,000 feet in this meadow.

Our first night's camp along Brush Creek was tucked in a hole under the trees.

Including the side trip to Slate Peak, we hiked 13.6 miles with 1,600 feet elevation gain on the first day.