Washington Training Hikes Along the PCT

Washington is the perfect training ground for an anticipated thru-hike. Ryan has been training on Washington trails for the past few months as he preps for an attempted Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike. In this episode of Ryan’s PCT training series, he takes us on two training hikes along the PCT.

PCT Northbound

On his first hike, Ryan covers a small section of the PCT, heading northbound from the Washington border. He admires the new growth that is sprouting from a recent clear cut, as he meanders his way past Gillette Lake and up to Table Mountain.

Though Ryan didn’t make it to the summit of Table Mountain due to steep and snowy trail conditions, he had a stellar time admiring the beauty that surrounded him (as can be heard in his various hoots and hollers when passing by a river or expansive mountain view).

On this hike, Ryan tests out his tent for the first time, as well as his Revelation Enlightened Equipment 10 degree quilt. He closes out his night on trail with a dehydrated pasta meal and a timely sunset.

PCT Southbound

In Ryan’s second hike, he heads southbound on the PCT, starting at the Oregon/Washington border. His motivation for this hike was to cover 20 miles: a goal he’s been working up to throughout his training.

Ryan’s hike includes views of rolling mountains, burn sites, waterfalls, and even a little rain. Ryan closed out his hike just shy of 20 miles (19.9 miles is close enough, right?) and treated himself to a delicious craft beer on his way home.

We’re not sure who had more fun on these training hikes – Ryan or his dog Tomato. Either way, they both make the trails seem like a dream! Make sure to watch Ryan’s full video for an in-depth training update.