Day 141
A short ascent to the top brought us in closer view of Fortress Mountain, then it was mostly downhill. The trail then brought us on a bowl, between Sitting Bull and Saddle Bow Mountains. It was incredible walking on a rock field with big granite boulders that dwarfed us.
After lunch, it was a relaxing, downhill hike to the High Bridge Ranger Station, where the Stehekin shuttle picks up hikers. We entered North Cascades National Park, which some say is the beginning of the most beautiful section in Washington, all the way to the border.
While we waited, Forest Ranger Marcel provided us critical information about the weather ahead, which is snow, rain, and below freezing weather. He also brought out a map, and provided us alternate trails in the surrounding area that could provide escape routes if the weather goes bad.
We then rode the red bus to town, feeling like tourists in the enclosed vehicle. Stehekin is a very nice town, only accessible from the outside by food, boat or plane. It's the last stop for most thru hikers, as Canada is only 80 miles away. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the North Cascades Lodge, as we watched the sunset over the peaceful waters of Lake Chelan.
