Kendall Katwalk Views: A Hiker’s Paradise on the Pacific Crest Trail
Hidden away in the mountains of Washington state, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a treasured haven for hikers and nature lovers. One of the most breathtakingly beautiful sections of the trail is Kendall Katwalk, a 8.5-mile stretch that leads to an astonishing viewpoint accessible only by foot. Located roughly 30 miles west of Snoqualmie Pass, the Kendall KatwalkViews offer a jaw-dropping panorama that has earned the trail international acclaim.
The Unassuming Start
The Kendall Katwalk begins innocently enough, with a moderate climb up Switchback Trail from the PCT’s western terminus, also known as Stehekin Railroad Trailhead. Hikers ascend gentle slopes and meander alongside the glacier-fed Stehekin River, taking in the ever-changing vistas of snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. The quiet, shaded terrain sets the scene for a tranquil hiking experience, with waterfalls, cascades, and ravines serving as constant entertainment.
The Famed Steel Bridge and Kendall Katwalk’s Hidden Gem
At approximately three miles from the start, hikers converge upon a rusty steel bridge, constructed in 1925, which bridges the chasm carved by Thunder Creek. The iconic bridge, later replaced with a newer structure in 2013, now stands a landmark, immortalized in countless outdoor enthusiasts’ albums. Beyond, the Kendall Katwalk kicks off its short yet thrilling sequence of steep ascents and descents, which demands some scrambling to master. After 1,000 feet of relentless climbing up massive boulders, the trail presents its crowning jewel: The Kendall Katwalk.
Stretching some 30 feet between two outcroppings, this slender catwalk takes its place atop a sheer stone wall, commanding breathtaking views of Rattlesnake Ridge, Mount Baldy, and the valley below, with Seattle’s distant skylines in sight. Seated or kneeling, hikers can feast their eyes on sun-kissed rock formations bathed in soft, golden hues when the sun cooperates. The sight is nothing short of awe-inspiring, with its majesty likened to standing atop the world in many outdoor enthusiasts’ accounts. Such an exceptional spot has generated an aura of mystique for the Kendall Katwalk, drawing devotees worldwide to experience what has become known as the epicenter of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Back to Stehekin and Beyond
Having savored the Kendall Katwalk’s heavenly views, the PCT begins its relentless climb up PCT-Snow Lake-Boulder Fork trail, which converges at 4 miles below the trailhead. Another 45 miles of diverse landscapes, including frozen lakes, ridgelines with stunning views of Mount Rainier, and waterfalls, await any hiker choosing to press on. Beyond the trail’s northern terminus, the scenery only improves, leading to remote alpine lakes, glaciers, and the grandeur of Mount Baker Range.
Kendall Katwalk: Tips, Tricks, and Encouragement
- Plan smart: Pack sturdy boots, layers of clothing, water, and snacks, allowing for an unforgettable, yet accessible, journey.
- Conserve energy: Ascend moderate slopes carefully to conserve energies for the taxing catwalk-climbing leg.
- Wear crampons: In cold, snowy or icy conditions, make sure to carry and wear necessary traction to maintain stability atop the catwalk.
- Mental and physical preparedness: Prepare mentally and physically for knee-testing climbing, navigating uneven rocks, and maintaining a steady tempo.
- Leave no human impact behind: As with anywhere in the Pacific Crest Trail family, practice zero-impact waste management, leave the area purer than when you took it in, and respect sensitive habitats and wildlife.
Basking in the Famed Legacy of Kendall Katwalk
Becoming an integral thread in the intricate fabric of the Pacific Crest Trail, Kendall Katwalk will forever entice hikers seeking breathtaking experiences in the heartland of North America’s most accessible wilderness regions. If you seize the day, venture forth alongside the Kendall Katwalk, and step into this legendary realm in the midst of awe-inspiring natural perfection.