Kendall Katwalk

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Think of a narrow pathway along the side of a steeply sloped rock face, and you've envisioned the top of this run! However, that's just part of it. To get to the "Katwalk" you run through a beautiful old growth forest, with blossoms at the right time of year, and surrounding mountains that make up the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area.

A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent is required (not a Discover Pass). Toilets are available in the parking lot.

Leaving the parking lot, you'll instantly be aware that you are on a part of the PCT with medallions, who knows how old, on scattered trees. A wide pathway may have trees down, blown over by a recent wind storm - check trip reports if you are concerned with trail conditions.

Pass a waterfall relatively early on and then two creek crossings shortly thereafter, varying in depth depending on recent rainfall. Switchbacks will take you through the old growth forest until you find yourself above the treeline with Red Mountain in front of you and Rainier to your back.

Continue through the scree fields (obvious trail in the middle), and use the rock to your right for balance along this steep slope, dip into the trees briefly and continue on another half a mile to the katwalk proper with vertical cliffs on your left and right for the classic katwalk views into the backcountry.