Satellite imagery via Esri World Imagery
Hard

PCT - Washington Section L

Mazama, Washington · Okanogan County · nwn · PCT

PCT - Washington Section L is a hard hiking trail near Mazama in Okanogan County, Washington.. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

🧭 Get Directions🗺️ Open in OSM
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48.78944, -120.73486
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at PCT - Washington Section L

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High32°F
Avg Low23°F
Peak Rain Chance56%
Humidity87%
UV (avg)2
Air Quality43 · Good
Today
❄️
Heavy Snow
40°/28°
💧 6%🌬 10mph
↑ 6:54 AM ↓ 4:37 PM
Thu
🌨
Snow
31°/25°
💧 14%🌬 16mph
↑ 6:56 AM ↓ 4:36 PM
Fri
❄️
Heavy Snow
30°/27°
💧 39%🌬 16mph
↑ 6:57 AM ↓ 4:34 PM
Sat
❄️
Heavy Snow
32°/25°
💧 18%🌬 8mph
↑ 6:59 AM ↓ 4:33 PM
Sun
🌨
Heavy Snow Showers
29°/12°
💧 56%🌬 13mph
↑ 7:01 AM ↓ 4:31 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About PCT - Washington Section L

PCT - Washington Section L is a hard hiking trail near Mazama in Okanogan County, Washington.. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Hard” Means

Steep, technical, or long. Requires good fitness and experience.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

See more hard trails →All Washington trails →

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 🧥
    Insulated winter jacket
    Down or synthetic puffy + waterproof shell.
  • 🧤
    Insulated gloves + beanie
    Cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
  • 🥾
    Insulated waterproof boots
    Wool socks + moisture-wicking liner.
  • 🧣
    Base + mid layer
    Merino wool base, fleece mid-layer.
  • ☔
    Rain jacket / shell
    56% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🔦
    Headlamp + spare batteries
    Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
  • 🔥
    Hand warmers
    Cold mornings — chemical warmers fit in gloves or pockets.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Washington

Trail conditions in Washington change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is PCT - Washington Section L?

PCT - Washington Section L is rated Hard. Steep, technical, or long — good fitness and experience recommended.

When is the best time to hike PCT - Washington Section L?

Washington has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

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