Saturday, June 11, 2016

Lolo Pass to Eagle Creek - 32 Mile Solo Hike

An adventure in preparation for my next ultra-marathon race

June 9-10, 2016

Tunnel Falls on the Eagle Creek Trail

Continuing my resolve to train for another ultra-marathon - and coming to the close of my vacation, brought me to the decision to hike the Lolo Pass to Eagle Creek route.  Lolo Pass is a milestone for many explorers traveling the Pacific Crest Trail.  It is situated about 10 miles northwest of Mt. Hood and there is a 2800 feet elevation loss to the Columbia River, near the Eagle Creek Trailhead.

So, Jen drove me to the intersection of the Pacific Crest Trail at Lolo Pass Road and the adventure began. The weather was true to early June in Oregon - a hodgepodge of rain, sun, fog and clouds.  

The Pacific Crest Trail near Lolo Pass
It felt great to be on the trail.  My pack weighed-in at 45 pounds prior to departure.  I hiked 15 miles in about 5 hours and another 17 miles the next day.  Though not an actual ultra-marathon, I travelled the distance of a 50k ultra and as I type this the next day...can definitely feel the physical impact of the hike.  

Eagle Creek Trail is an all-American hike.  Beauty abounds this amazing country. Nearly every turn brings the sight of wonderful waterfalls, deep blue pools and lush old-growth forests.

Here is a short video of my adventure...