The trail crosses a bridge over Cutthroat Creek and begins a gentle uphill climb to a trail junction at 1.7 miles. The left trail leads to Cutthroat Lake in 0.25 mile. From the junction the trail gains 1900 feet in the next 3.8 miles to the pass where it meets the Pacific Crest Trail. Mountain goats are often seen near the pass. See beautiful alpine lake views and for those who wish great mountain views will enjoy looking out at the towering rugged peaks from the pass. There are beautiful wildflowers in July and August followed by the spectacular fall gold colors of alpine larches and red colors of huckleberry bushes. Water maybe scarce beyond the lake trail junction later in the summer. Be sure to fill water bottles before going onto the pass.
