[pct-l] Alternate route Cascade Locks to Panter Creek

[judson at jeffnet.org (Judson Brown)]

You know, speaking of alternate routes in the guidebook that suck...

In Oregon's section B, Lake of the Woods is suggested as a alternative to
the PCT. This involves several miles on a narrow-ass highway driven by drunk
fisherman. And it doesn't get you back on the PCT until many miles into
Section C.

Not to mention that if you take this route, you're missing a great trail.
First is the South Brown Mtn. Shelter, a great place to camp or just fill up
your tanks with some cold water. Then there's the amazing trail around Brown
Mtn., through the lava fields. This trail is truly a marvel of engineering.
I've heard it was the one of the most expensive sections of trail to build,
and it shows! Amazing views of Mt. McLoughlin. Then, just before Hwy. 140,
is the junction to very enjoyable Fish Lake Resort. Excellent burgers, pie,
and shakes. They do accept drops via UPS, but most people stretch it to
Crater Lake, anyway. Once you cross the highway into section C, there is a
perfectly pleasant, well-graded trail around and past Mt. McLoughlin, and
eventually through some very productive huckleberry fields.

Yes, boys and girls, this is one place to stick with the good ol' PCT. IMHO.

Judson
Ashland