PCT: Timberline Lodge to Hwy 35 Out and Back

From the lodge, climb to the PCT and go right (or south). Follow the trail in and out of washes above treeline. After 1.5 miles, the trail descends into the trees and follows a steep ridgeline down to Hwy. 35. Touch the pavement at Hwy. 35 before turning around and retracing your steps back up the grueling incline. The distance is short, but hiking the entire incline without slowing to a crawl is a good challenge.