Things don't always go as planned. The trail following Stafford Creek to Navaho Pass has become a personal favorite. There's 3100' of elevation gain over 5.5 miles. The views along the way vary and transition from lovely pastoral scenes to stunning vistas of the Cascades as you approach the pass. The most typical option once you're at the pass is to turn east and hike to the summit of Navaho Peak. That section is approximately 1200' of elevation gain in a little less than a mile! Once you're at the top, though, the incredible views are worth every step you just suffered through. Filling your view to the north is the Stuart Range which is the southern boundary of The Enchantments. Mt. Stuart with its 5000' of relief dominates this view. On a clear day you can turn around to face south and see the magnificent Mt. Rainier and Mt. Adams.  Read more...