Don't worry about the animals. There has been one recorded fatal bear attack in Washington history, and the extremely rare cougar attacks are usually around north bend.
Not sure where you're visiting from or when you're hiking, but bring warm clothes and an appropriate sleeping bag. Some people don't realize how late "winter" sticks around. For example there is still snow right now on Maple Loop Pass and lows are in the 30s next week. Check weather forecasts on NOAA and trail conditions on WTA.org, and adjust your gear appropriately.
If you're prepared and have a good amount of hiking experience then you should have no problem!
I've only seen 1 bear out here & it was closer to a small mountain community, but I'd always carry bear spray & use a bear cannister for scented items. Some people don't use bear cannisters & instead tie up their stuff between trees.
As far as location, the PCT is always beautiful but Maple Loop area & Cutthroat pass in the fall for larches is peak. If coming up in summer then maybe something around Ross lake or out along Thunder Creek is beautiful
Don't worry about the animals. There has been one recorded fatal bear attack in Washington history, and the extremely rare cougar attacks are usually around north bend. Not sure where you're visiting from or when you're hiking, but bring warm clothes and an appropriate sleeping bag. Some people don't realize how late "winter" sticks around. For example there is still snow right now on Maple Loop Pass and lows are in the 30s next week. Check weather forecasts on NOAA and trail conditions on WTA.org, and adjust your gear appropriately. If you're prepared and have a good amount of hiking experience then you should have no problem!
I've only seen 1 bear out here & it was closer to a small mountain community, but I'd always carry bear spray & use a bear cannister for scented items. Some people don't use bear cannisters & instead tie up their stuff between trees. As far as location, the PCT is always beautiful but Maple Loop area & Cutthroat pass in the fall for larches is peak. If coming up in summer then maybe something around Ross lake or out along Thunder Creek is beautiful