Maple Pass Loop; photo by Brandon Scherzberg
Rain, rain, go ahead and stay—you’re what lets lush green forests and turquoise alpine lakes thrive in the supreme North Cascades National Park. Nowhere else will hikers experience the contrast of such enticingly rugged ridgelines against such brilliant greenery—take a jaunt along the park’s Maple Pass Loop to truly experience all the beauty Earth is offering up in the Northwest during the late summer and early fall. Even if you only have a day in the Cascades, this is a hike you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.
Maple Pass Loop; photo by Brandon Scherzberg
What: A loop trail that offers a little bit of everything: gemstone-colored alpine lakes, wildflower fields, ridgelines, a booming waterfall, and steep summits for those who can manage the extra trek. The trail begins in heavily wooded forest, where the smell of rotting wood can be almost overwhelming, but bursts through to a view of a gorgeous mountain followed by a huge lake. From there, it’s view after view after view.
The stats: 7.2 miles, and 2000 feet of elevation gain with a high point of 6,850 feet.
Where: Maple Pass on North Cascades Highway.
Maple Pass Loop; photo by Brandon Scherzberg
How to get there: Drive along North Cascades Highway (Highway 20) to Rainy Pass and turn right into the Rainy Pass picnic and parking area.
When to go: The majority of the roads are closed from late fall through early spring due to snow in the North Cascades, so your best bet is to stay clear of cold weather. The summer and early fall offer gorgeous views and it’s your best chance for a clear day.
Maple Pass Loop
What to bring: Hiking boots, a day pack, water and snacks, sunglasses, a rain shell and rain cover for your bag, camera, first aid kit, hiking poles, and extra pair of socks.
Do: Stop and smell the flowers—literally. The wildflowers add a pop of color to an already hue-heavy landscape.
Maple Pass Loop; photo by Brandon Scherzberg
Don’t: Forget to stay alert for bears. Black bears are common in the area, but mostly just want to be left alone. Generally speaking, stay out of their way and they’ll stay out of yours.
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