Features:

This is justifiably one of the most outstanding hikes in the North Cascades National Park. This trail takes you into the heart of the North Cascades National Park and offers an exceptional number of other hiking destinations.


As the map indicates, in the first half of the hike you will encounter 39 switchbacks and a lot of elevation. The great advantage to this arrangement is a fairly gentle climb. As you climb in elevation, you will be treated to better and better views of the surrounding mountains and valley. In season, wildflowers are abundant.

Once you have completed the numerous switchbacks, the trail gently continues towards the pass. The trail is more in the open at this point and the views are world class. The wild flowers are more numerous and from time to time you may cross a small seasonal stream.

When you arrive at Cascade Pass, the trail junctions with other trails which lead to Boston Peak, or Doubtful Lake or the Stehekin River valley.

Looking north at Forbidden Peak from Cascade Pass

How to get there:

   Trailhead:   N48 5.2221, W121 0.7828 (click for directions)  

From Marblemount, Washington take Forest Road 15
approximately 23 miles to the Cascade Pass trailhead.