Explore the many trails in the Stehekin area. Our guide to the best campgrounds in North Cascades National Park features prime spots to pitch a tent or park an RV. A real climb begins about halfway in, traversing forested slopes, and eventually popping out for a great view of North Cascades landscapes. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/east-bank-ross-lake, https://www.wta.org/site_images/hikes/east-bank-ross-lake-joyhiker.jpg/@@download/image/2a82e198c866ad00d1fe1c4a57c8740e_photo1, Hiker Headlines: Hike-a-Thon, Highway 20 Repaving, Dog Mountain Trailhead to Move, Firework Safety. A great place to visit for the whole family, the entire Newhalem trail system caters to every level of hiker, with moderate trails and stunning scenery. North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20. A steep trail to a mountain pass with panoramic vistas. Well before the North Cascades became a designated national park, Cascade Pass had been traversed by indigenous populations and early fur traders. This is about an injury or accident This special unit features not only the 23-mile long Ross Lake, but also the equally emerald waters of the enchanting Diablo Lake. Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more! The Silver Skagit road is graded at times, but washboards and potholes are common. The first mile of the Hidden Lake trail navigates through a dense forest before emerging into meadowlands and avalanche chutes. For other national park adventures, the top hiking trails at Mount Rainier National Park will keep you coming back for years. Kayaking and canoeing are also available at the Lake. * The road is closed due to sever Fall and Winter weather in 2021 for the 2022 season. Mile Post 138 Share 116' Up But gain the legs and experience to make this rugged, nine-mile round trip, and you'll be rewarded for your efforts. Backpacking permit are require in North Cascades National Park. Simple things like packing out your trash, obeying national park rules, and respecting the peace and quiet of our national park trails is a great start. Visiting Stehekin almost always requires an overnight trip to make it worth your time. More geared towards overnight backpackers, who must obtain a backcountry permit before heading out, the Copper Ridge Trail, in combination with the connecting Chilliwack River Trail, provides more than 30 miles of out-and-back trail, displaying everything the North Cascades has to offer. The trail immerses hikers in the enormous environment and ends at the still-operating, historic Gorge Powerhouse, all in less than a mile. Birds can be spotted easier by hikers and boaters. at 13 miles and 4,400 feet of elevation gain and loss its no easy feat, but the 360 views of the North Cascades and Ross Lake are well worth it, as is the rich history of the lookout. All day-use visitors must park at the trailhead and hike in. Short or long, low elevation or high, there are hundreds of miles of trails awaiting your discovery throughout the season. Mile Post 126 Movement of large vehicles are restricted in some parts of the resort, so visitors should read the park's directories carefully. We. Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. Mile Post 127 Also, by going with local experts youll enjoy a greater level of safety and gain a much better understanding of the history and ecology of this remarkable region. We strongly recommend abiding by all Leave No Trace ethics guidelines and practices so that our national parks and public lands are preserved for the enjoyment of future generations and for the people and animals who call these places home. 98284, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. From short scenic trails, to grueling long hikes, North Cascades has a trial for every hiker. Cross the bridge, and come to a junction with the Canyon Creek Trail. Your FREE account works with all Adventure Projects sites. The seven-mile Maple Pass Loop is easily accessed from the Rainy Pass Picnic Area off the North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20).
Please contact us hereand we will make a reservation for you. Nearly 200 bird species have been recorded at North Cascades Complex and most of the species can be found at or near Ross Lake. The trail finally rests upon outstanding views of the surrounding North Cascade Mountain crest, including Mount Forbidden, Boston Peak, and Sahale Mountain, as well as the aptly named Hidden Lake tucked into the horizon. Abundant moss and epiphytes grace the trail, along with views through the trees of Ross Lake far below. Or, if you already know the name of the trail you are interested in, check the alphabetical listing of all the trails in the park complex. Gorge Powerhouse on the Trail of the Cedars Nature Walk. Our water taxi service offers transport on Ross Lake, 3. Look for views of Jack Mountain and Ross Lake as you wind through gentle forests, over small creeks, and along the shore of Ross Lake. In 1937, the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project began construction of the Ross Lake Dam, gradually flooding the valley while the old-growth forest at its base was logged and and sold off. 2. The Happy Panther Trail and Ladder Creeks Falls Trail are two popular hiking trails at the complex. Payable in cash only directly to Seattle City Light when you board the ferry, 1. More details. Its an ideal early season hike, staying at low elevation and winding through beautiful forests and views of Ross Lake. Carry a spare tire as flats occur due to sharp rocks. The north side of the resort can be accessed via a gravel road from Hope, British Columbia. So, explorers either need to catch a ferry across Lake Chelan or charter a seaplane, making for a scenic adventure just to start hiking. There are two ways to explore the subtle wonder of Fourth of July Pass, located within the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. The trail ascends steadily through rocky traverses as the views from behind grow bigger with each step. Make sure to check the weather before you go! Meandering along the lake, this trail guides families, stock trips, and new backpackers along an easy introductory hike. More details. The trailhead is accessible also via Ross Lake Resort's water-taxi, which will drop you off at various point along the trail. Mile Post 128 Be sure to check the status first. Our water taxi service offers transport on Ross Lakeonly. 35.31 m Down, Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. An email will be sent to all reservation holders with acceptable gear volumes, departure times, and capacity availability. The total trail traverses 1,400 feet of elevation gain and exposes the different peaks that define this region. Below are the primary options for day hiking along Ross Lake. To your west lies Big Beaver, and ancient old-growth forests teeming with life. 0.8 km Easily accessible from Highway 20, these two lakes often represent the postcard beauty of most visits to the North Cascades National Park Complex.
Here's how Hozomeen has two graded cement ramps, which are generally accessible from mid-June through September. 3.6 miles (5.8 km) roundtrip with 425 ft (130m) elevation gain Here, you're just three miles shy of the northern terminus, the curious can take a short side trail to Hozomeen Lake, where views of craggy Hozomeen Peak reflected in the lake make a stunning lunch or dinner spot. There is NO direct road access to Ross Lake Resort! The hike features a ridgeline atmosphere, miles of subalpine meadows, and many ways to explore this rugged mountain trail. Hikers can also continue the Cascade Pass Trail to hike into Horseshoe Basin or the mountain community of Stehekin more than 20 miles away. Towering mountains. 3,067' Up Whether you dayhike Desolation Peak or not, youll get stunning views hiking south along Ross Lake. 3. Featuring dramatic panoramas of the Johannesburg ridgeline, including Mixup Peak and Magic Mountain, with the impressive Cache Col Glacier sandwiched between, there's no shortage of impressive views from Cascade Pass. The Ross Lake Resort is a great starting off point for trips arounds the lake, and they provide a water taxi service that can transport you to any trailhead along the lake. For hikes in the Stehekin area, please visit the Stehekin page. In order to protect fish populations at the complex, it is necessary to comply with special regulations including closures, seasons and catch limits. 16 miles in (only about halfway) the trail veers away from vivid-blue Ross Lake and follows Lightning Creek into a remote mountain valley. A good place to begin is the Trail of the Cedars Nature Walk, featuring a gravel pathway that blends into the surrounding Skagit River Valley. Explore the North Cascades with Expert Guides. There is no clear road access from the south but canoes and kayaks can be launched from Diablo Lake to the resort.
By arranging a shuttle along the North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20), hikers can combine Panther Creek Trail and Thunder Creek Trail for a great 12-mile hike. One of the most sought-after spots is Fourth of July Camp, a mile west of the pass, which offers campers big views of Colonia Peak, Snowfield Peak, and Neve Glacier. It's a steep half-mile down to the lakes, where a popular backcountry camping spot awaits those with a permit. Fancy a peaceful stroll down to the river, looking for birds and wildlife, or a glimpse of migrating salmon? Flagstaff, Arizona 86004. North Cascades Complex has hundreds of miles of biking trails all around the complex for visitors to enjoy. Views of high mountain lakes and nearby peaks. Jack Kerouac spent the summer of 1956 at this lookout, and it is referenced in many of his popular books. A strenuous hike to a small cirque lake. In-person support no matter where the road takes you. 10 miles (16.1 km) roundtrip / 2,300 ft (700 m) elevation gain Add Your Gems, Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. The Thunder Creek Trail is your gateway to the North Cascades! The trail also offers access to multi-day hikes along the Rainbow Creek or Boulder Creek trail. There will be occupancy and gear restrictions in place so we encourage those able to hike in do so, 3. Return the way you came, or continue along the West Bank of Ross Lake all the way to the mouth of Big Beaver Creek. A steep hike to a small mountain lake and historic fire lookout. The Desolation Peak trail itself is less than five miles long, but the extra steps it takes to get to the trailhead is what makes this trek an often solitary experience. If youre going on a backpacking trip, you can read about more about the 7 Leave No Trace Principles.
Either way, half the fun of the Desolation Peak trail is just getting there, and the other half waits for you along the trail and at the top. The Copper Ridge trail is a strenuous adventure into the heart of the North Cascade Mountains.
The trail is a very popular backpacking destination in the park, and permits can be competitive during the late summer season. Ancient forests, islands, and water taxis. The most accessible part of the North Cascades National Complex, surrounded by scenic views of cascading waterfalls, tall mountains and deep valleys, with an endless list of historical and cultural attractions, Ross Lake National Recreation Area is one of Washington's premium tourist attractions. We offer truck portage between Diablo Lake and Ross Lake. We encouragethose who are able to hike in do so. You'll enjoy moderate elevation gain and fabulous views on this lakeside trail that stretches more than 30 miles north -- nearly to Canada. There is no reservation needed. While the seven miles of this trail treats hikers to postcard-worthy views the entire way, if you have the extra hour, the Maple Pass Loop also lends access to nearby Lake Ann. The Cascade River Road is often closed by snowfall and avalanches during the winter and spring, but is usually open by Julycheck the NPS website for road conditions. Read more about North Cascade Hiking Tours. Read more about guided North Cascades backpacking trips. Bird lovers should bring their binoculars to Ross Lake no matter the time of their visit or the season as the lake has a wonderful collection of birds. Hozomeen has two graded cement ramps, which are generally accessible from mid-June through September.
This iconic North Cascades hike is a well-maintained trail and treats hikers to old-growth forests, open ridgelines, and dramatic views of the rugged peaks that define North Cascades National Park. Instead of hiking down to the water, you can hike across the dam and around to the resort. Animals with fin, fur and wings all call North Cascades home, making for some spectacular birding and wild life viewing opportunities. Nearly 30 switchbacks are within the first three miles of the trail, which provide some relief for tired legs from the steep Cascade Mountain terrain. Park your car on HWY 20 at milepost 134 (the Ross Lake/Dam trailhead) and hike 1 mile down the trail. Once you land in Stehekin, several trails branch out from the charming community. Explore this ruggedly beautiful wilderness area with our list of the top hiking trails in North Cascades National Park. Heading clockwise, the trail gains over 2,000 feet of elevation, making it a hearty hike to do in a day. Tricks to find the perfect rig. July-September is the perfect window, but October can have lovely weather and perfect huckleberries as well. Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. 2. Overnight camping is available with a permit. 1.5 miles (5.7 km) roundtrip with 500 ft (150 m) elevation gain 10.4 miles (16.7 km) roundtrip / 2,300 ft (700 m) elevation gain The valley trail soon begins switchbacking uphill, offering ever-improving views of Ross Lake before heading over a small notch and into a quiet valley. An advance reservation process opens in March of the same year. .03 mile (.05 km) loop with optional 2 mile (3.21) roundtrip spur to a waterfall Reservations and masks will be REQUIRED to board the ferry. 2.1 miles (3.4 km) one way / 1500 ft (455 m) elevation gain Follow the East Bank trail over suspension bridges, along the lake, and back to Highway 20, stopping over at May Creek or any other campsite along the way to break up the hike. More details. It's nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain to reach the lookout. Wildland Trekking, a home-grown USA adventure travel company started in 2005, has become one of the worlds leading trekking companies. In combination with the Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas, the North Cascades National Park Complex has some of the best hiking trails in Washington State, and the big views will linger for a lifetime. Option for a longer hike or backpack along Ross Lake. Click, for more detailed information. There are several boat launches at the complex. Staying onthe East Bank Ross Lake trail, hikers will pass Willow Lake, heading on to Hozomeen Lake. An Adventure Projects staff member will review this and take an appropriate action, but we generally don't reply. More details. Continue on for 2.8 miles to a second trail junction. Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. All meals are prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear. More details. Washington Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip, 25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington State, 25 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Seattle, WA, Exploring Olympic National Park and the Hoh Rain Forest: A Visitor's Guide, 14 Best Campgrounds at North Cascades National Park, 10 Best Places for Camping at Mt. However, if you're not stopping here, stay on the main trail, which heads north, climbing moderately through Hidden Hand Pass. Being a jerk / offensive? If you are renting equipment for the day, we do not recommend using this option as you will have very little time on the lake and will still pay for a full-day rental, 4. All the adventure of this area is accessed outside the park at the Hannegan Pass trailhead. As a side product of the hydroelectric power generated by the dam, Ross Lake was created, and is now a stunning recreation destination for Washingtonians and visitors alike. Baker, WA, 11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Chilliwack, BC, 13 Top-Rated Things to Do in Abbotsford, BC, 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bellingham, WA, 11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Winthrop, WA, 9 Best Places for Camping near Deception Pass, WA, 12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Whidbey Island, WA, 10 Top-Rated Things to Do on Orcas Island, WA, 12 Top-Rated Waterfalls in Washington State, 12 Best Things to Do in Long Beach, Washington, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 20 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, best campgrounds in North Cascades National Park, top hiking trails at Mount Rainier National Park. Hike an easy trail through old-growth forest to a bridge. For a printable portage map with instructions, click here. Alongside Teebone Ridge and the Skagit Valley, hikers encounter big views of Trapper Peak including an optional side trail to the top. Seattle, WA 98104. Serving as one of the best ways to see the splendor of Diablo Lake and the surrounding region, the Diablo Lake trail treats hikers to views of the otherworldly landscapes that are unique to the North Cascades. There are no electricity or water RV hook ups but water pumps are provided at the site. All-inclusive North Cascades Backpacking Adventures. More details. Stroll through the forest along a cascading creek. More details. Hikers follow a brushy old road grade for the first half of the trail with minimal elevation gain. Although visitors can't establish permanent residency in Newhalem, they can spend the night in the Newhalem Campground to aid in exploring the many trails branching from this small community. North Cascades National Park is a land of extremes: heavy snowfall in the winter, rain in the shoulder season, but perfect weather all summer long. More Hiking in Washington: The best hiking trails in Washington State highlight everything the Evergreen State has to offer. Mile Post 126 4. While North Cascades National Park is primarily a designated wilderness area, there are still small signs of our current civilization in the backwoods. There is no boat launch on the south end of Ross Lake; to reach Hozomeen from the south, canoes, kayaks, and small crafts can be launched at Colonial Creek Campground, boated five miles on Diablo Lake, then portaged around Ross Dam to Ross Lake. Ross Lake offers a wonderful mountaineering experience due to its diverse climbing terrain. Through their knowledge, stories, and personal passion, guides can bring a place to life in a way thats much more difficult to do on your own. trip reports for this trail. No permits are needed to day hike in North Cascades National Park. More details. From Highway 20, turn North to park by the Ross Dam Trailhead, or continue to the East Bank trailhead at mile 138. Overnight visitors are welcome to stay in the fire lookout on a first-come, first-served basis. Most are dry and weather is harsh during summer months, so off season is the best time to hike the complex. 116' Down There is no gas or services available at Hozomeen.
Mile Post 134 Spam? The only vehicle access to Hozomeen is via the Silver-Skagit Road, a 39-mile (62.4 km) gravel road leaving Highway 1 just three kilometers west of Hope, British Columbia (exit 168). From Hidden Hand Pass, the trail leads downhill through dense forest, ultimately reaching the shores of Ross Lake. This option is for campers and hikers who wish to be dropped off/picked up at a destination on Ross Lake. Several great campgrounds are located close to Stehekin. Be sure to have your permit before you begin your hike. Comprising the southernmost tip of the North Cascades National Park Complex, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area serves as many hikers' jumping-off point for big and small adventures in the region. To make a reservation and see pricing info, please click, Want to bring your personal canoe or kayak to Ross Lake? Hike through the forest to a small mountain lake. Rainbow Loop | Maurice King / photo modified. The Cascade Pass Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in North Cascades National Park. The more your referral link gets used, the more money youll start earning. 1.
Start at the East Bank trailhead at Milepost 138, hike through the forest along Ruby Arm, and look for the trail junction at mile 2.8. what you know about this area! Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. This brings hikers into stunning displays of subalpine meadows, as well as dramatic vistas and a retired fire lookout to soak it all in. Variable distance and elevation gain From the trailhead, it's a short descent to a bridge over Ruby Creek. Click here for more detailed information. Permits can be obtained in person at park offices no more than 24 hours in advance. All Content & Photos Copyrighted by WTC 2022, We strongly recommend abiding by all Leave No Trace ethics guidelines and practices so that our national parks and public lands are preserved for the enjoyment of future generations and for the people and animals who call these places home. With clear blue waters, stunning sunsets, and good fishing and swimming, Ross Lake has something for everyone. For printable hiking instructions and a map click here. Today, you can see the same views of Hozomeen Mountain, Skagit Peak, Ross Lake, and Jack Mountain that inspired the voice of a generation. See our. A popular trail to a view of Diablo Lake. A difficult trail with spectacular views of peaks and lakes. WA
Start at Milepost 138, hike north to Lightning Creek, then turn east along the Lightning Creek drainage. After trekking the East Bank Trail, or getting a boat ride to the Desolation Trailhead, the true hike up begins. Backpacking is an exceptional way to enjoy the world's amazing national parks, wilderness areas and remote landscapes! 35.42 m Up 4025 East Huntington, Suite 150 2. To do so you must go through Hozomeen Canada. Make your way down through the forest to the bank, then hang a left onto the access road for Ross Dam. Ross Lake and its neighbouring resorts have a lot of camping options for visitors. A popular backpacking destination, Thornton Lake also makes for an ambitious day hike. From hiking, to birding and boating, there are a lot of ways to keep yourself busy at Ross Lake; The Diablo Lake Trail and Thunder Creek Trail are two of the most popular hiking trails at the resort, animal and bird lovers will also enjoy the region's diverse ecosystem. Happy Panther is a mellow, medium length trail connecting Ross Dam with the tip of Ruby Arm. It can be accessed by car, boat, kayak and small air crafts. Add Your Trails, Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. If youre feeling energetic, continue a few miles up Big Beaver; otherwise, enjoy the lake views and then head back the way you came. Leave your vehicle(s) empty at trailheads to reduce the risk of break-ins. Mile Post 151 330 ft (100m) to 1.8 mile (2.9 km) 2. For a printable portage map with instructions, click. Ross Lake and Diablo Lake share largely the same fish species. Reservations and masks will be REQUIRED to board the ferry. Trails are interlocked and give you different unique views of the complex . Make sure to charter a water taxi in advance for the pickup, or youll have another 32 miles of hiking to get back to your vehicle! General conditions and a trail-by-trail list of the most recent conditions reports. Interested day hikers are in for a hearty nine-mile trip to the lookout and back. See our portage page for more detailed information. Copyright 2022 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. You'll enjoy moderate elevation gain and fabulous views on this lakeside trail that stretches more than 30 miles north -- nearly to Canada. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. Whether you approach the pass by following either Panther Creek or Thunder Creek, you are exposed to deep forest environments and big views of the overshadowing horizon along the way. While the relative low grade attracts plenty of interest, as well as the scenic Cascade River Road that leads to the trailhead, it's the stunning views waiting at the pass that give this trail its notoriety. 1. The trail guide below is organized by lengths of hikes. As such, it's not available for public use, but stay a while and take photos of it, appreciating that once upon a time, people strove to make a living in this isolated place. On a backpacking trip you'll camp in the backcountry and carry everything you need for the trip in a top-of-the-line, fitted backpack we provide. River rafting at Ross Lake is one of the most rewarding activities at the complex. Ross Lake used to be a deep valley holding the Skagit River as it tumbled down from the Canadian border.
Take a quick shuttle ride across the lake to the resort for those with reserved services. The wide lake is surrounded by scenic mountain views and grasslands making boating one of the best ways to experience the resort's beauty. 3.7 miles (6 km) one way / 1700 ft (550 m) elevation gain Something else? 10.4 miles roundtrip (16.7 km) / 4870 ft (1484 m) elevation gain Return the way you came once you reach the East Bank Trailhead, or follow the road back to your car for a change of scenery. Also in sight along the Diablo Lake trail are old-growth forests, waterfalls, and the enchanting waters of Diablo Lake. Located at the end of the Cascade River Road Learn about the origins, mission and people of Wildland, Americas #1 source for Unforgettable Hiking Vacations! 15.4 km For a grand traverse of Ross Lake, consider hiking all the way to the Canadian border at Hozomeen. 934.92 m Down, 0.5 mi Users need to travel on Thornton Lakes Road to reach the trailhead, which is accessible from Highway 20.
Walking out on top of the dam gives you stunning views down the 540 feet of the dam to y0ur south, and beautiful views of Ross Lake, Jack Mountain, and more to your north and east. This will add approximately 2.5 miles to your hike. The resort has 19 pet friendly boat-in sites along the shores all equipped with fire rigs, picnic tables, pit toilets and good storage boxes. The developed Colonial Creek Campground, one of the best campgrounds in North Cascades National Park, is at the trailhead for Thunder Creek Trail to Fourth of July Pass. Hike In and Get a Shuttle/AKA Cat Ride over to the Resort, This is the best option for people visiting for the day, You can also hike all the way to the resort by turning, For printable hiking instructions and a map click, Due to COVID restrictions SCL ferry operations will be limited. Take time to note the history here -- this was the scene of a gold rush in the 1880s, and this spot was overrun with claims. Hike through the forest for peek-a-boo views of Diablo Lake. Mile Post 130 Located in north-central Washington, just south of the Canada - US border, Ross Lake is among a trio of resorts that form the North Cascades National Complex, which also includes North Cascades National Park and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. More details. Take a short stroll out to a stunning view overlooking Ross Dam, hike the Happy Panther trail through mossy forests, or hike along Ruby Arm. Fishing at Ross Lake and North Cascades is subject to Washington fishing laws and require a valid Washington fishing permit.
