North Cascades National Park is one of the most rugged and beautiful national parks in the lower 48. With towering mountain peaks, stunningly blue alpine lakes, abundant mountain goats and wildlife, and tons of butt-kicking hikes, this national park can’t be missed! In this blog post we’re sharing 8 of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park. Many of these hikes are within the official national park boundaries, but a few of them are right outside the park on other federally managed lands.

In addition to sharing top hikes, we also share the best time of year to visit North Cascades National Park, packing essentials, and information on road conditions to the trailheads. We’ve done all of these hikes (most of them we’ve done SEVERAL times), so you can trust us!

8 of the BEST hikes in North Cascades National Park

The best time of year to visit North Cascades National Park

The best time to visit North Cascades National Park is typically mid-July through early October. During this window, snow has melted from most trails, wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is generally warm and dry (though, be prepared for summer rain and thunder!). Late September to early October is especially stunning if you’re chasing fall colors, with golden larches lighting up the alpine. Highway 20, which is the main route through the park, closes in winter due to snow, so many of these trails become inaccessible. 

What you need to know before you visit North Cascades National Park

Located less than 3 hours from Seattle and 4.5 from Spokane, North Cascades National Park is  one of the most rugged and beautiful national parks in the lower 48. Seeing this park in all its glory requires some advanced planning, though. See below for some key information you need to know before you go.

• More so than most other national parks, seeing North Cascades National Park requires some ambitious hiking. There are many beautiful pullouts and short hikes along Highway 20, but to really experience this park you need to hike many miles up steep terrain. 
• Cell service and services (dining, lodging, gas, etc.) are quite limited within the park. Be sure to download trail maps before you visit, and pack plenty of food and necessities for your trip.
• There are several different visitor centers you can go to. The main location for getting wilderness permits for camping and backpacking is in Marblemount. 
• Many of the trailheads have limited parking, so arrive early or go late in the day if you want to get a spot. Secure valuables before leaving your car.

Packing essentials for hiking in North Cascades National Park

When visiting North Cascades National Park, packing layers is key. Even in the summer, the weather can shift quickly. Sturdy footwear, sun protection, and plenty of water are must-haves. Pre-downloading your trail maps is important since cell service is limited. Bug spray is essential during peak summer months when mosquitoes are at their peak. While most hikes are well-marked, always be prepared for alpine conditions.

Hiking essentials checklist

Below are our 6 major hiking essentials, which we almost always have with us on the trail!

1. America the Beautiful Pass. An annual America the Beautiful pass covers your entrance fees at all national parks. It also covers fees at other federally managed public lands, such as forest service and BLM sites. This pass is a great investment for people who love national parks and outdoor recreation!
2. Good hiking boots. Waterproof boots with good traction are essential, and a quality pair can last for years. We highly recommend Lowa’s Renegade hiking boots.
3. Water and a water filter. We love the Katadyn BeFree 1.0 Liter Filter Bottle for water filtration, and usually use a Nalgene water bottle or a HydraPak Water Reservoir for water storage.
4. Sun protection. We recommend the Sahara Sun Hoodie (for women and men), which is a sun shirt that offers UPF 50+ sun protection. For sunscreen we like Dermatone’s sport sunscreen and Skin Protector Balm (for winter).
5. A headlamp. The Black Diamond Storm 400 Rechargeable Headlamp is lightweight, compact, waterproof, and USB rechargeable.
6. A comfortable day pack. We recommend the REI Trail 25 (unisex), the Gregory Juno daypack ​for women, or the Gregory Inertia daypack for men.

Leave no trace tips for backpacking in the North Cascades

Before we dive into the hiking trail details, we go over some important tips to leave no trace (LNT) in this delicate alpine environment. Please read this section carefully. We can all work together to help keep Washington beautiful and preserve these places for generations to come. See below for our top LNT tips for hikes in North Cascades National Park!

Protect alpine vegetation by staying on trail. Alpine vegetation is fragile, and it’s essential that you watch your step and stay on trail whenever possible. Heather, which is pictured below, is especially important for stabilizing alpine soils and allowing other plants to thrive. Heather communities take thousands of years to grow, yet a few tramples with a careless step can kill it. Avoid cutting the trail or widening trails in order to avoid muddy spots. 

Pack out what you pack in. Whether it’s apple cores and orange peels or human waste, please pack out what you pack in. Alpine environments have a limited growing season, which also means microbes that break down organic matter ALSO have a limited season. As such, waste will not decompose in a timely manner and needs to be packed out.

Camp in established sites. If backpacking in the North Cascades, use established sites in order to avoid crushing vegetation, and avoid having campfires. Make sure to do your research, as all camping in the national park requires permits. Dishes should be washed 200 feet or more from the lake. Click here to learn more about doing your dishes in the backcountry.

See our backpacking gear list below for our recommended camp kitchen setup.

The best hikes in North Cascades National Park

Below I’m sharing 8 of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park! The hikes range from shorter trails (Thunder Knob, Blue Lakes), to lengthy and challenging day hikes that can also be done as overnight backpacking trips. As always, please make sure you know your personal limits and abilities and plan your hikes accordingly! Don’t forget to inform a friend or family member about your plans before you hit the trails. 

Trappers Peak and Thornton Lakes

Trail stats (Thornton Lakes): 8.4 miles 2,400 feet of elevation gain to ridge (add 500 feet of elevation gain and additional mileage if you go down to the lake
Trail stats (Trappers Peak): 9.7 miles, 3,438 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: This road isn’t too rough but it IS steep! We had to drive up backwards when we had a 2 wheel drive campervan (but we made it!). In 2025 we made it up with our truck camper with ease. Cars without high clearance should be fine, but 2WD vehicles may not be able to make it up the incline. 

If you like alpine lakes and prefer hikes without too many other people on them then Trappers Peak and Thornton Lakes are the trails I recommend! This moderately trafficked hike takes you to a beautiful alpine lake, and adventurous hikes can also go to the peak where you’ll have truly phenomenal views of the North Cascades. If you secure a permit you can also backpacking to Thornton Lakes and camp near the water. I’ve heard mixed reviews about backpacking here, but have done both day hikes and have enjoyed them

Whether you hike to Trappers Peak OR Thornton Lakes, this trail starts out the same way. The hike starts off on an old logging road, and the trail has a gradual incline and is almost entirely under tree cover (making it good for hot days). You’ll encounter several small water crossings. About 2 miles into the hike the trail becomes noticeably more rocky, rooty, and steep. The hike continues through a lush forest until 4.1 miles in, where you’ll be faced with a Y junction. Here you can either veer left to go to Thornton Lakes, OR you veer right to go to Trappers Peak. Along the trail you’ll encounter lots of huckleberries. They were ripe in late July 2025 when we last hiked here. 

Trail tip: Mosquitos can be an issue here so be sure to pack bug spray.

Thornton Lakes

If you opt to go to the lake you’ll only have a short walk to the ridge overlooking the lowest of the three Thornton Lakes. You can continue on down the ridge to the lakeshore, but keep in mind that this adds an additional 500 feet of elevation gain/loss. Most hikers stop at the ridge and enjoy the view before turning around and hiking back down to the trailhead.

Trappers Peak

If you opt to continue on to Trappers Peak then you’ll climb an additional 1,000 feet for some truly phenomenal views. It’s tough, but I think this hike might be one of the hidden gems of the North Cascades. 

After the Y junction the trail to Trappers Peak ascends through the forest before encountering a class 3 scramble up a rocky mountainside. Amiana is afraid of heights and was hesitant about doing this portion, but she managed to make it up! For this portion of the hike sturdy footwear is required, but no other special gear is needed. There is scant water on the ridge, so filter before you get to this portion of the hike.

After the class 3 climbing section you’ll follow the trail along an undulating ridgeline that rises up to Trappers Peak. The summit looks daunting, but isn’t actually too challenging to get to. At the top you’ll be rewarded with phenomenal views of the Picket Range, Mount Triumph, and the three Thornton Lakes. This hike made me tear up at the top, as the views really are that spectacular. It gave me a bit of the feeling of mountaineering… but without actually being a mountaineer. 

Trail tip: Make sure to secure valuables at the trailhead, as we have seen broken glass in the parking lot here SEVERAL times. 

Hidden Lake Lookout

Trail stats: 8 miles, 3,300 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: In 2025 this road was ROUGH. We’ve driven it before and there were significantly more potholes and brush than in the past. Tall vehicles (campers) may struggle to make it to the trailhead, and long vehicles may have trouble turning around in the narrow trailhead parking lot. I recommend semi-high clearance and four wheel drive. 

Hidden Lake Lookout is a classic North Cascades hike. Most of the trail lies on Forest Service land, but the lake itself is within North Cascades National Park. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Cascades, major Washington peaks, a historic fire lookout, and a stunning alpine lake. Despite the rough forest service road (more on that above) and the trail’s difficulty, expect to see plenty of fellow hikers. This route is popular for good reason!

The hike begins in dense forest and climbs steadily to an open meadow. The meadow is often overgrown (especially in late July 2025 when we hiked it), so long sleeves and pants are recommended. Steep switchbacks lead through the meadow and up the mountain, transitioning into alpine terrain with heather and exposed granite. From the ridgeline, you’ll get breathtaking views of surrounding peaks, including Mount Baker.

Continuing upward, the trail eventually levels out. Most years, a snowfield leads to views of Hidden Lake. You’ll also see Hidden Lake Lookout towering far above you. Reaching the lookout is more of a scramble than a hike; just locate the trail on the mountain’s backside. From the top, you can spot Mount Rainier and Mount Saint Helens.

Backpacking is allowed, and you can camp in the lookout. Water sources are plentiful along the trail for filtering. Hiking poles are helpful for this hike! See our favorites below.

Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm

Trail stats: 11.6 miles (round trip), 3,963 feet of elevation gain to Sahale Arm Glacier Camp
Road conditions: This road isn’t too rough but it is long! Be prepared for 13 miles of rutted gravel roads. We saw many 2WD sedans make this drive without issue. 

Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm is one of the most iconic hikes in the North Cascades. The trail lies entirely within North Cascades National Park and offers dramatic alpine scenery, glacier views, and a chance to spot wildlife like marmots and mountain goats. Despite its remote location and elevation gain, this hike is extremely popular. Expect a full parking lot and plenty of hikers on the trail!

The hike begins with a series of switchbacks through lush forest, gradually climbing to Cascade Pass. From the pass, you’ll get panoramic views of jagged peaks and hanging glaciers. Continuing onto Sahale Arm, the trail becomes steeper and more exposed, winding through wildflower meadows and rocky terrain. The views here are expansive, with Doubtful Lake nestled below.

As you ascend Sahale Arm, the landscape shifts to high alpine tundra. Most years, you’ll encounter snowfields near the top, especially if you’re heading to Sahale Glacier Camp. The final stretch is steep, but rewarding. Expect loose footing and soft scree as you ascend the final 500 feet to the camps. At the top, you’ll be surrounded by peaks in every direction, and Sahale Glacier behind you. 

You do not need a permit to hike here, but you do need a permit to backpacking. Sahale Glacier Camp is one of the most scenic campsites in Washington. Water sources are available along the trail, but may be seasonal, so plan accordingly.

Maple Pass

Trail stats: 6.5 miles (round trip), 2,162 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: The parking lot is mostly paved, and you are allowed to park on the shoulder of Highway 20. 

Maple Pass and Lake Ann is a North Cascades classic, offering one of the most scenic loop hikes in Washington. The trail is located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, just outside North Cascades National Park. This loop hike delivers nonstop views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower meadows. Despite the elevation gain, it’s a well-maintained trail and extremely popular. Expect a busy trailhead, especially in summer and fall.

Hiking counterclockwise, the trail begins with a gentle ascent through the forest. At about 1.5 miles into the hike, you will reach a branch in the trail. Going left will take you to the shores of Lake Ann. Staying right will keep you on the loop trail, which is what I recommend. As you gain elevation, the views open up dramatically, and you will see the stunning Lake Ann below. As you continue climbing, you’ll see panoramic vistas of the rugged North Cascades.

Most hikers complete the loop counterclockwise for a more gradual ascent and steeper descent. There’s no scrambling required, but trekking poles are helpful for the downhill. On a clear day, the views from Maple Pass rival any in the state.

Water is available at the lake and a couple seasonal streams early on the trail. You do not need a permit to hike here. Backpacking and camping are not allowed along this trail. 

Lewis Lake and Wing Lake

Trail stats: 9.5 miles (round trip), 4,000 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: The parking lot is mostly paved, and you are allowed to park on the shoulder of Highway 20. 

Lewis Lake and Wing Lake is a rugged, rewarding adventure deep in the North Cascades. This trail is a backcountry route that begins from the Lake Ann / Maple Pass trailhead and quickly veers off into more remote terrain. It’s less traveled than nearby hikes, but offers solitude, alpine lakes, and dramatic views of Black Peak.

The route starts on the Maple Pass trail before branching off toward Lewis Lake. The trek to Lewis consists mostly of a 1-mile-long bounder field that can feel tricky and tedious to traverse. Follow the primitive cains (rock stacks). Good footwear and route-finding skills are essential. Eventually you will reach Lewis Lake, which is a stunning turquoise color!

From Lewis Lake, the climb to Wing Lake is steep, but slightly less rocky. Wing Lake sits in a stunning cirque beneath Black Peak, with panoramic views and a peaceful alpine setting. It’s a popular place to backpack, and you may see some climbers attempting to climb Black Peak.

Backpacking is allowed here, and both lakes offer good camping spots. Click here to read our full guide to backpacking here.

Trail tip: Water is abundant, but always bring a water filter. Be prepared for mosquitoes! This route is best for experienced hikers comfortable with off-trail navigation.

Thunder Knob

Trail stats: 3.4 miles (round trip), 675 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: The parking area is paved and easy to access directly off of Highway 20. 

Thunder Knob is a short, scenic hike in North Cascades National Park with big views for minimal effort. Located near the Diablo Lake overlook, this trail is great for families, beginner hikers, or anyone looking for a quick adventure with rewarding vistas. It’s well-maintained and popular, especially in summer. The trail begins in a forest and passes by a milky blue stream. At the top, Thunder Knob offers panoramic views of the turquoise Diablo Lake. This is a great spot for a picnic!

Backpacking isn’t permitted, but it’s a perfect day hike. Make sure to pack plenty of water!

Blue Lake Trail

Trail stats: 4.6 miles (round trip), 915 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: The parking area is easy to access directly off of Highway 20. 

Blue Lake Trail is a quick, rewarding hike in the North Cascades. Located off Highway 20, it offers alpine views, granite peaks, and a turquoise lake with minimal effort. The trail climbs gently through forest and meadows, with wildflowers in summer and golden larches in fall. At the lake, Liberty Bell Mountain towers above the clear water, and it’s a perfect spot for a picnic or photos. No backpacking allowed, but it’s a great half-day hike.  Make sure to pack plenty of water, or filter your own water at the lake!

We last did this hike in 2022 and sadly I can’t seem to find my pictures from this trail!

Cutthroat lake and cutthroat pass

Trail stats: 11.9 miles (round trip), 2,477 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: The parking lot is about 1 mile from Highway 20. It is mostly paved and easy to drive with any vehicle. 

Cutthroat Lake and Cutthroat Pass is a scenic hike in the North Cascades. Located just off Highway 20 in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this trail offers alpine lakes, larch trees, and expansive views with relatively moderate effort. It’s a great option for hikers and backpackers alike looking for a moderately long trail.

The trail begins with a gentle climb through forest and crosses a few creeks before reaching Cutthroat Lake, a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by cliffs and forest. From the lake, the trail gradually climbs to Cutthroat Pass, winding through forest and rocky terrain.

As you approach the pass, the views open dramatically. You’ll see the jagged peaks of the North Cascades, including Liberty Bell. In fall, golden larches light up the landscape, making this one of the best autumn hikes in the region. Once you reach the pass you’ll intersect with the Pacific Crest trail, and you’ll see Cutthroat Lake far below.

Backpacking is allowed, with camping options along the pass. Water is available at the lake (to filter), but is otherwise very limited, so plan accordingly. 

Sauk Mountain Trail

Trail stats: 3.1 miles (round trip), 1,082 feet of elevation gain
Road conditions: The trailhead is accessible via a steep grave forest road. Be prepared for the gravel road to be rutted with deep potholes. High clearance recommended.  

Sauk Mountain is a short but steep hike with huge payoff views in the North Cascades. Located near Concrete, WA, this trail climbs quickly through wildflower meadows to a panoramic summit overlooking the Skagit Valley, Mount Baker, and even the Olympics on a clear day. It’s popular in summer and early fall.

The trail begins with tight switchbacks up an open slope, often lined with wildflowers and buzzing with butterflies and bumble bees. The views start early and only get better as you climb. At the summit ridge, you’ll get sweeping views in every direction.

This is a great day hike! Make sure to pack plenty of water since seasonal streams tend to dry up. 

I hope you found our roundup of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park helpful! Feel free to leave any questions in the comments.