![]() Not that Heather/Maple Pass is a wimpy hike - I think both of you will feel satisfied you did a fair amount of work and had some really nice hiking if you camp at Lake Ann. The trail to Lake Ann is a wonderful, short way to see the impressive glaciated valley encircled by the popular Heather - Maple Pass Loop. But if he wants a fairly easy trip (and wants you to carry most of his stuff) like mine did back in the day, then Lake Ann is a fine choice. If he wants a tough hike with an adventure, then maybe those other spots would work. The trailhead has a large parking area with restrooms and picnic tables. ![]() Take the trail for the Heather Maple Pass Loop trail and begin the trail counter-clockwise. A lot depends on how ambitious or jaded the kid is. From eastbound Highway 20, turn right at Rainy Pass the parking area is directly off the highway. This part of the trail lasts 0.8 miles and will add another 650 feet of total ascent. Take the split to the left (towards Sahale Arm). I've never done it, but I think they are fairly involved (other folks might correct me). Just beyond Cascade Pass, look for the vertical sign post indicating a trail split. I don't think they let you camp on the trail anywhere else, and even if you did, it would be a lot more work. I think that is the easiest backpacking spot. The other part of the loop is nice, but not worth the extra effort if base camped at Lake Ann in my opinion. Just go as high up as you can and turn around (unless you want to walk all the way down to do a loop). The one weird thing is that it makes a bit tougher to do a loop, but don't worry about it. That being said, like a lot of lakes this year, it will be relatively warm, which changes the situation quite a bit (good swimming to be had). This is a flat, easy to walk paved trail that ends with gorgeous views of Rainy Lake and the mountains of North Cascades National Park. This direction is gentler going up and steeper. The Maple Pass Loop offers a little bit of everythingwildflowers, old growth forests, a visit to a lovely alpine lake, and (the best part) panoramic views of the North Cascades. It is a nice lake, but not as stunning as the hike to the passes. Follow signs for Maple Pass and head counterclockwise (to the right when youre facing the sign) on the trail. Heather-Maple Pass is an outstanding hike, and your kid will like the lake. A seven mile loop around Lake Ann, with some stunning ridgeline vistas, forests, lakes and meadows. It works as well as the alternatives, too - car camping spots are a ways away. The canyon has some excellent hiking and horseback riding opportunities as well. But not that many people hike to the lake. Maple Canyon has more than 550 routes with climbing grades from 5.4 to 5.14 in difficulty. ![]() It is kind of a strange place to backpack, in that unlike a lot of backpacking, you will have lots of people dayhiking when you walk from there. If you are looking for a beautiful hike before the weather turns sour, this one is surely one of the most varied and unquestionably beautiful hikes in the area.įor more information about this area, checking out CampingHiking.Lake Ann has decent camping. Keep in mind that the hike beyond Heather pass is quite steep, but the views simply can’t be beat. However, simply sticking with the main trail will not be disappointing, with each new view-point seemingly more beautiful than the last. Heading counter-clockwise, the first mile or so is a fairly easy hike that passes through a lovely avalanche meadow, eventually leading through some woods to the junction with the side trail that leads to the picturesque Lake Ann.įurther up the trail at Heather Pass, there are several trails that meander through more meadows, and offers access to Lewis and Wing Lakes, although it is recommended only for experienced route finders. The trail is rated moderate/difficult, so make sure you come prepared! ![]() The area is renowned for its beautiful fall colors, although the magnificent mountain and lake views are stunning year round. It is a 7.2 mile loop with an optional side trail to the beautiful Lake Ann. Booster Course Pass Wave 3 goes live on December 7, and will. ![]() Maple Pass Loop Trail #740 is widely cited as one of the most stunning fall hikes in the Northern Cascades. Just in time for the holidays, perennial best-seller Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is getting upgraded again with its latest batch of DLC tracks. ![]()
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