Tackle your next adventure with the best hikes in the North Cascades! Embark on a scenic journey around some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to glacial lakes and towering mountains. With so much to see and explore, you won’t want to miss out on these spectacular hikes. Here are our top 9 trails you won’t want to miss!
9 Stunning Hikes in the North Cascades National Park
The North Cascades offer some of the most picturesque hiking trails with awe-inspiring views and breathtaking waterfalls. From Racehorse Falls Trail, Nooksack Falls Trail to Upper Lodge to Artists Point and the Chain Lakes Loop Trail, there’s something for everyone who is looking for the best hikes in the North Cascades.
Traversing the Racehorse Falls Trail
The hike to Racehorse Falls is a short yet challenging trail spanning 0.6 miles with multiple waterfalls cascading around 140 feet. You will come across different types of falls ranging from punchbowls to veils and undercut ledges. There is also an impressive third waterfall where you can take a dip at the bottom of the falls. The trail is surrounded by lush forest but is easy to follow as it is well-marked.
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🌐 Website: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/racehorse-falls
Venturing to Nooksack Falls Trail
Nooksack Falls is one of the shortest hikes in the North Cascades, lasting only 0.1 miles. There are two waterfalls to visit, with the upper viewpoint giving a great view of the top and the lower, letting you see the entire 88-foot cascade. The best time to visit is in spring and summer to witness the full force of the glacial melt.
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🌐 Website: Visit
Ascending Upper Lodge to Artists Point
The 3.9-mile hike from Upper Lodge to Artists Point is an extremely rewarding experience filled with 360-degree mountain views. You will be able to witness Shuksan, the Cascades, and Mt Baker. This moderate trail is perfect for an afternoon adventure as long as you check the avalanche forecast before your hike.
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🕙 Hours: Open 24 hours (May be closed in winter due to snow)
🎟️ Entrance fees: Northwest Forest Pass or National Parks Pass required for parking
Trekking the Chain Lakes Loop Trail
The Chain Lakes Loop Trail is one of the most popular trails in the North Cascades, stretching 7.1 miles around a chain of lakes. As you ascend and descend small hills, you will be able to witness Table Mountain, Mt Herman, and Bagley Lakes. You can also spot Mt. Shuksan looming over you and admire alpine bodies of water like Hayes Lake, Iceberg Lake, and Mazama Lakes. All this makes it one of the best hikes in the North Cascades.
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Trekking the Eagle Lake Trail
Trekking the Eagle Lake Trail is one of the top hikes in North Cascades National Park. This moderately-difficult trail is 3.6 miles long and features a descent into Heather Meadows, wade through Glacier Creek, and a climb up the Boulder Creek Trail, with a finale of a stunning vista at Thorp Mountain. Along the way, hikers will be met with breathtaking views of Mt. Shuksan, Table Mountain, Mt Herman, Bagley Lakes, and Hayes Lake.
Hikers should begin their journey on the Eagle Lakes Trailhead, located at the end of Forest Service Road 6160. The first part of the trail consists of a steep 1.5-mile descent down to Heather Meadows, so be sure to bring sturdy shoes. Afterward, the next mile and a half consist of a mostly flat meadow hike, where you can pass some amazing waterfalls.
Next, the trail turns slightly uphill, as hikers will soon be crossing Glacier Creek. This shouldn’t be too difficult with careful timing, although it can be cold during winter. Once across, the trail continues uphill for the remainder of the hike until you reach the peak of Thorp Mountain. Here, you can truly enjoy the views of North Cascades with the Mt. Baker National Recreation Area to the north and the American Alps to the south.
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Descending to Heather Meadows
When hiking the Eagle Lake Trail in the North Cascades, hikers should first know that the trail begins with a steep descent into the Heather Meadows area. This 1.5-mile downhill trek is the start of the trail, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes. There are plenty of photo opportunities here, including the beautiful wildflower displays and cascading waterfalls.
During the descent into Heather Meadows, hikers can observe a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of birds. There is also a good chance of spotting a black bear scurrying about in the summer months. Be sure to keep any food items secured away and follow all safety guidelines when encountering wild animals.
At the end of this descent, hikers will meet the idyllic Heather Meadows, an alpine valley area filled with lush meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped peaks. A meandering creek runs through the meadow’s center, providing a peaceful soundtrack to your journey.
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Wading Across Glacier Creek
As the next part of the Eagle Lake Trail in North Cascades National Park, hikers must make their way across Glacier Creek. This creek is about thigh-high during the summer, so timing is key for a successful crossing.
Crossing the creek in the morning when the water is at its lowest is recommended. Hikers may need to be more cautious if hiking during winter, as the icy cold water can be challenging.
When attempting the creek crossing, make sure to plan ahead and know the exact route you wish to take. Also, be sure to always walk in groups rather than alone for safety reasons. At the end of the crossing, you can reward yourself with a break and take in the beauty of the surrounding area.
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Climbing Boulder Creek Trail
Once hikers have successfully crossed Glacier Creek, they must then face the uphill climb of the Boulder Creek Trail. This 2-mile trek is fairly steep, but the wonderful views of Mt. Shuksan and surrounding mountains will motivate you to push through.
Near the top of the Boulder Creek Trail, the trail flattens out, and you can take a break while enjoying the views and catching your breath. Look out for mountain goats and marmots that inhabit this area, and make sure to be respectful of their space.
The last portion of the trail is the most challenging, but it is also the most rewarding. Just past the summit, hikers will discover a rocky ridge filled with wildflowers and incredible views of the North Cascades.
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Gaining a Vantage Point at Thorp Mountain
Finishing the Eagle Lake Trail in the North Cascades leads hikers to the peak of Thorp Mountain and the stunning 360-degree views from the top. This mountain offers breathtaking views of the North Cascades and beyond, including Mt. Baker National Recreation Area to the north and the American Alps to the south.
The last part of the trail is often covered in snow, so microspikes or snowshoes may be necessary. Once you have reached the peak, take a few moments to take in your surroundings and take plenty of photos. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada!
After enjoying the views, the final leg of the Eagle Lake Trail is the descent back down to the starting point. On the way back, keep an eye out for other mountain wildlife, such as eagles and black bears.
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Conclusion
Hiking in North Cascades National Park offers something for everyone, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll around a lake or an epic challenge, there’s a trail to suit your taste.
From the impressive views of Table Mountain to the serene beauty of Diablo Lake, these trails offer breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences. If you’re looking for an adventure, the North Cascades offers it all! So grab your hiking gear, pack your bags and set off for an unforgettably awesome hike in the North Cascades!