Best Hiking Routes in the Cascades

Let's explore the best hiking routes in the Cascades! Here, we have listed and rated these stunning hikes in the Cascades by difficulty. We have everything from a moderate 3.7-mile hike to a strenuous 34-mile round trip trek. If you're looking for a relaxed hike for a sunny Sunday afternoon or something more challenging – read on and pick the perfect hike for you.

Rainbow Loop Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 4.4 miles

A particularly popular route due to the Rainbow Loop Trail's gentle but firm elevation. The trail consists of an upper and lower route, so it is actually not a complete 'loop'. Hikers may come across horseback riding parties. Speak calmly to the lead rider and exit the trail on the downhill side, where your group will be visible. Dogs are required to be kept on a leash.

Desolation Peak

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length: 4.8 miles

The Desolation Peak Trail leads to broad meadows and a historic fire lookout after a diffi-cult ascent. It's a popular 4.8-mile day trek for those staying on the picturesque Ross Lake boats, as well as a gorgeous but challenging side trip for backpackers on the East Bank Trail. Know your limitations and bring lots of water on this strenuous walk that is frequently hot and dry.It is important to note that the historic lookout is not open for public use and fires are not allowed at the Desolation Peak. Dogs are required to be kept on a leash.

Diablo Lake

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 7.6 miles

The Diablo Lake roundtrip hiking route is 7.6 miles of glistening views. This route is a great choice for a winter or spring hike as it offers views of the North Cascades National Park which is closed during the earlier seasons. The trail begins in the parking lot of the North Cascades Institute. Cross the Sourdough Creek Trail and continue uphill through old-growth woodland on a gradual incline. The Diablo Lake hike is dog-friendly.

Hidden Lake Lookout

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 8 miles

The Hidden Lake route offers outstanding sights in the alpine meadows. This 8-mile route features waterfalls, summits, lakes, and exceptional mountain views. Although the rating is moderate, this hike is not beginner-friendly and requires hiking knowledge and experience. The Hidden Lake Trail, which is accessible through the North Cascades Highway and a few more kil-ometres on Forest Service Roads, leads you through the many diverse ecosystems offered by the North Cascades. Dogs are required to be kept on a leash.

Cascade Pass Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to Cascade Pass / Strenuous to Sahale Glacier.

Length: 3.7 miles / 5.9 miles

The Cascade Pass Trail offers two routes from the Cascade Pass Trailhead to suit your hiking ability. The route to the Cascade Pass is a moderate route stretching over 3.7 miles. This steady route is ideal for a hike with friends or family on a sunny afternoon. You will hike through meadows and forests while seeing the beautiful views of peaks and glaciers. The second hiking route to the Sahale Glacier is slightly lengthier at 5.9 miles and is more of a strenuous hike. This is a very satisfying route with beautiful viewpoints along the way. No dogs are allowed on the Cascade Pass Trail routes.

Maple Pass Loop

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length: 7.2 miles

A little strenuous, but a scenic route. The Maple Pass Loop is a 7.2-mile loop that includes a side trail to Lake Ann (not mandatory but totally recommended). Although the breath-taking mountain and lake views are stunning all year, the area is filled with beautiful fall colours. Dogs are required to be kept on a leash.

Copper Ridge Trail

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length: 34 miles

The Copper Ridge Trail offers a diverse collection of routes from the popular Hannegan Pass Trailhead to Copper Creek Camps before you retrace your steps back to the Hannegan Pass. This route is for very experienced hikers. This route is an impressive 34-mile round trip! The Copper Ridge Trail offers outstanding views of the North Cascades National Park and stun-ning views from the Copper Mountain Lookout spot. It is important to note that the Copper Ridge Trail requires a Northwest Forest Pass. No dogs are allowed on the Copper Ridge Trail

What to Wear Hiking

Now you have discovered the best hikes in the Cascades, you will need to be dressed appro-priately. See the Sherpa Adventure Gear's sustainable hiking clothes today for the best clothing to wear while conquering the peaks.