Cascade Pass Trail
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Cascade Pass Trail is one of the classic North Cascades hikes. We love Cascade Pass for a relatively easy climb to subalpine grandeur. Mountains, valleys, glaciers, waterfalls, and more make a hike to Cascade Pass pretty much unbeatable for the effort.
Getting there
To get to the Cascade Pass trailhead, take Highway 20 east to milepost 106 from Marblemount, and cross the bridge onto Cascade River Road. Drive 23.0mi to the end of the road. Because most of the road is unpaved, the drive takes nearly an hour from Marblemount. No pass required.
About
When to do | July - October |
Backcountry Campsites | Yes, at Johannesburg Camp (near trailhead) and Sahale Glacier |
Toilets | Yes, at trailhead and at Cascade Pass |
Family friendly | No |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | High |
Route Type | Out and back |
Cascade Pass Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Cascade Pass Trail Description
Welcome to North Cascades National Park! After the long drive to the starting point of the Cascade Pass trail, the massive Johannesburg Mountain is a most welcoming sight. Its noisy glaciers can be heard from the parking lot. Not many trails begin from such a scenic setting, so snap a few photos before setting off for Cascade Pass.
The path enters the forest, climbing immediately via a series of more than 30 switchbacks. Although this may sound like a lot, you’ll be thankful for the relatively easy-moderate grade. Along the way, you’ll catch peek-a-boo mountain views of Johannesburg and Cascade Peak through the trees.
At 2.7mi, the switchbacks end and the meadows begin. Leave the forest behind, trading it in for heather and huckleberry-strewn talus slopes. The grade eases, too, making this final 1.0mi to Cascade Pass the most pleasant of the hike. Turn around for views northwest to the glaciated Eldorado Peak.
Upon reaching Cascade Pass at 3.7mi, you’ll be rewarded with views deep into the Stehekin River valley. Magic Mountain and Pelton Peak appear near, while Glory Mountain and McGregor rise beyond.
Cascade Pass itself is a jumping-off point for bigger adventures, with one trail leading over 20.0mi to Stehekin and another terminating at nearby Sahale Glacier. It is an additional 2.2mi of steep hiking to the glacier from Cascade Pass, so start out early if you want to add Sahale Glacier to the hike to Cascade Pass.
A composting toilet is available via a short, signed side trail from Cascade Pass. Large, flat rocks provide plenty of seating. It can get especially crowded up here on summer weekends, so be prepared for crowds. Once you’ve had your fill of mountain majesty, leave Cascade Pass and hike back the way you came.
Hiking Trail Highlights
Eldorado Peak
The distinctive, pointed, snow-capped Eldorado Peak rises from the North Cascades National Park like a beacon, conveying an almost Himalayan-like splendor. This beautiful peak is legendary among mountaineers, and was once dubbed ‘Queen of the Cascade River’ by climbing icon Fred Beckey. Towering 8868 feet above sea level, and culminating in an exhilarating snow ridge, this impressive natural monument is a bucket list destination for most keen climbers.
In fact, the summit of Eldorado Peak is not too challenging for most well-equipped climbers, and the rewards at the top are well worth the effort of the ascent. There are epic views in all directions, including those of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan to the north, and Glacier Peak in the opposite direction. The experience of summiting the peak along a knife-edge snow ridge is something mountaineers never forget! If you’re not a climber, Eldorado Peak can still be admired from afar, its distinctive peak forming an unmissable part of the landscape in the Cascades National Park.
Want to find other great hikes in North Cascades National Park? Check out the Diablo Lake or Maple Pass Loop trails.
Insider Hints
Black bears frequent the Cascade Pass area. Never leave food unattended, and be bear aware!
Camping is available near the trailhead at Johannesburg Camp, and additionally at Sahale Glacier Camp. A free backcountry permit is required for camping and can be obtained at the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount.
Planning a very special hike with your partner? The picturesque Cascade Pass Trail is a great place to elope!
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Sally S. Norbert 4 years ago
The views all the way up make it worth the efforts. Even with Clouds and rain the views are amazing!
Lambert O 4 years ago
The hike offers stunning and expansive views for little effort at least comparative to some of the bigger, longer hikes you can find in the area. Magnificent!
Jellybean 4 years ago
Fabulous hike. Beautiful sunny clear day. Very Crowded
Aleysha C. 4 years ago
You will find everything that you are looking for a great hike!
Stewart Graham 4 years ago
This trail is definitely a rewarding treat for all hikers out there.
footfall 4 years ago
Be prepared to be blown away with the view of glaciers and valleys at the overlook on top of Cascade Pass.
HIllaryPNW 4 years ago
Offers wonderful views of the mountains! I always recommend this trail to my friends
Tom Pack. 5 years ago
Did this Trail last July, It was a great place to hike and absolutely awesome views
T Rob 5 years ago
Did this couple of years ago. this is easily one of the most beautiful hikes and the views just keep getting better throughout the hike
dylanm 5 years ago
Lots of scenery to see. There are mountains, waterfalls, landscapes, forests and melting glaciers!