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Contact: Kerry Olson, 360 854-7302
The Cascade River Road opened last Thursday night, June 25, to the Cascade Pass Trail parking area. The Cascade Pass Trail is a great day hike with spectacular views of peaks and glaciers. The trail climbs steadily to the pass, with views of peaks such as Eldorado, Johannesburg, Magic, Mixup and McGregor. This trail provides the shortest and easiest access in the park to the alpine environment. As a result, Cascade Pass is the most popular day hike in the North Cascades National Park and can be quite busy on summer weekends. Pets are not allowed. Be advised of significant steep snow patches that remain en route to the pass. Cascade Pass and all camps at Pelton Basin are still snow-covered, and steep snow patches can be found on the lower section of trail to Sahale Arm. Sahale Glacier Camp is snow free. Weather can be dynamic in the high country, so be prepared for a variety of condition, including having good hiking boots and an ice axe. The Cascade Pass Trail also serves as a gateway to numerous backcountry trips and climbing routes. All overnight stays in the backcountry require a free permit, which must be obtained in person and is issued on a first come first served basis. Permits can be obtained at the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount. For more permit information and updated trail conditions, call 360-854-7245 or visit https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/trail-conditions.htm FALL CONSTRUCTION: The last two to three miles of the Cascade River Road typically close in October when ice and snow make driving conditions hazardous. However, work will resume September 1 on the Hard Creek Bridge (milepost 12.7), damaged by floods in November 2007 and the road will be closed across the bridge September 1 through 3. On September 4, there will be flaggers and some delays. The road will be open, with no travel restrictions September 5 through 7 and will be closed again on September 8 until project completion (estimated to be between October 1 and 10). |
Last updated: February 28, 2015