Set in a dramatic cirque and surrounded by dark, craggy rocks, the view over the lake from the main Maple Loop Pass hike is simply spectacular. Lake Ann sits just outside the boundaries of the North Cascades National Park, but it is certainly one of the prettiest lakes in the region. Surrounded by high mountain lakes, stunning larch forests, beautiful meadows and plunging cliffs, Black Peak is one of the most striking areas in the North Cascades range. This dark, looming mountain is especially rugged, even by North Cascades standards, and stands out from the rest of the peaks on this stunning hike. Standing tall at an elevation of 2,736 m, Black Peak is the 20th-highest peak in Washington State. Today, the threatening name contrasts with the serene tranquility of this beautiful part of the North Cascades. Instead of referring to deadly bandits or murderous periods in the region’s history, the name is taken from the species of trout that populates the lake and nearby creek. Although from most perspectives it appears as a solitary, stand-alone tower, the mountain actually has two peaks, one to the north and one to the south.Īlthough Cutthroat Mountain, Cutthroat Pass and Cutthroat Lake (all found in the same vicinity) may sound rather ominous, the name comes from an unexpected source. Hiking Trail Highlights Cutthroat MountainĬutthroat Mountain is a distinctive, rugged peak in the heart of the North Cascades, reaching an elevation of 2,450 m2450m above sea level. Head left to follow this flat, paved trail back to the trailhead. At 10.8 km reach a junction with the Rainy Lake Trail. You’ll soon re-enter the forest, with peak-a-boo views down to Rainy Lake - fed by waterfalls - on your right. To the south, Glacier Peak is visible on clear days.įrom the Maple Pass trail’s high point of nearly 2,134 m, it drops rapidly along the ridgeline between Lake Ann and Rainy Lake. A few notable, nearby summits include Corteo Peak, Black Peak, Cutthroat Peak and Whistler Mountain - but there are far too many to name. Views along this stretch are incredible in every direction. Marmots like to sun themselves on the rocks in this area, so listen for their whistles. Hike along the wildflower-strewn ridgeline before climbing to Maple Pass - a high alpine zone above the treeline. Switchbacks climb to Heather Pass at 3.9 km, where a sign announces the National Park boundary. Continuing on the main trail, views begin to open up over the lake. Stay right to continue on the main trail to Maple Pass, or take the short ( 0.8 km) detour out to Lake Ann. Take a right at the junction to begin climbing steadily through the forest.Īt 2.3 km, reach a junction. While both directions are of equal merit, we describe it counter-clockwise here. Soon you’re presented with an option: to hike the trail clockwise or counter-clockwise. The only thing you might miss here is solitude, as the easy trailhead access and stunning scenery make for a very popular trail.įollow “Lake Trail” signs south from the parking area to the trailhead. Those seeking a favorable bang-to-buck ratio need look no further - Maple Pass Loop is as good as it gets. This hike takes you to a cirque-set alpine lake via a circuitous route around it. Wildlife, wildflowers, and wilderness – the Maple Pass Loop has it all.
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