North Cascades National Park guide · 1 min read
From Thunder Knob to Cascade Pass Trails
The Thunder Knob Trail is a short day hike that begins at Colonial Creek Campground, at milepost 130 on State Route 20.
The round trip covers 3.6 miles and gains 425 feet on a well-built path with a moderate grade. Footbridges cross the creek along the way, and the payoff is the view of Diablo Lake and the surrounding peaks. It suits children and anyone who wants mountain scenery without the demands of high country hiking. There is no backcountry camping on the route, but car camping is available at the campground where the trail starts.
The Cascade Pass Trail is located at the end of Cascade River Road. It runs 3.7 miles one way, gaining 1700 feet, and rewards hikers with views of peaks and glaciers from the pass. Hikers also make the trip from Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm, which is a popular day hike in its own right.
The Thunder Creek Trail follows a glacier-fed creek through old forest toward Park Creek Pass. Less than two miles in, a major bridge crosses the turquoise water. Day hikers can make that easy walk their turnaround or push on for the longer, more strenuous climb to Fourth of July Pass.
Backpackers use the Thunder Creek Trail for longer trips. One route crosses Park Creek Pass and follows the Thunder Creek and Park Creek drainages to the Stehekin River, while the Cascade Pass version adds a second mountain pass. The Pacific Crest Trail also crosses the park, and its section from Rainy Pass to High Bridge and Stehekin is a popular choice for backpacking. Beyond these, North Cascades has more than 400 miles of trails for hikers of all levels.
