North Cascades National Park hiking guide
Hidden Lake Trail
A 7.4-mile out-and-back with 3,260 ft of climbing in Cascade Pass, rated difficult.
Key facts
- Length
- 7.4 mi (11.9 km)
- Elevation gain
- 3,260 ft (993 m)
- Route type
- Out and back
- Difficulty
- Difficult
- Area
- Cascade Pass
- Highest point
- 6,821 ft
- Lowest point
- 3,565 ft
About Hidden Lake Trail
The climb starts in cool forest, then opens into the Hanging Gardens, a stretch of wildflower meadows and heather. Rocky slopes lead to a steep pinnacle with a historic fire lookout, where the Garden Wall and Bearhat Mountain rise into view. Past the col, the trail drops to a deep blue lake framed by Sahale, Forbidden and Boston peaks, and mountain goats are sometimes seen. Expect snow into late summer, and note that pets are not allowed beyond the col.
Route map
This route was checked by Parka editors.
