When someone asks me what is my top favorite day hike in Washington I always reply it is Cascade Pass - Sahale Arm. I NEVER get tired of this hike and it's great in any time July-October. I especially like bringing on this hike people who are new either to hiking or to Washington State or to the North Cascades; it never fails to wow the crowds!
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| Evening at the pass |
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| Sunset and fog |
The hike starts from the most picturesque parking lot surrounded by the majestic snow-clad peaks and climbs through a forest for about 3.5 miles. The trail's switchbacks are a very doable, gentle grade.
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| First views after 3 miles of the forest |
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| Cascade Pass after fresh snowfall |
The views from Cascade Pass are breathtaking. Every. Time.
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| Lunch bench at the pass at 5,392 ft |
After the pass the trail climbs steeper through talus and alpine meadows to the top of the ridge.
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| My hiking buddy Olesya |
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| My hiking buddies Lauren and Mark |
The truly best views of the hike start on top of that ridge and just keep getting better the farther you go. The trail goes as far as the Glacier and climber's camp, but I've never made it that far because as I mentioned above I always go with new hikers.
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| Cascade Pas always has plenty of abundant wildlife |
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| Boston Peak |
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| My hiking buddy Sarra |
More of my favorite pictures from "the top":
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| My hiking buddy Alex |
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| Pika! |
Can't wait to go there next summer!!! The Mountains are calling!
