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A lovely trail with fabulous views.


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Map Key

6.6

Miles

10.6

KM

73%

Runnable

6,919' 2,109 m

High

4,878' 1,487 m

Low

1,928' 588 m

Up

2,041' 622 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (7°)

36%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

After you park (and pay), take the trail to Lake Ann. You'll head uphill through forest, and at about 1.27 miles you'll reach a trail that branches off to Lake Ann; however keep hiking on the main trail (unless you want to take the side-trip to Lake Ann, about 0.6 miles round-trip). The trail continues along the side of a mountain, and as you emerge above treeline, you'll see Lake Ann down to the left. The scenery here is beautiful, though it will get even better!

You'll climb steadily and encounter some switchbacks. At about 2.2 miles, you've reached Heather Pass. Keep hiking past a few more switchbacks, and now you'll be at the perfect viewpoint for spectacular views beyond Heather Pass. This is the perfect time to take a break and take in the beautiful panoramic views. Don't be surprised if you find yourself saying "Wow!" as you look around at the peaks and valleys all around you. As you look down into the other side of Heather Pass, you'll see several worn trails that meander through the meadow.

When you're satisfied with the views, continue on the main trail. You'll make your way to the opposite side on Lake Ann, on the very ridge you were looking at while on the other side of Lake Ann. Continue to climb, but do not forget to stop and take in the magnificent views and wildflowers during the summer. Along the way, you'll see signs that indicate you are on the border with North Cascades National Park. After you hike through Maple Pass, you'll eventually top off at almost 7000 ft. From this pass, you'll see a zig-zag of switchbacks that you'll take on your way down. You won't forget to take a break and marvel at the magnificent views here!

When you are satisfied with the views, continue on the main trail. You'll steeply descend over several switchbacks here. You'll cross another ridge (also with nice views). Continuing on your way, you'll be able to see Rainy Lake to the right. Don't forget to look back at the lake to see a beautiful cascade which feeds into the lake. The descent will lead you back into forest where you'll continue to meander. If you thought taking breaks was only necessary for the uphill incline, your knees will tell you otherwise here!

Contacts

Shared By:

Kristen Arendt

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 3 votes

#10629

Overall
  4.3 from 3 votes
5 Star
67%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#490

in Washington

#10,629

Overall
3 Views Last Month
273 Since May 14, 2019
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
0%
33%
67%
0%

Photos

Waterfalls feeding into one of the lakes. Taken in early October.
Oct 13, 2016 near Stehekin, WA
Snow falling on Lake Ann.
Oct 11, 2017 near Stehekin, WA
The Cascades over Lake Ann
Oct 19, 2020 near Stehekin, WA
Overlooking Lake Ann.
May 2, 2017 near Stehekin, WA
View down from near the pass, fall colors.
Oct 11, 2017 near Stehekin, WA
Larch trees golden for fall
Oct 11, 2017 near Stehekin, WA

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