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Easy pass trail4/3/2023 ![]() Nate biked the 10ish miles back to Rainy Pass to retrieve the van. The ski down from Easy Pass was fun mush skiing, snow ran out a few hundred vertical above the river. Looked like there would be a lot of bushwhacking involved with the Mesachie Pass exit anyway. The vibes were very bad after the rescue so we decided to bail out Easy Pass instead of continuing to Mesachie. Two skiers had fallen traversing the slope early in the morning, one was injured enough to need a rescue. As we were traversing to Mesachie Pass a Navy helicopter flew in and began searching the area. We followed the summer trail to Easy Pass which required a bit of hiking. This trail traverses rocky meadows and steep talus slopes in search of higher places, with views deep into North. In the morning we continued to Silent Lakes and skied a nice couloir down into the Fisher Creek Basin. Hiking to Easy Pass is anything but easy. We headed up towards Silent Lakes and spent the night near treeline. We took the standard route up Black skinning from Rainy Pass, traversed across the S face, and dropped into a long couloir leading into Grizzly Creek. Return the way you came.Nate and I skied from Rainy Pass to Easy Pass from 5/23 to 5/24. This time of year often comes with early winter snow in the mountains, so be prepared for winter conditions before setting out. If visiting in the fall (late September – early October), you may be treated to the sight of golden larches at Easy Pass. Fisher Peak, Black Peak, and glaciated Mount Logan are just a few of the prominent North Cascades mountains visible from this vantage point. Hang out at the pass for excellent views south and westward into North Cascades National Park. A popular backpacking route, the Fisher Creek Trail continues deep into the heart of the park. Begin gaining elevation beneath the trees. Fortunately, a log bridge spans the waters. Begin the hike in heavy timber, dropping a little to rushing Granite Creek. This trail traverses rocky meadows and steep talus slopes in search of higher places, with views deep into North Cascades National Park. While there’s no clear turnaround point, the trail eventually begins to drop into the Fisher Creek Basin. Hiking to Easy Pass is anything but easy. Note that dogs are not permitted within the park.įrom the NPS sign, continue another 0.1 miles or so to Easy Pass. You’ll reach the National Park Service (NPS) boundary at 3.7 miles, officially entering North Cascades National Park. Views improve to the east as you climb, so be sure to turn around once in a while to greet Mount Hardy and the Golden Horn behind you.Īfter 2.5 miles, reach a series of serious switchbacks which climb 1,000 feet over the next mile. The trail is rugged and rocky throughout, making sturdy footwear essential (and trekking poles highly recommended). In fall, the foliage is more subdued - until you reach the pass where subalpine larches await. New Morning Peak looms up ahead as you emerge from the woods.įireweed and wildflowers line the meadows during summertime. Hiking Easy Pass TrailĮasy Pass Trail begins in the forest, quickly crossing Granite Creek via footbridge.įor the first 1.6 miles, you’ll climb beneath the forest canopy before views begin to open up among talus slopes and meadows. Hike here if you’re looking for a challenge, an escape from the crowds, and some truly incredible mountain scenery. In the fall, you’ll want to layer up and prepare for winter conditions.īecause of its not-so-easy reputation, Easy Pass is less popular than nearby trails like Maple Pass Loop and Blue Lake. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen if hiking during summer. This is a tough trail with steep switchbacks, loose rock, and lots of exposure to the elements. This trail follows Easy Pass Creek to 6,500’ Easy Pass - a gateway to North Cascades National Park. ![]()
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