Diablo Lake

What a fantastic May 6th - North Cascades NP visitor center is now opened, but as Hwy 20 is still closed, we pretty much had the park to ourselves. Using Ramano's book we chose the Diablo Lake trail (hike #84, Day Hiking North Cascades) - not sure why it's not described on WTA.org?? Anyway - the trail is in fantastic condition - several blowdowns and a couple rock sides you'll need to navigate, but nothing insurmountable. I checked "Bridge Out" because according to the rangers the suspension bridge at the end of the hike is blocked by a rock slide - they said you could go onto the bridge, but it was uncrossable. I also checked "Bugs" - it was actually bees hanging around all the wild flowers blooming.

We ended up turning back about 3 miles into the hike at the power lines as it was starting to get dark, but my-o-my the adventure getting there. You'll hike in cool forest - cross several creeks both active and dry - navigate several talus slopes - and as Romano puts it "teeter on the edge of a spectacular gorge" and "marvel at the waterfalls plumenting 700-plus feet down them". You'll great great views of Pyramid, Snowfield, Colonial, Davis, and Jack Mountain peaks, as well as Diablo and Ross Lakes, and Ross Dam.

Note that at about 1.5 miles there is a boot trail leading to a great view area in a powerline clearing which makes a perfect spot for lunch or a break (this is different from the power lines the main trial actually crosses at about 3 miles).

According to Ramano, this trail is rated a 2 for difficultly and 3 stars for overall appeal (I might even give it 4 stars!). It's 7.5 miles total round trip with a 1,400 foot elevation gain. Note that the last half mile you lose over 600 feet to get down to the bridge, so if you're not interested in hiking back up on your return, turn around at the power lines - and marvel at all the sites you missed on your stroll back. The hike is OK for older kids and I'd highly recommend hiking boots.