Good of amount of parking left at the trailhead when I arrived around 10 AM and as well when I returned later in the afternoon. One of the benefits of hiking mid-week, if you can. Trail had people on it. But I had many sections of solitude to not feel crowded. I was glad to see people of all ages on trail connecting with nature and getting exercise.
Beautiful day hike up to Hannegan Pass. Awesome views of the valley cliffs from the start with the music of Ruth Creek playing in the background. Wonderful job of the crews who maintain this trail. Vegetation cut back nicely. The route to the Pass, although, is almost all sun exposed and gets warm. The vegetation as well seems to slow down any breeze. Try to hike in the morning going up. Be sure to bring bug spray. The deer flies were fierce!
The Pass was a great place to rest up and see some more outstanding views before climbing to Hannegan Peak. Trail was in pretty good shape to the Peak. Some section have loose rock to pay attention to, side-steeping and poles help, as well as being steep. But the reward of the amazing views is well worth the climb. It was my first time to the Peak, and I was really impressed by the views of Mt. Shuksan, Mt. Baker, the glaciers, Copper Ridge...
Please get out and enjoy this gem of a hike, if you can.
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