As a 68 year old solo hiker from the UK, it's probably fair to say that I am not your typical visitor to this trail. The research I had undertaken prior to my visit to the Pacific North West told me that Maple Pass was a 'must do' trail, and that certainly proved to be the case. Having read many other reports on this hike, it seems that I must have struck lucky with the parking. Arriving just before 11 on a Tuesday morning, the parking lot was busy but there were a few spaces left. (The parking lot on the opposite side of Highway 20 was almost empty). Weather conditions were ideal for hiking - dry and sunny with temperatures around 70
This is a simply glorious hike, fully deserving of all the superlatives heaped upon it. I took the anti-clockwise route, and bypassed the Ann Lake detour. Once you have climbed out the trees, the views are breath taking in all directions - jagged mountain peaks, forests, the beautiful blue greens of Ann Lake then Rainy Lake. Whilst the larch fall foliage had not arrived, the rich colours of the ground cover were great compensation. Although the trail was not busy, there were a nice number of fellow friendly hikers with whom to converse. Maintaining only a steady pace, and taking time to enjoy and photograph the stunning vistas, the hike took me about 5 hours. That time includes doing the Rainy Lake trail at the end, an easy addition and well worthwhile.
I have hiked in many different countries over the years, and this trail is as beautiful as any I have done anywhere, right up amongst the best of my memories. I must compliment all involved on how well maintained the trail was, the state of the facilities, and the quality of information available. Certainly makes life easier for a visitor from distant shores. On all the trails I walked I was impressed every time. The WTA Trailblazer app is a great aid.
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