Monte Cristo Ghost Town — Saturday, Aug. 8, 2009

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Hiked out to the Monte Cristo Townsite this weekend. There was very little parking left when we arrived at the trailhead around 1:30 pm. Started out on the trail and were told by some people returning that the first slide area was passable and that we didn't have to take the bypass trail around it. Having a baby in tow we opted for the bypass trail anyways. The second bypass trail just before the log crossing was a little sketchy but better than having to step over several cables on the main part of the trail. Crossed the river on the log then the rest was smooth sailing. Once at the townsite we were welcomed by several people as well as a few dogs running around. There were also two ATV's (which we assumed to belong to the private cabin owners on the river). The townsite itself is okay, nothing too impressive. There are some old cabins and buildings but my understanding is that these are not from the original townsite but were built later. There really isn't too much from the original town. Made good time on the way out, a few drizzles here and there just before we reached our car. Overall, not a bad hike, flat and easy. We had some sore feet after the 8 mile walk though.