Squire Creek Pass via Eight-mile Trail — Monday, Jul. 26, 2010

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

I started up the trail at 7:00 AM. It was a glorious morning and my third attempt to reach the Pass this year. It was more than worth the third effort. The trail is steep, but clear of obstructions. The granite slabs at the top are unique and impressive. The views are stunning. I lingered longer at the Pass than I usually do at a destination. This isn't an easy hike, but it is a very fine one. When I attempted this hike in February, there were waterfalls everywhere on the granite. Today there were only a few trickles and they were near the Pass. Seeing the changes that occur with the seasons make the trip entirely different and interesting. Now that I have waypoints entered into my GPS, I might return next winter.