Sauk Mountain — Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011

North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20

Beautiful day out with the family. Views down the skagit valley were etheral. 360 views of Baker, the North cascades the other big peak are well worth going all the way to the top, and its a relatively easy climb. There is some snow on the trail near the top that makes things a bit dicey but its not too bad. I picked up a sturdy stick when passing through the forest area lower down on the trail for extra stability and traction and felt fine even with 40+ lbs on my back. My my 3 year old son had no trouble clambering up this trail, but it gets narrow at spots and there is steep drop off, so i felt more comfortable carrying him much of the way. Nonetheless, there were 6-year-olds that were blowing past us. If there is another nice day or weekend before the end of the season, this is an absolutely lovely hike, but do be prepared for the snow at the top.