Heather - Maple Pass Loop — Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012

North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20

Arrived at the trail head at 8:30 with half of the parking lot already full of cars. At this trail you do have the option of paying five dollars or using your Northwest Pass. I went the counter clock wise trail up to Maple Pass with no issues in regards to mud, snow, or trail blocking. Passed five groups on the way up, arriving Maple Pass around 10:30ish and sat for some fruit. The bugs were really active as you get above the tree line, I would recommend bringing some bus spray. The hike up to Maple Pass was a challenge in regards to the sun, start this hike early!! On the way down passed two groups and the parking lot was full when I arrived back at the trailhead a little past noon. I did not need poles for this hike, however there were others who were using them.