Hidden Lake Lookout — Friday, Jul. 26, 2013

North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20

Use caution when driving up to the trail head and be sure to park in front of the trees to prevent boulders from falling onto your car. The trail starts out under cover with easy switchbacks. Eventually we found ourselves hiking in massive fern fields and wonderful wild blooms. The trail turns into a rocky trail with multiple snow fields to cross (hiking poles highly recommended). We had a little trouble following the trail as we hiked closer the lookout. We ended up climbing straight up the boulders to reach the lookout. The top was full of people (one large hiking party) and that made it difficult to move around a bit. The view was incredible and thanks to clear skies we were able to see Mt. Rainier. On the way down we found the correct trail and had little trouble finding our way down the boulders. The biting flies were manageable until we crossed the stream back into the wooded area. We were swarmed with hundred (felt like thousands) but a new application of bug spray and a hoodie kept them at bay for the rest of the hike. My boys (12 & 13) did a great job on the hike. Overall, great hike and I would recommend to anyone who feels like taking on a difficult hike.