Heather - Maple Pass Loop — Monday, Sep. 2, 2013

North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20

Arrive mid-afternoon to Rainy Pass Picnic Area, where the trailhead is located. Went clockwise on the loop trail. Please note if going left (clockwise), the trailhead for Maple Pass is located off to the right side of the initial paved trail. (I may have missed it if I weren't paying proper attention.) Start time: 3:20PM End time: 7:30PM (whew! Just before sundown.) Beautiful day, gentle light, nice and cool. Didn't have any issues with bugs/mosquitoes. Flowers still in bloom. Evidence of burn damage to some trees/shrubs on the way up. This trail was moderately difficult for me. I stopped several times to catch my breath, take pictures, and enjoy the scenery. Catch this trail before the weather turns. Totally worth the drive from Seattle.