Heather - Maple Pass Loop — Friday, Oct. 4, 2013

North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20

We started the hike at 10 am. Blue sky, weather calm. No snow in the parking area, mud on the first few switchbacks through the woods, then patches of slushy ice. Plenty of boots had kept the trail open, although narrow, through the increasing snow to Heather Pass and beyond. Approximately 2 feet of snow at Heather Pass (6100)where we stopped. Other hikers were attempting the loop. Weather was clear and comfortable hiking, light occasional breeze, chilly when we stopped. Using poles a good idea. Views of Lewis Lake from Heather Pass, no fall foliage yet (larch trees).