Squire Creek Pass via Eight-mile Trail — Saturday, Aug. 1, 2015

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Trailhead is 6.5 (not 8 miles like some sources say) miles off mountain loop highway just south of Darrington. Hiked this steep trail yesterday - about 1000 feet gain in elevation per mile. Trail is rocky first, then lots of tree roots, better after the saddle at 2 miles in. No fresh water sources, just a few ponds. Mountain/valley views are nice at the 2.5 miles which is a good turn around point or lunch stop. Our young dog came along and did fine in the heat since the trail is mostly in the trees and she has good endurance when it's steep. Not recommended for older dogs or ones with health/joint issues. Wild flowers are all dried up, just saw a few huckleberries. Round trip - 5 miles and 2400 feet up.