Hiked this trail with my kids (6 & 9) starting around noon on a Sunday. The parking area was full, so we parked in the day parking lot at the campsite across the highway. There is not an adequate shoulder to park along the highway. Don’t bother trying.
The kids are experienced hikers and this was an easy hike for them with a nice view to reward them at the top. It is a well traveled trail. We lost the count how many parties we passed by…lots! While not remote, the hike was still fun, and just long enough to get a good stretch while on our way across the North Cascades.
Since this trail tends to attract hikers with a wide variety of experience and can become crowded, please note trail etiquette: Take note of those around you, try to spread out from other groups. If you need to pull over to allow others to pass you, find a wide spot on the trail or take a break on one of the many benches. Do not take short cuts on the switchbacks. It degrades the trail. Pay attention to fallen trees that seem to block small trails. They were likely placed there on purpose to help keep hikers on the main trail. Also, pack out everything you pack in. We saw orange peels at the viewpoint, and other litter along the way. A bit disappointing especially considering there were so many signs reminding people of this basic rule for exploring the wilderness.
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