Hannegan Pass and Peak

Begin hiking from the parking area at the end of the Hannegan Pass Road (FS 32). The first couple of miles have a very gentle grade - enjoy views of Mount Sefrit and the Nooksack Ridge, as well as the sounds of Ruth Creek running below, but beware of biting flies; they love the dense flora along the first part of the trail at least as much as hikers do.

The trail crosses several small waterfalls and dips in and out of shady glades, offering a respite from the heat of the sun. The grade increases around mile three, launching into switchbacks at Hannegan Pass camp, which continue all the way up to Hannegan Pass. Enjoy the view, drink some water and have a snack at the pass, looking up the Middle Creek drainage and into the North Cascades National Park, because you're not finished yet!

The trail up to Hannegan Peak begins with steadily graded switchbacks that weave through forest and beautiful alpine meadows with views of Ruth Mountain that improve as you climb. And climb you will - with 1,000 feet of elevation gain in just over a mile, this is by far the biggest push of the hike.

But it's so worth it. At the summit, enjoy 360 degree views of Cascade peaks, including Goat Mountain, the High Divide, and the Nooksack Ridge to the west. To the north are the peaks of British Columbia and the remote Silesia Creek valley, and to the east, Copper Ridge is visible, as well as Mount Redoubt in the distance. But the southern view is by far the most commanding, with in-your-face vistas of Mount Baker and Ruth Mountain, as well as Mount Shuksan, the East Nooksack Glacier and the Nooksack Tower.