Trail is in great shape, and the larches are poppin. Amazing fall hike. 

We did a one night overnight at the pass on Saturday 9/30 to enjoy the larch show. Road to the TH has some large potholes. We saw all manner of vehicles but just an FYI. When we arrived at 10am on Sat the lot was mostly full. We originally intended to overnight down near Cutthroat lake (we were ambitious and wanted to go up and over the pass to the lake), but when we found a spot below the pass with the most amazing view of the mountains and right in a larch grove, we decided to drop the heavy packs and do a day excursion over the pass instead. I also want to add that there are no water sources up here or immediately up and over the pass. I would advise filtering down by the creeks where the larches start before camping up at the pass.

I would say the larches are 75% at peak, with the other 25% a green/yellow mostly at the lower elevations. The weather forecast for the past weekend said sunny both days, but we ended up with clouds and even snow flurries on Sat. It got very cold overnight, and the ground froze on the trail until the sun came out. We about 7-8 groups overnighting along with us.

For our day excursion, we went up and over the pass intending to make it down to Cutthroat lake. However, the trail down was a lot longer then we had intended, so we did not go all the way as we had to back up. However, the larch grove immediately below the pass is one of the best I have ever seen! It is for sure worth adding the extra mileage.

I would say this week the larches will be peak here. It is also worth mentioning (even if obvious) that this is a very popular trail. We passed maybe 60 people going up when we were hiking out on Sunday. Cars were parked up and down the road when we drove out at 1pm. There also seemed to be more dogs off leash then on, and this was concerning not only because of how busy the trail was, but especially as horses are allowed on the trail (and we did see someone on one). 

Spectacular show of larches ! Cant get any better .

Left home around 3am, reached trailhead at 645am and parking lot was almost full. Started at 7am and reached by 930am. Went slow stopped for views and photos a lot. Came back to trailhead by 1245.. parking now stretched for miles !

Awesome views Last 2 miles .. there were at-least 7-8 camp tents . Saw a person riding a horse .

Once you reach the pass , it’s amazing . It’s wide open with 360 degree views . Lot of places to sit and enjoy snack/lunch !

Trail directions in WTA was very helpful . Clocked 11 miles return .

Got to the parking lot at 7 a.m. The main lot was already full but found a spot not far away. The road in is short so the potholes shouldn't present any problems if you go slow.
It was a chilly 37 degrees when we started but very worth it as it helped avoid the crowds. The trail is well maintained and easy to follow. You are in the trees for about 3 miles. Then you start to gain elevation a bit faster and the larches start. This is also where you lose a lot of pace as you can't stop taking pictures because it is so beautiful. For a hike to a pass, it never felt hard or like the elevation change was difficult. If you still have energy after you get to the pass, keep going on the PCT for more views. We went about another mile (stopped as the trail was starting to lose elevation), and the views were worth it. While not nearly as busy as Maple Pass it progressively kept getting busier as we hiked out.

Arrived right before 8am, and the parking lot was nearly full and cars were starting to park on the road/highway. East access to the road and parking lo with minimal potholes. This hike is a stunner! By mile 3-4, you’ve got great views of the larches and the pass. At the top, there are plenty of spaces for you to eat lunch and wide beautiful views. There was very little to no trash, which I was very excited to see. Let’s keep it up with no trace and to pack out dog + human waste and their accompanying products! Trail is in great condition overall, creek crossings are pretty simple at this time. Started at 8am and finished right around 1:30pm. This was including lots of stops for gawking at the stunning views, photos, and lunch. One of my fave hikes. By the time I left, there were no spaces in the lot + road and many cars parked alongside the highway. Definitely one of my new fave hikes!