I’d forgotten how awesome this hike is. Fall colors, mushrooms, views of Diablo Lake and mountains even into the Picket Range!

Parking can be a little tight but nothing like other Hwy 20 trailheads. Park by the Thunder knob sign and walk into the closed campground to its left. After a short distance on pavement and then a rocky washout area the trail is easy to follow, well graded, and in great condition.

We were ~1 hour 15 round trip. We saw 20+ people. This was a perfect leg stretcher on our way to The Methow.

As a visitor from the UK, this was sadly the last day of my fabulous fortnight in the Pacific North West, and I had a long drive to make from Twisp to Sea-Tac. But as my flight was not until the evening I was determined to fit in one last hike as that would be so entirely appropriate. Thunder Knob proved ideal.

The steady but none too taxing uphill climb through lovely and interesting forest is rewarded with fabulous views of the lake, especially when you go as far as you absolutely can. The vistas are wonderfully beautiful to behold. A highly recommended hike that packs a lot into a short distance

Thunder Knob is one of my favorite Washington hikes to date. This trail has a little bit of everything. The trailhead starts along the edge of a lake, with pebbled sand underfoot. Soon, the sand became packed earth as you approach a rushing river. I quite enjoyed walking on the bridges over the river, which were sturdy enough to feel secure but bouncy enough to make me feel extra adventurous. After the river, you'll hike by a couple marshy spots before the dirt underfoot transitions into stone. At the top of the knob, there is a stunning overlook of Diablo Lake. While this spot, perfect for photos, may seem like the turning-back point, the trail actually continues for ~0.5 mile more for a slightly different view of the lake. This is where the trail ends.

With so much scenery, the hike flew by and did not seem arduous in the slightest. In fact, I passed by families with a little boy hiking in duck crocs and twin toddlers hiking barefoot. Other than those handful of families, the trail was pretty quiet and peaceful on a Tuesday morning. There is not a ton of parking at the gravel lot at the trailhead, so on sunnier weekends, I imagine it would be a tighter squeeze. Regardless, the North Cascades area does not get nearly as busy as other natural areas in Washington state.

The drive to the trailhead was breathtaking and just as enjoyable as the hike itself, with waterfalls, mountain views, and scenic overlooks. I highly recommend driving a little ways down the road to stop at the Diablo Lake Overlook for information, a bathroom stop, and more scenic views. There is an outhouse near the trailhead if needed.

I only wish that this hike was a bit longer, or I had planned to camp and explore more of this beautiful area!

It got busy on our way out since so many hikes in the north cascades are closed. Fantastic easy trail. Gorgeous mossy forest before popping out with views of lake Diablo and the cliff sides. Stunning!

  Hike Number 1 of 5  today. Ok so once again I planned five hikes in one day. No they are not long but beautiful. Thunder Knob is a very rocky trail and the switchbacks are short and well designed. Not steep and not long. The beginning of the trail is in the shade but once you get out to the viewing point its mostly sunny on a good day.  Today was slightly smoky due to the three fires burning close nearby. Not to bad this morning but I could still smell the fires. Lots of people on the trail. If I am being honest the end does not have that great of a view due to the trees obstructing your view. If you are not much of a hiker you could just travel another two minutes to Diablo Lake Overlook and have the most beautiful roadside view in the North Cascades when there is no smoke of course. It took two hours to hike out and back with a rest at the halfway mark. Lots of fallen trees from previous windstorms or fires. Only one tree crossing the trail and it was easy to maneuver over or under. All and all a beautiful day to be out hiking. Checkout this video by clicking on link down below or checkout my Vimeo Channel for 100's of other hikes I have done. As always get out there and see this beautiful state and enjoy your hiking!

Take Care,

Mike