Trail is inaccessible. After about 100ft past the trailhead there is a fast flowing stream about knee high. The bridge has been taken down for the summer, making it impossible to cross without getting wet. My medium sized shiba inu was with me and we did not want to risk crossing with her so unfortunately had to leave and search for another trail.

As others have noted, this is a great hike that's suitable for all ages. At the top, I saw little kids, older folks, and everyone in between, as well as some very happy dogs. The trail is in terrific condition (thanks, traildogs!) and is pretty the whole way. You start in mossy, ferny forest and gradually climb out into drier, more open trees. From the top, views down Diablo Lake to Davis Peak and Mount Ross, or up toward Ross Lake and Thunder Arm. Looming directly across, Sourdough Mountain, where Beat poet Gary Snyder wrote while he worked as a Forest Service lookout in the 1950s. This is a lot of reward for not much effort. Really a nice hike if you only have a day in the North Cascades (actually, it's so short that you could do this and another hike if you wanted, or just lounge on the top in the sun and enjoy the views).

Equally enjoyable and easy, this hike was the perfect stop while driving the North Cascades Highway. While the entire hike was quite beautiful, the final view left a little to be desired. If you're only after a panoramic of Diablo Lake, drive to the vista point instead.

Perfect day hike for those wanting an easy to moderate hike with amazing views!

Took a day trip to experience the glory of Diablo Lake. I had initially planned to do a longer hike but after stopping at every view point and checking out the towns on the way in, I found myself seeking out a shorter hike. Plus, the ominous rain clouds in the distance encouraged me to stick to a shorter path. Thunder Knob was the perfect amount of exercise. It Begins within a campground, crosses a creek, and you find yourself in some beautiful forest. As you gain a little elevation the landscape changes. There's are more rocks, it's drier and to be honest, a little bit ugly. The views of Diablo Lake and mountains at the top and the opportunity to get some exercise were worth it though. I sat up top and sketched some of the scenery. It got quite windy (rain clouds rolling in). Overall, nice hike. Good for those belonging to the creaky knees club.