It’s easy to lose the trail here, so pay attention to the rock cairns leading the way. “As you near the saddle, the trail is easily lost in rocky slopes and lingering snowfields”, warns the National Park Service. Spires reach skyward like wicked witch fingers. Peer up at the Hidden Lake lookout as you hike steadily towards it. Know your limits, and don’t continue if the conditions are dangerous. Beyond this point, the trail can be tricky to navigate if there’s any snow left on the ground. At 5.0 km the grade picks up again as the route turns towards the lookout. Irresistible blueberries litter the path through this section, and are an iconic feature of the Hidden Lake trail, so take time to indulge. Climb in the shadow of tall peaks through the Sibley Creek valley, turning around for views to Mount Baker, the Twin Sisters, and Sauk Mountain.Īt around 3.9 km the grade tapers off and the views continue to improve. Views open up after the 1.6km mark, where you’re greeted by summer wildflowers or autumn foliage.
The first 1.6 km of the Hidden Lake trail climbs steadily through silver fir forest, along a path crossed by several creeks. A weekday hike is most rewarding, especially during fall once the summer crowds have thinned. Don’t come to Hidden Lake seeking to escape the crowds. The photogenic beauty of its deep blue lake and ominously perched lookout have recently been the subject of many photo features, from social media to magazines. The Hidden Lake trail, arguably one of the best trails in North Cascades, has become an explosively popular hike in recent years. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.