Maple Pass Loop
Maple Pass
A high-alpine loop of about 11.6 km that passes Lake Ann and Heather Pass to reach the ridge. Golden larches in autumn make it one of the most popular trails in the state
The Maple Pass Loop starts from the Rainy Pass parking lot. It is about 11.6 km long, with roughly 600 meters of elevation gain. The trail passes the emerald-green Lake Ann and Heather Pass, then climbs to a ridge at about 2,100 meters above sea level. From there you look over the glacier-carved cirque lakes on either side and snowy peaks such as Black Peak. Alpine meadow wildflowers bloom in July and August. From late September to mid-October, the subalpine larches turn gold, making this Washington State's most popular autumn hike. The parking lot fills early on weekends. Walking counterclockwise is recommended, and you need a Northwest Forest Pass or a national park annual pass.
Opening hours
Approx. Jul–Oct, when snow-free
Nearby sights
- Rainy Lake Trail
- Cutthroat Lake Trail
- Blue Lake Trail
- Washington Pass Overlook
- Cascade Pass Trail
- Ross Lake
- Ross Dam Trail
- Diablo Lake