Hidden Lake Lookout

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Historical Significance · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a classic North Cascades adventure to a historic lookout tower perched upon a mountain top. Expect a varied and strenuous journey through forest, wildflower meadows, and rocky slopes to reach a 360-degree view with epic photo opportunities.

Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking. There is no pay station or restroom at the trailhead. A backcountry permit is required to camp overnight. Staying at the lookout is first-come, first-served. There are also several tent sites along the trail.

Per the NPS: "Pets and hunting are not allowed in North Cascades National Park (past the Hidden Lake col and down to the lake). Controlled pets are allowed along the trail and at the lookout (USFS)."

The hike to Hidden Lake Lookout in North Cascades National Park begins with 0.8 miles of rough trail with big boulders, roots, and wash-outs, followed by a few hundred feet of nice wooden stairs built by the trail crew. After 1 mile, the forest increasingly opens and gives way to lower-lying shrubs and vegetation.

The trail steepens for the next mile with several switchbacks through thick overgrown plants in the sub-alpine. The plants in this part of the trail seem to grow up to 8 feet tall and grow into the trail, therefore wearing pants is recommended. Watch out for potential tall cow parsnip; an easily identifiable photo-toxic plant with white grouped flowers on the top and big three-pointed leaves that you do not want to touch with exposed skin.

At around 1.8 miles, the trail becomes more open with beautiful alpine wildflowers and huckleberry bushes. As you make your way up the trail, you'll notice spur trails split off and you'll likely find some snow-covered sections of trail. This is where your route-finding skills can come in handy. The trail turns east at 3.6 miles, climbing to a 6,600-foot saddle at 3.8 miles. This is a good early bailout spot with views of Hidden Lake. If you're up for a short scramble, follow the trail south to reach the lookout. Stay on the beaten path and don't attempt to scramble up technical terrain without climbing skills.
- Description by Geoffrey Marr, Outdoor Project

The lower part of this trail is mixed fir/hemlock forest; the upper part is beautiful alpine meadow.