Getting There
To access the Maple Pass Loop hike, use the Rainy Pass Trailhead, located just off North Cascades Highway. This is the highway that goes through North Cascades National Park. You should definitely at least drive through the national park, even if you don’t have too much time. One of the places that’s a quick and easy stop on the way through North Cascades National Park is the Diablo Lake Overlook. The lake’s beautiful turquoise water with surrounding mountain peaks make it a wonderful photo op.
Hiking Maple Pass Loop
Because the trail is a loop, you have a choice which direction to hike it—clockwise or counterclockwise. For those that prefer a more gradual descent to spare some stress on the joints, doing the hike clockwise is recommended. Some claim hiking the trail counterclockwise offers slightly more dramatic views. But really, the views will be stunning no matter which direction you choose to hike Maple Pass loop. When doing the hike clockwise, one of the first large clearings you come upon offers a view of Rainy Lake and the winding North Cascades Highway. If you’re up for more adventure, you can take the branch of the trail that leads to Rainy Lake.





Tips & More Things to Know
If you’re planning to hike the Maple Pass Loop, here are a few tips and things to know:- Due to the elevation, it’s not uncommon to encounter patches of snow on the trail, even in July. You may want to bring hiking poles or some sort of traction system for your footwear, depending on the time of year you’re doing the hike.
- To spare your joints while descending, do the hike clockwise.
- Wear sunscreen—always a good reminder especially at higher elevations!
- Bring bug spray because there are some places along the trail where bugs will find you pretty quickly if you stop moving.
- Although bear sightings are not common along Maple Pass Loop, carrying bear spray is a good idea since there are bears in the area.
- Dogs are allowed on this trail, but should be kept on a leash.
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