Today, I thought about this question and have a favorite but I do not guarantee that the favorite will remain the same. In fact, I thought about this prompt many days, and my favorite hike changed every time I considered the act of choosing. I am actually a fairly decisive person, so what is my problem? Washington has too many amazing hikes. Literally too many. My list can change every time I try to make one. And now I’m having a hard time with this post, as my hike has changed, but I do not want to start all over, again…

So today is the day I will publish this post, and then I’m just moving on…

My favorite hike is: Maple Pass Trail. First, it is at the top section of the North Cascades Highway (20) so is easy accessible, then it is not too long (6.5 miles), and finally it has unsurpassed beauty along the way. Bonus quality: it is a loop trail so you never see the same view twice. It is also considered difficult, has over 2000 foot elevation gain, and is very popular, so the parking lot fills up on the weekend quickly. This is not an entry level hike, so make sure you work you way up to it, so you can actually enjoy it!

Lake Ann is one of the beautiful features, and at the top of the pass you can see south all the way to Mount Rainier. The grandier of the North Cascades are all around you, and are Washington’s best kept secret.  This national park is one of the least visited but most astounding in the whole national system. I would suggest a good pair of binoculars or a high powered camera lens so that you can really take in all the sites in the panoramic view that has you spinning around again and again so as not to miss a spectacular range, peak, or lake in the distance. 

We camped down at one of the national park campgrounds at Diablo Lake, which was an excellent place to stay as a base camp for exploring. Early arrival then is no big deal, and we had the parking lot pretty much to ourselves. Also going in June is fun, way less crowded then July and August, and you will see snow on the trail, and depending on the year, may need snowshoes. Most folks did fine this last year with good hiking boots. 

Fun peaks are in every direction!

My temporary favorite hike! Another option for a New Year’s Resolution: Plan a hike like this for the summer, and then get in shape with good exercise habits over the next 6 months. Add monthly hikes to work your way up to an adventure you will never forget. 

Tip: After your hike, take a drive all the way to the top of Washington Pass for some amazing scenery right off the road.