How to Hike Palisades North Loop

The Palisades North Loop is one of the most rewarding and visually stunning hiking experiences in the Pacific Northwest, offering a dynamic blend of alpine meadows, ancient forests, glacial lakes, and panoramic mountain vistas. Located within the North Cascades National Park complex in Washington State, this loop trail is a favorite among experienced hikers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and physical challenge. Unlike more crowded trails in neighboring parks, the Palisades North Loop remains relatively under the radarmaking it an ideal destination for those who crave wilderness immersion without the crowds.

This 18- to 20-mile loop (depending on route variations) traverses some of the most pristine terrain in the contiguous United States. From the rugged peaks of the Palisades to the turquoise waters of Lake Ann and the cascading falls of the Cascade River, every mile delivers a new revelation. However, due to its remote location, variable weather, and technical sections, proper preparation is non-negotiable. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to safely and successfully complete the Palisades North Loop, whether youre a seasoned backpacker or an ambitious day-hiker aiming to tackle the full circuit.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route and Choose Your Start Point

The Palisades North Loop is typically hiked in a clockwise direction, starting at the Cascade River Trailhead. This approach allows hikers to ascend gradually, acclimatize to elevation gain, and save the most demanding sections for later in the trip when energy levels are higher. The trailhead is located off State Route 20, approximately 12 miles east of the town of Marblemount. GPS coordinates for the trailhead are approximately 48.5712 N, 121.3968 W.

Before setting out, confirm trail conditions with the North Cascades National Park Service. Snowmelt timing can significantly alter accessibility, especially in early summer. The loop connects three primary trails: the Cascade River Trail, the Lake Ann Trail, and the Palisades Creek Trail. Youll also cross the High Pass, which sits at over 7,000 feet and often retains snow well into July.

2. Obtain Required Permits

Backcountry camping on the Palisades North Loop requires a wilderness permit from North Cascades National Park. Permits are free but must be reserved in advance via the National Park Service website. The system operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limited number of permits issued per day to protect the fragile ecosystem. You can reserve up to six months ahead of your intended start date.

If you plan to camp overnight, designate your campsite at one of the designated backcountry sites: Lake Ann, Lake Dorothy, or the High Pass area. Day hikers do not need permits but should still register at the trailhead kiosk for safety tracking purposes. Always carry a printed or digital copy of your permit, as rangers conduct random checks.

3. Prepare Your Gear List

Essential gear for the Palisades North Loop includes:

• Backpack (5070L for overnight trips)
• Tent with a waterproof footprint and storm poles
• Sleeping bag rated for 20F (-6C) or lower
• Sleeping pad with R-value of 4 or higher for insulation from cold ground
• Water filter or purification tablets (all water sources require treatment)
• Stove and fuel (canister stove recommended for efficiency at altitude)
• Food for 23 days (high-calorie, lightweight meals: dehydrated meals, nuts, jerky, energy bars)
• Navigation tools: paper map (USGS 7.5 series), compass, and offline GPS app (Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• First aid kit including blister care, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications
• Weather-appropriate clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, waterproof shell, gloves, and a warm hat
• Hiking boots with ankle support and broken-in soles
• Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep ascents and descents)
• Bear canister (required in many zones; check current regulations)

Do not underestimate the weather. Even in midsummer, temperatures at High Pass can drop below freezing overnight. Pack for rain, wind, and sudden snowfall.

4. Day 1: Cascade River Trail to Lake Ann

Begin your hike at the Cascade River Trailhead. The initial 2.5 miles follow a gentle, well-maintained path alongside the Cascade River, passing through dense hemlock and cedar forest. This section is relatively flat and ideal for warming up. Watch for signs of wildlife: black bears, marmots, and occasional elk frequent this corridor.

At 2.8 miles, youll reach the junction with the Lake Ann Trail. Turn left here, beginning a steep but short ascent. The trail gains 1,200 feet in just 1.2 miles, so pace yourself. The switchbacks are rocky and exposed, so use trekking poles for stability.

At 4.0 miles, youll emerge above treeline into a breathtaking alpine bowl. Lake Ann comes into viewits crystal-clear waters reflect the towering peaks of the Palisades. This is your first major reward. Continue to the designated campsite on the lakes eastern shore, where tent platforms are available. Avoid camping directly on the shoreline to protect fragile vegetation.

Set up camp early to enjoy the evening light. Sunset here is spectacular, with the peaks glowing orange and pink. Fill your water bottles from the lakes outlet stream (filter before drinking). Eat a warm meal and prepare for the next days challenge.

5. Day 2: Lake Ann to High Pass and Lake Dorothy

Wake before sunrise if possible. The climb to High Pass is best done in cool, stable morning air. The trail from Lake Ann ascends steadily through meadows dotted with wildflowersbuttercups, lupine, and glacier lilies bloom in July and August.

At 1.5 miles from Lake Ann, youll reach the base of High Pass. The final 0.8 miles are the most strenuous: steep, rocky, and often snow-covered until late July. Use crampons and an ice axe if snow is present. Secure your pack and test each step. There is no trail marker at the summitrely on your GPS and cairns.

At 7,050 feet, High Pass rewards you with 360-degree views. To the west: the Cascade River Valley. To the east: the jagged peaks of the Palisades and the distant Glacier Peak. Take time to rest, hydrate, and photograph. This is one of the most photogenic viewpoints in the entire park.

Descend gently from High Pass into the basin of Lake Dorothy. The trail becomes more defined here, winding through mossy tundra and scattered boulders. Lake Dorothy is smaller and less visited than Lake Ann, making it a serene place to rest. The designated campsite is on the lakes southern shore. Fill your water supply here from the clear, cold inflow stream.

6. Day 3: Lake Dorothy to Palisades Creek Trail and Return to Trailhead

The final day is the longest and most varied. Depart Lake Dorothy early. The trail descends through dense forest and crosses several small streams. Watch for avalanche chutes on the leftthese are visible scars on the mountainside, remnants of winter snowslides.

At 2.7 miles, youll reach the junction with the Palisades Creek Trail. Turn right, following the creek downhill. This section is shaded and cool, offering relief from the sun. The trail is well-marked but can be muddy in places. Use your trekking poles for balance on slippery roots.

At 6.2 miles from Lake Dorothy, youll reconnect with the Cascade River Trail near the old ranger station ruins. Follow the river trail back to the trailhead. The last 2.5 miles are mostly flat, with occasional views of the river carving through the valley.

Arrive at the trailhead with a sense of accomplishment. The entire loop typically takes 23 days. Many hikers choose to extend their trip by adding a side trip to Lake Vashon or the nearby Thunder Creek Trail for additional solitude.

Best Practices

1. Leave No Trace Principles

The Palisades North Loop is protected wilderness. To preserve its integrity, follow all Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan ahead and prepare: Know regulations, weather, and trail conditions.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Use established trails and campsites.
• Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper.
• Leave what you find: Do not pick flowers, move rocks, or carve into trees.
• Minimize campfire impact: Use a stove instead. Fires are prohibited above 5,000 feet.
• Respect wildlife: Observe from a distance. Store food in bear canisters.
• Be considerate of others: Keep noise low. Yield to uphill hikers. Practice quiet camping.

2. Weather and Seasonal Timing

The optimal hiking window for the Palisades North Loop is mid-July through mid-September. During this time, most snow has melted from the trails, wildflowers are in bloom, and temperatures are mild. Early July can still have significant snowpack on High Pass, requiring mountaineering gear. Late September brings colder nights and the risk of early snowstorms.

Check the National Weather Service forecast for Marblemount and the North Cascades before departure. Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always carry rain geareven if the forecast is clear.

3. Navigation and Safety

Cell service is nonexistent along the entire route. Rely on offline maps and a physical map and compass. Download the Gaia GPS app with North Cascades topographic layers before entering the park. Mark your route in advance.

Inform someone outside the park of your itinerary and expected return date. Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger (Garmin inReach) for emergencies. While incidents are rare, hypothermia, falls, and sudden weather shifts can occur.

4. Water Sources and Purification

All water must be filtered or treated. Even clear, fast-moving streams can contain giardia or cryptosporidium. Use a pump filter (like the Sawyer Squeeze), gravity filter, or chemical treatment (iodine or chlorine dioxide). Boiling is effective but fuel-intensive.

Primary water sources include:

• Outlet stream from Lake Ann
• Inflow stream to Lake Dorothy
• Palisades Creek (lower section)
• Small seeps and rivulets along the High Pass descent

Never drink directly from lakes without filtration, even if the water looks pristine.

5. Wildlife Awareness

Black bears are common in the area. Store all food, toiletries, and scented items in a bear-resistant canister. Hang nothing from treesthis is ineffective and violates park rules. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears, especially in dense brush or near streams.

Mountain goats frequent the alpine zones near High Pass. Observe from a distancedo not approach or feed them. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable.

6. Physical Preparation

The Palisades North Loop is not a casual stroll. It requires endurance, strength, and mental resilience. Train for at least 812 weeks before your trip:

• Hike with a loaded pack (30+ lbs) on steep terrain weekly.
• Practice ascending and descending stairs or hills for 2+ hours at a time.
• Build core strength to stabilize your posture on uneven ground.
• Test all gear on shorter overnight trips to identify issues before the big hike.

Hydrate consistently and eat calorie-dense snacks every hour. Fatigue leads to poor decision-makingespecially on exposed ridges.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Park Resources

Always consult the North Cascades National Park Service website for the most current trail conditions, closures, and permit availability:

• https://www.nps.gov/noca/index.htm
• Wilderness Permit Reservation System: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/233348
• Trail condition reports updated weekly by rangers

2. Mapping and Navigation Tools

Reliable digital tools are essential:

• Gaia GPS Best for offline topographic maps with trail overlays. Subscribe for premium layers including USGS quads.
• AllTrails Pro User-submitted trail reviews and photos. Useful for recent conditions but not a substitute for official maps.
• USGS Topographic Maps Download free PDFs of the Lake Ann, High Pass, and Cascade River quadrangles.
• Compass and Altimeter Watch Garmin Fenix or Suunto models provide reliable altitude tracking and orientation.

3. Guidebooks and Regional References

For deeper context and historical insight:

• Hiking the North Cascades by Robert L. Wood Comprehensive trail descriptions and safety tips.
• Washingtons North Cascades: A Guide to the Wild Heart of the State by Don and Debby Kasper Cultural and ecological background.
• The Pacific Crest Trail: Volume 2 Washington by Scott D. Lytle Includes detailed information on connecting trails.

4. Gear Recommendations

Tested and trusted gear for this route:

• Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65 Excellent weight distribution and ventilation.
• Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Lightweight, storm-resistant, and easy to pitch.
• Sleeping Bag: Western Mountaineering Antelope UL 20F rating, down insulation, compressible.
• Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze Fast, reliable, and easy to clean.
• Stove: MSR PocketRocket 2 Lightweight, fuel-efficient, works well in wind.
• Footwear: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Durable, waterproof, excellent ankle support.
• Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Adjustable, shock-absorbing, comfortable grip.
• Bear Canister: BearVault BV500 Approved by NPS, holds 34 days of food.

5. Community and Forums

Engage with experienced hikers on:

• Reddit: r/NorthCascades Active community sharing recent trail conditions.
• Washington Trails Association (WTA) Forums Detailed trip reports and photos from past hikers.
• Facebook Groups: North Cascades Backpackers Real-time updates and group meetups.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Hiker Alex Rivera

Alex, a 34-year-old software engineer from Seattle, completed the Palisades North Loop solo in late July. He trained for three months, hiking local trails with a 35-pound pack on weekends. He reserved his permit six months in advance and packed a Garmin inReach Mini 2 for emergency communication.

On Day 2, Alex encountered a lingering snowfield on High Pass. He had brought crampons and an ice axe from previous alpine trips and used them safely to cross. He reported the condition on the WTA forum, helping future hikers prepare.

The silence up there was unlike anything Ive ever experienced, Alex wrote. No birds, no windjust my breath and the crunch of gravel underfoot. I felt small in the best possible way.

Example 2: The Couple Jamie and Taylor Chen

Jamie and Taylor, both in their late 20s, hiked the loop as a 2-day trip with a minimal pack. They skipped the overnight at Lake Dorothy and pushed through to the trailhead on Day 2. They carried only 2 liters of water and relied on frequent stream crossings.

They underestimated the descent from High Pass. The trail was muddy and slick from overnight rain, and Jamie slipped on a wet rock, twisting her ankle. They used trekking poles to stabilize and made it to Lake Dorothy, where they spent an unplanned night.

We thought we were prepared, Jamie said. But the mountain doesnt care how fit you are. It only cares if youre respectful. We learned to pack more layers, more food, and more patience.

Example 3: The Family Group The Morales Family

The Morales family (parents and two teenage children) attempted the loop as a 3-day family adventure. They chose to camp at Lake Ann and Lake Dorothy, taking time to explore, sketch, and photograph.

They brought a portable solar charger for their cameras and used a large, lightweight tarp to create a communal dining area. The kids learned to identify wildflowers and track animal prints.

It wasnt about finishing, said Maria Morales, the mother. It was about being together in a place that doesnt ask for anything but presence. We all came back quieter. More thoughtful.

FAQs

Is the Palisades North Loop suitable for beginners?

No. This is an advanced trail due to elevation gain, remote location, variable weather, and technical terrain. Beginners should start with shorter, lower-elevation loops like the Cascade River Trail to Lake Ann (one-way, 4 miles) before attempting the full loop.

Can I hike the Palisades North Loop in one day?

Technically yesbut its not recommended. The full loop is 1820 miles with over 5,000 feet of elevation gain. Completing it in one day requires exceptional fitness, pre-dawn starts, and minimal rest. Most hikers find it physically and mentally exhausting. Two to three days is ideal.

Are dogs allowed on the Palisades North Loop?

No. Dogs are prohibited in North Cascades National Parks wilderness areas to protect native wildlife and maintain ecological integrity.

Whats the best time of year to hike the Palisades North Loop?

Mid-July through mid-September is optimal. Snow melts by late July, wildflowers bloom in August, and temperatures are most stable. Early July may still have snow on High Pass. September brings cooler nights and possible early snowstorms.

Do I need to carry bear spray?

Bear spray is not required but is highly recommended. Black bears are present, and while attacks are extremely rare, they can occur if food is improperly stored. Carry it in an accessible holster, not in your pack.

Is there cell service on the trail?

No. There is zero cell coverage along the entire route. Plan accordingly. Use a satellite messenger for emergencies.

Can I camp anywhere along the trail?

No. Camping is only permitted at designated backcountry sites: Lake Ann, Lake Dorothy, and High Pass. Random camping is prohibited to prevent environmental damage.

How do I get to the trailhead?

Drive east on State Route 20 from Marblemount. The Cascade River Trailhead is 12 miles east of town. The road is paved but narrow. There is a large parking area with vault toilets. No water is available at the trailhead.

What if I get injured or lost?

Stay calm. Use your PLB or satellite messenger to send a distress signal. If you have no device, stay put. Do not wander. Use bright clothing or a whistle to attract attention. Rangers conduct regular patrols in peak season.

Can I fish in Lake Ann or Lake Dorothy?

Fishing is permitted with a valid Washington State fishing license. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks are allowed. Trout are present, but populations are low. Practice catch-and-release to preserve the ecosystem.

Conclusion

The Palisades North Loop is more than a hikeits a pilgrimage through some of the most untouched wilderness in North America. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. The trail does not reward speed or ego; it rewards presence, patience, and care.

Every step along this route connects you to a deeper rhythm of naturethe whisper of wind over alpine meadows, the glacial silence of a hidden lake, the distant cry of a raven echoing off granite cliffs. These are moments that cannot be captured in photos, only lived.

By following the steps outlined in this guideplanning with care, packing wisely, respecting the land, and listening to the mountainyou will not only complete the Palisades North Loopyou will carry its spirit with you long after your boots are clean and packed away.

There are many trails in the world. Few are as transformative as this one. Lace up. Step forward. And let the mountains speak.