Photo Journal Skagit and Beyond

Maple Pass Loop in Washington’s North Cascades during peak golden larch season is an unforgettable destination. Starting at 10 a.m mid October, we faced fog, cold, and light snow at the top, with slippery trails requiring layers, gloves, and trekking poles. The golden larches and red blueberry leaves were stunning, making the 7.2-mile loop worth it despite the weather.  Golden larches, specifically Western larches (Larix occidentalis), are deciduous conifers that shed their vibrant yellow needles each fall, creating a stunning autumn display in Washington State. They thrive in the North Cascades and other high-elevation areas (3,000–7,000 feet), preferring well-drained, rocky soils in cool, moist climates with full sun. In Washington, you’ll find them in places like the Maple Pass Loop, where they glow against rocky slopes and meadows in mid-October. Unlike evergreen conifers, their needles drop annually, regrowing soft green in spring. They tolerate harsh winters but need cold t...

  If you're chasing that perfect blend of heart-pounding challenge and jaw-dropping rewards, let me introduce you to Mount Pilchuck—a hidden gem (okay, not that hidden) in Washington's North Cascades that punches way above its weight. Tucked away in Mount Pilchuck State Park, this hike isn't your leisurely forest stroll; it's a steep, rocky ascent that delivers you to a historic fire lookout with 360-degree views that'll make you forget the burn in your quads.   Why Hike Mount Pilchuck? The Allure of the Fire Lookout Picture this: You've clawed your way up 2,300 feet of boulder-strewn switchbacks, and suddenly, you're standing on a wraparound balcony overlooking Mount Baker's icy dome to the north, Mount Rainier's brooding silhouette to the south, and the jagged Olympics teasing the horizon to the west. That's the payoff at Mount Pilchuck's summit (5,327 feet), where a restored 1921 fire lookout perches like a sentinel over the wilds. Built i...

Nestled in the heart of Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest lies one of Washington's most rewarding day hikes - the Lake Ann Trail. This 8.2-mile out-and-back adventure offers hikers a spectacular showcase of the North Cascades' diverse landscapes, culminating in views of the iconic Mount Shuksan and its dramatic glacier. Mount Shuksan, standing proudly at 9,131 feet, is often called "the most photographed peak in North America." Its pyramid-shaped peak, crowned by the Curtis Glacier, creates an awe-inspiring backdrop for Lake Ann. The mountain's name comes from the Lummi word "Shéqsan," meaning "high peak," and it certainly lives up to this designation with its towering presence over the landscape.                          The journey begins at the Austin Pass parking area (4,800 feet elevation), where hikers are immediately greeted with sweeping views of Mount Baker's snow-capped peak. The trail's first mile...

  We set out to hike to Goat Lake, a 58.4-acre glacial lake in Snohomish County, Washington, located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest at 3,166 feet elevation. The 10.4-mile roundtrip hike, with a 1,400-foot elevation gain, follows the Lower Elliot Trail along Elliott Creek. This trail, rated moderate, is popular for hiking, backpacking, and fishing, and is best from June to October. The Upper Elliot Trail, an alternative, offers more open views, but I chose the Lower trail for its creek proximity.   The trailhead is off the Mountain Loop Highway, east of Granite Falls, past the Verlot Ranger Station. A 3.5-mile gravel road leads to a parking lot where a sign warned of a recent cougar sighting in the area. We noted the caution but proceeded, keeping alert for wildlife.   The Lower Elliot Trail follows Elliott Creek for 5.2 miles to the lake. The path passes through old-growth forest with cedar and hemlock trees. About a mile in, a small waterfall flows in...

Located in the heart of the Central Cascades, this trail combines rich history with natural beauty, making it a must-do for hikers seeking both adventure and a glimpse into Washington’s mining past. Starting at Barlow Pass, the trail follows an old road to Monte Cristo, a once-thriving mining town from the 19th century, now a ghost town with remnants like a railroad turntable and old structures. The  trail extends to Silver Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks, but requires navigating a challenging uphill through dense forest and undergrowth. Whether you choose the moderate out-and-back or the strenuous loop, this hike offers unforgettable scenery and a rewarding experience, just a 1.5-hour drive from Seattle.   Hiking Options Option 1: Out-and-Back to Monte Cristo Distance : Approximately 8 miles round trip Elevation Gain : Around 800 feet Difficulty : Moderate Description : Perfect for hikers seeking a historical adventure without extreme exertion, t...