10 Epic Hikes on the Mountain Loop Highway (Washington Trail Guide)
Discover some of the most stunning trails in Washington State with this curated guide to hiking the Mountain Loop Highway. From family-friendly boardwalks to challenging alpine climbs, there’s a trail here for every adventurer. I have done each one of these hikes on the Mountain Loop Highway with my kids or friends or alone over the years—here’s what I’ve learned, loved, and packed for the journey.
Just to note the Mountain Loop Highway is paved for 34 miles (55 km) from Granite Falls to Barlow Pass (2349′) where the highway becomes unpaved for 13 miles (21 km), and then paved again for the remaining 9 miles (14 km) to Darrington.
What is the Mountain Loop Highway?
The Mountain Loop Highway is a scenic 55-mile route between Granite Falls and Darrington, WA. It offers access to some of the best hiking in the North Cascades—think waterfalls, ghost towns, alpine lakes, and wildflower meadows. This guide includes my favorite day hikes for all experience levels—ones I’ve done in both drizzle and sun, with a camera in one hand and trail mix in the other.
What to Pack for Mountain Loop Highway Hikes
Washington weather is famously unpredictable. Here’s the gear I always bring for a safe, enjoyable day on these trails:
- La Sportiva Nucleo Hiking Boots – Lightweight, breathable, great traction
- La Sportiva Bushido III Trail-Running Shoes – Lightweight + great for when the trail is dry
- Osprey Tempest Osprey Sirrus 24 Pack – Comfortable, versatile, hydration compatible
- REI Rain Jacket – Packable, waterproof, essential for surprise showers
- Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir – Easy hydration on the move
- Sun Hat – Sun protection that stays on during wind
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Top Hikes on the Mountain Loop Highway
1. Big 4 Ice Caves
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip | Elevation Gain: 305 feet | Difficulty: Easy
This is one of the most accessible and family-friendly hikes in the area. The boardwalk and gravel trail lead to an incredible view of ice caves formed by avalanches. **Do not enter the caves**—but it’s still a magical place to bring kids for their first alpine adventure.
Link to Alltrails
2. Heather Lake
Distance: 4.4 miles RT | Gain: 1,024 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Heather Lake is a local favorite—and honestly, I think it’s even better in winter. The trail winds through old-growth forest, weaving past cascading streams and thick greenery before opening up to a small alpine lake nestled at the base of Mount Pilchuck.
Yes, the trail is rooty—very rooty. But once you reach the lake, you kind of forget all about that. In winter, the scene is truly magical: snow-draped trees, a frozen lake, and cliffs towering above. It’s one of those hikes that feels like it belongs in a fairy tale.
Don’t skip the loop around the lake! It’s short, and the 360° views are worth every step. This is hands-down one of the best hikes on the Mountain Loop Highway for anyone who wants high reward without big elevation gain.
Link to Alltrails
3. Lake 22
Distance: 5.9 miles RT | Gain: 1,446 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Lake 22 is a Mountain Loop classic—and it lives up to the hype. The trail takes you through old-growth forest and across cascading creeks before opening up to a stunning lake ringed by cliffs. You can walk the full loop around the lake, and every angle offers something different.
This one can get busy, especially on weekends. I recommend hitting the trail early to soak it in before the crowds. Bring your camera—it’s one of the most photogenic hikes in the region.
Link to Alltrails
4. Monte Cristo Ghost Town
Distance: 8.7 miles RT | Gain: 623 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Want something different? This hike takes you into the past. The Monte Cristo Ghost Town was once a booming mining hub—and now, it’s a moss-covered, creek-laced memory.
You’ll cross log bridges, walk narrow paths, and stumble upon the remains of old buildings tucked into the valley. It’s a long but relatively gentle trail, and kids with stamina will love the adventure vibe.
Link to Alltrails
5. Mount Pilchuck
Distance: 5.2 miles RT | Gain: 2,152 ft | Difficulty: Hard
A classic PNW hike, this is probably already on your list. And if isn’t, it should be, its a stunning 5.2 mile hike. (And it is not incredibly long and fairly close to Seattle.) The views come and go as you hike, keeping you going. But the real treat is at the top. And if you can, plan this as a sunset hike. And of course remember your headlamp.
This is one you can sleep in and requires no reservations, its first come first serve. Every time I have been up there I have met someone who was planning to spend the night. Its a popular one!
Link to Alltrails
6. Perry Creek Falls
Distance: 6.2 miles RT | Gain: ~1,545 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Don’t overlook this gem! While it’s technically the approach to Mount Forgotten Meadows, Perry Creek Falls is a great destination on its own. The trail winds through lush forest and delivers you to a beautiful, misty waterfall surrounded by mossy rock walls and old-growth trees.
It’s a great option for a shorter half-day hike that still feels adventurous and scenic. If you’ve got more energy, you can keep going toward the meadows—but even just stopping at the falls is well worth it.
Link to Alltrails
7. Goat Lake
Distance: 10.2 miles RT | Gain: 1,637 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
One of my favorite late spring hikes or summer overnighters. The trail offers two routes—upper and lower—and both eventually merge as you reach Goat Lake, a turquoise alpine gem.
It’s a long day hike but worth every mile with relatively little elevation gain. Wildflowers line the trail in July, and the lake makes for a perfect picnic or camp spot. And if you go in the fall the mountains are lined with color.
Link to Alltrails
8. Mount Dickerman
Distance: 7.9 miles RT | Gain: 3,877 ft | Difficulty: Hard
This is one of those hikes that offers INCREDIBLE 360 views. And of the Glacier Peak Wilderness no less. But you really have to work for them. There are approximately 50 switchbacks up to the top, mostly front loaded, but the payoff is huge. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike that will leave you dreaming of sleeping up there. Which people do but mostly snow camping in the early winter/ late fall, before the road closes.
From the summit of Mount Dickerman at 5,723 ft you can see all of the who’s who of the Cascade peaks. lol. You have Glacier Peak to the East, Mount Baker to the North, Big Four to the South as well as Sloan, Del Campo, Morning Star, White Chuck and Pugh adding to the skyline.
Link to Alltrails
9. Mount Forgotten Meadows
Distance: 9.3 miles RT | Gain: 3,146 ft | Difficulty: Hard
Looking for solitude? This trail is your ticket. It’s one of the lesser-traveled options on the loop, and you’re rewarded with lush meadows, alpine views, and a real sense of quiet.
The climb is steady, and in summer you’ll find wildflowers in every direction. It’s a hidden gem that feels far more remote than it is.
Link to Alltrails
10. Gothic Basin / Foggy Lake
Distance: 9.2 miles RT | Gain: 2,840 ft | Difficulty: Hard
This is one of the most epic day hikes in the region—if you’re okay with scrambling and steep elevation gain. The trail is rugged and raw, and the reward is a glacial basin that looks like another planet.
Foggy Lake is surreal. Crystal-clear water, granite spires, and wild energy. Go early, take your time, and be prepared for some hands-on trail sections.
Link to Alltrails
11. Vesper Peak
Distance: 6.8 miles RT | Gain: 4,094 ft | Difficulty: Very Hard
Not for beginners—but an incredible challenge for those with mountain legs. Vesper is steep, exposed, and rocky, but the views at the top make you feel like you’re on the edge of the world.
Go on a clear day and bring plenty of water. This one’s a personal favorite when I want to earn every single view. You’ll pass alpine meadows and maybe even some lingering snowfields.
Link to Alltrails
Grab the Free Printable
Want to take this list on the trail? Download the free Mountain Loop Highway Hiking Planner PDF with a trail list and basic stats.
📥 Download the Free Mountain Loop Hiking Planner (PDF)
Final Tips for Hiking the Mountain Loop Highway
- Bring your Northwest Forest Pass for most trailheads.
- Trail conditions vary—check Washington Trails Association before you go.
- Many roads are rough—high clearance is helpful, especially past Barlow Pass.
- Pack layers—even in summer, it can drop 20+ degrees in the shade or at elevation.
The Mountain Loop Highway has hikes for everyone, from tough climbs to easier strolls. Whether you’re after big views, alpine lakes, or forest walks, this area never disappoints. So grab your boots and hit the trail—there’s always more to explore!
Happy hiking!
