Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail

# 🏔🔥 Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm — One of Washington's Best Hikes! 🔥🏔

Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm Trail
Join us for what is widely considered one of the most spectacular day hikes in Washington! This trail has it all—lush forests, cascading waterfalls, alpine meadows, glaciers, rugged peaks, and breathtaking panoramic views in every direction. If you've never hiked Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm, this is a must-do adventure! 🌄
The trail to Cascade Pass is well maintained, while the climb to Sahale Arm becomes steeper and more rugged. We'll take our time, enjoy plenty of photo opportunities, and soak in some of the best alpine scenery the North Cascades have to offer.

This is probably one of the top 5 day hikes in Washington, and it's always a crowd favorite. If the weather cooperates, expect incredible glacier views, wildflowers (in season), and plenty of opportunities to spot mountain goats.

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📌 Hike Overview
🔥 Hike Rating: Hard
📏 Distance: ~12 miles round trip
⛰ Elevation Gain: ~4,000 ft
🚶 Pace: Moderate with breaks
🏔 Highlights: Cascade Pass, Sahale Arm, glaciers, alpine meadows, mountain goats, panoramic North Cascades views
🚗 Drive Time from Seattle: ~3 hours

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🗺 Trailhead / Links
📍 Trailhead: Cascade Pass Trailhead (North Cascades National Park Complex)
🧭 Hike Details & Map:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/cascade-pass-and-sahale-arm-trail--2

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🚗📍 Schedule & Meeting
Meeting Location: Green Lake P&R
• 6:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake P&R
• 6:10 AM – Depart promptly
• ~7:00 AM – Quick stop for coffee, breakfast & restrooms
• ~9:15 AM – Arrive at trailhead
• ~9:30 AM – Begin hiking
• ~6:00 PM – Return to trailhead (~7–8 hour hike including breaks)
• ~9:15 PM – Estimated return to Seattle
Times are approximate and may vary depending on group pace, trail conditions, and photo stops.

📌 Carpool coordination & updates: Please check comments.

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🅿️ Parking Permit
🎫 Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass required at the trailhead.

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🚗 Carpool Arrangements
• Coordinate via comments
• 💵 Total carpool cost (gas + wear & tear): $30

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🛡 Safety & Fitness
• This is a strenuous hike with nearly 4,000 feet of elevation gain. A good fitness level is required.
• Expect steep sections beyond Cascade Pass with rocky terrain and exposure.
• Weather in the North Cascades can change rapidly—bring extra layers.
• Mountain goats and marmots are commonly seen—please observe wildlife from a safe distance.
• You are responsible for your own safety and preparedness.

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🎒 Bring the 10 Essentials
• Hiking boots
• Trekking poles (recommended)
• Headlamp + spare batteries
• Waterproof / wind-resistant jacket
• Warm layers (summit can be windy and much cooler)
• 3L+ water
• Food / snacks + lunch
• Sunscreen + sunglasses
• First aid kit
• Navigation / GPS (download the offline map)

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🚘 Carpooling Culture
• State if you can offer a ride or need a ride.
• Contributions help cover gas and vehicle wear & tear.
• Be respectful of drivers and fellow hikers.
• Drivers: Understand your responsibilities and liabilities for the trip.

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⚠️ Disclaimer
By RSVPing and attending, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety. Know your physical limits, come prepared, and help us make this a fun and safe adventure for everyone.

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