Trail

Easy Pass Trail

Trail
A hiker on a trail in a meadow full of wildflowers with mountains in the distance.

Easy Pass Trail is a strenuous mountain pass hike demanding 3,000 feet of elevation gain over 7.4 miles roundtrip. The first 2 miles are relentless switchbacks; the route then opens into a high alpine basin leading to a mountain pass with panoramic views of Fisher Basin and surrounding peaks. Spring hikers face snowfields and may need an ice axe. This is a genuine leg-burner for committed hikers only.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
7.4
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet
3000

Trail profile

Distance Miles
7.4
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet
3000
Estimated Time
5-7 hours depending on fitness. Assume 2 hours for the steep lower section and 2-3 hours for the basin climb. The descent often takes longer than the ascent on tired legs.
Trail Surface
Steep dirt switchbacks for the first 2 miles, then rocky alpine terrain. Loose scree and talus in the upper basin. Potentially snow-covered from May-June.
Trail Features
  • Panoramic views of Fisher Basin
  • Surrounding alpine peaks
  • Mountain pass summit
  • Granite Creek crossing
  • Wildflower meadows (summer)
Trail Highlights
Panoramic vistas from the mountain pass overlooking Fisher Basin and surrounding peaks. Wildflower blooms in mid to late summer.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
State Route 20, Mile 151
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle service. Access is direct from State Route 20 parking only.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
Yes
Permit Details
Northwest Forest Pass required to park at the trailhead.
Fees
No park entrance fee. Northwest Forest Pass required for parking.
Trail Status
Open to public
Seasonal Closures
Spring snowfields close or obscure the trail until late June or early July. Check with the Outdoor Recreation Information Center before going before July 1.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
Granite Creek provides reliable water for the first 2 miles. Filter or treat it. The upper basin is dry—fill your bottles at the creek before climbing the final stretch.
Accessibility
Rooty and steep. Relentless switchbacks for the first 2 miles with zero rest. Rocky alpine terrain in the upper basin. No handholds or ladders. High exposure in places.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Steep elevation gain
  • Spring snowfields and ice
  • Stream crossing
  • Exposed ridge terrain
  • Dehydration risk
  • Afternoon thunderstorms
  • Wildlife (bears, mountain goats)
Hazard Details
The steep climb exposes you to intense sun and rapid dehydration. Spring hikers encounter lingering snowfields that obscure the trail—an ice axe is essential, and post-holing is exhausting. Granite Creek swells during snowmelt and can be treacherous. The exposed basin offers no shelter from sudden afternoon thunderstorms. Bears frequent the area; the park requires 100 yards distance minimum.
Best Season
Late July through mid-September. The park's operational season runs late May through late September, but this trail is impassable or hazardous before July.
Best Time To Visit
July through September for stable weather and no snow. Start by 6 AM to summit before afternoon storms roll in. Spring hikers (May-June) face snowfields and need ice axes—only go if you're equipped. Avoid late May when snowmelt swells Granite Creek.
Tips Advice
  • Carry at least 2 liters of water—the upper basin is dry. Filter at Granite Creek before the steep climb.
  • Trekking poles are non-negotiable for the relentless descent.
  • Start early; afternoon thunderstorms can trap you on exposed terrain.
  • Wear a hat and sunscreen—the upper basin offers zero shade.
  • Make noise constantly for bears (100-yard rule if sighted).
  • Spring climbers: bring an ice axe and a map. Snowfields obscure the trail through June.
  • The false summit at Mile 5.2 isn't the pass—keep climbing.

More details

Park Area
North Cascades Highway 20 Corridor
Trail Markers
Well-worn trail. Summer hikers will have no issues. Spring hikers should bring a map—snowfields can obscure the route.
Dogs Allowed
No. Dogs are not allowed beyond the national park boundary, including Easy Pass.
Shade Level
Full sun on the upper 2 miles and exposed basin. Zero shade above the switchbacks. Hat and sunscreen are mandatory.
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
Spring snowfields persist through June depending on annual snowpack. By late July, the trail is snow-free.
Mud Season
Wet and muddy from May through early June during peak snowmelt. Avoid if trail conditions are reported as saturated.
Wildflower Peak
July through August when wildflowers bloom in the alpine meadows.
Insider Tips
  • The first 2 miles are the steepest and most exposed; pace yourself and take breaks.
  • Bring an extra liter of water if you can carry it. The upper basin is genuinely dry.
  • The "false summit" at Mile 5.2 often tricks hikers—the actual pass is 0.3 miles beyond. Keep going.
  • Best light for the Fisher Basin vista is late afternoon looking east from the pass itself.
  • Descent is harder than ascent on tired quads; trekking poles save your knees.
Recent Updates
No known recent closures or trail work reported. Park maintains seasonal access information through the Outdoor Recreation Information Center.
Family Friendly Notes
Not family-friendly for young children. The sustained 3,000 ft gain, relentless switchbacks, and exposed upper section are too demanding for children under 12-14 who aren't strong hikers. Teenagers and fit families may manage it, but supervision on the exposed basin is essential.
Review Summary
Hikers consistently report this is a genuine lung-buster with relentless elevation gain, but the panoramic views from the pass justify every step. Most say the varied terrain—switchbacks, stream crossing, alpine basin—keeps the grind interesting. Spring hikers caution that snowfields are serious and ice axes are not optional.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this hike too hard for me if I'm fit but new to high elevation?

Not if you pace yourself and carry plenty of water. The sustained 3,000 ft gain is brutal, but fit hikers finish in 5-6 hours. Take breaks every 30 minutes on the steep section.

Do I need an ice axe in summer?

No. Only spring hikers (May-June) need one. By July, the trail is snow-free and the axe is unnecessary weight.

Are bears a real threat on this trail?

Yes. Make noise constantly—talk, clap, or use a bear bell. If you see one, back away slowly and maintain 100 yards distance. Bear spray is smart insurance.

Can I do this as a day hike and finish before dark?

Yes, easily. Most hikers summit in 5-7 hours including breaks. Start by 6 AM and you'll be off the mountain by early afternoon, well before dark.

What's the water situation? Will I run out?

Granite Creek supplies water for the first 2 miles—filter or treat it there. The upper basin is completely dry. Refill at the creek before the final climb. Bring 2 liters minimum.

Agnes Gorge Trail

5 miles, 500ft gain. Muddy spring; wildflowers mid-summer. Easy-to-moderate ramble to a 200ft cascade.

Cascade Pass Trail

Relentless switchbacks to a glacier-rimmed pass. Most popular trail in the park—arrive early or miss the summit.

Company Creek Trail

Steep climb through forest to Bonanza Peak views. Nettles and overgrown sections demand respect.

Diablo Lake Trail

Exposed bridge crossing, 1,300ft gain. Moderate challenge with ferry escape option on return.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.