Trail

Trail of the Obelisk

Trail
A wooden trail sign next to a path in the forest.

A short, scenic loop through streamside forests and talus slopes near the International Boundary. At 0.8 miles of moderate terrain, this is accessible hiking with scrambling through uneven ground. You'll navigate abandoned beaver ponds and tight forest before emerging to border-country views. Bring water and secure footing—talus demands attention.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
0.8
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
0.8
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Estimated Time
45 minutes to 1 hour depending on pace; add time if you stop to observe wildlife.
Trail Surface
Mixed: packed earth in forested sections, loose talus on open slopes
Trail Features
  • Streamside forests
  • Talus slopes
  • Abandoned beaver ponds
  • International Boundary landscape views
Trail Highlights
Hike the International Boundary through mixed forest and talus, with views of working beaver ponds and the cross-border landscape.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Near the Ranger Station in Hozomeen, on the Silver-Skagit Road
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
Not required. Trailhead is vehicle-accessible from Hozomeen.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No day-hiking permits needed.
Fees
Free. America the Beautiful pass ($80) covers access to all federal recreation sites if purchased; day hiking is free otherwise.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Trail is open year-round, but park services are limited outside late May to early September. Snow may cover sections November through May.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
Stream water is available throughout the trail in forest sections and near beaver ponds; must be filtered before drinking.
Accessibility
Uneven terrain with talus sections and stream crossings. Not wheelchair accessible. Requires careful footing and balance.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Loose talus rock
  • Stream crossings (high during snowmelt)
  • Fall risk from exposure
  • Bear country (maintain 100-yard distance)
  • Wet rocks (slippery when wet)
Hazard Details
Talus slopes are littered with loose rocks that shift underfoot—a twisted ankle is the most common injury. Stream crossings swell during spring snowmelt and can become impassable or waist-deep. Sections expose you to short falls if you leave the trail. Grizzlies inhabit the area; maintain 100-yard distance and make noise. Wet rocks and moss-covered surfaces are slippery.
Best Season
Late May through early September, when park roads and services are fully operational
Best Time To Visit
Late May through September when park roads and services operate fully. Start early to avoid afternoon heat on exposed talus. Midweek is quieter than weekends.
Tips Advice
  • Wear boots with ankle support—talus slopes punish improper footwear\n
  • Carry 2L water minimum; filter any streamside sources\n
  • Tighten laces before starting—loose rock causes twisted ankles\n
  • Make noise constantly; this is grizzly country with 100-yard safety distance\n
  • Trekking poles help balance on talus and stream crossings\n
  • Check stream levels before going; snowmelt makes crossings impassable

More details

Park Area
Hozomeen area, Ross Lake National Recreation Area
Trail Markers
Trail is well-worn and mostly obvious despite minimal blazes. Short loop and clear tread make getting lost unlikely, but watch for cairns and worn footprints.
Dogs Allowed
Yes, leashed dogs allowed.
Shade Level
Mostly shaded in forest sections; exposed on talus slopes. Bring sun protection.
Emergency Contacts
Hozomeen Ranger Station (at trailhead). Emergency: dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger.
Map Recommended
1
Insider Tips
  • The beaver pond sections are the highlight—walk slowly and listen for wildlife sounds\n
  • Early morning offers best light through the forest canopy\n
  • Old Ranger Station building is historic; snap a photo\n
  • Test your footing carefully on talus before committing to speed\n
  • Weekdays are much quieter than weekends
Family Friendly Notes
At 0.8 miles roundtrip, this is doable for fit children age 7+. Talus slopes and stream crossings require adult supervision. Not recommended for very young children or those uncomfortable with exposure and scrambling.
Nearby Facilities
Hozomeen Campground and Ranger Station nearby. Limited services in immediate area; nearest town (Concrete, WA) is approximately 30 miles south with full amenities.
Review Summary
Hikers praise this short loop for accessibility and scenery without a major time commitment. Most note that talus sections demand precise footing and that early morning timing rewards solitude and wildlife activity. Spring runners report that stream crossings can be challenging or impassable during snowmelt.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is 'moderate' difficulty accurate, or is the NPS underselling the challenge?

It's honest moderate: 0.8 miles is easy, but talus footing demands precision and respect. If you have solid ankles and balance, you're fine. Rush, and you'll twist something. Go slow, watch your feet, and it's a good day.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes. Leashed dogs are allowed on this trail. Keep them close on talus—their paws slip too.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee?

No permits needed for day hiking. No entrance fee. Bring your America the Beautiful pass if you have one, but it's free otherwise.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, it's safe solo. Make noise (bear country), carry your phone, bring a map, and tell someone your plans. This short loop rarely gets lost hikers, but solo hiking demands you be self-reliant and alert.

When does snow clear off in spring?

Trail is typically snow-free by late May when park services ramp up. Call Hozomeen Ranger Station to confirm before driving out in spring.

Is there drinking water at the trailhead?

No potable water at the trailhead. Bring water with you, or filter creek water along the trail. Streams are abundant, but treat before drinking.

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.

Some booking links below are affiliate links, which may support YourNPGuide at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure.

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.