Hope Pass from the Willis Gulch Trailhead

Begin the hike at the Willis Gulch Trailhead. After crossing the bridge, follow the Willis Creek Trail east for approximately 0.5 miles to the junction with the Willis Gulch Cutoff Trail. Ascend the cutoff trail as it contours for about one mile to reach the Willis Gulch Trail, then follow it uphill to the south. At 0.4 miles along this section, stay straight past the Big Willis Gulch Trail junction to remain on the Hope Pass trail. The route climbs through forested areas and clearings that offer increasingly expansive views of the surrounding peaks. The final mile from the timberline to Hope Pass follows a steady, switchbacking trail. At the pass, enjoy panoramic mountain views before retracing the route back to the trailhead.