Near Trappers Peak
Looking down to Thornton Lakes.
Near Trappers Peak
Enjoy this stellar view before descending to Thornton Lake.
Near Trappers Peak
Looking from Trappers Peak over the Thornton Lakes.
Near Trappers Peak
This phenomenal view of the Pickets Range awaits you atop Trappers Peak.
Near Trappers Peak
A small tarn greets you along the ascent to Trappers Peak.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Trappers Peak

5.0 (6 Ratings)
A spectacular route along a narrow ridge leading to sweeping views of the Picket Range and other North Cascade Peaks.
0.7
mi
Distance
1,050
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Fall ColorsLakeViews
Access Issues
No camping is allowed on Trappers Peak or the ridge below.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.69mi
Distance
1,050ft
Elevation Gain
64ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
5,962ft
High Point
4,971ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail is a great extension to a backpack trip to Thornton Lake and is a true gem in the North Cascades. The route up to Trappers Peak leaves the Thornton Lakes Trail near the ridge that you crest before descending to Thornton Lakes. The route is narrow, overgrown and hard to follow at times. The trail starts by ascending through alpine meadows before gaining a narrow ridge. After gaining the ridge, the route steepens and becomes rockier. Some scrambling is required, and a fall could be quite dangerous in some places. Continue past a small tarn and onto the summit of Trappers Peak. The view from Trappers Peak is stellar. You can see all the Thornton Lakes below, including the upper two tucked in a higher basin. The Picket Range towers to the north, seen as spiny peaks with impressive glaciers. Enjoy the views of Mt. Triumph to the northwest and the Skagit River to the southwest.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Sarah Baker