North Cascades Highway in Spring

I had never been to Washington Pass soon after SR20 opened (May 9) so May 15 we drove to it. While the road was clear, there was plenty of snow along the side. Washington Pass, shown here, is at 5,476 feet.

Rainy Pass, shown below, is at 4,855 feet.

As the last photo shows, at this time of the year, the facilities are limited!

Rainy Pass, North Cascades Highway

Rainy Lake Hike, Rainy Pass

There is a short hike (under two miles round trip) at Rainy Pass on the North Cascades Highway. It begins at the picnic area on the south side of the pass. The view of the lake is well worth the effort.

The path is paved and nearly level.

There are a couple of streams you pass, this one offering a miniature waterfall.

While most of the hike is in forest, there are views of some of the mountains along the way. It is a very enjoyable short hike.