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Heather Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades
The Heather Maple Pass Loop sits in Washington’s North Cascades near Rainy Pass along State Route 20. It is widely recognized as one of the state’s most photographed alpine trails.
This loop is known for its high ridgeline, mountain views, and vantage points over Lake Ann. It is primarily a day hike, though it draws strong interest from backpackers exploring the broader North Cascades region.
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Trail snapshot in northern Washington
The full loop measures about 7.2 miles round trip, with roughly 2,000 feet of elevation gain and a highest point around 6,650 feet above sea level, based on current trail data.
The trailhead is located at Rainy Pass off State Route 20 within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Access depends on seasonal openings of the North Cascades Highway (SR 20), which typically closes in late fall due to snow and avalanche risk and reopens in spring.
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Ridgeline views over Lake Ann
A major draw of the loop is its elevated ridge section overlooking Lake Ann. From above, hikers can see the lake basin framed by rugged North Cascades peaks…