North Cascades NP, WA
Granite Ridge Traverse
Distance
12.8 mi
Elev. Gain
+3,900 ft
Time
6–8 hrs
Difficulty
Strenuous
StrenuousRocky trail, some scramblingBest: July – September
A full-day ridge traverse with relentless elevation gain rewarded by knife-edge views over three drainages. The route passes two tarns and skirts a permanent snowfield before reaching the high point at 6,450 ft. Technical scrambling in the final 0.6 miles requires hands on rock — confident footing is essential.
Highlights
- Summit at 6,450 ft with three-drainage panorama
- Twin alpine tarns at mile 5.5
- Permanent snowfield crossing (crampons optional in summer)
- Ptarmigan and marmot sightings above 5,500 ft
Trail tips
- →Alpine starts only — be on trail by 6 am to clear the ridge before afternoon storms
- →Wear a helmet; rockfall risk in the scramble zone
- →No dogs — technical terrain is unsafe for canines
- →Self-issue permit required; register at the trailhead kiosk
traversealpinescramblestrenuousno-dogs
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