Chasing Larches in the North Cascades
Heather - Maple Pass Loop, North Cascades
Date: October 2nd 2023
Length: 7.2 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,020
Highest Point: 6,650 feet
Nestled deep along the North Cascade Hwy SR 20 is one of the state’s most popular larch adventures, Heather-Maple Pass Loop. I tend to shy away from these overpopulated Instagram hikes, but I figured rain in the forecast along with a Monday morning commute would produce a less crowded experience. And, after all, these hikes are popular for a reason. The stunning larches were on full display, perhaps a week out from full prime. Armed with my new Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera and a zoom lens capable of capturing a wide range of compositions, I set out on this hike with expectations high.
Lake Ann produced the first wow moment, as I started seeing glimpses of larches in the higher elevations I caught sight of the lake and made my way down to the shoreline. Definitely worth the extra 0.6 miles of distance. This viewpoint gives you a taste of the loop high up on the mountainsides. Then with my destination in sight, I started climbing towards the main attraction.
Low-moving clouds started setting in, which created a stark contrast with the bright yellows and oranges of the changing larches. Distance snow-capped peaks provided excellent vistas and views 360 degrees round.
Once I was fully immersed in the fall colors, the true scope and allure of this destination truly set in. I can see why this is known as one of the region’s finest larch viewing destinations.
