Contact Info
24 West Chewuch
Winthrop, WA 98862
- Phone:
- 509-996-4003
Basics
- Length:
- 10.6 miles (17 km)
- Difficulty:
- Easy
- Season:
- Mid-July to September
Description
The trail begins in big timber and soon passes through a large avalanche meadow and more timber to junction with the side trail to Lake Ann. At Heather Pass there is a faint trail leading off towards Lewis lake and a possible side trip for experienced hiker and route finder. Beyond Heather Pass the trail is above tree line in high alpine zone. The trail then descends along a ridge line between Lake Ann and Rainy Lake dropping quickly and steeply into timber, then levels on when it junctions with the Rainy Lake trial. Continue for about .25 mile on the Rainy Lake trail to return to the trailhead.
This trail offers a challenging loop beginning in a heavily timbered area, climbing to above timberline, and returning to a timbered area. The first mile is an easy hike with a side trip into Lake Ann. The hike beyond to Heather and Maple Pass is steep, but the views at the highest point on the trail are spectacular. From alpine meadows along the ridge top one can sit and enjoy the scenery and a view of both Lake Ann and Rainy Lake. The trail beyond this summit is steep and challenging.
No overnight camping within 0.25 mile of Lake Ann. Heather Pass and Maple Pass. Trails closed to pack and saddle stock, motorized and mechanized travel. Northwest Forest Pass required.