Excelsior Pass via Nooksack River
North Cascades
As of July 25, 2026, Excelsior Pass is snow-free to the pass itself. Wildflowers are still blooming, though recent reports suggest they are nearing their end. The trail is shaded and steep, with a need for bug spray, especially on warmer days.
Recent reports from mid-June indicate snow patches near the pass and on routes to Excelsior Peak. While microspikes and poles were helpful for some in June, they were not needed by July 1st. Reports from late May and early June mention snow starting around 4300-5000 feet, with snowshoes or microspikes recommended by some, while others managed in running shoes. Parking and road conditions are not mentioned in the reports. Be aware of off-leash dogs and horse manure on the trail.
generated from 39 reports
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I forgot the pictures on the previous post
It was a cloudy day so not much for mountain views, but I'm so glad it was cool because this was quite a climb! Even though the trail is shaded by the canopy I wouldn't want to make this climb on a wa...
Trail in very good condition and moderately busy on this misty day. The bugs were not bad, but there were tons of crickets in the meadow. The wildflowers are glorious right now! Water sources not grea...
Incredible hike up to the alpine terrain of the Cascades. Snow free up to the pass with about 10ft of snow before getting on to the High Divide trail to get to the peak. No spikes are required.Wildflo...
Great day in the North Cascades, only one other car at 7:30. This trail is steep at the beginning, but the grade gets better past mile one and there're a lot of long switchbacks that break up the cli...
Last person to do this hike today, after skiing from artist point, I started this hike around 2:30. I passed 4 groups on the way up and had the summit to myself. Snow at the pass and around the trail ...
I headed up shortly before sunrise at about 4:45. The trail had some wet stretches and some short snow crossings near the top. I passed one hiker coming down while ascending. On top of the ridge the s...
Got to the trailhead just before 10am. Only 1 other vehicle there. Trail is in great condition. Hit snow just as you break out of the trees at the meadow. We brought poles and micro spikes but did not...
Training for our Kulshan (Baker) climb continues! This time my 22yo son and I hiked up to Excelsior Pass. We thought about trying for the peak, but decided the pass was enough for today. We were defin...
Trail is in great shape. No blowdown. Very few if any wet or muddy spots. Snow starts at 5,000 ft. Our group put on snowshoes to travel up to the pass. We arrived at the pass at 11am on a sunny day ab...
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