The Hidden Lake Trail is an easy 4.5 mile hike. The trail begins in timber and climbs quickly for the first mile. Sites for camping can be found on a few small sections of level ground in the timber. The trail leaves the timber and enters open meadows offering grand views of the Cascade River. The trail switchbacks through the meadows for 1.5 miles before reaching easier grades. As the trail levels, it wanders in and around angular slabs of granite and small groups of alpine fir. Spectacular views of high, jagged Cascade peaks can be seen from these higher meadows. Sites for fair weather camping may be found along this portion of the trail.

The next mile of the trail can be difficult to locate but rock cairns are placed at convenient locations to mark the route. At 6500 feet, the route enters a small pass from which Hidden Lake and the Hidden Lake Lookout can be seen. The route to Hidden Lake Lookout traverses a talus slope for 0.25 mile.

The approach to Hidden Lake travels down from the pass for 0.25 mile through boulders and talus. Hidden Lake lies within the North Cascades National Park.

Directions: From Sedro-Woolley, Follow State Route 20 east for 40 miles to the community of Marblemount. At the east end of the town, turn right on Cascade River Road which immediately crosses the Skagit River. Continue for 9.5 miles to Forest Service Road #1540. Turn left on Road #1540 and follow approximately 5 miles to the road's end. The trailhead is located at the far end of the parking area.

Elevation: 3,700 feet

Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet

Distance: 4.5 miles

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Easy

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