Harts Pass Loop

This 58.1-mile loop through the Pasayten Wilderness is a classic high-country journey filled with sweeping ridges, alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and quiet riverside strolls. Starting at Harts Pass Campground, the route ties together sections of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), the historic Boundary Trail, and the scenic Buckskin Ridge Trail, offering an incredible variety of landscapes.

With big views, long ridge traverses, and access to one of the most remote corners of Washington’s Cascades, this loop is perfect for backpackers looking for a multi-day adventure that balances challenge with natural beauty.

This loop is ideal for seasoned backpackers seeking solitude, alpine scenery, and a taste of the Pasayten’s legendary wild-ness. With big ridge walks, quiet valleys, and endless views, it’s a rewarding backcountry journey that feels far removed from busier trails in the Cascades.

From Harts Pass Campground, pick up the PCT heading north. The trail meanders through open ridgelines and subalpine forest, with expansive views of jagged peaks in every direction. Continue until Castle Pass, where you turn east onto the Boundary Trail, a historic long-distance trail that runs across the entire Pasayten Wilderness.

Follow the Boundary Trail until you reach the junction with the Robinson Creek Trail, where you turn south. This section is brief, guiding you to the Buckskin Ridge Trail, the heart of the loop. The Buckskin Ridge Trail rewards with high traverses, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and sprawling meadows bursting with summer wildflowers. Eventually, the trail descends to meet the Pasayten River, where you trade big views for a peaceful riverside walk through lodgepole and spruce forest.

The trail ends at Buckskin Road, which you can follow back to Harts Pass. Alternatively, you can also reconnect with the PCT to return to your starting point.

Highlights

• Castle Pass: A dramatic ridgeline crossing with panoramic views.

• Boundary Trail: Historic, remote, and filled with wide-open wilderness.

• Buckskin Ridge: A true alpine highlight, with lakes, meadows, and long ridge walks.

• Pasayten River: A quiet finale along one of the wilderness’s signature waterways.

Flora & Fauna

This loop showcases the diversity of the Pasayten. Expect subalpine fir, lodgepole pine, and hemlock forests at lower elevations, transitioning to open alpine ridges with larches and wildflower-filled meadows in midsummer. Wildlife includes black bears, mule deer, mountain goats, and smaller alpine dwellers like marmots and pikas. Birdlife ranges from Clark’s nutcrackers to golden eagles riding thermals above the ridges.

Safety & Considerations

• Difficulty: Strenuous, with long miles and extended ridge travel.

• Water: Reliable sources at alpine lakes, creeks, and the Pasayten River, carry a filter.

• Weather: Snow may linger into July. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible on ridges.

• Remoteness: The Pasayten is vast and lightly traveled. Be prepared for self-sufficiency and navigation.

• Season: Best hiked July through September.

Permits & Regulations

• Overnight backcountry permits are required but they are free and available at trailheads. 

Parking Pass/Entry Fee Information: Northwest Forest Pass

• A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at Harts Pass.

• No wilderness permit quota system, but standard backcountry regulations apply.

• Bear canisters are not required but strongly recommended due to bear activity.