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Thunder Knob Trail
Thunder Knob is a great loop hike for both families and seasoned solo hikers looking for a quick climb with rewarding views.
Plan Around Thunder Knob Trail
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Thunder Knob Trail Details
Thunder Knob is a great loop hike for both families and seasoned solo hikers looking for a quick climb with rewarding views. The trail is moderately easy, but does contain some rocky and uneven ground that may be challenging for children. The hike begins on a series of small footbridges over the sunny floodplains of Colonial Creek, and travels into an shady evergreen forest of towering firs, hemlocks, and cedar. There is another smaller creek crossing and a sunny clearing before the trail's first and only climb to the top of the knob. Don't miss the tiny pond ringed by the red berries of the comically named kinnikinnick bush. There are a number of viewpoints scattered along the final section of trail, which overlooks Diablo Lake, Jack Mountain, Davis Peak, and Colonial Peak. The trailhead is at Colonial Creek Campground on Diablo Lake, at milepost 130 on State Route 20.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
3.6 miles
Estimated time
1.5 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Thunder Knob Trail
Compare nearby parks around Thunder Knob Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Thunder Knob Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Thunder Knob Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.2 mi away
Colonial Creek
Nestled on the shore of Diablo Lake, the Colonial Creek area is a popular stop for motorists exploring the North Cascades Scenic Highway.
0.2 mi away
Colonial Creek Campground
Colonial Creek Campground is located on Diablo Lake, at the base of Colonial Peak.
0.5 mi away
Diablo Lake Campgrounds
The Diablo Lake Campgrounds are only accessible by boat, and is made up of three areas.
0.5 mi away
Thunder Creek Trail
This trail can be a shorter, easier hike or a longer, more strenuous hike depending on how far you follow it.
1.3 mi away
Diablo Lake Overlook
The Diablo Lake Overlook on the North Cascades Scenic Highway is a favorite destination for many visitors.
