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Fourth of July Trail
Fourth of July Pass is one of the first backcountry mountain passes to melt, and sees lots of hikers in spring.
Plan Around Fourth of July Trail
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Fourth of July Trail Details
Fourth of July Pass is one of the first backcountry mountain passes to melt and sees lots of hikers in spring, but it's a very popular hike year-round. The wide, forested pass is accessible via both the Panther Creek and Thunder Creek Trails. The Thunder Creek Trail is the most popular approach, and its steepness is made up for by the frequent view of the receding valley and looming Snowfield and Colonial Peaks. Thunder Creek Trail also boasts the popular Thunder, Neve, McAllister, and Skagit Queen camps, as well as the Thunder Basin hiker and horse camp. Panther Creek Trail is less popular, and provides adventurous hikers with a wild and isolated experience as it navigates through forests and the freezing glacial waters of Ruby Creek. Unlike Thunder Creek Trail, this approach has only one camping area, Panther Camp, that lies about halfway to the pass in Panther Creek Valley. The trail contains a number of surprisingly steep sections, and it edges around a steep gorge before climbing up to the pass. Thunder Creek Trailhead is located at Colonial Creek Campground on Diablo Lake, at milepost 130 on State Route 20. Panther Creek Trailhead can be reached from the East Bank Trailhead, at milepost 139 on State Route 20.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
13 miles
Estimated time
7 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Fourth of July Trail
Compare nearby parks around Fourth of July Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Fourth of July Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Fourth of July Trail while the map context is still fresh.
1.4 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.
1.4 mi away
Diablo Lake Campgrounds
The Diablo Lake Campgrounds are only accessible by boat, and is made up of three areas.
1.6 mi away
Colonial Creek Campground
Colonial Creek Campground is located on Diablo Lake, at the base of Colonial Peak.
1.9 mi away
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.
2.0 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.
