One reason you may choose to complete Maple Pass Loop in the clockwise direction is if you have bad knees and the steeper declines are more treacherous to your body than the steep inclines. I cannot verify this as I have not done this hike in the clockwise pattern, but there are several people who seem to agree counterclockwise is prettier. The second reason to choose the counterclockwise path are the views are allegedly better. You reach the highest elevation at the 3.8-mile marker if going counterclockwise, but you hit that mark after only 2.8 miles going clockwise. The first is the climb to Maple Pass is less steep than the clockwise route. Whenever a trail is a loop, the question always arises…should I hike it clockwise or counterclockwise? The general consensus is counterclockwise is the better route for two reasons. Bathroom Situation – Pit toilets in parking area.Parking Situation – Parking area at Maple Pass Loop trailhead is called Rainy Lake Trailhead and fills up early in the day.Trail Length – 7.1 miles (according to wta.org and my phone’s GPS).Location – 36 miles or 45 minutes west of Winthrop off US-20.You will feel like Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music with landscapes that mirror the Austrian Alps.ĭisclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links so if you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we might earn a small commission (but don’t worry, it’s no extra cost to you). From old growth, dense forests to pristine turquoise lakes and views of snow-topped mountains, this trail is like no other I have experienced. The hike is long and strenuous but does not feel that tough because you are stopping every 30 steps or so to take a picture. Maple Pass Loop is the best and most beautiful hike I have ever done.
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