Scott Paul Trail — Saturday, Aug. 25, 2001

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

Having attempted the Railroad Grade just a week ago (see Aug. 19) and being met with mediocre weather, my brother and I decided to do the Scott Paul Trail today. I would agree with most of what has been said about this trail. It is rewarding without a great deal of work while providing spectacular views, glaciers, scenery, and flowers (still!) This is also an excellent hike for those of your friends who are occasional hikers. As a side trip, we hiked up to Crag View (6,513) just above the snout of Squak Glacier. However, you need only climb above timberline (about 300 feet above the Scott Paul Trail) to get exceptional views south and east from Shuksan to Rainier and nearly everything in between. Bring your map and compass.!! While some of the hiking guides suggest doing the trail loop clockwise, I would suggest counter-clockwise. A major reason for that is that the light on Baker and Easton Glacier is exceptional in the late afternoon. Second, the elevation gain seems less relentless because you don't have to go up the east lateral moraine of Easton Glacier. Including Crag View, I would rate this to be a better hike than the more often used Railroad Grade. It is also an excellent hike because you can be content with the great views, flowers, and streams from trail or be lured by your sense of adventure to explore up to the edge of the ice!