Dagger Lake / Twisp Pass Trail

Starting from the Fireweed trailhead on the east side of the North Cascades, this route climbs steadily through subalpine meadows and larch-dotted slopes toward Twisp Pass at just over 6,000 feet. The trail follows a classic Cascades pattern — dense forest gives way to wildflower parkland as you gain elevation, with increasingly dramatic views of craggy peaks and hanging glaciers. Dagger Lake sits in a rocky cirque below the pass, cold and clear, ringed by stunted conifers and talus. The pass itself delivers a sweeping panorama into the heart of the national park complex. This is a trail that rewards patience — the scenery builds gradually rather than hitting you all at once. Strong day hikers and backpackers looking for a less-trafficked entry into the North Cascades backcountry will find exactly what they came for.