What are the conditions of the boulder fields?

The boulder fields are generally described as navigable, with some reports suggesting a dirt trail can bypass portions of the rocks. As of [July 23](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-24.184234501472), the rock quality in the scree and choss fields was noted as terrible and loose.

What is the status of the summit block scramble?

The summit block offers class 3 and class 4 scrambling. One report from [October 4](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-12.184823308514) found the standard route to be mostly low class 2 with about 15 feet of class 3 and 1-2 class 4 moves, which they found easy but helped others. Another report from [October 10](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-11.225026821460) noted the last 100 feet below the ridge were steep and loose, with some icy rock faces.

What is the general condition of the trail between Heather Pass and Wing Lake?

Between Heather Pass and Lewis Lake, the trail alternates between dirt paths and boulder fields, with cairns marking the way. The section from Lewis Lake to Wing Lake is described as a fairly steep climb on a well-maintained trail.

Black Peak

Q: What is the current snow situation on the trail?

As of [October 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-18.233621206075), there is intermittent snow that is not hard to cross. Earlier reports in October also mentioned small amounts of old snow above Wing Lake. However, one report from [October 10](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-11.225026821460) indicated snowfields to cross that could be difficult.

North Cascades

updated 3 weeks ago

The trail to Black Peak remains in good condition, though some snowfields may still require careful navigation as of October 10. Larches have passed their peak, with some reports noting remnants of gold and orange foliage earlier in October, October 4, October 4. The road is suitable for all vehicles. Hikers have noted intermittent snow, particularly in higher elevations, and some early-season frost on boulder fields as of October 18. The summit block offers class 3 and class 4 scrambling, with varying opinions on rock quality and the best route.

Generated from 17 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Black Peak

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 3 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 3 weeks, so everything below is at least that old.

As of October 18, there is intermittent snow that is not hard to cross. Earlier reports in October also mentioned small amounts of old snow above Wing Lake. However, one report from October 10 indicated snowfields to cross that could be difficult.