What is the current road status for accessing Cutthroat Lake?

As of [October 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-25.152203136211), the North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20) has snow and ice, though the road is currently open. However, it is likely to close for the winter season soon.

What is the condition of the trail itself?

The Cutthroat Lake trail is reported to be in good condition and snow-free as of [October 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-25.152203136211). Reports from mid-October mention dry conditions and no significant obstacles.

What are the parking conditions like?

Parking can be busy, especially on weekends. The main lot often fills by mid-morning, requiring overflow parking along the road, as noted on [October 15](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-15.165445375831) and [October 9](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-19.145343512882). Arriving early is recommended.

Is there still fall color at Cutthroat Lake?

Yes, there is still fall color present, particularly on trees and shrubs, as of [October 13](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-13.190332421624). While the larches are past their peak, some color remains, with reports from [October 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-12.163342279070) suggesting a few good days left for needles.

Cutthroat Lake

North Cascades

updated 2 weeks ago

The North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20) is experiencing snow and ice as of October 25, and while the road is currently open, it is likely to close soon for winter. Cutthroat Lake trail itself remains snow-free and in good condition, with fall color still visible on trees and shrubs, though the larches are past their peak according to reports from October 12 and October 11. Parking can be competitive, especially on weekends, with the lot filling early and overflow parking extending down the road by mid-morning, as noted on October 15 and October 9. There are no significant trail obstacles reported.

Generated from 49 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Cutthroat Lake

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 2 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

As of October 25, the North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20) has snow and ice, though the road is currently open. However, it is likely to close for the winter season soon.