What are the primary obstacles on the trail itself?

The Walt Bailey Trail is currently experiencing significant blowdowns, rooty and rocky tread, and deeply rutted sections. As of [May 23](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-23.202205395916), parts of the trail had become active streams and mud holes. Snow was also a significant obstacle in April and May, with reports of deep snow and difficulty finding the trail in steeper sections as late as [May 24](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-24.185808499742).

What is the snow situation at the higher elevations and near the lakes?

As of [May 24](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-24.185808499742), there was still quite a bit of snow, waxing and waning, with the upper sections being mostly snow-covered. The lakes were just starting to thaw, and the designated campsites were still partially snow-covered. Reports from [May 16](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-16.175656807600) noted snow up to 10 inches deep about 2 miles in, and April 24 mentioned the trail becoming all snow around 3600ft, requiring snowshoes.

How crowded is the Walt Bailey Trail typically?

The Walt Bailey Trail appears to be relatively uncrowded, especially during the reported periods. As of [May 23](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-23.202205395916), there was only one other car in the parking lot, indicating a good opportunity for solitude. The parking lot itself is described as small and awkwardly shaped.

Cutthroat Lakes via Walt Bailey Trail

North Cascades

updated 3 months ago

The Walt Bailey Trail to Cutthroat Lakes currently presents a challenging and overgrown condition based on reports from April and May 2026. Hikers encountered significant blowdowns, extensive muddy sections, and areas where the trail has become an active stream, particularly in the first few miles. Route finding may be difficult in some sections due to snow, which was still present and deep in places as of May 24 and made steeper climbs challenging. Some snow patches were also noted as late as May 23. The FS road to the trailhead was generally in good condition, though some dead trees were noted hanging over it. Parking is described as limited and awkward. The lakes themselves were just beginning to thaw as of May 24, with surrounding campsites still partially snow-covered.

Generated from 16 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Cutthroat Lakes via Walt Bailey Trail

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

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

The FS road to the trailhead was reported in top-notch shape as of May 23, with only minor exceptions of a few smaller dead trees precariously hanging over it. Clearance was not an issue for an SUV with a roof box. Another report from April 24 also stated the road was in great shape.