What are the current road conditions to the Cutthroat Lake trailhead?

The road to the trailhead is reported to have snow and ice as of [October 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-25.152203136211). Prior to this, as of [October 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-15.105752934852), the road was completely repaved and suitable for all vehicles.

Is the trail snow-covered?

As of [October 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-25.152203136211), the trail is snow-covered at times, and gear and expertise are recommended. Prior to this, on [October 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-15.105752934852), the trail was completely snow-free.

What is the status of fall colors and larches?

As of [October 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-15.105752934852), the tamaracks were past peak and starting to lose needles. Reports from [September 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-21.111937444838) indicated larches were just starting to turn and suggested waiting a couple of weeks for peak color.

Are there any reported obstacles on the trail?

As of October 10, there was a section of trail with a washout that was considered doable but potentially sketchy, with no water sources beyond that point for a significant stretch. Other reports from [September 28](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-28.185906454475) indicate no obstacles.

Cutthroat Pass via Cutthroat Lake

North Cascades

updated 2 weeks ago

As of October 25, snow has begun to fall at Cutthroat Pass, with the road to the trailhead also experiencing snow and ice. This suggests the end of the hiking season, and it's likely the North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20) will close for winter soon. Prior to this, the trail was reported to be in good condition with no snow as of October 12. The road to the trailhead was completely repaved as of October 12. While fall colors were noted as being good in late September and early October, with larches starting to turn around September 20, by October 12, they were past their peak and losing needles.

Generated from 21 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Cutthroat Pass via Cutthroat Lake

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

The road to the trailhead is reported to have snow and ice as of October 25. Prior to this, as of October 12, the road was completely repaved and suitable for all vehicles.