What are the current snow conditions on the trail?

Reports from [October 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-25.152203136211) indicate that higher elevation trails are becoming snow-covered. As of [October 10](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-11.094640484069), there was intermittent soft snow on the upper section of the trail that was not yet icy, though traction gear was recommended for later in the season. The snow is described as not difficult to cross in recent reports.

What is the condition of the larches and fall colors?

The larches have mostly passed their peak. As of [October 14](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-15.145917629550), most trees had lost a significant portion of their needles, and by [October 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-12.202758135975), about 50% of the larches had already lost their needles. While some fall colors remain, reports from October 4 and October 10 mention that they are fading.

Are there any significant obstacles on the trail?

The trail is generally in good condition with few obstructions. Reports from [October 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-18.203545773813) and October 14 mention some muddy spots that were easy to avoid. Water crossings were described as easy to navigate with limited flow as of October 14.

Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail

Q: What is the current status of Highway 20 and access to the trailhead?

As of [October 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-25.152203136211), Highway 20 has snow and ice on the road, and it is likely to be closed for winter soon. The road is currently still open, but drivers may need to use chains. Parking at the trailhead can be very difficult, particularly on weekends, with cars reportedly parked miles away on October 3.

North Cascades

updated 2 weeks ago

The trail to Cutthroat Pass is generally in good condition, though recent reports indicate a shift towards winter conditions. As of October 25, snow has begun to fall at higher elevations on Highway 20, and the road may be closed soon. The trail itself has intermittent snow, which is not difficult to cross but suggests that winter gear like microspikes is recommended for hikes past October 25. Larches, which were a major draw earlier in October, have largely passed their peak, with reports from October 14 and October 12 noting that much of their foliage has fallen. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, with reports from October 7 and October 3 describing extensive roadside parking and congestion.

Generated from 69 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail

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

As of October 25, Highway 20 has snow and ice on the road, and it is likely to be closed for winter soon. The road is currently still open, but drivers may need to use chains. Parking at the trailhead can be very difficult, particularly on weekends, with cars reportedly parked miles away on October 3.