What are the current trail conditions regarding mud and water crossings?

The trail can be muddy and wet in sections, particularly after rain, as reported on [October 16](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-16.161343676021) and [September 16](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-16.184213637162). There are several stream crossings, which are generally easy to navigate, with no poles needed according to reports from September 15 and September 13.

What is the parking situation at the trailhead?

Parking at the Lake Ann trailhead can be limited, especially on weekends. On [September 17](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-19.122715469449), all lot spots were taken by 10 AM, but roadside parking was available. On September 13, the second to last parking spot was taken by 9 AM, with roadside parking also available.

Are there any notable obstacles or hazards on the trail?

While generally in good condition, some reports mention minor obstacles. On [September 15](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-16.070442793838), the valley bottom section had over a dozen exposed and plugged culverts, wide muddy sections, and deep trenches. The last two miles to the lake can be rocky, as noted on [October 16](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-16.161343676021).

What is the status of fall colors and wildlife?

The fall colors are starting to fade, with some reports from [October 16](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-16.161343676021) and [October 15](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-21.123252863801) mentioning less color than hoped for. However, there are still berries, such as blueberries and huckleberries, that are ripe as of September 20 and September 15. Pikas have been frequently reported, as seen on October 16 and September 16, and a black bear was spotted near the trailhead on September 17.

Lake Ann (Mount Baker Highway)

North Cascades

updated 3 weeks ago

The trail to Lake Ann is in good condition, with no snow reported. Recent reports from October 17 and October 16 indicate the road is suitable for all vehicles and there are no significant bug issues. While some fall colors are fading, there are still berries to be found along the trail, as noted in reports from October 16 and September 20. The trail itself can be muddy and wet in sections, especially after rain, with some stream crossings that are generally easy to navigate. Parking can be limited, particularly on weekends, with roadside parking often available when the main lot is full, as seen on September 17 and September 13. The hike involves descending before ascending to the lake, so hikers should be prepared to climb back to the trailhead at the end.

Generated from 70 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Lake Ann (Mount Baker Highway)

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.

The trail can be muddy and wet in sections, particularly after rain, as reported on October 16 and September 16. There are several stream crossings, which are generally easy to navigate, with no poles needed according to reports from September 15 and September 13.