Are there any significant obstacles or blowdowns on the trail?

Most reports indicate minor obstacles and the trail is in good condition. As of [September 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-22.140948345276), the trail is in good condition. One report from [August 8](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-10.191557730677) mentioned a handful of blowdowns that were either to get over or under, some of which were quite large, but otherwise the travel was straightforward.

What is the status of parking at Barlow Pass?

The parking lot at Barlow Pass can be busy, especially on weekends. As of [September 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-12.195943492462), the small parking lot was full by 9 am, but there was still plenty of room on the side of the road. A Forest Service Pass is required to park as of [July 31](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-31.190155570405).

Has there been any recent maintenance or clearing on the trail?

Yes, MCPA performed brush cutting on the road and the lower Glacier Basin trail as of [September 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-22.140948345276). Previously, as of [July 14](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-14.213235496166), the chainsaw fairy had done a wonderful job clearing large trees across the trail and making the logjam crossing straightforward, even when carrying a bike.

Monte Cristo Ghost Town

North Cascades

updated 1 week ago

The road to Monte Cristo is suitable for all vehicles. The trail is generally in good condition, with most obstacles being minor. Fall color is becoming more prominent as of September 18. Brush has been recently cut on the road and lower Glacier Basin trail as of September 18. The river crossing is reported as easy, with options to walk across a dry riverbed or use a log, some of which may have a ladder attached.

Generated from 35 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Monte Cristo Ghost Town

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 1 week ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The river crossing is described as easy and straightforward as of September 18. You can walk across a dry, rocky riverbed and cross a small stream on logs, or use a larger log which may have a ladder attached for easier access. As of September 12, there was very little water flowing and the crossing was easy.