What is the current status of the suspension bridge and creek crossing?

The suspension bridge is gone, and the creek crossing is considered difficult, especially with high and muddy water as reported on [October 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-08.103436114711). While some hikers have found ways to cross, it may require going upstream to find a narrower spot October 7 or could be impassable depending on conditions.

What is the condition of the road to the trailhead?

The road is rough for the last few miles but is generally passable for most vehicles, including lower clearance ones, requiring slow driving. The condition has been described as requiring good judgment to navigate larger potholes.

Are there any significant obstacles or hazards on the trail itself?

The primary obstacle is the stream crossing due to the absence of the suspension bridge. High water flow and turbidity have made crossings challenging for some, with suggestions to use trekking poles for assistance.

What are the recent reports on trail crowds?

Reports suggest the Scott Paul Trail offers more solitude compared to nearby popular trails. On [October 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-08.103436114711), there were only about 7 cars in the lot, and hikers have previously encountered few people, [August 19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-20.125138594782), August 16, and August 14.

Scott Paul Trail

North Cascades

updated 1 month ago

The Scott Paul Trail is generally in good condition with snow-free trails, but the primary obstacle is a washed-out suspension bridge, leading to difficult stream crossings, especially when water levels are high. Reports from October 8 and October 7 indicate the creek can be challenging to cross due to high, muddy water, with one hiker noting it was impossible on October 7. However, some hikers have found easier crossings upstream or report the creek was crossable on rocks as of October 3. The road to the trailhead remains rough for the last few miles, but is generally passable for most vehicles, though it requires slow driving and good judgment. Berries are still being reported as ripe in late August, and wildflowers were noted in mid-July.

Generated from 32 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Scott Paul Trail

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

No trip reports on this trail in 1 month, so everything below is at least that old.

The suspension bridge is gone, and the creek crossing is considered difficult, especially with high and muddy water as reported on October 7. While some hikers have found ways to cross, it may require going upstream to find a narrower spot October 7 or could be impassable depending on conditions.