What is the status of the suspension bridge on the Scott Paul Trail?

The suspension bridge on the Scott Paul Trail is gone as of [September 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-19.085534608869). One of its support posts is also no longer standing. It is uncertain when or if it will be repaired by the park service.

How difficult are the stream crossings on the Scott Paul Trail?

The stream crossings on the Scott Paul Trail are frequently reported as difficult, especially the main one where the suspension bridge used to be. The water can be high, muddy, and fast-running, with some hikers requiring water-crossing shoes or poles to attempt a crossing as noted on [September 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-19.085534608869) and [August 19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-20.125138594782).

What is the condition of the road to the Scott Paul Trailhead?

The road to the trailhead is generally described as rough but passable, with the last few miles being heavily potholed. Drivers are advised to go slow and use good judgment, with at least one report mentioning it being manageable for a car with low clearance on [September 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-19.085534608869).

Are there any camping restrictions on this trail?

Camping is not allowed on the Scott Paul Trail itself. Hikers wishing to camp from this trailhead are directed to Park Butte instead, as fragile meadows can be damaged by camping, according to a report from [August 10](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-11.111004939796).

Scott Paul Trail

North Cascades

updated 1 week ago

The Scott Paul Trail presents significant challenges due to the washed-out suspension bridge and difficult stream crossings. Reports from September 18 and August 24 highlight the fast-moving, turbid water, with some hikers needing to find alternative crossing points or turn back. While the road to the trailhead is generally rough but passable, the last couple of miles can be heavily potholed, requiring slow and careful driving, as noted on September 18. The trail itself is largely snow-free. Berries are ripe in meadows, as observed on August 19, and wildflowers were seen in July.

Generated from 29 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 week ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The suspension bridge on the Scott Paul Trail is gone as of September 18. One of its support posts is also no longer standing. It is uncertain when or if it will be repaired by the park service.