Goode Ridge
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A grueling 4,400-foot climb to a solitary North Cascades panorama, accessible only through Stehekin.
About This Trail
Goode Ridge delivers one of the finest viewpoints in the North Cascades, but you earn every foot of the 4,400 feet of gain. The trail climbs relentlessly from the Stehekin River valley through brushy lower slopes and occasional blowdowns before breaking into open subalpine meadows with direct views of Booker Mountain, Mount Buckner, and the surrounding peaks of North Cascades National Park.
Access is the crux. You reach the trailhead via the Lady of the Lake ferry to Stehekin, then a shuttle or hike to the Bridge Creek area. Most parties base camp at Bridge Creek to day-hike the ridge. The trail itself sees almost no foot traffic, and solitude is nearly guaranteed. The old lookout site at the top provides a 360-degree panorama that rivals any in the range.
Water is scarce above 3,300 feet, so carry everything you need. The lower trail can be brushy and warm on south-facing slopes. No dogs are allowed within the national park boundary. This is a hike for people who want to work hard and see no one else all day.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“This is a spectacular hike with a million-dollar view of the North Cascades, yet it is empty of other people.”
Last report: Aug 20, 2025
Scorecard
Access through Stehekin filters out nearly all casual visitors. Expect to see no one on the trail even in peak season.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- No water above 3,300 feet
- Exposed upper ridge in lightning
- Brushy lower trail can be disorienting
Getting There
Take the Lady of the Lake ferry to Stehekin. Shuttle or hike to Bridge Creek. The Goode Ridge trailhead branches off the Bridge Creek trail. Most parties base camp at Bridge Creek for an early start.
Early start essential to beat afternoon heat on exposed slopes. Allow a full day from Bridge Creek camp.
Recent Reports
This is a spectacular hike with a million-dollar view of the North Cascades, yet it is empty of other people. The reason--it is hard to get to the trailhead.
We were based camped at Bridge Creek for two nights, so finally had an opportunity to do Goode Ridge as a day trip. It's a terrific destination: smashing views, very few hikers (we saw no one), and a trail in great condition right to the top.
We backpacked into Bridge Creek to allow us an early start to beat the heat. NPS does not allow camping on Goode Ridge so it would make a bit much for a day hike to get the shuttle to High Bridge, hike 5 miles and 1400 gain to Bridge Creek; then hike past Bridge Creek to the actual trailhead and do another 5 miles up 4600 gain; then turn around and get back in time for the last shuttle.
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