Spider Mountain North Face and Magic S Loop
North CascadesBest Mar–May
An ambitious North Cascades ski loop linking the steep north face of Spider Mountain with the S Glacier descent, departing from Cascade Pass.
About This Trail
This loop links Spider Mountain's north face with a descent of the S Glacier via Magic Mountain, a classic spring objective for parties already comfortable on glaciated North Cascades terrain. The approach starts from the Cascade Pass trailhead — typically two miles below the gate during shoulder season — and climbs through forest before breaking into the open above Cascade Pass and traversing onto the Spider Glacier complex.
The north face holds the technical commitment of the day. The northeast ramp climbs steep snow with crampons and axes; sluffing on the descent is the dominant concern through the steep middle section. Sun aspects deliver corn snow on the right cycle; shaded couloirs hold styrofoam powder well into May. The S Glacier descent off Magic Mountain rounds out the loop with open glacier skiing back toward the approach drainage.
This is committing terrain. Crevasse hazard, exposure beneath cliffs on the north face traverse, and isothermic snow on the lower approach all demand experienced parties. A 3 a.m. start from the vehicle is standard. Late March through mid-May offers the best window — earlier risks deeper instability, later risks postholing and bridge collapse.
Steep north face on the climb, with corn snow on sun aspects and styrofoam powder in shaded couloirs. Open glacier skiing on the S Glacier descent off Magic Mountain. Mixed steep faces and benched glacier skiing through the loop.
No established skin track — break trail through the approach, with bootpack on the steepest sections of the north face climb.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Committing route in remote terrain. Few parties attempt the loop in any given season.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Glaciated terrain with crevasse risk — rope, harness, and rescue gear required
- Steep north face with cornice and sluff hazard on descent
- Cliff exposure on the traverse below the north face
- Isothermic snow on lower approach in warm afternoons
- Long day with 3 a.m. start — plan around weather windows tightly
Getting There
Cascade Pass trailhead at the end of Cascade River Road. National Park Pass required. Gate closures on the upper road through winter and shoulder seasons add miles to the approach.
Similar Hikes
