Awesome suggestion, Dave! We’ll definitely go back to the North Cascades at some point (maybe even this summer) and there are a few other trails I’d like to hike. I’ll add this one to the list.

Yeah, finding lodging in the North Cascades can be a challenge. Within the NPS complex, there are really only two lodges (Ross Lake Resort and the Lodge at Stehekin). The Ross Lake Resort is the only one that’s close to hikes like Easy Pass or Maple Pass, but it’s rather expensive and advance reservations are required. It’s a stunning place, though! For cheaper accommodation, I’d look into the offerings in Winthrop, which is the nearest town to that part of the North Cascades (and a beautiful Old West-style mountain town at that). If you don’t mind camping, nothing beats the Colonial Creek Campground at Diablo Lake, which is also the nearest place to stay of any kind to many popular trails. I hope this helps!