Yellow Pages
This section of the campground was damaged by the storms of October 2003 and the entrance remains blocked as construction continues. Park in the lot that parallels Highway 20, check out the kiosk, then head past the blocked entrance and follow the signs to Thunder Knob.
The trail is wide and hiker friendly. Despite numerous switchbacks, the grade never exceeds 10 percent.
The trail is wheelchair accessible, however, there will be a need for assistance along several stretches.
Location: North Cascades National Park
Distance: 3.8 miles
Destination: Thunder Knob
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 650 feet
Getting there: Highway 20 to Colonial Creek Campground, just past milepost 130, about 10 miles east of Newhalem. The trailhead parking is across the highway from the campground’s main entrance.
The Trek: The trailhead used to be behind campsite No. 21.
The campsite, however, no longer exists. It was washed into Diablo Lake as Colonial Creek ravaged the area.
The trailhead is easy to find. Just follow the signs.
Begin by crossing several dry creek beds that are spanned by large footbridges.
Enter the lush green forest and cross another bridge. Moss dangles from practically every tree limb.
Several switchbacks crisscross a semi-exposed ridge. The shimmering waters of Diablo Lake can be seen between the trees.
After walking under a fallen tree, switchback left at another that lays across the trail. Just step over the downed snag and continue on.
If the trail peters out on a hillside, turn around. The switchback you missed is easily seen.
Hike below a large slide and past one of several benches found along the trail.
Continue to switchback up on a now completely exposed slope of granite and shale.
If it is a sunny day, expect to break a sweat.
Rounding a bend, a rock ledge and cliff face tower above a small gully. Several paces farther on, a clearing allows hikers a glimpse of the surrounding topography.
High peaks loom above, and snowfields shimmer in the bright sunshine.
The trail flattens out before descending to a small pond. Cross a footbridge. Once again you are greeted by several switchbacks.
Traverse along a crumbling rock face before reaching a “Y.” Take the left fork to reach the overlook.
Well below you are the emerald-green waters of Diablo Lake, along with the asphalt ribbon that is Highway 20. The peaks in the distance that resemble a lobster claw are the McMillan Spires.
To the west and north lie Pyramid Peak, Davis Peak and Sourdough Mountain.
After taking it all in, return to the fork and go left for about 100 yards for views of Sourdough Mountain, along with Jack and Ruby mountains.
The large viewpoint across the valley is the Diablo Lake Overlook.
Enjoy lunch on any number of benches, pack it up and head back to the rig.
Thunder Knob
Vince Richardson
The trail makes its way high above Diablo Lake.
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