Hannegan Pass and Peak

Route Description for Hannegan Pass and Peak

From the get-go, Hannegan Pass Trail parallels Ruth Creek, with views of Mount Sefrit and the Nooksack Ridge to the south. It weaves in and out of forests, over mountain streams, and through open meadows. While this trail starts out relatively low from 945 m, it doubles in elevation over the course of 8.0 km. Most of that gain occurs after the first 1.6 km, so take your time easing into it.

At 4.8 km you’ll reach a stream (feeding into Ruth Creek below); we recommend looking back for a nice view of Granite Mountain overhead. In another 0.8 km, you’ll reach the Hannegan Camp junction. It’s worth wandering through for water and a wildflower show - at 1,433 m, the camp area has a lovely subalpine feel. Head left at the junction to continue up steeper slopes to Hannegan Pass at 6.4 km.

Views are limited at the pass, but it’s a nice place to take a break before continuing on up to Hannegan Peak. Turn left at the signed junction at 6.4 km to tackle the final 1.6 km to the summit.

You’ll quickly pop out of forest into open meadows, and your final destination - Hannegan Peak itself - comes into view. The views only get bigger (and the trail steeper) as you go. Due south, the snow-white Ruth Mountain dominates the view for much of the climb. Once you reach the top, 360-degree views of the Cascade Mountain are yours, with Ruth, Shuksan, and Mount Baker taking the cake. Return the way you came.

Would you like to see more hikes in Mount Baker? Check out the Yellow Aster Butte, Chain Lakes Loop, Skyline Divide Trail or Heliotrope Ridge.

Insider Hints for Hannegan Pass and Peak

• It can get downright toasty here on a warm day, and biting flies can be a nuisance. Bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray.
• Camping is available at the trailhead, at Hannegan Campground. You can also backpack into Hannegan Camp.