Copper Ridge Loop
~2 days · 23.2 mi · hard · Loop
Quick facts
What the Copper Ridge Loop is known for
The Copper Ridge Loop is a rugged high-country backpacking loop in the North Cascades of Washington, largely within North Cascades National Park. It climbs to the historic Copper Ridge Lookout, a fire lookout with broad views toward Mount Shuksan and the surrounding glaciated peaks, then descends to the Chilliwack River before circling back. The route combines exposed ridge walking with deep forest valley travel. It is known as one of the more scenic and demanding backpacking loops in the North Cascades.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 2,287 ft to 6,191 ft over 23.2 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 9.4 mi · 41%
- Downhill 7.3 mi · 32%
- Flat 6.2 mi · 27%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Copper Ridge Loop?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Copper Ridge Loop scores 33/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Mid-summer to early fall (roughly late July through September) is best, after ridge snow melts out and before autumn storms; the high ridge can hold snow into summer.
Permits: A backcountry permit is required for overnight trips in North Cascades National Park, and the popular Copper Ridge camps are limited and can fill, so secure a permit in advance.
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Copper Ridge Loop take?
Most backpackers hike the Copper Ridge Loop in about 2 days (1 nights out) over its 23.2 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Copper Ridge Loop?
The Copper Ridge Loop climbs roughly 7,054 ft total — about 304 ft per mile, topping out near 6,191 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Copper Ridge Loop?
Mid-summer to early fall (roughly late July through September) is best, after ridge snow melts out and before autumn storms; the high ridge can hold snow into summer.
Do you need a permit for the Copper Ridge Loop?
A backcountry permit is required for overnight trips in North Cascades National Park, and the popular Copper Ridge camps are limited and can fill, so secure a permit in advance.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.