Don't Waste Your Time in the North Cascades: An Opinionated Hiking Guide to Help You Get the Most from This Magnificent Wilderness

I believe this book has become the definitive North Cascade hiking guide-none of the others published thus far compares. The information is accurate, the writing enjoyable, and the recommendations are fantastic. I think I've hiked almost all of the `highly recommended' (category 3 & 4) trails in the book, and certainly numerous trails that received lower recommendations or that aren't in the book. I've found the authors' advice to be right on-I've never been disappointed with an itinerary they suggested. Moreover, I have been pleasantly surprised by some of the more `obscure' recommendations, like Twisp Pass, Grasshopper Pass, or Pilot Ridge. Of course I have numerous minor qualms with the ratings of some trails, or with recommended loop directions (White Pass/Pilot Ridge loop should be hiked clockwise for example), but that's to be expected in any ratings process. This is especially true if one considers how the seasons and weather influence any Cascade hiking experience. Yes, the ratings in the book are subjective, but those reviewers that complain about this are missing the point of the book. You are by no means `forbidden' from hiking on trails that receive a low recommendation, you're simply advised to choose others first. There must be around 1000 miles of highly recommended trails in here, and anyone that actually completes even half of them will have enough Cascade hiking experience to judge for themselves where to explore further. I found this book so helpful, that I purchased the authors' 3 other books (Canadian Rockies, Kootenays, BC Coast). I've only had the opportunity to put the BC Coast book to the test, and it's good. I'm disappointed that the authors haven't produced a book for the American Rockies, from Montana to Colorado...what's the hold up! If I drive 9 hours from Seattle to hike in the Rockies, I don't want to pick a bummer trail :)So I guess that's my last point. This is DEFINITELY the sort of book you want to buy if you're traveling from far away to hike in the Cascades or spending the summer in Seattle. Too many people travel to the Northwest and only visit Mt. Pilchuck, Mt. Si, Snow Lake, or the paved trails at Mt. Rainier. There's a lot more out there!

Living in the shadow of Mt. Baker, I am blessed with the opportunity of hiking the North Cascades all summer long. As a result, I've hiked many of the trails in this book, from "Premier" to "Don't Do." In my opinion, the Copeland's advice is right on track. Another reviewer said something to the effect of "if you read their book you'll miss a lot of opportunities." True, but no guide can cover every trail, and of the 104 trails featured, only 15 are classified as "Don't Do." If you're not familiar with the region this book can help you discover the real gems, which is worth the cost of the book if you only have a short time to spend in our little slice of heaven.

I decided to go with this book based on the excellent reviews and I have to say, I agree with all of them. The hikes I've done out of this book have been fantastic. The authors basically let you know how much "bang for your buck" you get on each hike, and they are right on. During the top rated hikes you get to amazing and varied scenery very quickly. Color photos would be nice, but you can't have everthing.. :)

At first I was skeptical, mostly because of the title, but I bought this book anyway. Wow. This is one of the best hiking guides I have ever read. The descriptions are clear, the directions easy to follow, and everything in the book matched the hike! I like the honest writing and the rating system, these make it easier to pick out hikes that fit my mood and overall shape of fitness, or lack of fitness in my case. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to explore the American Alps and get a great experience out of it.

In addition to the glowing comments already posted (all of which are true), I would like to add that the book includes many trails in the Glacier Peak Wilderness region of Washington. It does not simply cover North Cascades National Park.