u/Omarthepanda

Hi Everyone!

I am planning a 3-4 day trip to North Cascades NP, staying in Marblemount. Two of us, intermediate hikers, looking for big views/scenery and some solitude if possible. Here's the plan so far:

• Day 1 (warm-up): Thunder Knob - Diablo Lake views
• Day 2: Cascade Pass , Sahale Arm (~8-12 mi, ~2,600-4,000 ft gain)...this has been on my bucket list for a while
• Day 3: Still deciding between Hidden Lake Lookout, Fourth of July Pass, or Maple Pass Loop (this last one is a longer drive from Marblemount, ~50 min each way)

I have some concerns from comments I have seen online

1. Our Airbnb host said Cascade River Road requires high clearance and a sedan will bottom out . On reddit/online forms I am seeing mixed reviews with some saying a Prius can make it but you just have to drive slow. Anyone have recent experience with this? My friend has his own car and we can trying to avoid renting a car.
2. For Day 3, which would you pick for a "day after Sahale" — something less strenuous (Fourth of July Pass) vs. going hard again (Hidden Lake) vs. the drive-heavy classic (Maple Pass)?
3. Anyone know current status of FR 1540 (Sibley Creek Rd) for Hidden Lake Lookout access? Heard there was a washout earlier in the year.
4. Late July. Our trip will be mid week... any tips on beating parking lot fill times or recent crowd levels?
5. Any lakes we can swim in that you recommend?

Appreciate any insights