Just under three hours from Seattle, North Cascades National Park is a rugged expanse of glacier-carved peaks, deep valleys, and pristine wilderness. Known for having more glaciers than any other U.S. park outside Alaska, it offers a diverse landscape of rain-soaked west slopes and drier east valleys. Whether you're hiking alpine trails, paddling glacial lakes, or exploring historic sites, this hidden gem is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

Recommended For

Backpackers & Hikers: Explore over 400 miles of trails through varied ecosystems and stunning alpine scenery.

Nature & Wildlife Lovers: Spot rare species like the marbled murrelet and wolverine in one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.

History Buffs: Discover over 260 prehistoric sites, historic hydroelectric powerhouses, and preserved mining towns.

What to Expect

  • Location: Northern Washington, along State Route 20
  • Established: 1968
  • Terrain: Glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and alpine lakes
  • Climate: Moist west side, drier east side, with dramatic elevation changes

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: Over 400 miles of trails, including day hikes and overnight backpacking
  • Camping: Drive-in, boat-in, and wilderness campsites available
  • Boating & Fishing: Paddle or fish on Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and Lake Chelan
  • Whitewater: Kayak or raft the Skagit and Stehekin Rivers
  • Horseback Riding: Horse-friendly trails around Lake Chelan
  • Bicycling & Wildlife Viewing: Roads and overlooks for relaxed exploration and wildlife spotting

Nature & Wildlife

  • Birds: Over 200 species, including marbled murrelets and spotted owls
  • Mammals: Columbia black-tailed deer, pikas, wolverines, and gray wolves
  • Biodiversity: One of the most ecologically diverse parks on the planet

Scenic & Historic Highlights

  • Stehekin Valley: Remote valley with Rainbow Falls, Harlequin Bridge, and Buckner Homestead
  • Glacial Lakes: Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, Lake Chelan, The Gorge
  • Historic Sites: 81 preserved structures and 20 cultural landscapes
  • Trade Routes: Ancient trails like Cascade Pass still used today

Cultural & Historical Background

  • Human History: Inhabited for over 9,500 years with over 260 prehistoric sites
  • Mining Era: Active between the 1850s–1950s along the Skagit River
  • Hydroelectric Projects: Ross, Diablo, and Gorge Dams still power Seattle

Programs & Learning

  • Ranger Programs: Evening talks, historic walking tours, and “Newhalem by Night” presentations
  • Ladder Creek Falls: Light show near Newhalem closes out ranger evenings
  • North Cascades Institute: Non-profit offering adult and youth educational programs
  • Environmental Learning Center: Includes classrooms, lodging, dining hall, and amphitheater

Touring Options

  • Skagit Tours: Boat cruises on Diablo Lake, historic walking tours, and powerhouse visits
  • Historic Newhalem Walking Tour: Hour-long stroll exploring the company town and dam legacy

Visitor Tips

  • Access: Stehekin Valley is accessible only by boat, foot, or plane
  • Best Time to Visit: Late summer and early fall for stable weather and wildflowers
  • Weather: Prepare for sudden changes, especially in alpine zones

Contact & Map

North Cascades National Park
810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
Phone: 360-854-7200
nps.gov/noca

Plan Your Trip