North Cascades National Park

Here are a few highlights of activities to enjoy in North Cascades National Park:

Hiking in the North Cascades

The North Cascades National Park Service Complex conserves some of the most spectacular mountain terrain in North America. Offering a range of trails from easily accessible paths to challenging mountain ascents, there’s a trail suitable for every visitor.

Throughout the year, hikers, backpackers, and climbers frequent the trails of the park complex. However, the primary hiking season typically spans from April to October. The peak visitor period, characterized by dry weather and optimal conditions, falls between mid-June and September.

Trails at higher elevations often retain snow cover well into July and occasionally even August. The period from November to March experiences the highest levels of precipitation and snowfall. Winters in the park are characterized by heavy rainfall and substantial snow accumulation. Access during these months may be restricted due to road closures or impassable routes, so it’s advisable to check current conditions before planning your visit.

Wilderness Trip Plan

In this untamed terrain, numerous backcountry routes and opportunities await exploration. The varied climate and geography give rise to distinct habitats on either side of the crest, nurturing a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Fed by more than 300 glaciers and numerous snowfields, cascading waterways abound in the region. Lakes are plentiful, dotting the landscape. Spanning nearly 400 miles (644 km), the extensive trail network primarily follows major drainages and traverses high mountain passes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in this vast and magnificent landscape.

Camping

Experience the magic of sleeping under the stars in North Cascades National Park. With several campgrounds scattered throughout the park, you can choose the perfect spot to pitch your tent and enjoy a night surrounded by nature’s symphony. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and the aroma of fresh pine, ready to embark on another day of adventure.

Boating

Gorge, Diablo, Ross Lakes, and Lake Chelan attract enthusiasts of kayaking, canoeing, and motorboating alike. Accessible ramps and launches are situated at Gorge Lake, Diablo Lake, the northern tip of Ross Lake at Hozomeen, and Lake Chelan. However, it’s worth noting that there isn’t a boat launch available at the southern end of Ross Lake, and accessing Ross Lake by car from State Route 20 is not feasible.

Horseback Riding

The park offers abundant opportunities for both day and overnight horseback riding and stock packing. The southeastern region of the park, particularly along Bridge Creek (Pacific Crest Trail), hosts some of the most favored riding trails. Additionally, the majority of trails within the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area are well-suited for riding.

Several prominent west-side stock trails also draw considerable interest, such as the East Bank Trail, the western stretch of Ross Lake and Big Beaver Trail, and the Thunder Creek Trail.

Wilderness Mountaineering

North Cascades National Park is renowned for its diverse and rugged climbing terrain, offering climbers routes characterized by both high quality and aesthetic appeal. However, accessing these routes entails navigating remote and rugged terrain, compounded by unpredictable weather conditions, resulting in mountaineering experiences marked by both mental and physical challenges.

With numerous peaks and over 300 glaciers, climbers encounter a wide array of obstacles and rewards. Approach routes often demand strenuous cross-country travel. The physical and mental demands can test climbers to their limits, with changes in weather posing additional challenges that may thwart summit attempts.

However, the moment when a climber finally reaches the summit in the North Cascades, gazing out over the jagged, glaciated mountain range that epitomizes the park’s natural beauty, the allure of these peaks becomes undeniably clear. It’s this breathtaking vista and the unparalleled sense of accomplishment that continues to draw climbers and wilderness enthusiasts back to these rugged landscapes time and again.

Biking

Explore North Cascades National Park along scenic biking trails. Whether you’re a leisure cyclist or a thrill-seeking mountain biker, the park offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, promising an unforgettable biking adventure amidst stunning natural beauty.

Bicycles are permitted on all roads open to public automobiles within the park. However, they are not allowed on trails designated for foot traffic. Cyclists should be prepared to encounter variable weather conditions and carry the necessary tools for making roadside repairs.

Fishing

The North Cascades National Park Service Complex offers numerous opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. The Skagit River, a significant watershed in Washington, hosts a diverse array of fish species, including five species of salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout, as well as freshwater trout and char.

Fishing is permitted within North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, as it contributes to public enjoyment and aligns with customary and traditional uses. Regulations are in place to manage fishing activities in a manner that minimizes negative impacts on park resources.