Weekend for All – North Cascades

The Weekend for All – North Cascades, an event that has quickly garnered a special place in the hearts of its attendees, is a annual gathering that celebrates community, nature, and the beauty of the North Cascades. This second annual event, often simply referred to as Weekend for All, is a haven for individuals and families seeking a deeper connection with the natural world and with each other.

At its core, the Weekend for All is designed for people of color and diverse communities, providing a welcoming and inclusive space where participants can share in the joy and healing that nature offers. The event is particularly valued by those who appreciate the rarity of such gatherings, where meaningful conversations and bonding occur against the stunning backdrop of North Cascades National Park.

Scheduled for August 29-31, 2025, the Weekend for All unfolds over three days, each filled with a variety of engaging activities. From guided hikes and forest explorations to birding, art in nature, and canoe adventures on Diablo Lake, the event offers something for everyone. The daily schedule is rich with opportunities to explore the outdoors, with activities tailored to foster both personal growth and community bonding.

The venue for this idyllic retreat is the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center, a modern campus nestled on the shores of Diablo Lake in Newhalem, Washington. This picturesque setting, less than three hours from Seattle, boasts a lakeside dining hall, comfortable lodges, a cozy library, outdoor shelters, and trails that lead into the surrounding wildlands. To reach the Learning Center, attendees can follow the scenic North Cascade Highway, with the nearest airports being in Seattle or Bellingham for those traveling from further afield.

The allure of the Weekend for All lies in its unique blend of natural beauty and communal spirit. Participants get to immerse themselves in guided hikes, exploring the lush forests and alpine landscapes of the North Cascades. The tranquil waters of Diablo Lake offer a serene setting for canoe adventures, while the skies above are perfect for birding excursions. Art in nature sessions allow attendees to express their creativity inspired by the surroundings.

The event’s pricing, which includes lodging, meals, and activities, is deliberately kept affordable to ensure inclusivity. Double accommodations cost $85 per person, while triple or quad accommodations are available for $50 per person. This accessible pricing is part of the North Cascades Institute’s commitment to welcoming and inclusion.

Attending the Weekend for All is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and with oneself. It is a chance to be part of a community that values diversity and mutual support. The event’s focus on joy and healing creates a powerful atmosphere where every participant feels valued and enriched. As past attendees have attested, the Weekend for All is more than just an event; it is a transformative experience that stays with you long after you leave the shores of Diablo Lake.