The North Cascades Visitor Center is open daily from May to October, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed from October 30 to May.
There is no entrance fee to enter North Cascades National Park. Enjoy your visit
By Car: Accessible via scenic North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) from Sedro-Woolley (west) or Methow Valley (east). Airports: Nearest airports Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) or Vancouver (YVR); rental cars/shuttle available. Guided Tours: Available, offering transportation, meals, and expert guides.
At North Cascades National Park, parking is free at trailheads and most areas. No overnight parking at trailheads, but allowed at designated campgrounds. No size restrictions for RVs or motorcycles mentioned. No parking fees for trailhead parking.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
North Cascades National Park in Washington State, named Lake.com’s “#1 Most Underrated National Park” for 2024, features stunning alpine scenery with jagged peaks, emerald lakes, and lush forests. Iconic spots include Diablo Lake with its glacial blue waters, Ross Lake ideal for canoeing, and popular trails like Cascade Pass and Thunder Knob Trail offering breathtaking mountain views. Nearby vacation rentals range from cozy cabins to spacious homes with amenities like hot tubs and private decks, enhancing visitors’ experiences in this pristine wilderness destination.
- Area (mi²)
- 789
- Annual visitors
- 40 351
- Established year
- 1968
Top 3 Facts about North Cascades National Park
The park contains over 260 prehistoric sites, some dating back more than 8,500 years, highlighting the significant archaeological importance of the area.
Home to over 1,600 plant species, making it one of North America’s most diverse ecosystems.
Offers over 400 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research trails, campsites, road conditions, weather forecasts, and reserve accommodations in advance, especially during peak summer.
Pack Appropriately
Pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid kit, map/GPS, flashlight/headlamp, layers of clothing for temperature variations, and bear spray.
Respect Wildlife
Use bear-safe practices: store food properly in bear-proof containers, make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife, carry bear spray.
Stay Informed
Drive cautiously on North Cascades Highway; prepare for changing mountain weather conditions and wildlife on roads. Regularly check weather and park alerts.
Seasons
Vibrant blooming wildflowers, trails become accessible as snow melts; ideal for hiking (Cascade Pass), wildlife viewing as animals emerge from hibernation.
Peak visitation, warm weather, extensive daylight; optimal for hiking, backpacking, boating, fishing, kayaking. North Cascades Highway fully open, allowing scenic drives and high-elevation views.
Spectacular autumn foliage colors, quieter trails, ideal for hiking and photography; cooler temperatures, scenic beauty enhanced by dramatic fall landscapes.
Serene winter landscapes, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities in Methow Valley and North Cascades Highway corridor; wildlife viewing, outstanding winter photography opportunities. Many roads and facilities closed, requiring careful planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what North Cascades National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the area, you can stay in nearby towns such as Sedro-Woolley, Marblemount, or Rockport, which offer various lodging options close to the park. These towns provide easy access to the park’s entrances and attractions.
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The Rainy Lake Trail is a great option for kids, as it is a short, 2-mile roundtrip hike with only 70 feet of elevation gain and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. The trail is paved and features small streams and waterfalls, leading to a beautiful lake at the end. This hike is easy and peaceful, making it ideal for families.
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Dogs are only allowed on the Pacific Crest Trail, paved areas, and within 50 feet of roads. However, they are permitted on leashes in the surrounding Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas and national forest lands. Service animals are also allowed.
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Parking is free for trails and areas within the national park, but a Northwest Forest Pass or Recreation Day Pass may be required for trailheads on adjacent U.S. Forest Service land. There are no fees for parking at overlooks or scenic drives.
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To make the most of 24 hours, hike the Cascade Pass trail, a 7-mile moderate hike with stunning views. Visit the Washington Pass Overlook for a quick and easy 0.25-mile round-trip to see breathtaking vistas. Also, consider the short hikes to Gorge Creek Falls and Ladder Creek Falls for additional scenic stops.