National Park · Washington
North Cascades National Park
Less than three hours from Seattle, an alpine landscape beckons. Discover communities of life adapted to moisture in the west and recurring fire in the east. Explore jagged peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers. Listen to cascading waters in forested valleys. Witness a landscape sensitive to the Earth's changing climate. Help steward the ecological heart of the Cascades.
Things to do
- Auto and ATV
- Scenic Driving
- Biking
- Road Biking
- Boating
- Motorized Boating
- Boat Tour
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Car or Front Country Camping
- Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
- Group Camping
- RV Camping
- Climbing
- Rock Climbing
- Fishing
- Guided Tours
- Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour
- Hands-On
- Citizen Science
- Hiking
- Front-Country Hiking
- Horse Trekking
Weather & when to go
The best weather for visiting the North Cascades generally occurs between mid-June and late-September. Summer daytime temperatures average in the 70's F. Snow is off most trails by mid-July. Autumn and Spring are popular for color and wildlife. Storms are common: always be prepared for a few days of rain and wind. The east side of the Cascade Mountains (Lake Chelan National Recreation Area) is drier and warmer in the summer than the west side. Summer temperatures at Stehekin reach the 90's F.
Operating hours
North Cascades National Park Service Complex
North Cascades National Park Service Complex is open year-round. The park operational season is late May-late September, with limited services outside the operational season. The North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem is open during the operational season, dates may vary annually.
Campgrounds
Newhalem Creek Campground
Goodell Creek Campground
Lower Goodell Group Campground
Gorge Lake Campground
Colonial Creek North Campground
Colonial Creek South Campground
Lakeview Campground
Purple Point Campground
Harlequin Campground
Hozomeen Campground
FAQ
- Is North Cascades National Park free to visit?
- North Cascades National Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at North Cascades National Park?
- North Cascades National Park Service Complex is open year-round. The park operational season is late May-late September, with limited services outside the operational season. The North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem is open during the operational season, dates may vary annually.
- Do I need a reservation for North Cascades National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter North Cascades National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
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