North Cascades National Park
Quick Take
North Cascades is the park that 99% of people drive right past. With just 16,000 annual visitors (compared to Yellowstone's 4.7 million), you'll have 500,000 acres of glaciers, alpine lakes, and jagged peaks practically to yourself. The catch: a short summer season and zero cell service. But if solitude is what you're after, nowhere else in the lower 48 comes close.
The Diablo Lake overlook on Highway 20 is the single most photogenic stop — arrive at golden hour for the turquoise water at its most electric blue-green. No hiking required.
When to Go
The sweet spot is August — good weather meets manageable crowds. Peak season hits in August.
Monthly crowd levels
Seasonal Closures
North Cascades Scenic Highway (Highway 20): Typically closed in winter due to heavy snow; exact closure varies
The Crowd Picture
Notable Trails
103 trails · 225 miles total · 20 easy, 50 moderate, 33 strenuous
Mount Shuksan (Nooksack Ridge)
Challenging peak hike with alpine views; scrambling required
Cascade Pass Trail
Historic pass with views of Glacier Peak and surrounding mountains
Diablo Lake Trail
Access to turquoise glacier lake; scenic views throughout
Ross Dam Trail
Short walk with views of Ross Lake and surrounding peaks
Rainy Lake Loop
Accessible paved trail around scenic alpine lake; wheelchair accessible
Heather Pass Trail
Alpine pass with wildflower meadows and mountain views
Camping
10 campgrounds with 364 total sites. About 10% are first-come, first-served.
Top Activities
225 miles of trails ranging from easy lake walks to challenging peak climbs
North Cascades Scenic Highway (WA 20) is one of America's most scenic drives
Mount Shuksan, Diablo Lake, glaciers, and alpine scenery provide exceptional photography
Extensive backcountry system with wilderness permits required
Excellent rock and alpine climbing; numerous climbing peaks
Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and other alpine lakes available for paddling
Mountain goats, marmots, elk, mule deer, and black bears
Good dark skies at high elevation; minimal light pollution
Excellent snowshoeing with 500 inches annual snow; park road accessible
Ranger talks, guided walks, and visitor center programs during open season
Select trails allow horses; stock camps available
Alpine lake and stream fishing; license required
Alpine and subalpine bird species; raptors and waterfowl
Winter access limited to unplowed roads; excellent backcountry ski terrain
Who It's For
Planning Your Trip
Getting There
Nearest city: Seattle, WA (104 mi). Fly into SEA.
Cost Estimate
~$97 for a 2-night camping trip ($0 entry + ~$60 camping + ~$37 gas).
In-Park Services
No gas in park · No lodging in park · Cell: limited
Gateway Town
Marblemount, WA — full amenities