North Cascades National Park

Overview

I learned about North Cascades National Park quickly after arriving in Washington. When I started rafting, I found myself working on the Skagit river. This beautiful river runs through the North Cascades National Park. I spent my days off exploring this area and quickly fell in love. I have since been back countless times, and try my best to camp in this area a few times a year. In this blog I will talk about a few of my favorite outdoor activities in the North Cascades National Park.

Sightseeing in the North Cascades

This is one of my favorite areas in Washington. Often I will simply go for a long drive and enjoy the various sights. You’ll see jagged peaks with glaciers, one of the mossiest forests in the state, and crystal clear rivers and lakes. Below are a few of the spots that I like to spend time relaxing and sightseeing at.

1. Rainbow Falls – You won’t miss this 312-foot waterfall if you drive up the highway past the Skagit River dam. It is on the left side of the road if you’re driving north, and there is a large pullout on the right side of the road around 100 yards from the waterfall. I love pulling over here and walking along the trail to view the falls.
2. Diablo Lake – This is one of the most iconic sights that you can visit while in the North Cascades National Park. The accessibility to get down to the shore of Diablo Lake makes it a great spot to bring the whole family for a day trip or a mid-day picnic. For more detailed information on Diablo Lake, check out my blog on it here.

The winter eagle migration – This is a yearly event that unfolds in the North Cascades National Park. Hundreds of eagles congregate in Washington state during the winter. They flock down here from Alaska and spend a few months in the North Cascades National Park. One of the main spots to see them is on the Skagit River.

Hiking

North Cascades National Park is filled with hiking trails. You can hike to an alpine lake, along a river, or through dense forest. There truly are opions for all skill levels as well. Below are a few highlights.

Beginner Trails in the North Cascades

• Thunder Knob Trail: A 3.6-mile round trip with moderate elevation gain offering stunning views of Diablo Lake.
• Rainy Lake Trail: An easy 2.0-mile loop trail featuring beautiful wildflowers and views of Rainy Lake.
• Diablo Lake Trail: A 3.8-mile out-and-back trail with minimal elevation gain showcasing panoramic views of Diablo Lake.
• Cascade Pass Trail: A 3.7-mile round trip with moderate elevation gain leading to a scenic mountain pass.
• Blue Lake Trail: A 4.4-mile round trip featuring vibrant wildflowers and a picturesque alpine lake.

Intermediate Trails in the North Cascades

• Maple Pass Loop Trail: A 7.2-mile loop offering breathtaking views of alpine meadows, mountains, and lakes.
• Hidden Lake Lookout Trail: A 7.2-mile round trip with steep elevation gain leading to a historic fire lookout and stunning vistas.
• Sourdough Mountain Trail: A 9.2-mile round trip with challenging elevation gain, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Cutthroat Pass Trail: An 11.0-mile round trip featuring wildflowers, alpine scenery, and views of the North Cascades.

Thornton Lakes Trail: A 9.2-mile round trip offering panoramic views of Thornton Lakes and surrounding peaks.

Hard Trails in the North Cascades

• Sahale Arm Trail: A strenuous 12.0-mile round trip with significant elevation gain leading to awe-inspiring views of Sahale Glacier and surrounding peaks.
• Ptarmigan Traverse: A challenging 32.0-mile point-to-point trek traversing glaciers, high alpine passes, and rugged terrain.
• Copper Ridge Loop Trail: A demanding 34.0-mile loop featuring panoramic views of the North Cascades and challenging elevation gain.
• North Cascades Highway Trail: A difficult 43.0-mile point-to-point trail following the scenic North Cascades Highway with challenging terrain and elevation gain.
• Mount Shuksan Trail: A strenuous 9.6-mile round trip with steep elevation gain leading to the iconic summit of Mount Shuksan.

Backpacking Trials:

• Cascade Pass to Stehekin: A multi-day backpacking trip covering approximately 60 miles through diverse landscapes from Cascade Pass to the remote town of Stehekin.
• Ross Lake National Recreation Area: Explore the remote backcountry along Ross Lake with numerous backpacking opportunities and stunning views.
• Copper Ridge to Chilliwack River: A challenging backpacking route covering approximately 33 miles through rugged terrain and offering solitude and scenic beauty.
• North Fork Nooksack River Trail: A backpacking adventure along the wild and scenic North Fork Nooksack River with opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and solitude.

Rivers

Whitewater rafting on the Skagit river was my first reason for visiting North Cascades National Park. The class 2 and 3 rafting sections are within the park limits and is one of the most beautiful rivers I have ever seen. Only a few companies run rafting trips on this Washington river making rare for you to see large groups of people during your run. This river does have a few larger rapids and the water is very cold. Because of this, be cautious when you are planning your river trip. This is not a river where you can pick up a small tube from the store and float down. You will need whitewater experience to raft or kayak this river.

If you are interested in running the class 3 section these are all of the main things you will need to know. For another detailed river description, check out the Skagit River on American Whitewater. The put in for this section is at Goodell Campgrounds and take out at Copper Creek Take-Out. The easiest way to find the take out is to drive north on highway 2 until you reach the North Cascades National Park sign on the right (east) side of the road. Pull off there, and make a U turn. Slowly head back south for about 200 yards or so and take the first turn on what is now the left hand side (the east). This turn sneaks up on you and if you don’t know where it is this will be the easiest way to find it.

Skagit River Description

This is considered a class 2/3 river. There are a couple of class 2 rapids in the beginning. It is all very easy read and run water. After that, you will wind down the river on class 1/2 water. This part of the river is beautiful and will take you through some of the most beautiful sections of Washington state that there are. Eventually you are going to come to the only major rapids on this run. These 3 rapids are often grouped into one name, The S Bends.

The first section of this rapid is wavy and low consequence. Just head down the middle of the main water channel and T up to all of the large waves. The river bends to the right immediately after this, and leads into the second part of this rapid. Again this is just another big wave train. Stay in the middle of the current and you will be fine. There is then a large pour over on the middle left of the river. You can boof or easily go around depending on flow. From this point on there are one or two more class 2 rapids and then you will come to the takeout. The takeout here can sneak up on you sometimes so make sure to check it out before your trip.

Lakes

Diablo Lake

Nestled within the rugged beauty of North Cascades National Park, Diablo Lake captivates visitors with its mesmerizing turquoise waters and dramatic mountain vistas. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, Diablo Lake offers a range of outdoor activities for adventurers of all levels. Kayaking and canoeing are popular here, allowing visitors to paddle through the serene waters while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in search of trout and salmon, while photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes.

For hikers, Diablo Lake serves as a gateway to several scenic trails in the area. The Diablo Lake Trail offers a moderate 7.6-mile round trip hike with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Nearby, the Thunder Knob Trail provides a shorter, family-friendly option with sweeping vistas of Diablo Lake and the Skagit River Valley. For more experienced hikers, the challenging Hidden Lake Lookout Trail rewards adventurers with unparalleled views from an historic fire lookout perched atop a rugged peak.

Camping options abound near Diablo Lake, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Colonial Creek Campground offers convenient access to the lake and nearby hiking trails, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. For those seeking a more secluded camping experience, backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas along the lake shore, providing a unique opportunity to sleep under the stars in this pristine wilderness.

Ross Lake:

Ross Lake beckons adventurers with its remote wilderness and pristine beauty, offering a tranquil escape amidst the rugged landscapes of North Cascades National Park. Stretching over 20 miles along the Skagit River, Ross Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities to suit every interest. Boating and kayaking are popular here, allowing visitors to explore the crystal-clear waters while surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests. Fishing is also a favorite pastime, with abundant opportunities to reel in trout, salmon, and other native species.

Hiking trails abound near Ross Lake, offering opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness and soak in the breathtaking scenery. The Ross Lake Overlook Trail provides sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains, while the Desolation Peak Trail offers a challenging trek to an historic fire lookout with panoramic vistas of the North Cascades. For backpackers, the East Bank Trail offers a multi-day adventure along the shores of Ross Lake, with opportunities for backcountry camping in designated areas along the way.

Camping options near Ross Lake range from developed campgrounds to remote backcountry sites, allowing visitors to choose their own adventure. Colonial Creek Campground offers convenient access to the lake and nearby hiking trails, with amenities including picnic areas, restrooms, and potable water. For those seeking a more secluded experience, backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas along the lake shore, providing a true wilderness experience beneath the starry night sky.

Monogram Lake

Tucked away in the heart of the North Cascades is Monogram Lake. This is a hidden gem known for its pristine alpine beauty and secluded wilderness setting. Surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows, Monogram Lake offers a peaceful retreat. The lake is accessible via a scenic trail that winds through old-growth forests and high alpine terrain. This offers some of the best views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking is the main attraction at Monogram Lake, with the Monogram Lake Trail providing a moderate 7.6-mile round trip hike to the lake and back. Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, mountain goats, and black bears. For more adventurous hikers, the nearby Sauk Mountain Trail offers a challenging trek to a panoramic summit with sweeping views of the North Cascades.

While camping is not permitted directly at Monogram Lake, there are nearby options. Colonial Creek Campground is located just a short drive away. It offers convenient access to the Monogram Lake Trail and other nearby hiking trails. There are also amenities here including picnic areas, restrooms, and potable water. For those seeking a more remote camping experience, backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas within North Cascades National Park. This allows visitors to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness surrounding Monogram Lake.

Mountains in the North Cascades National Park

The peaks of North Cascades National Park are a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of nature. Each towering summit tells a story of geological forces at work over millions of years, shaping the rugged landscape we see today. From jagged spires to snow-capped giants, the peaks of the North Cascades command attention and awe from all who behold them.

Mount Shuksan

Mount Shuksan stands as one of the most iconic peaks in North Cascades National Park. Its distinct pyramid shape gracing postcards and calendars around the world. At an elevation of 9,131 feet, Mount Shuksan offers challenging climbing routes for experienced mountaineers. There are also scenic hiking trails for those seeking a more accessible adventure. The view from the summit is spectacular, with vistas of glaciers, alpine meadows, and peaks stretching as far as the eye can see.

Mount Baker

Another standout among the peaks of North Cascades National Park is Mount Baker, a massive stratovolcano that dominates the skyline with its towering presence. At 10,781 feet, Mount Baker is the third-highest peak in Washington state and offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking trails wind through old-growth forests and alpine meadows, leading to panoramic viewpoints of the surrounding landscape. In the winter months, Mount Baker transforms into a winter wonderland, with world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities drawing enthusiasts from near and far.

The peaks of North Cascades National Park offer a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Washington’s mountains offer adventure, from the Picket Range’s sharp peaks to the glaciers of Shuksan and Rainier. Hikers of all levels can find adventure in North Cascades National Park, from day trips to challenging climbs.

Overall, the peaks of North Cascades National Park are a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re drawn to the towering spires of Mount Shuksan, the glaciated slopes of Mount Baker, or the rugged beauty of the Picket Range, the peaks of the North Cascades are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who explore them.

Conclusion

With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and array of outdoor activities, the North Cascades National Park is heaven on earth. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, hiking trails, or seeking solitude in the backcountry, the North Cascades provides endless opportunities. So pack your gear, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and discover the unparalleled beauty of this natural gem.