North Cascades National Park Overview

Inspiration Glacier, North Cascades National Park (James Martin/Photodisc/Getty)

North Cascades National Park

Established: 1968
Acreage: 684,302
Average Yearly Visitors: 390,000
Location: Northern Washington, 150 miles northeast of Seattle

Contact Details
North Cascades National Park
Service Complex
810 State Route 20
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
Visitor Information: 360-854-7200

North Cascades National Park is renowned for its varied and rugged climbing terrain. The numerous peaks and over 300 glaciers present classic mixed mountaineering routes, intricate glacier travel, and technical rock climbing as well as scrambling—all within a premier wilderness setting.
A popular backpacking trail is the 40.4-mile Devil’s Dome Loop, which circumnavigates Jack Mountain. The trail is known for its wonderful wildflowers and much of it is high ridge walking above tree line.
Another popular backpacking trail is the 33.5-mile Copper Ridge-Chilliwack River Loop. This strenuous route features a rare ridge walk with expansive mountain views and one of the finest old growth forest hikes in the park.
Intrepid hikers, backpackers, and climbers visit all year, but April through October is peak season. The driest and most popular time to visit is during the summer—mid-June through September. Higher elevation trails often remain snow-covered well into July and sometimes August.
North Cascades Institute offers hands-on programs including youth adventures, family getaways, adult seminars, retreats, graduate studies, and volunteer stewardship opportunities.

By Travel Expert: Karen Kefauver

Featured Content