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National Park & Nature

North Cascades National Park

📍 North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA (along the North Cascades Highway, SR 20)
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Quick Facts

Location
USA
Category
National Park & Nature
Duration
1-3 days
Address
North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA (along the North Cascades Highway, SR 20)
Coordinates
48.7700, -121.2000

Introduction

North Cascades National Park in northern Washington holds the densest glacier system in the lower 48 states — more than 300 glaciers, over half of all glaciers in the contiguous US and more than any other national park outside Alaska. Covering about 2,043 square kilometres, it packs jagged peaks, emerald alpine lakes and roaring waterfalls into some of the most remote, least-visited wilderness in the park system. Diablo Lake, glowing turquoise with glacial rock flour, is the signature postcard view; Ross Lake is the largest. Entry is free: the classic route is driving the North Cascades Highway (SR 20) and stopping at the Diablo Lake Overlook, or hiking toward Cascade Pass. Parts of SR 20 close under snow in winter and typically reopen late in spring.

✨ Highlights

1
300+ Glaciers
The most glacier-dense park in the lower 48 — over 300, about half the contiguous total.
2
Diablo Lake
Glacial rock flour turns the lake turquoise-green; the Overlook is the best shot.
3
SR 20 Highway
The North Cascades Highway threads lakes and peaks — a classic Pacific Northwest drive.
4
Ross Lake
The park's largest lake — boating, camping and jagged-peak reflections.
5
Cascade Pass Trail
A classic hike to an alpine pass facing glaciers and the Sahale Arm.
6
Roadless & Water-Only
Most of the park is trail-access only; Stehekin is reached by boat or floatplane from Chelan.

🛈 Practical Info

→Duration：1-3 days; a single day covers SR 20 and the Diablo Lake Overlook.
→Season：July-September brings full trail access and the best weather; winter snow closes most high routes.
→Combine：Pairs with Seattle and Olympic National Park, or Stehekin via the Chelan boat.
→Opening Hours：Open all day; visitor centers about 09:00-16:00
→Transportation：By car (about 2.5 hours from Seattle via SR 20)

Ticket Information

Ticket Information
AdultFree

Free entry; camping and some activities are charged separately

💡 Tips

• The Diablo Lake Overlook is the must-shoot stop; morning light gives the most vivid colour.
• Parts of SR 20 close under snow from November until late spring — check road status.
• Entry is free but campsites are scarce; book ahead on recreation.gov in peak season.
• Most of the park is roadless — Stehekin is reached only by boat or floatplane from Chelan.
• Bring windproof warm layers for high trails; mountain weather turns fast.
• A 5-7 day loop with Seattle and Olympic National Park works best.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of North Cascades National Park?

Open all day; visitor centers about 09:00-16:00

How much is the admission for North Cascades National Park?

Adult: Free; Free entry; camping and some activities are charged separately

Any practical tips for visiting North Cascades National Park?

The Diablo Lake Overlook is the must-shoot stop; morning light gives the most vivid colour. Parts of SR 20 close under snow from November until late spring — check road status.

How long should I spend at North Cascades National Park?

A typical visit takes 1-3 days.

Road status and camping follow the National Park Service notices (nps.gov/noca).