Best things to do in North Cascades National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Backcountry camping in Rainforest at North Cascade Mountains in
Image credit: aoldman / 123rf

Situated in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, North Cascades National Park is famous for its jagged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and old-growth forests. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles.

Visitors to North Cascades National Park can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. There are also a number of scenic driving routes through the park, providing stunning views of the mountains and lakes.

In addition to its natural beauty, North Cascades National Park is also home to a number of historic and cultural sites. These include the North Cascades Visitor Center, which offers exhibits on the park’s history and ecology, and the Ross Dam, which is the largest dam in the park.

1. North Cascades National Park

When someone visits North Cascades National Park, they are likely to feel awe at the stunning natural beauty of the park. The park is home to some of the most iconic mountains in the United States, including Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and Mount St. Helens. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and snowboarding in the park, as well as viewing wildlife such as bears, wolves, and elk.

2. Cascade Pass

A visitor's experience when they cascade pass in North Cascades is exhilarating. The views are breathtaking, and the pass is a great place to hike, bike, or ski.

3. Lake Chelan

A visitor's experience when they visit Lake Chelan in North Cascades will vary depending on their activity level. If the visitor is visiting Lake Chelan for recreational purposes, they will likely spend their time boating, fishing, and hiking. If the visitor is visiting Lake Chelan for educational purposes, they will likely spend their time visiting the various attractions located on the lake, such as the White River National Forest and Mount Chelan National Forest.

4. North Cascades Highway

The North Cascades Highway is a winding and scenic route that winds through the North Cascades National Park. It's a great way to get a taste of the area's natural beauty, and visitors will likely feel awe-inspired by the dramatic mountain ranges and crystal clear lakes that they pass along the way.

5. Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Ross Lake National Recreation Area is a beautiful place to visit with plenty of activities to do. The scenery is breathtaking and the staff is always willing to help.

6. Diablo Lake

A visitor's experience when they Diablo Lake in North Cascades is beautiful. The water is a deep blue and the mountains are towering in the background. There are a few boats that are floating on the lake and there are a few people fishing. The visitor could feel the fresh mountain air and the sun on their skin.

7. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

A visitor's experience when they Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in North Cascades is likely to be beautiful and peaceful. They would be able to see the many towering peaks and forests, as well as the many lakes and rivers. The forest is also home to many animals, such as bears and deer, which makes for an exciting and thrilling experience.

8. Granite Falls

A visitor would experience a dramatic view of the North Cascades mountain range from Granite Falls. The falls are a popular spot for hiking, and the visitor can walk to the falls or take a short hike to the top.

9. Concrete

A visitor's experience when they concrete in North Cascades can be described as exciting and challenging. The process of concreteing can be a physically demanding one, but it is also rewarding when completed successfully. The weather in the North Cascades can be unpredictable, which can make working outdoors difficult. However, the stunning views and rugged terrain make up for any challenges.

10. Marblemount

Visitors will enjoy hiking the trails and viewing the natural beauty of the area. Marblemount is a great place to spend a day if you are looking for a quiet and peaceful getaway.