Explore the Majestic Thunder Creek Trailhead
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Thunder Creek Trailhead, your gateway to unforgettable hiking adventures in the North Cascades.
Thunder Creek Trailhead is a breathtaking gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the North Cascades National Park. Known for its scenic hiking trails and picturesque landscapes, this location is perfect for both seasoned hikers and casual nature enthusiasts. With its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views, Thunder Creek offers an unforgettable outdoor experience that immerses visitors in the heart of Washington's wilderness.
A brief summary to Thunder Creek Trailhead
- Rockport, Washington, 98283, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, as the lot can fill up quickly during peak season.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Download trail maps in advance, as cell service may be limited in the area.
- Be mindful of wildlife and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by entering North Cascades National Park via the State Route 20 entrance. Once inside the park, follow SR 20 eastbound. After approximately 26 miles, you'll reach a junction with the turnoff for the Thunder Creek Trailhead. Look for signs for 'Thunder Creek' and turn left onto Diablo Lake Road. Continue for about 6 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area, which is located on your right. Make sure to check for any parking fees, which can vary depending on the season.
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Public Transportation
If you are relying on public transportation, your best option is to take a bus from Seattle to Marblemount, which is the nearest town to the Thunder Creek Trailhead. From Seattle, you can use Greyhound or other regional bus services. Once in Marblemount, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you the remaining distance (about 20 miles) to the Thunder Creek Trailhead. Be sure to check the local taxi services in advance as they may have limited availability. Note that this may incur additional costs beyond the bus fare.
Discover more about Thunder Creek Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sourdough Mountain Lookout
6.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Sourdough Mountain Lookout in North Cascades National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Old Number 6
11.4 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Old Number 6, a landmark that captures the essence of Rockport, Washington.
Backus-Marblemount Ranger Station House No. 1010
30.7 km
Discover the historical charm of Backus-Marblemount Ranger Station, your gateway to the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.
North Cascades
30.9 km
Explore the breathtaking North Cascades, where rugged mountain peaks meet stunning glacial lakes and diverse wildlife in Washington's outdoor paradise.
Shadow of the Sentinels Interpretive Site
45.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at the Shadow of the Sentinels Interpretive Site in Washington's North Cascades.
Artist’s Ridge
47.0 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas of Artist's Ridge, a serene hiking area nestled in the heart of Washington's natural beauty.
Picture Lake Viewpoint
47.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Baker at Picture Lake Viewpoint in Deming, Washington - a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Artist Point
47.5 km
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Chain Lakes Loop Trailhead
47.6 km
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Buckner Orchard
48.4 km
Experience the charm of Buckner Orchard in Stehekin, WA, where history meets nature in a breathtaking setting filled with seasonal fruits.
Goat Wall View
48.8 km
Discover Goat Wall View in Winthrop, Washington, a breathtaking wedding venue offering stunning mountain views and a serene atmosphere for your special day.
Goat Peak Lookout
50.9 km
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Mt Baker National Recreation Area
53.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse activities of Mt. Baker National Recreation Area, a paradise for hikers, campers, and nature lovers in Washington State.
Mount Baker Wilderness
54.1 km
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Park Butte Lookout
56.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Thunder Knob Trailhead
0.8 km
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Diablo Lake Vista Point
2.8 km
Discover the stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain views at Diablo Lake Vista Point, a scenic gem in Washington's North Cascades.
Stephen Mather Wilderness
3.6 km
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North Cascades Environmental Learning Center
4.1 km
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Diablo Lake Trailhead
4.3 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and hiking trails of Diablo Lake Trailhead in Washington's North Cascades, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Ross Dam Trailhead
5.2 km
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Sourdough Mountain Trailhead
5.3 km
Discover the stunning trails and breathtaking views at Sourdough Mountain Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in the North Cascades of Washington.
Ross Lake Overlook
6.1 km
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Sourdough Mountain
7.9 km
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Gorge Overlook Trail
8.7 km
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Gorge Dam Viewpoint
9.2 km
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Ladder Creek Falls
10.8 km
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Ross Lake National Recreation Area
11.3 km
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Trail of the Cedars
11.4 km
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North Cascades Visitor Center
12.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Mondo Restaurant
30.6 km
Discover Mondo Restaurant in Marblemount for an unforgettable American dining experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
Upriver Grill & Taproom
30.6 km
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Mt. Baker Ski Area - Raven Hut Mid Mountain Day Lodge
45.8 km
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Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Sports Bar
64.8 km
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North Fork Brewery
80.8 km
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The Fork At Agate Bay
92.9 km
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Taco Del Mar
95.1 km
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
95.3 km
Experience the warmth of Italy at Olive Garden in Burlington - perfect for family meals or romantic dinners with gluten-free options.
The Bistro at Shuksan
98.1 km
Experience authentic Cajun and Southern cuisine at The Bistro at Shuksan in Bellingham – where flavor meets hospitality.
Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill
98.5 km
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The Oyster Bar
99.0 km
Discover exquisite seafood and stunning bay views at The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive—where culinary excellence meets natural beauty.
El Rinconcito Mexican Restaurant
99.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Rinconcito in Bellingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Scotty Browns Barkley Village
99.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chevron
30.6 km
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Mt. Baker Ski Area
46.2 km
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Heather Meadows Cafe
47.3 km
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Heather Meadows Visitor Center
47.4 km
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Table Mountain
48.7 km
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The Garden
50.6 km
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5b's Bakery & Eatery
51.2 km
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Shell
51.8 km
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North Cascades Perks
52.8 km
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Outdoor Ventures
52.8 km
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Mt Baker
53.9 km
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Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
54.2 km
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Heliotrope Ridge Trailhead
60.3 km
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Brew with a View
60.8 km
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Baker Haus Cottage
66.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorge Inn
11.4 km
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North Cascades Inn
30.5 km
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Karina's Deja Brew
30.5 km
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Glacier Peak Resort, RV Park & Winery
33.8 km
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Rockport Bar & Grill
43.3 km
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The Mountaineers Baker Lodge
47.5 km
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The Lonestar
50.7 km
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Hub Bar & Grill
50.7 km
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Mazama Public House, An OSB Place
51.6 km
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Cascade Burgers
51.8 km
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Annie's Pizza Station
52.8 km
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Birdsview Diner
60.0 km
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Red Top Tavern
61.2 km
Discover the charm of Red Top Tavern in Darrington, where delicious burgers and a friendly atmosphere await you.
River Time Brewing
61.3 km
Experience the essence of Darrington at River Time Brewing, where handcrafted beers and delicious meals come together in a welcoming atmosphere.
Blue T Lodge
64.8 km
Experience tranquility and nature's beauty at Blue T Lodge, a charming retreat in Glacier, Washington, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
