Explore the Untamed Beauty of Stephen Mather Wilderness
Discover the enchanting landscapes and diverse wildlife of Stephen Mather Wilderness, a pristine nature preserve in the heart of Washington State.
Nestled in the heart of Washington State, the Stephen Mather Wilderness is a breathtaking nature preserve that offers tourists a chance to escape into pristine landscapes of towering trees, rugged mountains, and serene lakes. Perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure for nature enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
A brief summary to Stephen Mather Wilderness
- Rockport, Washington, 98283, US
- 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
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the wilderness.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider using a map or GPS, as cell service can be unreliable in remote areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start your journey from the nearest major city, which is Seattle. Take Interstate 5 North towards Everett. Then, merge onto Highway 2 East. Continue on Highway 2 until you reach the town of Rockport. From Rockport, follow signs for the North Cascades National Park. The Stephen Mather Wilderness is located near Rockport, WA 98283. You may need a Northwest Forest Pass to park at trailheads within the wilderness area, which can be purchased online or at local ranger stations.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, start by taking an Amtrak train or Greyhound bus to the nearest station in Seattle. From Seattle, transfer to a bus service like Skagit Transit, which operates routes to the towns near the North Cascades. You will need to check the current schedule as services may vary. Once you arrive in Rockport, you may need to arrange a taxi or rideshare service to reach the Stephen Mather Wilderness trailheads, as public transport does not directly service these areas.
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Hiking
Once you reach Rockport, you can access various trailheads leading into Stephen Mather Wilderness. Popular trails include the Cascade Pass Trail and the Hidden Lake Trail. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry enough supplies for your journey. If you are unfamiliar with the area, consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided group tour for safety and to enhance your experience.
Discover more about Stephen Mather Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sourdough Mountain Lookout
6.3 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
8.0 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
28.1 km
Discover the historical charm of Backus-Marblemount Ranger Station, your gateway to the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.
North Cascades
28.9 km
Explore the breathtaking North Cascades, where rugged mountain peaks meet stunning glacial lakes and diverse wildlife in Washington's outdoor paradise.
Artist’s Ridge
43.5 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
43.9 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
44.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Artist Point in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, a top hiking area with stunning vistas and vibrant wildflowers.
Chain Lakes Loop Trailhead
44.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Chain Lakes Loop Trailhead, a must-visit hiking destination in Mount Baker, Washington.
Mt Baker National Recreation Area
50.1 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
50.5 km
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Buckner Orchard
51.1 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
52.4 km
Discover Goat Wall View in Winthrop, Washington, a breathtaking wedding venue offering stunning mountain views and a serene atmosphere for your special day.
Park Butte Lookout
52.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and adventure at Park Butte Lookout, a historic fire lookout in the stunning Mt. Baker Wilderness of Washington.
Goat Peak Lookout
54.5 km
Explore Goat Peak Lookout, a historical landmark in Washington offering breathtaking views and a rewarding hiking experience amidst stunning nature.
Mt Baker National Forest
57.0 km
Experience the stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and endless adventures of Mt Baker National Forest, a hidden gem in Washington's wilderness.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thunder Knob Trailhead
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Thunder Knob Trailhead in Rockport, WA – a hiker's paradise with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Sourdough Mountain Trailhead
3.1 km
Discover the stunning trails and breathtaking views at Sourdough Mountain Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in the North Cascades of Washington.
North Cascades Environmental Learning Center
3.5 km
Explore the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center - a place of education and adventure in Washington's stunning natural landscapes.
Thunder Creek Trailhead
3.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Thunder Creek Trailhead in Washington State, a premier hiking destination surrounded by stunning wilderness and vibrant ecosystems.
Diablo Lake Trailhead
3.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and hiking trails of Diablo Lake Trailhead in Washington's North Cascades, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Diablo Lake Vista Point
3.9 km
Discover the stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain views at Diablo Lake Vista Point, a scenic gem in Washington's North Cascades.
Gorge Overlook Trail
5.1 km
Explore the stunning Gorge Overlook Trail in Rockport, WA, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers with breathtaking views and lush landscapes.
Gorge Dam Viewpoint
5.6 km
Discover stunning vistas at the Gorge Dam Viewpoint in Newhalem, WA, where nature and engineering marvels collide. A must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sourdough Mountain
6.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sourdough Mountain, a hiker's paradise in Washington, offering stunning vistas and serene trails in the great outdoors.
Ross Dam Trailhead
7.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse hiking trails at Ross Dam Trailhead in the stunning North Cascades, a paradise for nature lovers.
Ladder Creek Falls
7.4 km
Explore Ladder Creek Falls: A hidden gem in Washington's natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Trail of the Cedars
8.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Trail of the Cedars in Rockport, WA, a stunning hiking area perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
Ross Lake Overlook
8.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas and tranquil beauty of Ross Lake Overlook in Washington, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
North Cascades Visitor Center
9.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of North Cascades National Park at the North Cascades Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure and nature's wonders.
Sterling Munro Trail
9.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Sterling Munro Trail in Marblemount, Washington, where stunning views and tranquility await every outdoor enthusiast.
Essential places to dine
Mondo Restaurant
28.1 km
Discover Mondo Restaurant in Marblemount for an unforgettable American dining experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
Upriver Grill & Taproom
28.2 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Upriver Grill & Taproom in Marblemount, WA – where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Mt. Baker Ski Area - Raven Hut Mid Mountain Day Lodge
42.4 km
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Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Sports Bar
61.3 km
Experience delightful pizza and a vibrant bar atmosphere at Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Sports Bar in Glacier, WA—perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures.
North Fork Brewery
77.3 km
Experience the best of Washington's craft beer scene at North Fork Brewery - where artisanal brews meet delicious wood-fired pizzas.
The Fork At Agate Bay
89.3 km
Discover exceptional cuisine at The Fork At Agate Bay, where fine dining meets coastal charm in Bellingham.
Taco Del Mar
91.8 km
Experience the vibrant taste of Mexico at Taco Del Mar in Burlington – where fresh ingredients meet authentic flavors in every bite.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
92.0 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
94.5 km
Experience authentic Cajun and Southern cuisine at The Bistro at Shuksan in Bellingham – where flavor meets hospitality.
Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill
95.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking views at Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill on Washington's scenic Chuckanut Drive.
The Oyster Bar
95.5 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
95.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Rinconcito in Bellingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Scotty Browns Barkley Village
96.1 km
Discover Scotty Browns Barkley Village: A premier American restaurant offering delicious cuisine and vibrant sports bar experiences in Bellingham.
Subway
96.8 km
Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Bellingham - your go-to spot for customizable sandwiches and salads during your travels.
Burnt Side Down
97.1 km
Discover Burnt Side Down in Bellingham – where fresh local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chevron
28.1 km
Discover Chevron in Marblemount, your essential stop for fuel, convenience, and local tips before exploring the North Cascades National Park.
Heather Meadows Cafe
43.8 km
Discover Heather Meadows Cafe, where delicious American cuisine meets breathtaking mountain views in the heart of Mount Baker.
Heather Meadows Visitor Center
43.9 km
Experience the beauty of Mount Baker at Heather Meadows Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure and exploration in Washington's stunning wilderness.
Table Mountain
45.2 km
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5b's Bakery & Eatery
48.0 km
Experience the charm of 5b's Bakery & Eatery in Concrete, WA, with its mouthwatering pastries, breakfast delights, and gluten-free options in a cozy setting.
Shell
48.6 km
Discover convenience and comfort at the Shell Gas Station in Concrete, WA, your essential stop for fuel, food, and travel necessities.
North Cascades Perks
49.6 km
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Outdoor Ventures
49.6 km
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Mt Baker
50.3 km
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The Garden
53.2 km
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Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
54.5 km
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Heliotrope Ridge Trailhead
56.7 km
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Brew with a View
59.2 km
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Baker Haus Cottage
62.9 km
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Glacier Ski Shop
63.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorge Inn
8.0 km
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North Cascades Inn
28.0 km
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Karina's Deja Brew
28.1 km
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Glacier Peak Resort, RV Park & Winery
31.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Glacier Peak Resort, RV Park & Winery, where nature meets fine wine in the heart of Washington.
Rockport Bar & Grill
40.6 km
Discover Rockport Bar & Grill: A delightful dining experience featuring fresh seafood and local craft beers surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
The Mountaineers Baker Lodge
44.0 km
Experience the beauty of the North Cascades at The Mountaineers Baker Lodge, your perfect base for outdoor adventures and community connection.
The Lonestar
47.5 km
Discover The Lonestar in Concrete, WA - the perfect grill and breakfast restaurant for delicious meals in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Hub Bar & Grill
47.6 km
Discover the flavors of Concrete, WA at Hub Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Cascade Burgers
48.6 km
Discover Cascade Burgers in Concrete, WA - where delicious burgers meet breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality.
Annie's Pizza Station
49.7 km
Discover the authentic Italian flavors at Annie's Pizza Station, a top-rated pizza destination in Concrete, WA.
Mazama Public House, An OSB Place
55.2 km
Experience the best of local flavors and craft beers at Mazama Public House, nestled in the scenic beauty of Washington's North Cascades.
Birdsview Diner
56.8 km
Discover the charm of Birdsview Diner, where delicious diner classics meet local flavors and live music in beautiful Concrete, Washington.
Red Top Tavern
59.6 km
Discover the charm of Red Top Tavern in Darrington, where delicious burgers and a friendly atmosphere await you.
River Time Brewing
59.6 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
61.3 km
Experience tranquility and nature's beauty at Blue T Lodge, a charming retreat in Glacier, Washington, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
