The Majestic North Cascades: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Explore the breathtaking North Cascades, where rugged mountain peaks meet stunning glacial lakes and diverse wildlife in Washington's outdoor paradise.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the North Cascades, a stunning mountain range in Washington that offers unparalleled outdoor adventures, diverse wildlife, and scenic vistas. Ideal for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to North Cascades
- Washington, US
Local tips
- Visit during late spring or early fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Be sure to pack layers, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
- Check trail conditions and park alerts before heading out, especially in winter.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife watching; the area is rich in fauna.
- Consider visiting the visitor center for maps and recommendations on trails.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from any location within Northern Cascades, head towards the main highways that connect to Washington 20 (North Cascades Highway). From the nearest town, such as Marblemount, you can take Highway 20 directly towards the North Cascades National Park. Follow the signs for North Cascades National Park. The drive will take approximately 30 minutes, with scenic views along the way. Note that a park entrance fee may be required, typically around $30 per vehicle.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transport, you can take a Greyhound bus to the nearest major city, which is Burlington, WA. From Burlington, you will need to transfer to a local bus service (Skagit Transit) that operates routes towards the North Cascades area. Please check the Skagit Transit schedule ahead of time as services may be limited. Once you arrive at the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center, you can either hike or use local shuttle services to explore the area further.
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Biking
If you're feeling adventurous and are already in the vicinity, consider biking to North Cascades. From towns like Newhalem, you can ride along the scenic routes that lead into the park. Make sure to wear a helmet and check your bike's condition before embarking. The ride can be challenging due to elevation changes, so be prepared for a physically demanding journey.
Discover more about North Cascades
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Cascades
0.0 km
Explore the breathtaking North Cascades, where rugged mountain peaks meet stunning glacial lakes and diverse wildlife in Washington's outdoor paradise.
Sourdough Mountain Lookout
24.7 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
28.9 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Old Number 6, a landmark that captures the essence of Rockport, Washington.
Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
44.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures of Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington, a prime destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Mt Baker National Recreation Area
44.7 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.
Backus-Marblemount Ranger Station House No. 1010
45.2 km
Discover the historical charm of Backus-Marblemount Ranger Station, your gateway to the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.
Horseshoe Bend Trail Head
46.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Horseshoe Bend Trail Head, a premier hiking destination in Washington, offering lush forests and breathtaking mountain views.
Park Butte Lookout
48.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and adventure at Park Butte Lookout, a historic fire lookout in the stunning Mt. Baker Wilderness of Washington.
Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
48.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, where adventure meets tranquility in Washington's stunning wilderness.
Hidden Lake Lookout
48.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hidden Lake Lookout, a scenic spot in Washington offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures in nature.
Maple Pass Trailhead
61.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene hiking experiences at Maple Pass Trailhead, a must-visit for nature lovers in Washington.
Blue Lake Trailhead
64.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Blue Lake Trailhead in Winthrop, WA, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Mt Baker National Forest
70.2 km
Experience the stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and endless adventures of Mt Baker National Forest, a hidden gem in Washington's wilderness.
Goat Wall View
71.7 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
72.6 km
Explore Goat Peak Lookout, a historical landmark in Washington offering breathtaking views and a rewarding hiking experience amidst stunning nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
North Cascades National Park
17.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventures at North Cascades National Park in Washington, a true paradise for nature lovers.
Hannegan Trailhead
22.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails at Hannegan Trailhead in Deming, Washington – a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Ross Lake National Recreation Area
22.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ross Lake National Recreation Area, where mountains meet pristine lakes in a stunning natural paradise.
Sourdough Mountain
23.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sourdough Mountain, a hiker's paradise in Washington, offering stunning vistas and serene trails in the great outdoors.
Sourdough Mountain Trailhead
25.9 km
Discover the stunning trails and breathtaking views at Sourdough Mountain Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in the North Cascades of Washington.
Gorge Overlook Trail
26.4 km
Explore the stunning Gorge Overlook Trail in Rockport, WA, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers with breathtaking views and lush landscapes.
Diablo Lake Trailhead
26.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and hiking trails of Diablo Lake Trailhead in Washington's North Cascades, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Gorge Dam Viewpoint
26.7 km
Discover stunning vistas at the Gorge Dam Viewpoint in Newhalem, WA, where nature and engineering marvels collide. A must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.
North Cascades Environmental Learning Center
26.8 km
Explore the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center - a place of education and adventure in Washington's stunning natural landscapes.
Ross Dam Trailhead
27.9 km
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Diablo Lake Vista Point
28.3 km
Discover the stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain views at Diablo Lake Vista Point, a scenic gem in Washington's North Cascades.
Lower Goodell Group Campground
28.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lower Goodell Group Campground in the North Cascades, where nature meets adventure for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Baker River Trail
28.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Baker River Trail in Washington, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Lake Ann Trail
28.7 km
Discover the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife along Lake Ann Trail in Deming, Washington - a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ladder Creek Falls
28.8 km
Explore Ladder Creek Falls: A hidden gem in Washington's natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Mt. Baker Ski Area - Raven Hut Mid Mountain Day Lodge
28.7 km
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Mondo Restaurant
46.5 km
Discover Mondo Restaurant in Marblemount for an unforgettable American dining experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
Upriver Grill & Taproom
46.5 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Upriver Grill & Taproom in Marblemount, WA – where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Sports Bar
46.6 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
63.5 km
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The Fork At Agate Bay
80.8 km
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The Bistro at Shuksan
82.7 km
Experience authentic Cajun and Southern cuisine at The Bistro at Shuksan in Bellingham – where flavor meets hospitality.
El Rinconcito Mexican Restaurant
86.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Rinconcito in Bellingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Scotty Browns Barkley Village
86.9 km
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El Gitano
87.9 km
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Burnt Side Down
88.3 km
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Subway
88.4 km
Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Bellingham - your go-to spot for customizable sandwiches and salads during your travels.
Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill
91.5 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking views at Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill on Washington's scenic Chuckanut Drive.
The Oyster Bar
91.6 km
Discover exquisite seafood and stunning bay views at The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive—where culinary excellence meets natural beauty.
Taco Del Mar
93.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heather Meadows Cafe
29.9 km
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North Cascades National Park Wilderness Information Center
45.4 km
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Chevron
46.4 km
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Heliotrope Ridge Trailhead
47.0 km
Experience the stunning vistas and tranquil beauty of Heliotrope Ridge Trailhead, a top hiking destination in Washington's Mount Baker area.
Baker Haus Cottage
48.6 km
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Glacier Ski Shop
48.6 km
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Ville Maison
49.1 km
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Mt Baker Bed and Breakfast
50.7 km
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Hofstede's Country Barn
54.4 km
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Winners & HomeSense
54.5 km
Explore a diverse collection of fashion and home essentials at Winners & HomeSense in Chilliwack, where style meets unbeatable prices.
Real Canadian Superstore Luckakuck Way
54.5 km
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The Local Space | Chilliwack
55.4 km
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Value Village
55.5 km
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The Button Box
55.6 km
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5b's Bakery & Eatery
55.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorge Inn
29.0 km
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The Mountaineers Baker Lodge
29.9 km
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North Cascades Inn
46.4 km
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Karina's Deja Brew
46.4 km
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Blue T Lodge
46.6 km
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Wake 'N Bakery
48.6 km
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Glacier Peak Resort, RV Park & Winery
48.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Glacier Peak Resort, RV Park & Winery, where nature meets fine wine in the heart of Washington.
Rockport Bar & Grill
54.8 km
Discover Rockport Bar & Grill: A delightful dining experience featuring fresh seafood and local craft beers surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Old Settler Pub
54.9 km
Experience the cozy charm and delectable local cuisine at Old Settler Pub in Harrison Hot Springs, a perfect destination for relaxation and enjoyment.
The Lonestar
55.4 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
55.4 km
Discover the flavors of Concrete, WA at Hub Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Cascade Burgers
56.2 km
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Annie's Pizza Station
56.8 km
Discover the authentic Italian flavors at Annie's Pizza Station, a top-rated pizza destination in Concrete, WA.
Birdsview Diner
62.1 km
Discover the charm of Birdsview Diner, where delicious diner classics meet local flavors and live music in beautiful Concrete, Washington.
Rifugio's Country Italian Cuisine
67.0 km
Experience the flavors of Italy in a cozy setting at Rifugio's Country Italian Cuisine, surrounded by the stunning beauty of Washington's landscapes.
