North Cascades National Park - map, photos and other informations
Table of Contents
Description
North Cascades National Park is an incredibly stunning and unique park located in the Northern Cascade Range of Washington State. It is the most diverse of all of the national parks in the U.S., offering visitors breathtaking scenery, stunning glaciers, and a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. North Cascade's beauty and recreational activities will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Measuring at 504,781 acres, North Cascades National Park is the third largest national park in the contiguous United States and is home to nine glaciers, over 400 miles of trails, and a wide variety of landscapes ranging from dense forests to rugged, snow-covered peaks. The park is also one of the only areas in the lower 48 states that contains large sections of intact old-growth forest, as well as hundreds of cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and alpine meadows.
The history of North Cascades National Park dates back to 1968 when President Lyndon Johnson signed the North Cascades National Park and Ross Lake National Recreation Area Act, establishing the park as a protected space for the preservation of the unique and spectacular environment within the North Cascades.
A visit to the park will give you access to everything from alpine hiking and backcountry camping to whitewater rafting and kayaking. With over 1,000 miles of trails to explore, the park is one of the best destinations to experience the beauty of the mountains over all types of terrain. Seasonally, visitors have the opportunity to witness wildflower blooms, waterfall hikes, wildlife viewing, and more.
From May to October, the park offers a wide range of camping opportunities at more than 90 campgrounds and is a popular destination for rock climbing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and is also a great place to observe bald eagles, mule deer, bears, caribou, and a host of other bird species.
North Cascades National Park is an untamed, wild place, filled with dramatic views, abundant wildlife, and seemingly endless outdoor activities. This is an ideal destination for those adventurous travelers looking to discover the beauty of nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Photos of North Cascades National Park
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about North Cascades National Park
Where is North Cascades National Park located?
North Cascades National Park is located in the northern Cascade Range of Washington State, roughly halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia. From Seattle, it is approximately 125 miles away. From Vancouver, it is roughly 115 miles away. From Spokane, WA, it is about 250 miles away. From Portland, OR, it is roughly 270 miles away.
Why is North Cascades National Park dangerous?
North Cascades National Park can be dangerous due to the extreme weather conditions and rugged terrain. The combination of high terrain and severe weather can be a challenge for even experienced hikers. In addition, the park is home to a variety of potentially dangerous wildlife, such as bears, mountain lions, and moose. Flash floods can occur with little warning, and dangerous rivers can be found in the park's valleys. Furthermore, the park is a remote area with limited services, so help may take time to reach in a medical emergency.
What to do in North Cascades National Park?
North Cascades National Park offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Enjoy hiking to scenic alpine lakes, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. Explore the lush green river valleys and take in spectacular views of the looming peaks. There are plenty of campgrounds, RV sites and cabins to stay overnight. Fishing and boating are also popular activities. For a more relaxed experience, stroll one of the boardwalks or take a wildlife-watching tour. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife of North Cascades National Park!
Are dogs allowed in North Cascades National Park?
No, dogs are not allowed on trails in North Cascades National Park. They are allowed in developed areas, like campgrounds and picnic areas, as long as they remain on a leash. Dogs are also not allowed in the backcountry, including alpine areas.
Average weather in North Cascades National Park
Temp max
|
Temp min
|
Rain
|
Snow
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0 °C | -6 °C | 61 mm | 199 mm |
| Feb | 0 °C | -6 °C | 43 mm | 158 mm |
| Mar | 3 °C | -4 °C | 53 mm | 157 mm |
| Apr | 6 °C | -1 °C | 60 mm | 81 mm |
| May | 12 °C | 3 °C | 92 mm | 14 mm |
| Jun | 15 °C | 6 °C | 105 mm | 1 mm |
| Jul | 21 °C | 10 °C | 43 mm | 0 mm |
| Aug | 22 °C | 10 °C | 41 mm | 0 mm |
| Sep | 17 °C | 7 °C | 132 mm | 3 mm |
| Oct | 10 °C | 2 °C | 210 mm | 41 mm |
| Nov | 2 °C | -4 °C | 173 mm | 148 mm |
| Dec | -2 °C | -7 °C | 47 mm | 213 mm |
Other parks nearby
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Ross Lake National Recreation Area2.8 mi (4.4 km)|national recreation area -
Rockport State Park24.0 mi (38.6 km)|state park
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Mount Baker National Recreation Area28.7 mi (46.2 km)|national recreation area
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Rasar State Park34.5 mi (55.5 km)|state park
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Lake Chelan National Recreation Area35.7 mi (57.5 km)|national recreation area
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