Unforgettable Beauty and Family Adventures in North Cascades National Park

Discover unforgettable family adventures in North Cascades National Park! Join our crazy crew as we embark on an epic journey to explore the breathtaking landscape and mesmerizing waterways of this untamed wilderness.

Our 2024 summer roadtrip took us to the amazing Pacific Northwest. On the third day, our trusty rental car, affectionately named the "Iron Dragon" by the girls, took us 175 miles from the Alta Loge near Mount Rainier National Park to the western entrance of North Cascades National Park. Initially, I had planned to enter the park from the east after exploring the North Cascade Loop through Leavenworth and Winthrop, Washington. However, wildfires are a common occurrence in the North Cascades during the summer, often causing road closures. So when it came time to shorten our lengthy itinerary, the extra 300 miles of travel was trimmed off.

What is the North Cascades?

The Cascade Mountains form a grand volcanic range that extends from British Columbia in Canada through Washington, Oregon, and down to Northern California. Situated within this range is the North Cascades National Park, which covers more than 600,000 acres of rugged mountain peaks, majestic lakes, and dense forests. Known for its over 300 glaciers and some of the most challenging terrains in the United States, the North Cascades is often called the "American Alps." This region boasts a wide variety of plant and animal species, including 75 mammal species, 21 reptile and amphibian species, 200 bird species, 28 fish species, and over 500 species of land insects, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in North America. Despite its natural beauty and biodiversity, North Cascades NP remains one of the least visited national parks in the US.

Our Family Adventures through the North Cascades NP

Early in the morning, we embarked on our 3 hour journey to North Cascade National Park, heading towards the park's western boundary and the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20). Due to the vast expanse of the park, our intention was to relish the picturesque drive along the North Cascades Highway, pausing at various scenic viewpoints, engaging in a few small hikes, and enjoying a chilling adventure from the shore of Lake Diablo. While I had initially planned to partake in a boat tour on Diablo Lake, these tours were solely available from Thursday to Monday, with the schedule being unveiled only in May.

Park Information:

Best time to visit: summer (mid-June through September)

Hours: 24 hours year-round

Entry Fees: no entrance fee (but, some trails require a Northwest Forest Park pass)

Cell Service: very limited

Disclaimer:

Always make sure to check out the latest information from the park's website before you arrive.

Stop 1 - Rockport

Heading east on the North Cascades Highway towards Rockport, we traced the path of the Skagit River closely. In the winter, bald eagles congregate along the upper Skagit River to feed on salmon, particularly between Concrete and Marblemount. Despite our summer visit, we briefly paused at Howard Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport (located just west of the SR-530 bridge) in search of wildlife. Although we didn't spot any bald eagles, we still appreciated the stunning scenery.

After leaving Rockport, we proceeded on the North Cascades Highway towards Marblemount. This is the last opportunity to refuel before venturing into the park, as there are no gas stations in Newhalem or any other location within the park boundaries along the highway. Following Marblemount, the nearest refueling point is Winthrop, to the east of the park.

Stop 2 - North Cascades NP Visitor Center & Newhalem

The North Cascades National Park Complex comprises three park areas: North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. As we journey east of Marblemount, we bid farewell to civilization and venture into the Ross Lake National Recreation Area, which stretches along the Skagit River and Ross Lake's shoreline, extending north to the Canadian border in an L-shape. This area is the most easily accessible part of the North Cascades National Park Complex, encompassing the North Cascades Highway and three reservoirs: Ross Lake, Diablo Lake, and Gorge Lake.

We stopped briefly at the Visitor Center for maps and up-to-date park information. There are also several short accessible interpretive trails in the area. The Visitor Center is a couple miles from the town of Newhalem. In this area, you can see houses that were constructed to accommodate the workers of Seattle City Light's hydroelectric complex in the canyon to the east of the town. You can also find an information center and the Skagit General Store. To the north, you'll come across a Baldwin steam locomotive that was in service on the City Light railway between 1924 and 1954. Following Main Street, you will find a pedestrian suspension bridge over the Skagit River. On the other side of the river, the Trail of the Cedars winds half a mile through an old-growth western red cedar grove. Starting from the Newhalem end of the suspension bridge, another trail runs along a road eastward to a footbridge crossing the Skagit River, which takes you to the Gorge Powerhouse, the oldest of the City Light plants.

Stop 3 - Colonial Creek Campground

Seattle City Light operates the 3 dams to harness power from the Skagit River for the Seattle area. These dams also form a chain of teal lakes -- Ross Lake, Diablo Lake, and Gorge Lake. The North Cascades Highway follows the Skagit River and provides overlooks to view each dam and the amazing lakes as it winds through the mountains. Located right under Diablo Dam is the small town of Diablo, which has a population of 50 residents! Similar to Newhalem, Diablo features houses that were built to house the employees of Seattle City Light's hydroelectric complex. Standing at a height of 389 feet, Diablo Dam was the tallest arch-type dam when it was completed in 1930. The Diablo Dam was the end of the road into the park, until the mountain section of the North Cascades Highway opened in 1971.

Just after passing the Diablo Dam, we made a stop at the Colonial Creek Campground. Here, visitors can also reach Diablo Lake and admire the initial views of its stunning emerald green waters. This experience was particularly exciting for the girls! Despite the frigid temperature of the water, its mesmerizing color created unforgettable memories.

Stop 4 - Diablo Lake

As the road winds along the southern inlet of Diablo Lake, it eventually leads up to Diablo Lake Overlook. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of Diablo Lake, nestled amidst steep, forested slopes. The unique teal color of Diablo Lake is a result of rock flour, an incredibly fine sediment. High up in the mountains, glaciers slowly grind against the rock, creating this fine powder which is then carried by glacial meltwater into the lake. The particles of rock flour are so tiny that they can remain suspended in the water for extended periods. While water typically reflects blue light, the suspended particles in Diablo Lake reflect green light and absorb other wavelengths, resulting in the lake's striking milky teal hue. Our time spent here admiring the glistening sun dancing on the water left us completely mesmerized.

Tip: There is a hidden trail near the overlook! Located between the restroom facilities in the overlook parking area, you will discover a stack of rocks obstructing a narrow, dusty pathway amidst the trees. By crossing over these rocks and following the trail downwards, you will reach an unobstructed viewpoint overlooking the lake. Just remember to maintain a safe distance from the edge!

Stop 5 - Happy Creek Nature Trail

Located just before reaching the Ross Lake Overlooks, there is a small pull-off area that serves as the starting point for the Happy Creek Trail. This trail, although short in length, offers a delightful experience as it winds through an old growth section of the North Cascades. The path is a harmonious blend of an accessible boardwalk and a well-maintained hardened dirt trail, ensuring that hikers of all abilities can enjoy the serene surroundings.

As we meandered along the trail, we were greeted by the gentle babbling of Happy Creek, which added a soothing soundtrack to our nature walk. The towering moss-covered trees created a mystical atmosphere, transporting us to a tranquil woodland straight out of a fairytale. The interplay of light filtering through the canopy above, the earthy scent of damp soil, and the symphony of bird songs overhead all contribute to a multi-sensory experience that immersed us in the wonders of the North Cascades.

Happy Creek Trail Details:

Start: Milepost 134.5

Distance: 0.3 mile Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Approximate Time: 15-20 minutes

Near the back of the boardwalk is a 1.3 mile spur trail that leads to a small waterfall. This part of the trail is moderate to difficult, with more of an elevation change.

Stop 6 - Ross Lake

Ross Dam, standing at an impressive height of 540 feet, was constructed between 1937 and 1940. Serving as the cornerstone of the Skagit River Project, this dam plays a pivotal role in harnessing the power of nature to meet the energy needs of the region, providing over 20% of Seattle's power requirements. Ross Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by impressive mountain scenery. Although the viewpoints may not offer the most spectacular sights, the lake's tranquil shores offer secluded spots where visitors can engage in water activities.

As the sun began its descent, we bid farewell to North Cascade National Park and set our sights on Anacortes, Washington, descending the mountains and exiting through the western edge of the park.

The Family Verdict

Our family adventure in North Cascade National Park was a tapestry of beauty, discovery, and family bonding. From the towering peaks to the tranquil lakes, each moment was a testament to the wonders of the natural world. Planning our adventure in North Cascades NP proved to be quite challenging for me. The limited options for tours and water activities, except for those available at Ross Lake Resort or the park campground, coupled with the park's remote location from neighboring towns, posed unexpected difficulties. I believe the girls would have enjoyed spending the night in the park and engaging in more water activities. One day was just not enough time.

Follow along as I explain each leg of our adventures through the Pacific Northwest!