As we embarked on our journey to North Cascades National Park, we heading toward the park’s western boundary along the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20). With the park’s vast expanse in mind, our plan was to enjoy the picturesque drive, stop at scenic viewpoints, take a few short hikes, and have a thrilling adventure along the shores of Lake Diablo. Follow along for our full North Cascades National Park Itinerary!
What Is The North Cascades?
The Cascade Mountains are a volcanic range stretching from British Columbia through Washington, Oregon, and into Northern California. Within this range lies North Cascades National Park, spanning over 600,000 acres of rugged peaks, lakes, and forests. Home to 300+ glaciers and some of the toughest terrain in the U.S., it’s nicknamed the “American Alps.” The park hosts a rich variety of wildlife, including 75 mammals, 21 reptiles and amphibians, 200 birds, 28 fish, and over 500 insect species. Despite its beauty and biodiversity, it’s one of the least visited U.S. national parks.
North Cascades National Park Information
| Best Time To Visit | summer (mid-June through September) |
| Entrance Cost | no entrance fee (but, some trails require a Northwest Forest Park pass) |
| Hours | 24 hours year-round |
| Cell Service | very limited |
Disclaimer: Always make sure to check out the latest information from the park’s website before you arrive.
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Experience North Cascades National Park via a Tour!
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - 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.
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #2
Marblemount
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.
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #3
North Cascades National Park Visitor Center
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, Junior Ranger materials and up-to-date park information. There are also several short accessible interpretive trails in the area.
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #4
Newhalem
The Visitor Center is a few miles from Newhalem, where you’ll see homes built for Seattle City Light workers. Nearby are the Skagit General Store and an information center. North of town sits a Baldwin steam locomotive used on the City Light railway from 1924 to 1954. Main Street leads to a pedestrian suspension bridge over the Skagit River. Across it, the Trail of the Cedars winds half a mile through old-growth cedar. Another trail from the bridge heads east to a footbridge that crosses the river to the Gorge Powerhouse, the oldest City Light plant.
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #5
Colonial Creek Campground
Seattle City Light operates three dams on the Skagit River to supply power to the Seattle area. These dams create a chain of teal lakes: Ross, Diablo, and Gorge. The North Cascades Highway follows the river, offering scenic views of each dam and lake as it winds through the mountains. Just below Diablo Dam is the tiny town of Diablo, home to about 50 people. Like Newhalem, it was built to house dam workers. When completed in 1930, the 389-foot Diablo Dam was the tallest arch dam in the world. It marked the end of the road until the highway’s mountain section 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.
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #6
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!
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #7
Happy Creek Nature Trail
Just before the Ross Lake Overlooks, a small pull-off marks the start of the short but scenic Happy Creek Trail. It winds through old-growth forest on a mix of boardwalk and dirt path, making it accessible for all hikers.
As we walked the trail, Happy Creek’s gentle babble provided a soothing backdrop. Moss-covered trees and filtered light created a fairytale-like atmosphere. The scent of damp earth and birdsong made it a fully immersive North Cascades experience.
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.
North Cascades National Park Itinerary - Stop #8
Ross Lake
Ross Dam, built between 1937 and 1940, stands 540 feet tall and is key to the Skagit River Project, supplying over 20% of Seattle’s power. Ross Lake, set amid striking mountains, offers peaceful shores for water activities. 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.
The Family Verdict
North Cascade National Park is beautiful! 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, coupled with the park’s remote location from neighboring towns, posed unexpected difficulties. If we had unlimited time, I would have like to spend the night at one of the campgrounds and play in the teal waters some more. But, I have no regrets taking a full day to explore this untamed wilderness!
Make sure to check out our adventures in nearby Olympic National Park, Mount Rainer National Park, Anacortes and the Mount Saint Helens Ape Cave Lava Tubes. Also, follow along on our road trip through the Pacific Northwest!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
Recommended Supplies
Don’t miss out on these recommended supplies for your family adventure!
For Packing:
For the Airport / Airplane:
Basics:
Outdoors:
- Pocket Binoculars
- Travel Umbrella
- Adult Hiking Hydration Backpack
- Kid’s Hiking Hydration Backpack
- Water Bladder Cleaning Tablets
- Microfiber Towels
- Women’s All Around Jacket
- Women’s Water-Resistant Hiking Pants, These and These
- Women’s Quick Dry Pants and These
- Women’s Quick Dry Shirts
- Women’s Long Sleeve UV Rash Guard
- Women’s Hiking Socks
- Women’s Rain Jacket
- Kid’s Quick Dry Pants
- Kid’s Quick Dry Shorts
- Kid’s Quick Dry Shirts
- Kid’s Long Sleeve UV Rash Guard
- Kid’s Hiking Socks and These
- Kids Rain Jacket
- Kid’s Rain Pants
- Foldable Kid’s Hat
- Men’s Rain Jacket
