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North Cascades National Park Service Complex
Plan Your Visit
 
Family and North Cascades Park Ranger
Photo by Parrish, courtesy of REI
A park ranger takes a family on nature walk through the North Cascades.
 

Welcome to North Cascades National Park Complex. Whether you are looking for an alpine wilderness experience or car-camping with the whole family, this national park has unique recreational opportunities for all visitors. As with most travels, some extra planning will go a long way for a more enjoyable and safer national park experience.

First, orient yourself to the park with directions, the operating hours and seasons of our facilities, and any applicable fees and reservations.

Next, check out the long list of activities that get you outside and exploring the natural and cultural resources of North Cascades. As you decide what to do, be sure to take note of the Things to Know section, where you can find information about trail conditions, backcountry permits, current weather, and numerous other helpful logistics.

If you can't wait to until you reach our visitor centers and want to be inspired from home, feel free to download one of our many maps and park brochures. For specific trip planning questions, please contact a park ranger or send an e-mail.

We look forward to seeing you at North Cascades. Safe travels!

NOTE: Highway 20 is closed between milepost 134 and 171 for the winter season due to avalanche danger. The pass typically reopens in late April or early May.

Current conditions logo
Current Park Conditions
Check current hours, campground status, trail, road, and lake conditions.
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2009 Visitor Information Guide
2009 Visitor Information Guide
Download this 12-page guide to help plan your trip to the North Cascades. (PDF 4.6 mb)
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 Trail Guide
Trail Guide
Alphabetical listing of all trails in the park complex
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Things to Do
So much to do!
Camping, hiking, climbing, tours, kayaking, fishing, bird watching, biking...
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Cascading stream  

Did You Know?
The North Cascades are named after the abundant waterfalls that lace the mountains. Two of the best known waterfalls are Gorge Falls between Newhalem and Diablo along State Route 20 and Rainbow Falls in the Stehekin Valley.

Last Updated: November 18, 2009 at 17:34 EST