Climbing Conditions

Steep and snowy mountains and ridges with a large broken glacier
North Cascades National Park offers a lifetime of mountaineering objectives.

Winnie Hsieh

 

May 2025

The generally warm and sunny weather that we saw in April seems to have transitioned into more "normal" or "average" weather for the month of May. According to some outlooks, May is trending towards near average temperatures and even slightly above average precipitation totals for northwest Washington, including the North Cascades.

As of the first week of May, the snowpack in the North Cascades is all but gone below 4000', and feels healthy once above 5000' elevation. South-facing terrain is melting out quicker than other aspects, and there is a noticable change once you move to north-facing terrain where the snowpack is closer to average depth. Keep in mind that we have not seen a real high water event yet this spring, meaning creeks and rivers could rise quickly with a couple warm days in a row or a warm rain-on-snow event.

Be sure to check the weather forecast, trail conditions, and closures beforehand. As always, leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or family member, including the date and time you plan to exit the backcountry.
 
 

Current and General Climbing Conditions

Climbing conditions are reported by climbing rangers, and updated as frequently as possible.

Last updated: May 15, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

810 State Route 20
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Phone:

360 854-7200

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