Trail Conditions

Late summer views from near McAlester Pass.
Fall is in the air around the park. Mornings have been crisp and daylight is slowly dwindling.

NPS/ Dellaporta

September 12th, 2025

It’s starting to feel more like early Fall across the North Cascades. Alpine vegetation is beginning to change colors, precipitation is becoming more frequent, and days are shortening. While the mountains have received some rainfall, there are still several large fires in the region, and plenty of dry vegetation. So with that, please respect the park-wide fire ban.

With several active fires in the area, expect some patchy smoke and haze, especially during drier, sunny periods. The Perry Fire, located on the north side of Ross Lake, is the largest fire in the park and has resulted in a fire closure along the Little Beaver Trail. You can check out more information about these closures here.

It’s a pleasant time of year to enjoy the North Cascades. Many trails have been logged out and the bugs are finally dying down. Just come prepared for shorter days, cooler nights, and more variable weather. It’s not uncommon for weather systems to bring cold rain events and high-elevation snow this time of year.


Backcountry Permits are required year round for all overnight trips in the park and they help us locate you in an emergency. 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.

Keep wildlife alive and well by keeping your distance and storing your scented items properly. When given the opportunity to obtain human food, habituation can occur and result in harm to the animal, even euthanization. Be a part of the prevention, not the problem.

 
 

Current Trail Conditions

Current trail conditions are reported by rangers and trail crew, and updated as frequently as possible. Please read the "general" condition for each trail when there is no recent update available.  E-mail us if you have trail conditions to report.
 

North Cascades National Park Service Complex is a dynamic, natural environment where events and conditions are unpredictable. There is a possibility that trail and campground closures, environmental conditions (such as snow, high stream crossings, etc.), natural events (such as fires, aggressive animals, etc.), or other NPS management actions may impact your trip.

Last updated: September 17, 2025

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810 State Route 20
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Phone:

360 854-7200

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