North Cascades National Park

Less than three hours from Seattle, an alpine landscape beckons. Discover communities of life adapted to moisture in the west and recurring fire in the east. Explore jagged peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers. Listen to cascading waters in forested valleys. Witness a landscape sensitive to the Earth's changing climate. Help steward the ecological heart of the Cascades.

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WEATHER INFO

The best weather for visiting the North Cascades generally occurs between mid-June and late-September. Summer daytime temperatures average in the 70's F. Snow is off most trails by mid-July. Autumn and Spring are popular for color and wildlife. Storms are common: always be prepared for a few days of rain and wind. The east side of the Cascade Mountains (Lake Chelan National Recreation Area) is drier and warmer in the summer than the west side. Summer temperatures at Stehekin reach the 90's F.

Weather @ North Cascades

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DIRECTIONS INFO

Access to North Cascades National Park and Ross Lake National Recreation Area is from the State Route 20 corridor. SR 20 (North Cascades Highway) connects with Interstate 5 (Exit 230) at Burlington. From the east, the highway intersects with US 97 at Okanogan and with SR 153 at Twisp. The State Department of Transportation closes a portion of the road between Ross Dam Trailhead and Lone Fir Campground in winter. The Lake Chelan National Recreation Area (Stehekin) is accessible by ferry or plane from Chelan.

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Alerts

PARK CLOSURE

Boston Basin Cross-country Zone Closure

The Boston Basin Cross-country Zone, including the approach trail and trailhead, is temporarily closed due to bear activity.

CAUTION

Stehekin Flash Flood and Debris Flow Area

The Stehekin area is prone to flooding, which increases in a post-fire environment. Know before you go – visit the Post Fire Safety page for information on what to do in a flash flood and debris flow area

INFORMATION

State Route 20

State Route 20 is open as of 4/22 but subject to closure by WSDOT on an as needed basis for incidents or emergencies. Before your visit, check the WSDOT real time map for up-to-date information on travel through the North Cascades.

PARK CLOSURE

Temporary Closures for Peregrine Nesting

The following established climbing management areas are closed to all public use from March 1, 2025 to July 15, 2025 to protect peregrine falcon nesting aeries: Newhalem Crag East and Newhalem Crag West (Ryan’s Wall).

PARK CLOSURE

Hozomeen Gate Remains Closed

Until further notice, the gate at Hozomeen will remain closed; vehicle and foot traffic across the US/Canada border is prohibited. Visitors must enter through a designated port of entry.

PARK CLOSURE

Cascade River Road Seasonal Closure

Cascade River Road is closed for the season at Eldorado (milepost 20). Check the road conditions page for more information.

PARK CLOSURE

Fire Closures - Trail, Area, and Camp Closures

For closures due to fire activity visit the Fire Closures page, including trail, area, and camp closures for current and post fire conditions.

CAUTION

Diablo Lake Boat Launch Inaccessible to Powerboats

Due to silt accumulation, the Diablo Lake boat launch at Colonial Creek South Campground is not usable for launching most powerboats. Expect shallow or no water at the launch ramp and the possibility of needing to carry your boat to or from the water.

CAUTION

Be Aware of Break-ins along State Route 20

Prevent smashed windows and theft. Break-ins are not uncommon at trailheads along State Route 20. Remove your valuables and electronics and take associated electronic cords.

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North Cascades National Park