Ultimate Family Guide to North Cascades National Park: Tips, Itineraries, and Must-See Stops

Located in northern Washington State, North Cascades National Park is often called the ‘American Alps’ because of its towering mountains, stunning waterfalls, and over 300 glaciers—the most of any U.S. park outside of Alaska. Just 2.5 hours from Seattle, this park is the perfect spot for families to unplug and enjoy nature. From hiking and kayaking to incredible views, it offers plenty of ways to explore

We visited the park in July as part of a Cascade Loop drive and Washington National Park trip. We loved our visit and have a lot to share to help make your family’s trip as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Love National Parks? Check out our guides to Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park.

North Cascades National Park Overview – Three Regions

Spanning over 500,000 acres, the North Cascades National Park Complex is divided into three distinct areas, each showcasing distinct landscapes, features, and opportunities for exploration, activities, and experiences for visitors:

• Ross Lake National Recreation Area: Accessible via Highway 20, this area features iconic spots like Diablo Lake and Ross Lake, perfect for kayaking, camping, and enjoying stunning viewpoints.

• Lake Chelan National Recreation Area: Home to the remote, car-free community of Stehekin, this serene area is ideal for exploring untouched wilderness by boat, plane, or hiking.

• North Cascades National Park: The rugged heart of the region, split into North and South Units, offers glacier-capped peaks, secluded trails, and unparalleled alpine beauty.

We recently visited North Cascades and can’t wait to share everything we learned to help you plan your visit! Whether your family loves hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking in jaw-dropping views, this park has it all—without the crowds you’ll find in other parks.

 

Entrances to North Cascades National Park Entrances

North Cascades National Park has a few key entrances, each offering a unique way to experience the park’s breathtaking beauty. Whether your family is looking for an easy scenic drive, a boat ride to a remote escape, or an adventurous backcountry experience, the park has an entry point for every type of traveler. Below, we’ve outlined the main entrances to help you choose the best route for your visit.

• North Cascades Highway (State Route 20): While there are no formal entrance stations or checkpoints, travelers can enter the park from either the east or west, gaining access to the most popular area of the park. Open seasonally (usually late April through November, weather permitting).

• Stehekin via Lake Chelan: The only way to reach Stehekin is by ferry, boat, seaplane, or on foot, making this entrance a truly unique adventure. Once in Stehekin, your family can explore the peaceful surroundings, enjoy biking or hiking, and experience the small-town charm of this remote area at the edge of the park.

• Hozomeen via Canada: Located near the Canadian border, this remote entrance is accessible through British Columbia’s Silver Skagit Road. It’s a rugged route, perfect for adventurous families ready to embrace the park’s wild backcountry. Activities in this area include camping, hiking, and enjoying quiet waterfront views of Ross Lake.

North Cascades National Park Fees

One of the great things about North Cascades National Park is that it doesn’t charge an entrance fee. However, some areas within the North Cascades National Park Complex, such as certain campgrounds and the Lake Chelan Recreation Area, may require fees for parking, camping, or permits for specific activities.

If your family is planning to visit other nearby parks or recreation areas, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass. At $80 annually, this pass provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, forests, and monuments. It’s a smart investment for families exploring multiple destinations.

Best Time to Visit North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, offering serene wilderness and plenty of opportunities to escape crowds. However, during our visit in July on a Sunday, we were surprised by the number of people at the visitor center, showing that even this hidden gem draws visitors during peak summer months.

The best time to visit is from late spring to early fall. Wildflowers are in full bloom in late June and July, painting alpine meadows in vivid colors. Summer (June through September) brings warm temperatures, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and accessing highlights like Diablo Lake since the North Cascades Highway (Highway 20) is fully open.

However, forest fires in the area can lead to unexpected road closures. During our trip, fires east of the park closed a portion of Highway 20, creating the possibility of a 6-hour detour to get to the other side of the Cascade Loop. Fortunately, the highway was temporarily opened to a single lane with a pilot car during the day. Travelers should stay informed about fire conditions and road closures, which can significantly impact their plans.

Fall offers cooler weather, stunning foliage, and fewer crowds, though early snowfalls can begin to close roads and trails by late October. If visiting in spring, melting snow creates dramatic waterfalls, but higher-elevation trails may still be snow-covered. Keep in mind that Highway 20 closes for winter from late November until late April, limiting access to much of the park but making it a snowy paradise for experienced winter adventurers.

North Cascades Visitor Centers

North Cascades National Park has several visitor centers that serve as excellent starting points for your family’s adventure. These centers provide helpful information, exhibits, and resources to make the most of your trip, including maps, tips from rangers, and interactive displays to engage kids. Below, we’ve outlined the park’s main visitor center and smaller information centers.

• North Cascades Visitor Center (near Newhalem)
  Located just off the North Cascades Highway, this is the primary visitor center for the park. Open seasonally (typically from late May to early October), it features exhibits about the park’s natural history, geology, and wildlife. There’s also a 10-minute film introducing the park, flush toilets, picnic areas, and a bookstore. Outside, enjoy easy access to short family-friendly trails like the Sterling Munro Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Golden West Visitor Center (Stehekin)
  Situated in the remote Stehekin area, this visitor center is accessible only by boat, plane, or on foot. Open seasonally (usually May through October), it helps visitors learn about the region’s fascinating history, its connection to North Cascades National Park, and available activities. While small, it provides detailed information on hiking, camping, and exploring the Stehekin Valley. Public restrooms are located nearby.

• Skagit Information Center (Newhalem)
  

  Situated in the town of Newhalem along Highway 20, this information center is an ideal stop for families. Open seasonally (typically spring through fall), it provides trip-planning resources, permits, gift shop souvenirs, and interpretive exhibits. Across the parking lot, you’ll find the Skagit General Store, where you can stock up on snacks or picnic supplies—perfect for enjoying a meal at the picnic areas located on both sides of the highway.

  A highlight for kids is Old Number Six, a historic Baldwin steam engine located next to the Skagit General Store. This locomotive once powered trains between Newhalem and Rockport, and now serves as a hands-on attraction where children can climb up, explore the engine, and even ring the bell. With flush toilets, shaded picnic areas, and family-friendly activities, the Skagit Information Center makes for an enjoyable and practical stop while exploring the park.

• Glacier Public Service Center (near Glacier)
  This center sits at the western entrance to the park on Highway 542, near the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Open seasonally (typically Memorial Day through mid-fall), it offers maps, wilderness permits, and information about nearby recreation areas. Flush toilets and educational displays are available, making it a helpful stop for families preparing to head into the wilderness.

• Ross Lake Resort
  While technically not a visitor center, this stop within the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area acts as a hub for the Ross Lake region. It’s a great place to stop for concessions, gear rental, and advice about water activities on Ross Lake. Open seasonally (late spring through early fall), it’s ideal for families planning boating or paddling adventures in the area.

Exploring the 3 Regions of North Cascades National Park with Kids

Exploring Region One: Ross Lake National Recreation Area

The Highway 20 corridor is a beautiful drive that offers a unique experience because it runs through two protected areas: the North Cascades National Park and the Ross Lake National Recreation Area (NRA). As you travel along this scenic route, you’ll pass through both, offering a mix of stunning views, recreational opportunities, and accessible spots for families to explore. While the North Cascades National Park is known for its rugged wilderness and remote mountain beauty, the Ross Lake NRA provides easier access to iconic sites like Diablo Lake and Lake Ross, with more family-friendly activities such as boating, fishing, and easy hikes. Essentially, Highway 20 ties these two areas together, allowing families to enjoy the best of both worlds..

12 North Cascades Must-Sees and Stops Along Highway 20

Highway 20, or the North Cascades Highway, is one of the most scenic drives in Washington State, cutting through the heart of North Cascades National Park and its surrounding areas. As you journey from east to west, here are the must-see stops, hikes, and short detours you won’t want to miss. We recommend traveling from east to west as most of the lake views will then be on your passenger side.

1. Washington Pass Overlook
Sitting at an elevation of 5,477 feet, Washington Pass is the highest point on the North Cascades Highway and offers an awe-inspiring panorama of towering peaks and forested valleys. Liberty Bell Mountain, which dominates the skyline, is a striking 7,720-foot peak that’s one of the most photographed spots in the Cascades. The overlook is easily accessible via a short and paved 0.2-mile loop. During our visit the area was closed due to forest wildfires and smoke conditions.

2. Maple Pass Loop & Rainy Lake (Rainy Pass)
Just west of Washington Pass, at 4,875 elevation, Rainy Pass has two popular hiking options. Maple Pass Loop (7.2 miles) offers challenging but rewarding views of ridges and alpine lakes. Families with younger kids or on a strict schedule will appreciate the easier Rainy Lake Trail. This accessible 2-mile round-trip hike leads to Lake Ann, making it a great spot for a picnic.

3. Ross Lake Overlooks
As you drive along Highway 20 near milepost 134, you’ll find several pullouts and viewpoints overlooking Ross Lake. These stops offer clear views of the lake’s turquoise waters, surrounded by forested hills and rugged mountains. The lake stretches north into Canada, and the overlooks provide a good sense of its impressive size. These viewpoints are ideal for a quick break

4. Happy Creek Forest Walk
Located east of Ross Dam at milepost 134, this short and family-friendly 0.3-mile round-trip boardwalk trail weaves through a lush forest filled with moss and ferns. It’s a peaceful, shaded walk that’s perfect for kids and offers a quick connection to nature.

5. Ross Dam Trail
This moderate, 1.4 mile out and back, hike has a 360-foot elevation descent to the dam. Trail is through forest and along a service road near the dam. Add another half a mile to walk the dam and back. Allow an hour to complete.

6. Diablo Lake Overlook
A must-stop with one of the most iconic views in the park! Diablo Lake spans approximately 910 acres and is fed by the Skagit River, which carries glacial melt from the surrounding peaks. The glacial silt suspended in the water gives the lake its vibrant, turquoise color, making it a favorite spot for visitors. The overlook is easily accessible with a large parking area and plenty of space to enjoy the sweeping views of the jagged mountains and the dazzling lake below. Surrounding the lake, you’ll enjoy views from left to right of Colonial Peak (7771′) Pyramid Peak (7190′), ThunderKnob, and Davis Peak (7055′).

7. Drive Across Diablo Dam Road

A short detour off Highway 20, look for milepost 127.5 for the turn to the drive across Diablo Dam. This narrow, cliffside road provides up-close views of the dam, and the far side offers lake access and a peaceful picnic area.

8. Colonial Creek Campground & Thunder Creek Trail
At milepost 130, you’ll find Colonial Creek Campground, located on the southern end of Diablo Lake. This is a great spot for families, providing access to trails, waterfront activities, and picnic areas. Thunder Creek Trail, a 4-mile round-trip hike, leads to a bridge and is perfect for families who want a moderate stroll surrounded by lush forest and mountain views. You can also park along the road to access the rocky pebble beach, a fun play spot for kids, and a popular launch site for SUPs and kayaks. For those looking for a bit more challenge, the Thunder Knob Trail starts nearby. This easy-to-moderate 3.6-mile round-trip hike offers 425 feet of elevation gain and rewards hikers with sweeping views of Diablo Lake from above.

9. Gorge Creek Falls

A short walk from a parking lot brings you to a bridge that offers stunning views of Gorge Creek Falls as it cascades into the rocky canyon below. This stop is a quick stop, with a unique view through a metal grate bridge that lets you look straight down.

10. Newhalem & Skagit Information Center
The historic town of Newhalem is one of the most family-friendly hubs along Highway 20. Here, you’ll find the Skagit Information Center, a small but informative stop with exhibits about the area’s dams, a gift shop, a market, and picnic areas with playground equipment. While in Newhalem, don’t miss the Trail of the Cedars, an easy, interpretive loop trail through an old-growth forest.

While in Newhalem, don’t miss the Trail of the Cedars, an easy, interpretive loop trail through an old-growth forest. Then walk the suspension bridge to Ladder Creek Falls. The garden walk surrounding the falls was originally designed and built in the 1920s by J.D. Ross, a superintendent of Seattle City Light, as a way to showcase the beauty of the area while complementing the hydroelectric projects nearby.

Be sure to visit the historic hydroelectric Powerhouse museum. The museum provides exhibits on how the three iconic dams in the area—Gorge Dam, Diablo Dam, and Ross Dam— were built and generate power to supply electricity to Seattle. Through detailed visuals, interactive displays, and informative panels, the museum explains how dams work, the science behind hydrology, and the engineering feats required to create hydroelectric power.

Even though my dad had no formal engineering training, he loved dams. As we walked through the museum, I couldn’t help but think about how much he would have enjoyed the experience. Perhaps your visit will inspire one of your children to a career as a civil engineer.

11. North Cascades National Park Visitor Center (Newhalem)
Just outside Newhalem, a short drive across a single-lane bridge leads to the main North Cascades National Park Visitor Center. Open seasonally, the visitor center offers exhibits on the park’s geology, glaciers, and wildlife, as well as tips for exploring the area. Take a break to enjoy the park movie. It’s also a great resource for maps, permits, and ranger-led programs. From here, a 0.25-mile trail leads to a viewpoint of the Picket Range, one of the park’s most iconic areas.

12. Thornton Lakes Trail (Pond)
For hiking enthusiasts, the Thornton Lakes Trail is a great option for a longer, more remote and challenging trek. This 5.2-mile one-way trail is perfect for a family day hike or an overnight backpacking trip to a beautiful subalpine lake. The first two miles follow an old road that can be overgrown, then the trail climbs steadily through a hemlock forest before reaching colorful meadows. At the ridge, enjoy views of Triumph Peak and lower Thornton Lake. Be ready for a steep, slippery descent to the lake, where you’ll navigate a rocky crossing to reach the campsite.

Exploring Region Two: Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area offers a stunning way to experience one of the United States’ deepest lakes, which stretches 50 miles from the small town of Chelan to the remote community of Stehekin. Accessible only by ferry, boat, seaplane, or hiking, Stehekin is a unique destination that provides true solitude and scenic beauty at the edge of North Cascades National Park.

From Chelan, the Lady of the Lake Ferry is the most popular and convenient way to reach Stehekin. Families can select from the faster Lady Express (2.5 hours) or the slower, scenic Lady II (4 hours), both offering incredible views of the glacier-carved valley.

Another great way to reach Stehekin is by taking the year-round daily catamaran service from Field’s Point Landing on Lake Chelan. This service has scheduled stops at Prince Creek, Lucerne (near Holden Village), and Stehekin. For added convenience, additional flag stops are available upon request, making it a flexible option.

Once in Stehekin, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, or simply basking in the remote tranquility of a town free from cell service. Popular activities include exploring the area’s trails, having lunch at the lodge, or getting a treat at Stehekin Pastry Company.

Spend the night in one of the area’s unique accommodations, like the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, which offers cozy rooms and cabins with lakefront views. Campgrounds, including group and backcountry sites, are also available.

A visit to Stehekin can easily be done as a day trip if you take the earliest Lady Express ferry from Chelan. With the faster boat, you’ll have around 4-5 hours to explore Stehekin before returning on the last ferry of the day. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy a packed lunch, explore the waterfront, or take a short hike before heading back down the lake.

While there are many ways to enjoy the Chelan area, Stehekin’s remoteness and tranquility make it a memorable destination. Other ways to experience the broader Chelan area will be covered in detail in another article

Exploring Region Three: North Cascades National Park – North and South Units

While most visitors to North Cascades National Park stick to the scenic Highway 20 corridor, both the North and South Units have many hiking trails great for exploring the backcountry. See this excellent map for all the trails. You’ll need to dedicate a full day of exploring to hike the stunning landscapes of rugged mountains, glaciated peaks, and lush forests.

North Unit

One of the most popular hikes is the Thunder Creek Trail, accessible from the Colonial Creek Campground. This gentle, scenic path follows the creek through lush forests, offering stunning views of cascades and the surrounding wilderness, making it perfect for families with children or those seeking an accessible introduction to the park.

For those looking for a more strenuous adventure, the Sahale Glacier Trail promises exceptional alpine views and the chance to explore dramatic landscapes shaped by centuries of glacial activity. This 12-mile round-trip trail, which begins at Cascade Pass, has breathtaking scenery, wildflower-filled meadows, and a glimpse of the park’s iconic snow-capped peaks. It’s an ideal choice for experienced hikers or families with older children who are up for a rewarding challenge.

South Unit

The South Unit offers hikes with trailheads a little easier to get to than the North Unit. You might start your adventure at the well-known Maple Pass Loop—a moderate 7.2-mile loop that delivers stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the vibrant fall foliage if you visit in autumn.

Another fantastic option is the Rainy Lake Trail, which is a much shorter and easier 2-mile round-trip hike. Families can enjoy great views of the lake and surrounding mountains, with opportunities for picnic breaks along the way.

 

Hiking in the North Cascades National Park

The North Cascades National Park Complex, which includes North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, offers over 400 miles of hiking trails to explore its rugged mountain landscapes, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems.  Depending on your family’s travel style, you can spend several days hiking the trails or simply enjoy the park without hitting the trails at all. For families with younger kids, those on a tight schedule, or anyone looking for shorter hikes, we’ll highlight 9 easy trails that are all under 5 miles (coming soon!).

Itineraries for Exploring North Cascades with Kids

One-Day Itinerary: Highway 20 Corridor

Most people only spend one day visiting North Cascades National Park by exploring the Highway 20 corridor. Driving east to west, from Twisp to Newhalem, is a two-hour drive without stopping. Fill your day by following our 12 must-sees and stops listed above, starting with the Washington Pass Overlook for incredible views and continuing to Ross Lake Overlook. Be sure to pause at Diablo Lake Overlook and Gorge Creek Falls, and take some time to explore the charming town of Newhalem while visiting the Powerhouse and Skagit Information Center. Wrap up your adventure at the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center, soaking in the beautiful scenery as you make your way along this stunning corridor.

Two-Day Itinerary: Adding Kayaking or Longer Hikes

If you have more time, extend your trip to two days by incorporating a canoe or kayak adventure on Lake Diablo. Spend the morning exploring the scenic area around Diablo Lake, where rental options for kayaks and canoes are available. Paddle out onto the water to experience the stunning backdrop of the rugged cliffs and glacial waters. Alternatively, choose a hike like the Thunder Knob Trail for beautiful viewpoints and a chance to enjoy the park’s tranquility before returning to Highway 20.

Three-Day Itinerary: Exploring Lake Chelan

For an extended adventure, add a third day dedicated to exploring Lake Chelan. A visit to Stehekin can easily be done as a day trip if you take the earliest Lady Express ferry from Chelan. With the faster boat, you’ll have around 4-5 hours to explore Stehekin before returning on the last ferry of the day. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy a packed lunch, explore the waterfront, or take a short hike before heading back down the lake.

Four-Day Itinerary: Adventures on Ross Lake

Finally, you can another day to your trip by exploring Ross Lake. Here, you can rent a boat or use your own to explore the vast waters, go fishing, or hike along the shoreline. Ross Lake provides a great base for adventurous families wanting to engage in water activities and enjoy the rugged beauty of the North Cascades. Whether your family prefers fishing for trout, kayaking, or just soaking in uninhibited views of the mountains, this day on Ross Lake promises to be an unforgettable end to your North Cascades adventure.

 

Where to Stay Near North Cascades with a Big Family

National Park Lodging

North Cascades National Park does not feature official lodging within the park managed by the National Park Service. However, visitors can stay at private accommodations such as the Ross Lake Resort, located along State Route 20, or the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, which offers lodging, a restaurant, and convenience items. 

• Ross Lake Resort: For big families, the Private Bunkhouse sleeps 6-10 people and the spacious two-story Peak Cabin sleeps up to 9. To secure a reservation, guests must join the annual lottery, as the resort’s limited 15 floating cabins are in high demand. The lottery list resets every January 1st, and last-minute cancellations can sometimes be claimed via the resort’s availability table. Reaching the resort requires planning as it is nestled in the heart of the North Cascade Mountains, accessible by hiking, boating, or seasonal water taxi services.
• North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin: The spacious Lake House can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests and includes a private deck equipped with a barbecue grill and hot tub. Reservations for the Lake House are available exclusively through a waitlist.

Camping and RV

• Newhalem Creek Campground: A comfortable facility close to town, the Visitor Center, and the Skagit River. Potable water is available. Electricity is not provided in campsites. Restrooms have flush toilets. Newhalem Creek Campground accommodates RVs, including some sites capable of hosting longer vehicles, but no electricity, water, or sewage hookups are available.
• Gorge Lake Campground: Located on Gorge Lake, next to the cascading Stetattle Creek. There is no potable water on-site, so visitors must bring their own. Electricity is not available. The campground has vault toilets.
• Goodell Creek Campground: Situated in lush, old-growth forest on the banks of the Skagit River. Potable water is not available, so visitors need to bring water. No electricity is provided. The campground includes vault toilets. Goodell Creek Campground is appropriate for smaller RVs and trailers, though it is not recommended for larger RVs, and it also lacks utility hookups.
• Lower Goodell Creek Group Campground: A convenient campground on the banks of Goodell Creek that accommodates large groups. Potable water is not available – visitors need to bring their own. No access to electricity. Restrooms feature vault toilets.
• Colonial Creek North Campground: Remote campground nestled in old-growth forest with trail and lake access. Potable water is available at this campground. No electricity is available. Restrooms include flush toilets. Colonial Creek North Campground is also suitable for RVs, with certain sites able to accommodate larger vehicles, though it lacks utility hookups. 
• Colonial Creek South Campground: A remote yet bustling campground nestled in old-growth forest with trail and lake access. Potable water is available. The campground does not provide electricity. Restrooms have flush toilets. Colonial Creek South Campground offers RV access with size restrictions on some sites, but like the others, does not have electricity or sewage connections.
• Boat-In Camping: Available on Ross Lake, Diablo Lake, and Lake Chelan for a more secluded experience. Potable water, electricity, and toilet facilities vary by individual sites, so it is recommended to bring potable water and plan for minimal facilities. Standalone vault toilets are typically available.
• Hozomeen Camping: A remote camping experience at the north end of Ross Lake.
• Details: Potable water is not available; visitors must bring their own. No electricity is available. The site provides vault toilets.
• Camping in Stehekin: Stehekin offers a range of sites, from lakeside areas to quiet roadside campsites, as well as backcountry backpacking options.

Vacation Rentals

For family-friendly VRBO rentals near North Cascades National Park, stay in Marblemount on the park’s west side or head to the charming towns of Mazama and Winthrop on the east.

Local Hotels, Lodges, and Inns

We currently don’t have any hotel listings for big families of 6 or more within 20 miles east or west of North Cascades National Park.