Pacific Northwest
North Cascades National Park Tour
About The Tour
Experience the stunning, untamed beauty of Washington's North Cascade Mountains! Located just a few hours northeast of urban Seattle, this remote wilderness showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest’s grandeur - pristine mountain lakes, wild rivers, and majestic snowcapped peaks that stretch as far as the eye can see. One ...
Show MoreOn Shaka Guide's Tour of the North Cascades, we'll guide you along the North Cascades Scenic Highway, pointing out the best views and trails on the way. You'll explore the historic company town of Newhalem, hike to pristine mountain lakes, walk on top of a dam, learn about the impressive Skagit hydroelectric project, and hear inspiring stories of the Native peoples and early settlers who made a home--and a difference--here in this rugged wilderness.
Here are just a few of the fun things you can do on the tour!
• Start your adventure at the North Cascades Visitor Center, where exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs provide insight into the park's diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities.
• Discover historic Newhalem, the Seattle City Light company town that once housed the workers who built the first dam in the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project. Take a walking tour of the historic buildings, snap a selfie in front of the old Number 6 engine, and walk across a suspension bridge to explore the beautiful Trail of the Cedars.
• Marvel at the vibrant turquoise waters of Diablo Lake from the Diablo Lake Overlook, offering one of the park's most iconic views.
• Hike the Maple Pass Loop Trail for breathtaking panoramic views of alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and rugged mountain landscapes.
• Take in the dramatic, jagged peaks and sweeping vistas of the North Cascades from Washington Pass Overlook, a must-see viewpoint along the scenic highway.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Recommended Start Time: Before 8:00 a.m. if you plan to do some hiking.
Tour Starting Point(s): Eastward: East of Rockport and Westward: East of Mazama. The tour can be taken in either direction and includes the same stops and stories.
Time to complete: 2-8 Hours
All Shaka Guide tours include customer support and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Tours never expire.
Sample Tour Audio
Lucinda Davis Woman of the Wilderness
JD Ross, the Father of Seattle City Light
George Holmes
Tour Stops
North Cascades Visitor Center
Historic Newhalem
Diablo Lake Overlook
Rainy Pass (Rainy Lake and Maple Pass Trails)
Washington Pass Overlook
Gorge Powerhouse and Ladder Creek Falls
Gorge Overlook Trail
Thunder Knob and Thunder Creek Trails
Happy Creek Trail
Ross Lake Overlooks
Ross Dam Trail
Blue Lake Trail
Cutthroat Lake Trail
What is there to do in North Cascades National Park?
The North Cascades National Park Complex covers over 600,000 acres of northern Washington State. There’s no shortage of things to do–from enjoying one of the most scenic drives in Washington to immersing yourself in outdoor activities amidst stunn...
Show MoreWhat is there to do in North Cascades National Park?
The North Cascades National Park Complex covers over 600,000 acres of northern Washington State. There’s no shortage of things to do–from enjoying one of the most scenic drives in Washington to immersing yourself in outdoor activities amidst stunning natural beauty. The North Cascades Highway offers access to stunning viewpoints and popular hiking trails featuring breathtaking views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes. Check out Shaka Guide’s North Cascades National Park Tour with 13 must-see stops in the complex.
When is the best time to visit North Cascades National Park?
One of the most popular times to visit North Cascades National Park Complex is from mid-June to late September when the weather is the nicest. That’s when the highway and most park facilities are open for the season. If you want to explore some of...
Show MoreWhen is the best time to visit North Cascades National Park?
One of the most popular times to visit North Cascades National Park Complex is from mid-June to late September when the weather is the nicest. That’s when the highway and most park facilities are open for the season. If you want to explore some of the park’s higher-elevation hikes, you may want to wait for mid-July when snow is off most of the mountain trails. However, just know that mid-summer is also peak wildfire season, so there’s a chance it could be smoky or some areas may be closed. Lastly, if you’re hoping to see the golden larches in all their glory, you’ll want to visit in the fall. The deciduous firs typically show off their flaming colors between late September to early October. Please note: Note: The park is closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall. Always check the NPS’s website in advance to confirm that the park is open.
Where is North Cascades National Park Located?
North Cascades National Park is located in northwestern Washington, less than three hours from Seattle. The northern edge of the park shares a border with Canada. Most of the park is remote wilderness and can only be accessed by backcountry trails...
Show MoreWhere is North Cascades National Park Located?
North Cascades National Park is located in northwestern Washington, less than three hours from Seattle. The northern edge of the park shares a border with Canada. Most of the park is remote wilderness and can only be accessed by backcountry trails or by boat. The only way to see the park complex by car is on Highway 20 or the North Cascades Highway. This scenic byway can be reached from Interstate 5 in Burlington. You can also connect to Highway 20 via Highway 530 at Rockport. From the east, you can begin your epic road trip from Winthrop.
What is an Audio Tour Guide?
Think of us as your personal tour guide in an app. Our tours provide everything a guided tour does, but with the freedom to explore on your terms. Here's how it works:
- GPS triggers audio narration to play automatically as you drive or walk.
- Listen to stories, get local insights, visit must-see stops and get turn-by-turn navigation.
What is an Audio Tour Guide?
Think of us as your personal tour guide in an app. Our tours provide everything a guided tour does, but with the freedom to explore on your terms. Here's how it works:
- GPS triggers audio narration to play automatically as you drive or walk. Listen to stories, get local insights, visit must-see stops and get turn-by-turn navigation.
- The app works offline so even with spotty service we'll get you where you need to go.
- The app works offline so even with spotty service we'll get you where you need to go.
Pretty cool huh? We think so! Check out our tours and let's explore together.
Tour FAQs
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