Pacific Northwest
North Cascades National Park Tour

Duration
2-8 Hours
Audio Points
42
Tour Stops
13

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 ...

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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 visit to the park, and you'll see why the North Cascades are deservedly called "The American Alps."

On 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
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JD Ross, the Father of Seattle City Light
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George Holmes
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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

Tour Route


Customer Reviews

(15838)

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...

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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...

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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...

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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.
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Tour FAQs

Where does the North Cascades National Park Tour go?
This tour has 13 stops. Check out the itinerary here for a complete list of stops. And if you’re looking for more information to help plan your trip, here’s what you need to know before you go!
What should I pack for the North Cascades National Park Tour?
Cell phone (with tour downloaded!)Car chargerPhone mount for carFlashlight - for a night hike to Ladder Creek Falls (optional) Binoculars (optional)Trekking poles (recommended if hiking to Blue Lake or Maple Pass)Waterproof rain jacket or coat Non-cotton/waterproof or quick-dry pantsDress in layers (layer with NON-cotton fabric like fleece/wool – for cooler weather or synthetic materials like nylon–for warmer weather). The key is to stay warm and dry! Hiking boots/sturdy shoes if you plan to hikeSunscreen & sunglasses HatWater Snacks and/or picnic food (remember to pack up leftovers/don’t leave crumbs) First aid kit/medicationsEmergency roadside assistance kitSwimsuit and water shoes if interested in swimming in Diablo Lake (it’s very cold – even in the summer)
What should I budget for the North Cascades National Park Tour?
Most stops do not have an entrance fee, however, there are a few hikes in the national forest that require a National Forest Recreation Pass at $5 per vehicle. You can purchase an ePASS here or at a kiosk at the trailhead. Those include Rainy Pass (Rainy Lake and Maple Pass Trails), Blue Lake Trail, and Cutthroat Lake Trail. If you’re not planning on hiking these trails, you do not need this pass. There are also optional Diablo Lake boat tours that you can take for an additional cost. These sell out quickly, so advance reservations are highly recommended. Check out our KNOW BEFORE YOU GO article for more information.
What are the park hours for the North Cascades National Park Tour?
The park and its facilities are open seasonally, depending on the weather. Visit the NPS’s website before you go. Please note that North Cascades Highway is typically open from mid-April or May through late fall (depending on the snowfall). Most snow is off of the trails by July and the golden larches put on their fall colors sometime in late September through early October. The highway, park facilities, and trails close for the winter due to heavy snow.
Can I join the North Cascades National Park Tour en route?
Yes! The tour has two starting points: east of Rockport, WA, and east of Mazama, WA - depending if you’re taking the eastward or westward route. Just make sure that you follow the numbers in chronological order from where you are starting. If you don’t begin at one of the tour starting points you’ll miss a few stories, but you’ll still have a great experience.
Can I take the North Cascades National Park Tour in the opposite direction?
Yes, this tour is available in two directions - east to west and west to east. 
Other Questions? Contact us!
Still have questions? Send us an email at aloha@shakaguide.com or give us a call at (808) 201-8138.

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