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Steep mountains coupled with an amazing variety of rock and water features contribute to the region's tremendous biodiversity. The mountains rise steeply to 9,206ft (2,806m) at Goode Mountain and fall to valley floors as low as 400ft (122m) along the Skagit River at the Complex’s west boundary. From the park's glaciers and over 300 lakes and ponds, flow thousands of miles of rivers and streams. Several major watersheds flow from the North Cascades including those of the Skagit, Stehekin and Nooksack rivers. The Skagit River and its tributary streams comprise the largest watershed draining into Puget Sound. Variation in elevation, soil types, rainfall and exposure combine to form eight distinctive life zones from the lowland forests and wetlands to the alpine peaks and glaciers.
Forests
Abundant rain and mild winters provide the perfect environment for trees in the Pacific Northwest to grow very large and old. 
Geologic Formations
The North Cascades are still rising, shifting and forming. 
Glaciers
Boasting over 300 glaciers and countless snowfields, the park is one of the snowiest places on earth. 
Lakes and Ponds
The abundance and diversity of aquatic habitats in the North Cascades ecosystem is one of the characteristics that makes this area unique. 
Rivers and Streams
Major rivers continually shape the landscape on all sides of the Cascade Crest. 
Wetlands, Marshes, and Swamps
Amidst the peaks, forests, and rivers for which the park is renowned wetlands, marshes, and swamps may be the last thing people think about. |
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Last updated: July 24, 2024