810 State Route 20 Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 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. 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. Entrance Fee-free This site is fee-free year-round. No entrance fee or pass is required. Parking/Transportation Parking, shuttle, or other transportation-related fees may apply. North Cascades Visitor CenterLocation: Across the Skagit River from the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) near milepost 120 and the town of Newhalem. Adjacent to Newhalem Creek Campground. Golden West Visitor CenterVisitor Center located short walk from the passenger ferry landing at Stehekin Landing inside what was the historic Golden West Lodge. Exhibits: Relief map and natural and cultural history of the area. Arts & Humanities of Stehekin operates the Golden West Gallery, featuring local art and crafts. Facilities: Information desk, bookstore. Audiovisual program. Summer ranger programs offered. Forest Info Center with HQ Administration BuildingThe North Cascades National Park Service Complex Headquarters (Administrative Offices) is five miles east of I-5 in Burlington and 46 miles west of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex boundary. Wilderness Information CenterThe Wilderness Information Center is the main backcountry permit office for North Cascades National Park and the adjacent Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. Backcountry permits are required for overnights in the park year-round and are available at an outdoor self-issue station when the center is closed during the winter season. Information desk. Sales area with books, maps, videos, and other items related to the national park and adjacent national forests. Public WiFi is not available.
There is no wifi in the park complex. Cellular data service is minimal and typically only available around the town of Newhalem. Some carriers may transmit service better than others. Due to minimal cellular availability, public phones are located in Diablo, in Newhalem at the Skagit Information Center, or inside the North Cascades Visitor Center (calling cards only). North Cascades National Park Complex offers excellent opportunities for adventure, exploration, learning, and just plain having fun! Start planning your visit by using the links below to learn about the park. Also, remember the key to a great visit is staying safe.
Operating Hours and Seasons Many of the facilities in the park are only open in the summer, while others stay open year-round. Fees and Passes Information about backcountry permits and Commercial Use Authorization permits.
Current Conditions Updates about park notices, temporary closures, and other advisories. Weather Weather conditions can change rapidly around the mountain. Check weather conditions to ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable.
Pets Pets are allowed in certain areas of the park and must be on leashes at all times. Learn about the regulations regarding pets
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Last updated: July 12, 2024