National Park · WA
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades is quietest in January and February and busiest in July.
Less than three hours from Seattle, an alpine landscape beckons. Discover communities of life adapted to moisture in the west and recurring fire in the east. Explore jagged peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers. Listen to cascading waters in forested valleys. Witness a landscape sensitive to the Earth's changing climate. Help steward the ecological heart of the Cascades.
35K recreation visits a year on average (2023–2025)
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Oct 2026 · alerts checked Oct 18, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Pick a month to visit North Cascades
This week
7-day forecast
| Day | Conditions | High | Low | Precip chance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 18 | Overcast | 49°F | 31°F | 0% |
| Mon 19 | Overcast | 49°F | 41°F | 2% |
| Tue 20 | Overcast | 58°F | 41°F | 1% |
| Wed 21 | Overcast | 61°F | 39°F | 0% |
| Thu 22 | Light drizzle | 51°F | 37°F | 20% |
| Fri 23 | Light drizzle | 41°F | 31°F | 25% |
| Sat 24 | Heavy snow | 41°F | 31°F | 33% |
Forecast data by Open-Meteo
Source: Open-Meteo
Weather
Monthly climate normals
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Precip |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 39°F | 30°F | 12.3" |
| February | 43°F | 30°F | 7.4" |
| March | 49°F | 33°F | 8.2" |
| April | 57°F | 38°F | 4.6" |
| May | 66°F | 44°F | 2.7" |
| June | 70°F | 49°F | 2.3" |
| July | 78°F | 53°F | 1.3" |
| August | 79°F | 54°F | 1.5" |
| September | 71°F | 49°F | 3.4" |
| October | 58°F | 42°F | 8.6" |
| November | 45°F | 35°F | 13.7" |
| December | 38°F | 30°F | 11.6" |
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, DIABLO DAM, WA US
Know before you go
Fees & hours
- Entrance fee
- Free — Free entrance
- Hours
- North Cascades National Park Service Complex is open year-round. The park operational season is late May-late September, with limited services outside the operational season. The North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem is open during the operational season, dates may vary annually.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Caution
Be Aware of Break-ins along State Route 20
Prevent smashed windows and theft. Break-ins are not uncommon at trailheads along State Route 20. Remove your valuables and electronics and take associated electronic cords.
- Caution
Diablo Lake Boat Launch Inaccessible to Powerboats
Due to silt accumulation, the Diablo Lake boat launch at Colonial Creek South Campground is not usable for launching most powerboats. Expect shallow or no water at the launch ramp and the possibility of needing to carry your boat to or from the water.
Details on nps.gov → - Park Closure
Fire Closures - Trail, Area, and Camp Closures
For closures due to fire activity visit the Fire Closures page, including trail, area, and camp closures for current and post fire conditions.
Details on nps.gov → - Park Closure
Hozomeen Gate Remains Closed
Until further notice, the gate at Hozomeen will remain closed; vehicle and foot traffic across the US/Canada border is prohibited. Visitors must enter through a designated port of entry.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Stehekin Flash Flood and Debris Flow Area
The Stehekin area is prone to flooding, which increases in a post-fire environment. Know before you go – visit the Post Fire Safety page for information on what to do in a flash flood and debris flow area
Details on nps.gov → - Information
Stehekin is Open, Services Limited at Stehekin Landing
Visitor and recreational opportunities continue to be available in the Stehekin Valley. Some services are limited at the Stehekin Landing following flood damage in December 2025.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Delays on Cascade River Road Starting October 13
Due to road maintenance there may be delays on Cascade River Roa beyond milepost 20 (Eldorado) three miles before the trailhead beginning October 13.
Source: NPS Data API
FAQ
North Cascades questions
When is the best time to visit North Cascades?
North Cascades is least crowded in January, February, and March. July is the busiest month, so visiting outside it means thinner crowds and easier parking.
How much does it cost to visit North Cascades?
Entry to North Cascades is free.
When is North Cascades busiest?
North Cascades is busiest in July, when crowds rate 10/10 (peak). Expect full parking lots and longer waits; arrive early or choose a quieter month.
How crowded is North Cascades during holidays and fee-free days?
Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July) and official NPS fee-free days typically bring peak crowd conditions to North Cascades. Arrive before 8 AM or after 3 PM to secure parking and avoid peak trail congestion.