North Cascades · September
North Cascades in September
September is a busy time to visit North Cascades — quieter than August, busier than October.
Expect heavy crowds (7/10), highs near 71°F, about 12.6 hours of daylight, and 3 seasonal closures in effect.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Approaching peak season — expect full lots by mid-morning and busy overlooks.
About 61% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 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
Visitation
Typical September visits vs. the year
September draws about 21% of North Cascades’s yearly visitors.
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
September weather
- Avg high
- 71°F
- Avg low
- 49°F
- Precipitation
- 3.4"
- Sunrise
- 5:42 AM
- Sunset
- 6:16 PM
- Daylight
- 12.6h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, DIABLO DAM, WA US
What's open
North Cascades in September: access
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.
Seasonal closures may apply:
- 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
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
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 → - 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 →
Source: NPS Data API
Context
North Cascades crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in September
FAQ
North Cascades in September
How busy is North Cascades in September?
September rates 7/10 for crowds (Busy) at North Cascades National Park — about 61% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 7,218.
What is the weather like at North Cascades in September?
In September, North Cascades averages a high of 71°F and a low of 49°F, with about 3.4 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit North Cascades?
Entry to North Cascades is free.
When is North Cascades least crowded?
North Cascades is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
How many hours of daylight does North Cascades get in September?
In mid-September, North Cascades gets about 12.6 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 5:42 AM and sunset around 6:16 PM.