Backcountry Camping

Three backpackers hike through a meadow with mountains in the distance.

Backpacking

There are countless backcountry routes and possibilities in this wild land. To help plan your trip, consider these questions: How many days in the backcountry are you planning? How many miles and how much elevation gain would you like to hike each day? What type of terrain do you most want to see? Consider the physical condition and experience level of all in your group.  Permits are required year round for all overnight stays in the backcountry of North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Visit the Wilderness Information Center to obtain permits for all areas of the park. Wilderness rangers are available to provide firsthand trip planning advice for all wilderness and backcountry areas of the park, including Ross Lake and climbing areas. You'll also find current trail and camp conditions, maps, and more to assist with your trip planning. View the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/wilderness-trip-planner.htm">Wilderness Trip Planner</a>.

Leashed dogs are allowed only in Ross Lake National Recreation Area and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area.

Backcountry permits are required for any overnight stay in the backcounty of the park complex.

Low elevation trails are most visited between April and October, with the driest weather from mid-June to September. Visitation to the highcountry (above 5,000 feet/ 1524 m) is greatest after the snows melt, generally from July through early October. The best snow mountaineering conditions are often June and July. The park is open year round, but heavy winter precipitation limits road access and increases backcountry hazards between November and March.

Backcountry camping in the North Cascades can be an exciting adventure for prepared hikers.

Plan a Backcountry Trip

Trails

Fishing

Fishing is popular in the lakes and rivers of the North Cascades.

Washington State fishing license required.

Two men sit fishing in chairs on a wooden pier

Fishing from Colonial Creek

North Cascades National Park Service Complex has many options for the aspiring or experienced angler. Fish abound in dozens of lake and rivers in the park. The Skagit River, one of Washington's major watersheds, is home to seven species of anadromous fish (five salmon species, steelhead, and cutthroat trout) and freshwater trout and char. North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area allow fishing as a means of providing for public enjoyment, and customary and traditional use, and regulate fishing to ensure that it is managed in a manner that avoids unacceptable impacts to park resources. For more information on how fishing regulations work in national parks, go to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fishing/how-regulations-work.htm">NPS Fish and Fishing</a> website. <h4>Common fish species in the park complex:</h4> <ul> <li> Gorge, Diablo, and Ross Lakes: Rainbow trout, eastern brook trout, cutthroat trout </li> <li> Skagit River: Steelhead, coastal cutthroat trout, golden trout, eastern brook trout </li> <li> Lake Chelan: Burbot (fresh-water cod), golden trout, lake trout, west slope cutthroat trout, kokanee (land-locked salmon), largemouth bass, smallmouth bass </li> <li> Stehekin River: Cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, kokanee (land-locked salmon) </li> </ul> <h4>Licenses</h4> Visitors fishing within North Cascades National Park Service Complex must follow the fishing license requirements in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State of Washington. Fishing licenses are not sold at any visitor or information station in the park complex, and you must obtain a license before visiting. Visit Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife for information on <a href="https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/#/login">Washington state fishing licenses</a>.  <h4>Fishing Regulations</h4> Except as provided below, fishing shall be in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State of Washington (<a href="https://ecfr.io/Title-36/pt36.1.2#se36.1.2_13">36CFR2.3</a>). For state fishing regulations go to the <a href="https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations">Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife</a> website. The fishing regulations apply to all “finfish” found in the park. Other taxa, including amphibians, mollusks and crustaceans (e.g. waterdogs, crayfish) are not considered “fish” for the purpose of NPS fishing regulations and are addressed by NPS regulations governing “wild life” (<a href="https://ecfr.io/Title-36/pt36.1.2#se36.1.2_13">36CFR2.2</a>). These fishing regulations apply, regardless of land ownership, on all lands and waters within the park that are under the legislative jurisdiction of the United States. The following are prohibited: <ul> <li>Fishing in fresh waters in any manner other than by hook and line, with the rod or line being closely attended.</li> <li>Possessing or using as bait for fishing in freshwaters, live or dead minnows or other bait fish, amphibians, non-preserved fish eggs or fish roe, except in designated waters.</li> <li>Chumming or placing preserved or fresh fish eggs, fish roe, food, fish parts, chemicals, or other foreign substances in fresh waters for the purpose of feeding or attracting fish in order that they may be taken.</li> <li>Commercial fishing, except where specifically authorized by Federal statutory law.</li> <li>Fishing by the use of drugs, poisons, explosives, or electricity.</li> <li>Digging for bait, except in privately owned lands.</li> <li>Failing to return carefully and immediately to the water from which it was taken a fish that does not meet size or species restrictions or that the person chooses not to keep. Fish so released shall not be included in the catch or possession limit: Provided, that at the time of catching the person did not possess the legal limit of fish.</li> <li> Fishing from motor road bridges, from or within 200 feet of a public raft or float designated for water sports, or within the limits of locations designated as swimming beaches, surfing areas, or public boat docks, except in designated areas. </li> <li> Introducing wildlife, fish or plants, including their reproductive bodies, into a park area ecosystem. This includes the discarding and/or dumping of bait and bait buckets. </li> <li> The use or possession of fish, wildlife or plants for ceremonial or religious purposes, except where specifically authorized by Federal statutory law, or treaty rights.   </li> </ul> The following regulations apply only within North Cascades National Park Service Complex: <ul> <li> The use of nonpreserved fish eggs is permitted, as per 36 CFR 7.66. </li> <li> Ruby Creek is closed to fishing from “No Fishing” markers on Ross Lake upstream to the headwaters. </li> <li>Big Beaver is closed to fishing from “No Fishing” markers on Ross Lake upstream 1/4 mile.</li> <li> Fishing is allowed in or from the following otherwise prohibited areas: <ul> <li> Motor road bridges: Stehekin Valley motor road bridges unless posted signs prohibit such activity. </li> <li> Public boat dock: Fishing is permitted unless posted signs prohibit such activity </li> </ul> </li> </ul>

Fishing is popular in many lakes and rivers of the North Cascades.

Fishing in the North Cascades

Fish

Lakes

River and Riparian

Hiking

Two hikers walk along a trail with mountains in the distance.

Hiking in the North Cascades

North Cascades National Park Service Complex preserves some of the finest mountain country in North America. From accessible and short, scenic strolls to steep mountain hikes, there is a trail here for everyone. Enjoy the solitude, peace, and challenge that hiking in this beautiful park offers.  The most common hiking season stretches from April through October. The driest and most popular time to visit is during the summer months of mid-June through September. Higher elevation trails often remain snow-covered well into July and sometimes August. Precipitation and snowfall are greatest from November through March.  The key to a successful trip is to plan ahead and be prepared. Check out the park complex's trail guides and other<a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/hiking.htm"> trip planning tools</a>.  <ul> </ul>

Dogs and other pets are not allowed within the national park except on a leash on the Pacific Crest Trail, and within 50 feet of roads. Service animals are allowed for those with disabilities. Pets are allowed on a leash within the Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas.

The park's winters are wet, and snowfall is heavy. Access is often limited during these winter months by impassable or closed roads, so be sure to check <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/current-conditions.htm">current conditions</a>.

Hike the North Cascades to experience some of the finest mountain country in North America.

Day Hiking in North Cascades

Boating

Boating in the North Cascades includes the chance to go kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, rafting, and motorboating.

Two silver canoes loaded with camping gear sit on the shore of a lake.

Canoes at Colonial Creek

Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on Gorge, Diablo, and Ross lakes, and on Lake Chelan. Ramps and launches are located at Gorge Lake, Diablo Lake, the north end of Ross Lake at Hozomeen, and Lake Chelan. There is not a boat launch on the south end of Ross Lake, and Ross Lake is not accessible by car from State Route 20. <h2>Boat Rentals</h2> There are no boat rental options for either Diablo or Gorge Lakes.The <a href="http://www.rosslakeresort.com">Ross Lake Resort</a> rents motorboats, kayaks, canoes, and other equipment for Ross Lake, as well as offering a water taxi service. Limited paddle craft rentals are available at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/stehekin.htm">Stehekin</a> on Lake Chelan. <h3>Boat-in Camping</h3> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/boat-in-camping.htm">Boat-in camping</a> is available on Ross and Diablo lakes, and Lake Chelan. Please note that boat-in camping on Ross Lake and Diablo Lake requires a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/permits.htm">backcountry permit</a> issued from the Wilderness Information Center. Boat-in camping on Lake Chelan requires a federal dock permit if you plan on using the dock.  <h2>Portage Notice for Ross and Diablo Lake Boaters</h2> There is no boat launch on the south end of Ross Lake. Boats must be portaged between Diablo and Ross Lakes. For boaters approaching from Diablo Lake: Use the portage dock for all canoe and kayak portage activities. Do not use the ferry dock. The portage is 1.2 miles over a gravel road, with an elevation gain of 525 feet, elevation loss of 100 feet. The Ross Dam Trail (milepost 134 off State Route 20) could also be used as a portage route to Ross Lake if needed. This is a rocky, switchbacking trail that descends one mile and 900 feet to reach the lake. <a href="http://rosslakeresort.com/">Ross Lake Resort</a> offers a portage service. It is not possible to portage larger power boats, or any other boat that cannot be carried between Diablo and Ross lakes. A portage phone is installed near the dock for visitors to call and request portage service from Ross Lake Resort. For portage questions or updates regarding portage service call Ross Lake Resort at 206-386-4437.   <h2>Boating Safety</h2> Water temperatures in the park complex seldom reach above 50°F (10°C). Accidental cold-water immersion can be fatal within minutes. Hand powered watercraft overturn frequently and it can be extremely difficult to get to shore or out of the water. Take precautions when recreating on water: <ul> <li>Wear a properly fitting life jacket: it can save your life.</li> <li>Know the weather forecast. Sudden gusty winds and swells are common in the afternoon but can occur at any time.</li> <li>Wear synthetic clothing appropriate for the conditions. Consider air AND water temperature.</li> <li>Have a plan for self-rescue if you fall in the water.</li> </ul>

Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular on the lakes of the North Cascades.

Paddling in the North Cascades

Motorboating is a popular activities on Gorge, Diablo, and Ross lakes, and Lake Chelan.

<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5212293">A federal dock permit</a> is required for docking at public docks along Lake Chelan. Purchase from the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin upon arrival in the park or before your trip.

Motorboats are docked on a large lake with mountains in the background

Boat Dock at Stehekin

Motorboating is a popular activity on Gorge, Diablo, and Ross lakes, and Lake Chelan. Ramps and launches are located at Gorge Lake, Diablo Lake, the north end of Ross Lake at Hozomeen, and Lake Chelan. A federal dock permit is required to dock at any public dock along Lake Chelan. Dock permits may be purchased at the North Cascades Lodge in Stehekin upon arrival at Stehekin Landing or Purple Point. There is not a boat launch on the south end of Ross Lake, and Ross Lake is not accessible by car from State Route 20. It is not possible to portage larger power boats, or any other boat that cannot be carried between Diablo and Ross lakes. Lake levels drop during winter and spring; check conditions before arriving. <h2>Boat Rentals</h2> There are no boat rental options for either Diablo or Gorge Lakes. The <a href="http://www.rosslakeresort.com">Ross Lake Resort</a> rents motorboats, kayaks, canoes, and other equipment for Ross Lake, as well as offering a water taxi service. Limited paddle craft and elctric boat rentals are available at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/stehekin.htm">Stehekin</a> on Lake Chelan. <h3>Boat Camping</h3> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/boat-in-camping.htm">Boat-in camping</a> is available on Ross and Diablo lakes, and Lake Chelan. Please note that boat-in camping on Ross Lake and Diablo Lake requires a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/permits.htm">backcountry permit</a> issued from the Wilderness Information Center. Boat-in camping on Lake Chelan requires a federal dock permit.  <h3>Regulations</h3> <ul> <li> Personal watercraft (Jet Skis, etc.) are not allowed in any part of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. </li> <li> Water sports that involve towing behind a boat, such as waterskiing or tubing, are prohibited in all parts of the park complex. </li> <li> Four stroke engines are required for motorboats on Ross Lake, Diablo Lake, and Gorge Lake. All engines must meet 2006 EPA clean engine requirements. </li> <li> Boating under the influence is illegal and not permitted. Operating a vessel while intoxicated is dangerous, and alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Always have a designated operator. </li> </ul> <h3>Boating Safety</h3> Water temperatures in the park complex seldom reach above 50°F (10°C). Accidental cold-water immersion can be fatal within minutes. Hand powered watercraft overturn frequently and it can be extremely difficult to get to shore or out of the water.Take precaution when recreating on water: <ul> <li> Wear a properly fitting life jacket - it can save your life! </li> <li> Know the weather forecast. Sudden gusty winds and swells are common in the afternoon but can occur at any time. </li> <li> Wear synthetic clothing appropriate for the conditions. Consider air AND water temperature. </li> <li> Have a plan for self-rescue if you fall in the water. </li> </ul>

Motorboating is a popular activity on Gorge, Diablo, and Ross lakes, and Lake Chelan.

Motorboating in the North Cascades

Rafting is most popular on the Skagit River and Stehekin River. Private guiding services are available.

Rafting the Skagit River

The Skagit and Stehekin rivers attract many whitewater enthusiasts for rafting and kayaking, especially during the summer months. The Skagit River is accessible via a boat launch near Goodell Creek Campground at mile post 119 on State Route 20 and the Copper Creek Take-Out near mile post 112. The approximately 9 miles of river between the two access points features class II to class III rapids with few options for taking out and portaging around the whitewater. The Stehekin River is accessible via a boat launch at the Harlequin Campground. The river contains many dangerous logjams and should only be rafted by experienced boaters or with a guide. Find local outfitters on the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/guided-services.htm">Guided Services</a> page to help you plan your trip.  <h2>Boating Safety</h2> Water temperatures in the park complex seldom reach above 50°F (10°C). Accidental cold-water immersion can be fatal within minutes. Hand powered watercraft overturn frequently and it can be extremely difficult to get to shore or out of the water.Take precaution when recreating on water: <ul> <li>Wear a properly fitting life jacket - it can save your life!</li> <li>Know the weather forecast. Sudden gusty winds and swells are common in the afternoon but can occur at any time.</li> <li>Wear synthetic clothing appropriate for the conditions. Consider air AND water temperature.</li> <li>Have a plan for self-rescue if you fall in the water.</li> </ul>

Spring runoff can make for dangerous high water in some areas. Always check the weather forecast before boating.

The Skagit and Stehekin rivers attract many whitewater enthusiasts for rafting and kayaking, especially during the summer months.

Rafting in the North Cascades

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.