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North Cascades National Park
Washington~2.5 hr from SeattleBest: June–October
Jagged peaks and remote valleys earn the North Cascades its nickname, the American Alps. High-clearance 4x4 recommended.

Photo: Bob Collowan / Wikimedia Commons
Don't miss
- Diablo Lake Overlook
The famous turquoise-water view right off Highway 20.
- Maple Pass Loop
One of the best day hikes in Washington, especially for fall larches.
- Washington Pass Overlook
Towering granite spires of Liberty Bell Mountain.
- Gorge Creek Falls
A quick suspension-bridge overlook walk.
Trail notes
- •WA-20 (North Cascades Highway) closes every winter for snow, typically reopening in May.
- •No entrance fee is required along the main highway corridor.
- •Plenty of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest roads nearby for remote, off-grid camping.
- •Cell coverage drops completely east of Marblemount — download offline maps in advance.
Drive from SeaTac, WA
Pickup starts in SeaTac, WA — here's the route to North Cascades.
