Welcome to the North Cascades Self Guided Audio Tour
Explore the breathtaking North Cascades with this self-guided driving tour. This drive through Washington’s mountains includes snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, but that’s not all. There’s a whole lot of history in these parts too, from Native tribes and early logging communities to helicopter-skiing daredevils and beyond. Take one of the nation’s most scenic drives and get a whole lot of fascinating stories and travel tips as you drive!
This is not a ticket for attractions along the route. Check hours before visiting.
About the Tour
Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!
Your journey begins in Sedro-Woolley, Darrington, or Winthrop, whichever is most convenient for you. Along this incredible drive, you’ll cruise through lush forests and past incredible views of the Skagit River in places like Rasar State Park. Make a pit stop at the historic town of Concrete or just keep driving toward the snowy peaks looming in the distance. This is Sasquatch country, after all!
Follow the Skagit River into the North Cascades National Park itself, where jagged mountains reach for the skies. In the national park, you’ll uncover the stories of the land’s dramatic formation and the people who set out to protect this precious place for future generations.
Stop at Diablo Dam and Diablo Lake for picture-perfect views of turquoise waters. At Ross Lake, learn about the region’s glaciers and their lasting impact.
From there, explore the Easy Pass Trail and Blue Lake Trail for a chance to stretch your legs and experience the wilderness up close. Washington Pass Observation Site offers panoramic views of the Cascades, while Kangaroo Ridge makes for one incredible photo op.
Discover Okanogan County’s rich history and culture and follow the Methow River through the charming town of Mazama. Plus, hear ancient Native myths, like the story of how humans learned how to make fire.
This tour is packed with incredible sights and stories, so you’ll definitely want to spend a whole day exploring.
A heads-up: The North Cascades might seem like a peaceful escape, but they are anything but tame. From the towering peaks to the raging rivers, every twist in the road brings you closer to nature’s untamed wilderness.
Download the North Cascades National Park Trip Planner for more details on how to reach the park, must-see stops, best places to stay, when to visit, activities to do, packing tips, and more!
Note: For all road closure updates and more, please visit the National Park Service website.
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North Cascades National Park Trail Map
Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: 24260 Moore St Or 27 State Rte 20
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The park is located in northern Washington State, along the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20), approximately 3 hours northeast of Seattle.
The park is open year-round, but access to certain areas, especially along the North Cascades Highway (SR 20), is limited in winter due to snow. The highway is typically closed between Ross Dam Trailhead and Lone Fir Campground from November to April or May.
The best time to visit for hiking and general access is typically from mid-June to late September, when the weather is milder, and most trails are snow-free.
Fall (late September to early October) offers beautiful fall colors, especially the golden larches.
The North Cascades is an amazingly rugged mountain landscape. As the mixing ground of many habitats, it is one of the most ecologically diverse national park areas in the United States. Hiking, mountaineering, sightseeing, and camping are popular add-ons to your self-guided road trip.
Pets are allowed in the Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas and on the Pacific Crest Trail within the park complex, but they have restrictions. They are generally not allowed on trails within the national park itself or in the Stehekin Valley. Service animals are permitted in most areas. Check the park’s pet regulations for specific details.
Campsite occupancy is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles per site. Camping is limited to 14 days from July 1 through Labor Day and to 30 days the rest of the year.
The National Park Service website has detailed information about day hiking and backpacking trails, including descriptions, distances, elevation gains, and difficulty levels. You can also find trail guides at visitor centers.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
