Welcome to the North Cascades National Park Tour (Eastbound)
Explore the breathtaking North Cascades with this self-guided driving audio tour. Visit the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake and the serene expanse of Ross Lake. Take in panoramic mountain views at the Washington Pass Observation Site. Discover the tranquil beauty of Rasar State Park. Along the way, uncover stories of glaciers, geology, and the diverse ecosystems that make this region extraordinary!
About the Tour
Your journey begins in Sedro-Woolley, the gateway to the North Cascades. Cruise through Lyman and Rasar State Park, where the lush forest and Skagit River offer incredible views. Sasquatch County adds a touch of local legend to your drive before reaching the serene Rockport State Park.
Follow the Skagit River toward the North Cascades National Park West Entrance, where you’ll uncover the stories of the park’s dramatic terrain and formation. 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 showcases the rugged beauty of the mountains.
Continue to Cutthroat Trailhead, where the surrounding peaks create a stunning backdrop. Discover Okanogan County’s rich history and culture before following the Methow River through the charming town of Mazama. Finally, visit Winthrop, a town steeped in Old West character, to conclude your adventure through the North Cascades.
Throughout the tour, learn about the region’s geology, diverse ecosystems, and fascinating history. From cascading rivers to towering peaks, this drive captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
Note: For all road closure updates and more, please visit the National Park Service website.
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 200+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
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 there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- 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.
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 by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: 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: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
