North Cascades Highway
North Cascades Highway
4.5
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A scenic highway measuring 132 miles.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
329 reviews
Excellent
257
Very good
60
Average
10
Poor
1
Terrible
1
dfb260
Staunton, VA352 contributions
Sep. 2022
Great drive through one of the more remote areas of the lower 48.
Nice views, many trails, campgrounds, etc.
Nice views, many trails, campgrounds, etc.
Written September 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
David B
11 contributions
Aug. 2022 • Couples
Every National Park has its own distinct features-and North Cascades NP has its very own!
From the many glaciers high above, trickling down into the nearby valleys, the glacier green waters fill every creek, brook, river and lakes. The gorgeous Skagit River, especially, leads you all the way from Burlington to the National Park.
Hiking through the many trails provided ample viewing of waterways and woodlands. You will never forget the color of the water!!!
From the many glaciers high above, trickling down into the nearby valleys, the glacier green waters fill every creek, brook, river and lakes. The gorgeous Skagit River, especially, leads you all the way from Burlington to the National Park.
Hiking through the many trails provided ample viewing of waterways and woodlands. You will never forget the color of the water!!!
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sathwick_rao
San Francisco, CA37 contributions
Oct. 2021
We drove during the Fall of 2021 and the drive is amazing. With fall colors, vibrant colors, multiple lakes, and hikes all the way through, this is a must-drive stretch if you are visiting Cascades park. You don't need a map with spots marked to stop by, instead, just play by the ear and stop where you feel nice, relax, unwind and continue....
Keep full day if you plan to just drive with small stops and minor hikes.
Keep full day if you plan to just drive with small stops and minor hikes.
Written October 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
luckyv
Coldwater, OH114 contributions
Sep. 2021
This could be a hidden gem in the National Park System and is great for travelers who enjoy the views from a car or walk instead of strenuous hikes.
Unfortunately due to Covid, the visitor centers were not open, but the drive to Ross Lake is beautiful. There is a hiking trail at that destination, which was longer and more difficult than we could attempt. The view is great, but be sure to stop at Diablo Lake as another reviewer suggests. The blue-green of the lake is gorgeous and almost unbelievable. This glacier fed lake is reminiscent of those of Banff National Park in British Columbia. It's about a two hour drive from Burlington, but is definitely worth the time.
Unfortunately due to Covid, the visitor centers were not open, but the drive to Ross Lake is beautiful. There is a hiking trail at that destination, which was longer and more difficult than we could attempt. The view is great, but be sure to stop at Diablo Lake as another reviewer suggests. The blue-green of the lake is gorgeous and almost unbelievable. This glacier fed lake is reminiscent of those of Banff National Park in British Columbia. It's about a two hour drive from Burlington, but is definitely worth the time.
Written October 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BAR
Bellingham, WA2 contributions
Aug. 2021
If there are 7 wonders of the world, then Diablo Lake and the North Cascades should be included. If not, then there should be an 8th wonder! No words can fully justify the beauty this part of the world offers us. It's absolutely spectacular and it must be seen, enjoyed and RESPECTED so future generations can come to enjoy it also. Plan to stay at one of the campgrounds.
Written August 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Steve C
Toledo, WA1,312 contributions
Jun. 2021
Don't come here.
Its not an AMAZING alpine masterpiece of nature.
Its not Washington's version of the Going to the sun road.
I mean, its free, how great can it be?
We hated it SO much we drove back from Leavenworth to be able to experience it from the reverse.
Just stay away. it really sucks.
On a VERY serious side note, when driving through Oso on the way out here, one should pause for a moment to remember....if you remember.
Or don't.
Its not an AMAZING alpine masterpiece of nature.
Its not Washington's version of the Going to the sun road.
I mean, its free, how great can it be?
We hated it SO much we drove back from Leavenworth to be able to experience it from the reverse.
Just stay away. it really sucks.
On a VERY serious side note, when driving through Oso on the way out here, one should pause for a moment to remember....if you remember.
Or don't.
Written August 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
PandaHouston
Houston, TX6,209 contributions
Aug. 2021
You will find a few overlooks and trails along the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20). At the time of our visit, 8/10 and 8/11, the wildfires closed down part of Route 20. We were initially going to stay in Winthrop but had to cancel because of the closure. We had to stay in Bellingham instead.
However, when we did visit on those days, our views were not impacted by the wildfires.
Our favorite hike in the area was Blue Lake and Diablo Lake Vista Point / Overlook is a must see. The Washington Pass Observation Site was also really nice.
However, when we did visit on those days, our views were not impacted by the wildfires.
Our favorite hike in the area was Blue Lake and Diablo Lake Vista Point / Overlook is a must see. The Washington Pass Observation Site was also really nice.
Written August 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bill K
Mantorville, MN6,313 contributions
Jul. 2021
This is a beautiful scenic drive that bisects the park and offers multiple opportunities to hike, pull off for gorgeous views, and experience waterfalls and other natural wonders.
Written July 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Geminican
San Jose, CA2,065 contributions
Jul. 2021
This national park is relative smaller in size compare to some national parks.
Approximately two hours from Seattle, with good road conditions.
While it has some nice views but I was unimpressed by it.
There are many other places that are NOT national parks with nice views, just as good as that of North Cascades National Park.
The scenic byway "North Cascades Highway" has many cell towers along the way which somehow destroy the wonderful natural views.
It's a great place for Washington residents to visit on weekends. I would visit Olympics National Park or Mt. Rainier National Park first before this one.
Approximately two hours from Seattle, with good road conditions.
While it has some nice views but I was unimpressed by it.
There are many other places that are NOT national parks with nice views, just as good as that of North Cascades National Park.
The scenic byway "North Cascades Highway" has many cell towers along the way which somehow destroy the wonderful natural views.
It's a great place for Washington residents to visit on weekends. I would visit Olympics National Park or Mt. Rainier National Park first before this one.
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jkweebs
Omaha, NE538 contributions
Jun. 2021
We started from the west entrance (great National Park sign by the way) and drove all the way to Winthrop. This is a must do from the great views to the quick stops to see waterfalls along the way. Definitely worth the time to do and take the extra time to stop and see some sites. You will not be disappointed.
Written July 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We are trying to decide which route to take that is faster but safe. We are on I5 just south of Portland. We are heading to Osoyoos, Canada. We are pulling a 20ft trailer, we are elderly, sick and tired :)
David B
11 contributions
Not really familiar with the roads...
Pulling a trailer, likely wiser to pick biggest roads possible!
momof22015
Boca Raton, FL6 contributions
I’m trying to plan out a Washington state vacation for August 2023 and would like to include 2 nights to drive the N. Cascades Scenic highway starting in Sedro-Woolley or thereabouts(we would be driving to that location from Port Angeles.)
What I’d like advice on is whether we could start at Sedro-Woolley and make it to Leavenworth in one Day if we stop at all lookouts or the main ones. I don’t think we’ll need to hike as we’ll have done some before getting there. Also if we do do this drive to Leavenworth with lookout stops, how long would you estimate that would take us?
Thank you.
pjarris
Springfield, VA5 contributions
Does anyone know how steep the grade actually is over route 20? As in % grade?
moezoe6137
Saint Louis, MO
My husband and I are planning a road trip from Everett WA to Montana in July 2021. Would love to take the North Cascade Highway 20, however, we will be pulling a 35 foot RV trailer. Has anyone pulled an RV on this Pass? Is it too big a rig to pull going this way in the mountains? Thanks for your info.
HTerry711
Orondo, WA
I have a 36ft 5th Wheel and wondering about the road and tunnel heights between Newhalem and Diablo
ThreeMares
Winthrop, WA8 contributions
RV’s of all types and sizes travel route 20. The tunnels are rounded but I’ve seen large trucks go through them.
Ryan H
Vancouver, Canada2 contributions
What was the weather like? Was there any snow? I'm hoping to go through there Columbus Day weekend (Oct 11-14) but haven't put winter tires on the car yet. Any info would be really helpful. Thanks!
Would you consider it safe to travel this road late in December ?? We are from Australia and not used to travelling in icy, or snow conditions.
F4981JCmichaels
Vancouver, WA1,904 contributions
Highway 20 is currently closed. They close it between late November and through December due to avalanches. Updates on road conditions for any Washington state roads can be found on their website. TripAdvisor does not allow links, so type "Washington department of transportation" into the Google search bar. When the site comes up, click on road conditions and any other pertinent links.
Many *mountain* roads in Washington may at any time be temporarily closed. It's best to check in advance. If they are closed, they will be blocked, so you won't be able to continue. Sometimes the reason is excessive snow, sometimes ice, sometimes both. Most freeways are always accessible.
It is highly advisable to carry tire chains with you if you go on mountain roads in winter. Sometimes it's required, but either way, if the road is icy it is just smart to put them on. Occasionally, there will be people at pullouts for this who will put them on for a small fee. On cleared freeways, you usually don't need them. They can be obtained at most auto parts stores, as well as major big stores, such as Walmart, Target, Home Depot, so on. So, if your vacation plans include skiing, get chains. You will need them.
I strongly suggest that since you are not accustomed to icy and snow covered roads, that you stick to the main roads and not travel on less traveled highways. If you slide off the road, you are less likely to be found quickly, and it is not a good idea to try to walk out. Carry kitty litter, candles, matches, warm clothes, energy bars, and water with you if you are anywhere off the beaten path. The kitty litter is used to put under your tires for traction should you get stuck. The candles you light in the car with the windows cracked just a little, to keep the car (barely) above freezing. That way, although you won't be comfortable, you won't freeze to death either should the car not run. Always travel with a full tank of gas when you start out. That way you can run the engine from time to time to keep warm in an emergency situation.
I lived in Minnesota in my younger years. These precautions were for all winter!
This info isn't intended to scare you. Just to keep you safe.
If you get on a snowy road, lightly press the brake at a slow speed to determine the road conditions. If the road is icy, your slow speed will allow you to adjust and stay on the road and you will know what to expect.
I hope this helps!
Muchohucho
Palmer, AK18 contributions
I don't think Ruby falls is on the Cascades highway
F4981JCmichaels
Vancouver, WA1,904 contributions
I'm not sure which reviewer might have said there is a Ruby Falls along highway 20. I double checked my reviews of the area, and I did not mention such.
But, there is a Ruby Trail and a Ruby Mountain in that area.
There is a Ruby Falls in Mount Rainier National Park, but that is not in the North Cascades region.
Of course, probably the most famous Ruby Falls, is in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in a cave. We saw it decades ago and it was worth the stop.
vacationdiva
Chillicothe, IL194 contributions
We have last minute plans Oct6-13. Planning to drive from Seattle to Mt Baker, as far as we can, then across the Cascades. Trying to decide if we sould head south to Rainer, or turn around and go rt 5 down? Have I planned rjis too late in the year? I know somethings will be closed, but really like the idea of less people.
Ed N
Delta, Canada1,856 contributions
Highway 20 is a beautiful drive with fewer vehicles on it. When the higher elevations do get snow, a certain section is closed off over winter. Your time window for your trip should still work. Check the weather forecasts for that time. I do not know who you would contact to get the final confirmation on any road closures.
Lawrence D
Kenmore, WA170 contributions
I have heard that it is better to travel East to West on this highway,. or does it not make a difference?
F4981JCmichaels
Vancouver, WA1,904 contributions
The national park visitor center in Newhalem is closer to the west end, next to the dam and tourist things associated with it. If the dam and park visitor centers are of utmost importance, then west to east might be better. We went east to west only to avoid traffic on I-5. We live in Vancouver, WA, so it was better for us to drive up from the east and go down I-5 at night when traffic was less. The best scenery from the road is on the eastern end. If you hike, then of course the national park would be the attraction, and that's more on the western end. Since you list Bellevue as your address, you should have plenty of time to take it all in west to east. If you have never been on highway 2, you could also do a loop west to east on 20 and east to west on 2. We drove one time on 2 east to west. Highway 20 is more rugged and has fewer towns/amenities than 2. Hope this helps.
NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY (North Cascades National Park) - 2023 What to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about North Cascades Highway
- Attractions near North Cascades Highway:
- (2.18 km) Colonial Creek Campground - Stehekin Valley Trail
- (5.19 km) Ross Lake National Recreation Area
- (12.98 km) North Cascades Visitor Center
- (11.03 km) Ladder Creek Falls
- (11.11 km) Newhalem Visitor Center