North Cascades Getaways

The North Cascades' pristine lowland valleys, craggy peaks, clear cold rivers and streams and sparkling alpine lakes make this landscape a perfect recreational getaway. Whether you want to picnic, camp, hike, climb or admire nature from the comfort of a mountain lodge, let us help you find how you can let your feet take you to where your mind can soar!

Cow Heaven

You won’t find any actual cows on this steep and rewarding hike, but you will be able to feast your eyes on snowy North Cascades peaks, alpine meadows, thick forest, and awesome waterfalls.

 The trail (number 763) starts low in a valley bottom and gains 4000 feel in approximately five miles, but don’t let that scare you away from this lovely hike. There is plenty to see whether you hike partway or continue all the way to the Helen Buttes. Also, the trail is relatively smooth and easy to follow.

Blue Lake

Steph enjoying Blue Lake with her dogs

With a beautiful lake, fall foliage and mountain views, Blue Lake is the perfect hike to take while this lovely autumn weather lasts.

The hike is relatively short (4.4 miles roundtrip) and is great for kids. You may encounter groups of climbers – several trails branch off the main to lead climbers to Liberty Bell, Early Winter Spires and Cutthroat Peak.

From the trailhead, you will start off into dense forest but switchbacks will quickly whisk you away from highway noise and up to beautiful views after only a mile. The views get even better, so don’t stop yet!

Esmeralda Basin

Castilleja

A popular hike throughout the summer, Esmeralda Basin features both dramatic views and gorgeous wildflowers – it’s not hard to see why people love it.

Diablo Lake

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diablo_Lake.JPG

It may not be a natural lake but visitors will agree that Diablo Lake certainly is a beautiful one. Fed by glacial melt and glistening a stunning turquoise in the right light, the lake reflects a multitude of tall peaks.

Thunder Creek

Heavy snowpack and cool spring weather shouldn’t keep you from hiking the North Cascades this month. Thunder Creek’s low elevation trail is perfect for taking in some spectacular North Cascades scenery – old growth forest, rushing creek and peek-a-boo views of ice-covered peaks. Also keep your eye out for woodland flowers, osprey, woodpeckers, owls and deer.

The North Cascades