North Cascades National Park
Today’s Forecast:
Today’s Report:
Hiking
Use Caution for hiking. High near 60°F. Low rain risk (23%). Breezy winds (22 mph).
- Temp: Favorable conditions
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Camping
Use Caution for camping. High near 60°F. Low rain risk (23%). Breezy winds (22 mph).
- Temp: Favorable conditions
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Outdoor Events / Activities
Use Caution for outdoor events / activities. High near 60°F. Risk of rain later today (23%). Breezy winds (22 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Marginal weather factor
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
About North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is a Washington destination for rugged park interior, Cascade Pass approaches, remote camping, glaciated peaks, and Highway 20 access.
Make the Most of a North Cascades National Park Day
Check seasonal roads, trailheads, smoke, snow, and backcountry notices. Distances and limited services make conservative turnarounds especially important.
Weather Tips for North Cascades National Park
- Compare valley and high-elevation forecasts because snow, wind, clouds, smoke, and temperature can change sharply with elevation.
- If thunder is possible, finish exposed viewpoints, ridges, golf, or event grounds early and keep substantial shelter close.
- Check overnight lows, wet ground, fire rules, drainage, and the nearest substantial shelter before settling into camp.
- Summer smoke, winter access, shoulder-season closures, and shorter fall daylight can matter even during an otherwise mild forecast.
Nearby Towns and Areas
This page can also be useful when planning outdoor time near:
- Newhalem
- Marblemount
- Cascade Pass
- Ross Lake National Recreation Area
- Stehekin Valley
- Skagit River
- Washington Pass
Plan Around the Conditions
Use the forecast to choose the best version of a North Cascades National Park day. Match wind, precipitation, smoke, water conditions, trail surfaces, road access, temperature, and daylight to the activity that gives your group the safest and most comfortable plan.
7-Day Forecast for North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park Weather by Season
Winter
Winter at North Cascades National Park brings mountain snow, ice, short daylight, and changing road or trailhead access. Higher routes may close while lower valleys remain rainy, so check current transportation notices.
Spring
Spring around North Cascades National Park brings changing conditions, rising rivers, wet trails, and lingering mountain snow. Give muddy natural surfaces time to drain and avoid widening trails. Mountain and eastern thunderstorms become increasingly possible later in the season.
Summer
Summer at North Cascades National Park is usually the driest and most dependable season, but wildfire smoke, fire restrictions, heat, and afternoon thunderstorms can interrupt plans. Start exposed routes early and carry enough water. Dry vegetation makes local fire rules especially important.
Fall
Fall at North Cascades National Park brings cooler temperatures, shorter daylight, changing color, and the return of wetter weather west of the Cascades. Early snow or ice may reach upper roads before lower elevations. Check seasonal facility hours and allow extra time on busy event or salmon-viewing weekends.
Key Climate Data Points
- Annual average temperature: generally around the upper 30s to mid-40s depending on elevation, using the relevant local or regional elevation context.
- Annual snowfall: commonly 150–400 inches in favored high terrain, with substantial year-to-year and elevation variation.
- Warmest months: July and August are normally warmest.
- Coolest months: December through February are typically coolest.
- Wettest season: November through January by total precipitation.
- Driest season: July and August.
- Best outdoor window: July through September for the broadest high-country access.