Everyone loves to visit national parks and it is even better when you can make a whole trip out of it without even having to open your wallet!
There are a number of national parks that are free to enter but North Cascades National Park takes the cup for being the overall cheapest national park in the country.
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is the cheapest national park to visit. There is no entry fee and there is an abundance of free camping available.
You can find North Cascades National Park less than 3 hours from Seattle. Become immersed in stunning mountain scenery and be entrances by glacial mountain tops. The best that Washington State has to offer is right here in the North Cascades.
There are numerous options for adventuring within North Cascades National Park that make it the perfect destination for the whole family. Hiking, camping and boating at among the most frequented activities in the park.
How Far To North Cascades National Park?
The best way to travel to North Cascades National Park is by car. Public transport is limited and not easily accessible. If you are visiting Seattle your best bet would be to hire a car and make a day trip out to the North Cascades.
By Car
The closest major city to the North Cascades National Park is Seattle, Washington. It will take you around 2 hours to reach the park entrance driving from Seattle.
The closest major city east of North Cascades National Park is Spokane, Washington. From here it will take close to 5 hours to reach the park entrance.
Regardless of which direction you are coming from you will need to travel State Route 20 which is more commonly known as the North Cascades Highway.
During the months of November to April, there is a risk of avalanches along the North Cascades Highway. As such, the Washington State Government maintains a high alert for any potential dangers. It is vital that you are aware of any closures or warnings in place. Before you set out on your trip to the North Cascades check the relevant authorities for any alerts that may have been issued.
By Boat
It is not often that you can sail into a national park but this is one of the many features that make the North Cascades National Park so unique especially when it is the cheapest national park in the country.
There is a public passenger ferry service to the North Cascades that operates out of Chelan and Fields Point, Washington. If you are just after a day trip you are able to park your car for free in the ferry car park. Overnight parking is very reasonable at $11 a night or $66 for the week.
There are 3 different ferry options that vary in price from $25-$49 each way. You can see the full list of prices and times here
If you have your own private boat that you wish to take into the national park you can find all the information that you need here
How Long to Spend in North Cascades National Park?
Overall, you need to spend at least one full day in the North Cascades National Park. It can be a great full-day trip from Seattle if you are able to leave early. Ideally, you should spend 3-4 days in the park to truly be able to enjoy it fully.
If you only have one day to spend in North Cascades National Park opt for doing a couple of the shorter hikes. Rainy Lake, Thunder Knob and Blue Lake are all great hikes that are easily accomplished in a day trip. These hikes can be completed in under….. and don’t require a lot of hiking experience.
Rainy Lake
Rainy Lake is a two-mile, fully paved hiking trail that takes around 40 mins to complete. This trail is accessible for those in wheelchairs or with prams. It is an easy hike for all hiking experience levels.
The stunning clear water lakes and towering mountains make it feel like a different world. It is however a very popular trail and parking can become difficult at busy periods.
There is a simple picnic area and bathroom facilities at the start of the trailhead which is a great addition to this hike.
Thunder Knob
Thunder Knob is a very popular 3-mile hike within the North Cascades National Park. It is moderate in its intensity due to its uphill nature. However, it should be able to be managed by most. The best time to visit this trail is between March and November.
Thunder Knob trail provides spectacular views of lake Diablo as a payoff for the uphill trek. It is worth the effort it takes though. Once you have made it to the end of the trail you return on the same path.
Blue Lake
Blue Lake trail in North Cascades National Park is a 4-mile long return trip. It meanders through the forest emerging at the stunning Blue Lake. The last portion of the hike has a slight elevation but overall it is a fairly easy hike.
Although there is an uphill portion as you near the lake it occurs gradually so you do not notice it as much. The crystal clear glacier water that fills the lake is absolutely stunning and is a great reward after your hike.
The trailhead does have bathrooms but they are limited to pit toilets located near the parking lot.
Free Camping in North Cascades National Park
Not only is the North Cascades National Park free to enter it also has ample free camping. There are a few different options to choose from when visiting ranging from campgrounds to dispersed boat-in camping.
Campgrounds
During the peak seasons, the campgrounds within North Cascades National Park do incur a fee. However, a number of these campgrounds remain open throughout the winter and a free to camp at.
The campgrounds are limited in their facilities but do offer the basics such as water and toilets.
If winter camping is for you make sure you read up on our tips for winter camping here It’s not as daunting as it sounds!
Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping is dispersed camping in national parks. You are able to camp for free in allocated areas of North Cascades National Park provided you have a Backcountry Pass.
These passes are simply required to ensure there is not overcrowding in the park and to preserve the natural environment. Many people who seek out backcountry camping are looking for peace and solitude and these passes help to encourage that type of surrounding.
Your backcountry pass will allocate you an area and site for your camping experience. For most areas, you obtain your pass as a first in first serve walk-up at the ranger station. Some areas are much more popular and passes are limited. There are a few areas that you are able to email ahead to reserve a pass but only the morning before. You can find out all the specific details here
Overnight Rest Stop
If you are just passing through and own an RV you are able to stay overnight at one of the many rest stops along State Route 20 or the North Cascades Highway.
This is not your typical camping experience but it does offer another free alternative if you are just wanting to explore the park for a day or two and carry on to your next destination.