An alpine landscape with over 300 glaciers. Soaring mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and steep valleys with views of snow-capped peak. You might think you’d have to travel to Alaska, but it’s all in North Cascades National Park, about a three hour drive from Seattle in Washington. Black bears and even the occasional grizzly bear call the park home. It’s also an amazing park for hiking, boating, biking, rock climbing and camping. And for the adventurous, don’t miss Cascade Pass, one of the great hikes in the national parks.

Established in 1968, the park is best experienced in the summer, where average high temperatures are generally in the 70’s. The park is also one of the least visited, so overcrowding will not be a problem regardless of when you visit.  You can camp at one of the several campground or do some back country camping as well. If you’re looking for more amenities, you’ll want to reserve a year in advance as the options are limited.