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Backcountry Information
Most of North Cascades National Park is situated in the heart of the Stephen Mather Wilderness.
Guide Sections
Use Backcountry Information's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.
Backcountry Information Details
Difficulty
Open
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
N/A
Region
Basic Information
Although there are a number of developed and family-friendly hiking trails, facilities, and campgrounds in North Cascades National Park, the park is situated in the heart of the Stephen Mather Wilderness. The backcountry is expansive and home to over 300 glaciers and 500 snowfields, not to mention the numerous lakes, drainage systems, high mountain passes, and incredible peaks. The long-distance Pacific Northwest Scenic Trail (PCT) passes through the backcountry, along with a wide variety of multi-day and extended backpacking trails in the National Park, National Forest, and Recreation Areas. There are over 140 primitive backcountry campsites available; all sites require backcountry permits, which are limited and issued on a first-come, first-served basis from most visitor centers and ranger stations.
