Boating

With over 100 lakes and rivers, North Cascades National Park is a boater's paradise, and motor boating, kayaking, rafting, and canoeing are popular visitor activities during warmer months. Lakes and rivers offer a unique perspective on the park, and the cold, bright blue waters and rugged shorelines have always attracted visitors interested in exploring the parks many bays, inlets, and islands. Visitors seeking an adrenaline rush can experience whitewater rafting and kayaking on the scenic Skagit and Stehekin Rivers; it is recommended that rafters and paddlers of all levels consult a guide or local outfitter for detailed trip information. Outfitters can be found in Winthrop as well as throughout Washington state. On the larger lakes -- Ross, Gorge, Diablo Lakes, and Lake Chelan -- 4-stroke motorboats, kayaks, and canoes are permitted and can be launched from ramps located off Washington State Route 20 and on the north end of Ross Lake at Hozomeen. Portage between lakes is possible for smaller craft, but motorized boats will require planned assistance. Boat rentals, including motor and paddle boats, are available on Ross Lake from the Ross Lake Resort, and in Stehekin for Lake Chelan trips. Activities that involve towing, like waterskiing and tubing, are not allowed on Ross, Diablo, or Gorge Lakes, and jet-skis are prohibited on all bodies of water within the North Cascades National Park Service Complex.