Gorge Lake in North Cascades National Park

Gorge Lake

Gorge Lake is the southernmost of three dam-controlled lakes on the Skagit River that were developed by the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project.

Plan Around Gorge Lake

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Gorge Lake Details

Although Gorge Lake is less popular the the nearby Ross and Diablo Lakes, it nonetheless offers decent year-round fishing and seasonal boating. Its pretty teal waters are home to rainbow trout and the endangered bull trout; fishing is best from May to July. Gorge Lake is also conveniently located near Gorge Creek and Seattle Creek Waterfalls, and a network of trails run through the area, many of which offer spectacular views of the lake. Kayaks, canoes, and motorboats are permitted on the lake, but if you're interested in fishing you'll need to obtain a Washington fishing license, which are available [online](https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov) or in Marblemont and Rockport. Gorge Lake Campground, a primitive, first-come, first-served tent and car campground, is located on the shore near Seattle Creek, and there are a few small boat-in campsites. More campsites are available closer to Ross Lake.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

N/A

Region

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Nearby Parks Around Gorge Lake

Compare nearby parks around Gorge Lake when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

6.2 mi away

North Cascades

National Park · WA

112.6 mi away

Olympic

National Park · WA

136.0 mi away

Mount Rainier

National Park · WA

289.3 mi away

Banff

National Park · Canada

327.3 mi away

Glacier

National Park · MT

404.8 mi away

Crater Lake

National Park · OR

Nearby Points of Interest Around Gorge Lake

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Gorge Lake while the map context is still fresh.

0.1 mi away

Gorge Lake Campground

Gorge Lake Campground has six free first-come, first-served primitive tent sites.

0.2 mi away

Stetattle Creek Trail

This seldom-used trail is perfect for hikers wanting an adventurous, challenging day hike.

0.4 mi away

Sourdough/Pierce Mountain Trail

The climb up Sourdough Mountain is one of the most challenging and rewarding day hikes in North Cascades National Park.

0.5 mi away

Pyramid Lake Trail

The Pyramid Lake Trail is a short day hike that nicely showcases the diverse forest and lake ecosystems found in North Cascades' lower elevations.

0.9 mi away

Diablo Dam

Diablo Dam is one of the dams created by the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project, and was once the tallest dam in the world.