Newhalem, Wash. in North Cascades National Park

Newhalem, Wash.

Newhalem is an unincorporated community along the Skagit River, and is a popular destination for park visitors.

Plan Around Newhalem, Wash.

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Newhalem, Wash. Details

The town of Newhalem, Wash., is owned by Seattle Light Company, and all of its permanent residents are employed by the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project. It's easily accessed by State Route 20. The community has a long history: there's evidence to suggest that the area was once inhabited by the Upper Skagit people, and Newhalem actually means "goat share" in the Lushootseed language. Newhalem is home to a grocery/sundry store, a small museum, the Newhalem Visitor Center, a campground, and scenic walking trails. A trip to Newhalem is not complete without trying the homemade fudge from the Newhalem General Store and taking a hike to Ladder Creek Falls and its surrounding gardens. Newhalem Campground is located between Newhalem and the Newhalem Visitor Center and has 113 campsites. However, all sites are currently closed due to damage from recent forest fires.

Difficulty

Low

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Nearby Parks Around Newhalem, Wash.

Compare nearby parks around Newhalem, Wash. when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

1.1 mi away

North Cascades

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Banff

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331.7 mi away

Glacier

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401.4 mi away

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Newhalem, Wash.

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0.1 mi away

Skagit General Store

Skagit General Store in historic downtown Newhalem was established in 1922 as supply store for the employees of the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project.

0.1 mi away

Skagit Information Center

The Skagit Information Center, in Newhalem is geared toward illustrating the Skagit Project dams and hydroelectric power.

0.2 mi away

Ladder Creek Falls Trail

This historic scenic loop trail leads to a popular waterfall and the public garden belonging to the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project.

0.7 mi away

"To Know a Tree" Nature Trail

This family-friendly interpretative nature trail teaches park visitors about the most common ecosystem of the North Cascades.

0.7 mi away

Linking Trail

This short, accessible, forested trail connects Newhalem Creek Campground to the Rock Shelter Trail and Newhalem Powerhouse.