Overview
Locations
Inclusions
Cost
Related Courses

Backpacking in the North Cascades

Overview

Our private and custom backpacking trips will have you enjoying some of the most remote and inspiring alpine scenery in North America.

From lush valley floors covered with old growth fir forests to the expansive views of the high passes and dramatic glaciers, the variety encompassed by this trip is immense and the beauty of the scenery is unsurpassed. Join us for a backpacking adventure of a lifetime.

The North Cascades is a vast and rugged wilderness area in northwest Washington State. Sometimes referred to as the American Alps, the area is far more remote than the European Alps and is one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the United States. Jagged spires and sheer cliffs rise from deep glacial valleys covered with fragrant evergreens. With over 300 active glaciers within the Park, many peaks have summits and faces permanently sheathed in ice.

A spectacular campsite during another program in Washington's Mt. Baker Wilderness. Mt. Baker is in the distance. Jeff Ries

During the course of this trip, you will learn all the fundamentals of wilderness living, including travel and camping skills that will keep your body happy and your mind free to enjoy the sights.

You'll also learn Leave No Trace ethics and techniques so that you will be skilled at limiting or eliminating your potential impacts on the wilderness. Along the way you enjoy gourmet meals and the great camaraderie that is unique in the mountain

Backpacking in the North Cascades

Locations

The PNW is rife with opportunity for backpacking splendor. There are near limitless options of where you can embark on your trip. Options include Glacier Peak Wilderness, Baker National Forest, Snoqualamie, and North Cascades National Park just to name a few.

Bright fall colors and blueberries along the trail reward september hikers. Jeff Ries

While we can run trips all over the in the North Cascades, please note some areas are easier to access than others. Issues such as securing permits and limited group size can make trips in the North Cascades National Park a little more difficult to secure.

Summer Season Variations

If you can't decide what time of the summer to take your trip, you can read about the differences throughout the summer season here. Each month throughout the summer will look different and each has its own uniqueness!