North Cascades NP

I posted this on the PNWNP forum and got a couple responses, but I know some of you have been to that area and am hoping you can help.

I am heading to the North Cascades for a couple days in early October. Can anyone recommend a good hotel for a reasonable price? Looking for something near the park entrance on the west side. Also, is this a decent time to expect fall colors? Can you recommend any "must see" locations? I only have ~ 2 days so I need to make the most of my time.

Thanks for your help!

Sorry Amy, I've never been there, but I would love to be able to see that whole area. Hopefully you will have great conditions and we'll see some posts from there as an OT.

Hi Amy. NCNP is one of the most remote of the National Parks in the lower 48 and lodging options are pretty limited on both sides of the park. For the west side you might check out Buffalo Run Inn in Marblemount or Clark's Skagit River Resort in Rockport. Also maybe Ross Lake Resort which is technically inside the park. There are also lots of the chain hotels about 35 miles west in Sedro Woolley. I have some friends and know some fellow photogs that live in or are from that area. I'll put a shout out to them when I get home tonight and let you know what I come up with.

Amy, I checked with some pals and here's what I got: My friend Kristy who grew up in Rockport, WA cast a vote for Clark's Skagit River Resort. She says the cabins are "cute." My friend/photographer Tim who lives in Concrete, WA, says mid October is usually the best for max fall colors but early in the month you will probably find some color up higher near the pass. Also the drive up the Cascade River is glorious. And there's the reliable standby, Mt Shuksan. I'll keep my ears open for more information and let you know if I hear anything. This should get you started though.

Aw, thanks Bill! I appreciate the outreach to your friends. It's sounding as if i might get some decent color. I'll be sure to share any pix when i return!

yeah, head up the road to Shuksan on the north side of the park--thats where the color will be. The hike to Cascade Pass on the south side is probably one of the premiere hikes in the nation, IMO. The further you hike the better it gets, but even the drive in is nice.