North Cascades National Park - The PNW Alternative to Glacier National Park

North Cascades National Park: An Undiscovered Gem

North Cascades National Park -

When it comes to national parks, Glacier National Park in Montana is often at the top of people's lists. And why not? It has breathtaking views, stunning glaciers, and plenty of wildlife. But what if we told you that there's an alternative that might just blow Glacier out of the water? That's right, we're talking about North Cascades National Park in Washington.

North Cascades is often referred to as the best-undiscovered park in the United States, with just over 23,000 visitors per year. But don't let that fool you - this park has everything you could possibly want in a national park, and then some. From majestic mountains to incredible wildlife to endless trails, North Cascades truly has it all.

But what about the glaciers, you ask? After all, Glacier National Park is famous for its icy wonders. Well, guess what? North Cascades is actually the most heavily glaciated part of the US (outside of Alaska), with over 300 glaciers and year-round snowfields. And if you think that's impressive, consider this: North Cascades is also one of the snowiest places on Earth.

That's right - while Glacier National Park may have a mere 25 active glaciers, North Cascades has hundreds, making it a true wonderland for anyone interested in glaciology. And with so much snow and ice, it's no surprise that North Cascades is also home to some of the most stunning landscapes you'll ever see. From towering peaks to crystal-clear lakes, the scenery in this park is truly awe-inspiring.

Of course, there's more to North Cascades than just glaciers and mountains. This park is also home to an incredible array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and gray wolves. And with over 400 miles of trails to explore, there's no shortage of opportunities to see these creatures in their natural habitat.

So, if you're looking for an alternative to Glacier National Park, look no further than North Cascades. With its stunning glaciers, incredible scenery, and abundance of wildlife, this park is sure to be a highlight of any national park trip. And who knows? Maybe one day North Cascades will be just as famous as its Montana counterpart.