NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK
This place (and a ton of other places) was a huge reason we wanted to come to the Seattle area. As soon as we knew we were coming, we searched campground reservations and got the last spot at the Newhalem Campground, which is right within the park. We drove up from Kent after work and arrived to the campground about 7pm. That night we just relaxed and made dinner and got ready for a busy Saturday!
DAY 1 SATURDAY 06.23.2018
As usual, we tried to pack a lot into the day. We like to enjoy the things we do but at the same time we like to plan a lot. I would rather plan to much than too little and scratch some things off the list than finish early and wish we had more to do. Here are the plans for day 1...
Ladder Creek Falls
Gorge Creek Falls
Diablo Lake Vista Point
Ross Lake Overlook
Rainy Lake Hike
Blue Lake Hike
Washington Pass Observation
Ladder Creek Falls: This is a really neat spot and very close to the campground. I would actually recommend coming here at night due to the unique light display (we came back in August with Leslie's family and checked it out in the evening to see the lights). Either way, you will cross a bridge over to the short area of trails that takes you to the river and the falls.
Gorge Creek Falls: You're going to want to park right before the bridge. If you go past the bridge, there is another parking area just past it (also RV's and larger vehicles are supposed to park past the bridge). Heading away from the campground, the most impressive waterfall is going to be from the bridge looking to your left. There is a walkway on the bridge so get out of the car and check it out. And if you're not afraid of heights, look down! Across the street, there is also some impressive scenery and a paved walking path (that we did not explore much of).
Diablo Lake Vista Point: Yes, that is the actual color of the water. Photos of this view wowed me and were a huge part of why we wanted to come here. There's a large parking lot here and it's very easy to access. There are several viewing points along the fence to get slightly different perspectives. I would highly recommend making a stop here to check it out.