The Cascade Range stretches majestically through the western United States and into Canada, forming a spectacular mountain chain known for its volcanic peaks, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. This stunning mountain range is home to diverse ecosystems that attract millions of visitors each year looking to experience nature at its most impressive. There are four U.S. National Parks located within the Cascade Range: North Cascades National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, Crater Lake National Park, and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Each park offers unique landscapes and outdoor experiences for travelers. From the jagged peaks and 300+ glaciers of North Cascades to the ancient caldera filled with stunning blue waters at Crater Lake, these protected areas showcase the geological wonders of the Cascade Mountains. Hikers particularly enjoy the network of trails that wind through old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and alongside pristine lakes.
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Wildlife enthusiasts flock to these parks to spot species like black bears, mountain goats, and various bird species in their natural habitat. For those looking to explore beyond the national parks, the Cascades offer numerous other protected areas, including the Iron Goat Trail near Stevens Pass in Washington, which combines natural beauty with fascinating railroad history while winding through the picturesque Cascade landscape.
Cascade Range National Parks
The Cascade Range is home to four national parks, each showcasing unique volcanic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor recreational opportunities. These protected areas span Washington, Oregon, and California, preserving some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the western United States.
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park protects over 500,000 acres of rugged wilderness in Washington state. Often called the “American Alps,” this park features more than 300 glaciers—the most of any park outside Alaska.
The park’s dramatic landscape includes jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Diablo Lake stands out with its stunning turquoise waters, created by glacial flour suspended in the water.
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot gray wolves, black bears, and over 200 bird species. The park offers more than 400 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.
The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the park, attracting long-distance hikers from around the world. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout three distinct ecosystems.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park centers around its namesake—a 14,410-foot active volcano towering over Washington’s landscape. Native Americans called it “Tahoma,” meaning “the mountain that is god.”
The park protects 236,000 acres of ancient forests, subalpine meadows, and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. These 25 glaciers create a stunning crown of ice visible from miles away.
Summer visitors enjoy colorful wildflower meadows that bloom after winter snows melt. The park offers over 260 miles of maintained trails, including portions of the famous Wonderland Trail that circles the mountain.
Wildlife includes mountain goats, black bears, and elk. The park receives about 2 million visitors annually, with summer being the most popular season for hiking and climbing activities.
Other Parks in the Cascade Range
Crater Lake National Park in Oregon features the deepest lake in the United States (1,943 feet), formed when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed about 7,700 years ago. The lake’s intense blue color comes from its purity and depth.
Lassen Volcanic National Park in California showcases all four types of volcanoes: shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome. The park’s centerpiece, Lassen Peak, last erupted between 1914 and 1917.
Both parks offer extensive trail systems for exploring their unique volcanic features. Visitors can witness hydrothermal areas with bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and hot springs—evidence of the region’s ongoing volcanic activity.
Many travelers enjoy hiking the historic Iron Goat Trail in Washington, which combines natural beauty with fascinating railroad history along the former Great Northern Railway route.
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Iron Goat Trail Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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Iron Goat Trail History: Exploring the Legacy of the Great Northern Railway
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