Weekend Snapshot - Updated April 29, 2026
This weekend is a good time for green forest trails, strong creeks & waterfalls, and low-elevation walks around Newhalem and Diablo. Do not plan on crossing SR-20 over Washington Pass - crews are still clearing the area and repairing roads from winter rockslides.
Seasonal Highlight
Weather this weekend is going to be sunny and around 70 degrees. Expect traffic to pick up for the park area, despite park services not yet opening up for the season. The high country is still a snow and access problems, so this is a better weekend for Newhalem, Diablo Lake, and west-side trails than for alpine hiking.
Road and Access Conditions
- SR-20: The North Cascades Highway is not open as a through route across Washington Pass. WSDOT currently shows the seasonal closure between the Ross Dam trailhead area and Early Winters, with an additional closure between Colonial Creek Campground and Ross Dam Trailhead because of a rockslide.
- Cascade River Road: NPS lists Cascade River Road as closed to vehicles at Eldorado, milepost 20. Foot and bicycle travel may continue beyond the gate, but do not block the gate.
For a fuller planning check, use Current Conditions and Seasonal Access: What You Need to Know before you drive.
Best Hikes This Weekend
Trail of the Cedars (difficulty: Very Easy, Crowd Estimate 3/5)
This is a short boardwalk loop in Newhalem through cedar forest with interpretive signs. It is one of the safest choices right now because it is low elevation and useful in almost any season. Expect more people than on the quieter Newhalem loops. NPS pass for townsite parking; dogs on leash.
River Loop Trail (difficulty: Very Easy, Crowd Estimate 2/5)
This short Newhalem walk follows forest and Skagit River scenery with very little elevation gain. Use it for a quick stretch, family walk, or low-commitment stop when the weather is mixed. Parking is free at the townsite; leashed dogs are okay.
Sterling Munro Viewpoint (difficulty: Very Easy, Crowd Estimate 3/5)
This is a short paved ramp-style viewpoint near Newhalem. It is a good stop for mixed groups, limited time, or anyone who wants a quick view without committing to a hike. NW Forest Pass or NPS pass may be needed.
Diablo Lake Lakeshore Trail (difficulty: Easy, Crowd Estimate 3/5)
This is a longer but gentle low-elevation trail near Diablo Lake with forest, boardwalk sections, and lake access. It fits this weekend better than alpine hikes because it is listed as accessible in the April to October window. The lot can fill on summer weekends, but late April should be more manageable. National Park Service day-use pass; pit toilets at parking.
Thunder Creek Trail (difficulty: Easy, Crowd Estimate 3/5)
This is a mostly flat forest trail along Thunder Creek, with roots, mud, and rocky spots more likely after wet weather. It is a good half-day option if the trailhead access is open and you want more mileage without climbing into snow. Download an offline map to follow the trail, as washouts have significantly affected the area. Check the latest road closure boundary before committing, because current SR-20 closures may affect access near Colonial Creek and Ross Dam. NW Forest Pass; pit toilet at trailhead.
Crowd Outlook
- Busy: Trail of the Cedars, Sterling Munro Viewpoint, and the most obvious Newhalem and Diablo roadside stops.
- Moderate: Diablo Lake Lakeshore Trail and Thunder Creek Trail, especially if weather is dry.
- Quieter alternative: River Loop Trail in Newhalem for a shorter, lower-pressure stop.
Camping This Weekend
Camping is limited right now. NPS says North Cascades campgrounds open for the main season on the Monday before Memorial Day weekend, which is May 18, 2026, and Goodell Creek remains open year-round first-come, first-served outside the operational season with no fee, no water, and no trash services. NPS also states that dispersed camping is not allowed inside the park complex.
If you're camping this weekend, plan for a lower-service setup and verify road access before you leave pavement. Campgrounds guide. If you'd like an easier option, book a private cabin or camp spot in one of the nearby towns.
Food and Last Reliable Stops
Do not count on sorting out food or fuel deeper in the corridor. Handle that before you commit to the park side of the drive.
- Marblemount - last reliable fuel and snacks before the national park
- Concrete - full services including groceries, restaurants, and gas
Services near Marblemount and Concrete.
Looking for more to do?
Safety Notes
- High-country snow: Treat alpine trails as winter or spring mountaineering terrain unless you have verified current trail reports and carry the right gear.
- Road closures: Do not drive around gates or park in front of closure gates. Many closures are for rockfall, washouts, snow, or road damage.
- Wet trail surfaces: Boardwalks, roots, stairs, and muddy sections can be slippery after rain.
- Cold water: Rivers, creeks, and lakes are still very cold. Keep children and dogs away from fast water.
- Limited cell service: Download maps before you leave Concrete or Marblemount, and tell someone your plan.
For more planning help, use Safety and Permits in and around North Cascades National Park.