Wildfire Smoke in the North Cascades: How to Check AQI and Choose a Plan B
Check wildfire smoke, AQI, road closures, and Plan B options before driving Highway 20 through the North Cascades. Know when to continue, shorten, or pivot.
Related Guides
(Scroll further down for the area's lodging options)
Best Time to Visit North Cascades: Month-by-Month SR-20 Guide
Compare the North Cascades each month for Highway 20 access, snow, crowds, camping, wildflowers, larches, smoke, and which North Cascades trips actually work.
North Cascades Complex Backup Plans: Rain & Highway Closure
Choose a reachable North Cascades backup based on whether you are west of the pass, approaching from the Methow, or already staying in Winthrop, Mazama, or Twisp.
North Cascades Current Conditions: Highway 20, Washington Pass, Smoke & Road Alerts
North Cascades current conditions for Highway 20, Washington Pass, park roads, smoke, fire restrictions, and official road alerts before you drive.
When Is the North Cascades Open? Seasonal Access Guide for Highway 20
Plan North Cascades Highway 20 access by season, including SR 20 openings and closures, Rainy Pass, Washington Pass, trailheads, campgrounds, road checks, and backup plans.
