North Cascades N P, Washington - July 1, 2007 (Re-run)

 After ten days in Anacortes, we headed east through the North Cascades National Park.  Designated in 1968, this park is mostly considered wilderness, with little in the way of amenities.  The primary access is U.S. Highway 20, which is closed several months each winter.  The park gets little visitation, usually less than 30,000 per year.  It is, however, surrounded by public lands such as National Forests and Recreation Areas that see many more visitors.  Within the park, more than 500 lakes and ponds are fed mostly by snowmelt.  There are over 300 glaciers, more than any other park outside Alaska.  With 400 miles of trails, the park attracts many hikers.  However, there is no campground that can be driven to, so most camping is done in adjacent public areas.  The park is home to many species of wildlife, which adds to the appeal of the spectacular mountain scenery.