24 Best Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is a United States National Park located in northern Washington state and southern British Columbia, Canada. Located primarily within Whatcom County, Washington, a portion of the park also extends into Skagit County and Chelan County in Washington. It’s a huge wilderness with a lot of trees, lakes, and glaciers. Along the North Cascades Highway, there are lookouts and trails, like the steep Thunder Creek Trail. Boats dot Ross Lake. At the northern end of deep Lake Chelan is the small town of Stehekin. The park is home to grizzly bears, gray wolves, and more than 200 species of birds.

The park has many different scenery attractions, such as old-growth forests, mountain peaks, and mixed coniferous forests. Learn about the best photography spots and plan your trip around them. Here are our favorite Top Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park.

THE BEST GEAR TO TAKE PICTURES IN NORTH CASCADE NATIONAL PARK

We recommend bringing a good camera and the holy trinity. A lens that lets you see everything. 14-24mm or a range like that. A 24-70mm lens or something similar, and of course, a 70-200mm lens or something similar.

Don’t worry if you don’t have these lenses; something similar will work just as well. If you want to take great pictures of sunsets at night, you should also get a tripod.

Best Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park

1. Heather Meadows

Heather Meadows is one of the photography spots in North Cascades National Park. The Sunrise Lake Trail, an easy 3-mile hike from the parking lot, allows you to experience the grandeur of Heather Meadows at sunrise. For years, Heather Meadows has been one of the most popular photography spots in North Cascades National Park. But there is far more to see than just photos. In fact, you can find a lot of fun things to do here, including trails above the tree line and some cool historic buildings like an old fire lookout tower.

This stunning park offers a peaceful refuge for all who come to visit. With an array of trails that meander along the shores of pristine lakes, and wind through forests with lovely waterfalls nearby, it’s no wonder this place is so popular with both photographers and artists. For those who prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of museums and galleries nearby in downtown Leavenworth, so you won’t miss out on any culture while you’re here!

2. Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. It’s a photographer’s paradise with mystical reflections, eerie silence, and an abundance of wildlife. This must-see site is a mere 15-minute drive from downtown Leavenworth, making it an excellent family day trip. Diablo Lake is the largest, deepest, and most beautiful lake within North Cascades National Park. Famous for its towering waterfall and the surrounding granite peaks, Diablo Lake offers a scenic backdrop for photographers.

3. Cutthroat Pass

Cutthroat Pass is one of the photography spots in North Cascades National Park. Located between Mount Rainier and the Nisqually River, Cutthroat Pass is an easy drive from Seattle and the perfect place to take stunning photos of the stunning scenery that makes Washington state so famous. The pass towers above Washington Pass and its views make this hike one of the most popular in the area. Adventurous photographers will love exploring the natural beauty of North Cascades National Park and the surrounding area at Cutthroat Pass, a prime location for outdoor photography.

4. Liberty Bell Mountain 

Liberty Bell Mountain is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. The mountain and its distinctive profile provide a stunning backdrop for adventurers and views of the surrounding peaks. Hiking through the rolling terrain provides an up-close view of this iconic mountain from many angles, with varying degrees of steepness and difficulty.

Lumbering down the northern slopes of Liberty Bell Mountain early in the day is a great way to watch the day break. As you descend, enjoy views of towering peaks and watch for bighorn sheep. This hike is moderately steep at first but quickly levels out as you make your way toward the scenic mountain tarns. This moderate hike can be done in about 4-5 hours round trip and features a great payoff at both endpoints.

5. Ross Lake

Ross Lake is the largest lake in North Cascades National Park and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington. There are several locations within Ross Lake that offer incredible views of surrounding mountains and wildlife, as well as stunning reflections on the water. The high peaks, massive glacier-carved valleys, and sparkling waters of this gorgeous lake are some of the best landscapes on the planet.

Best Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park

6. Lake Ann

Lake Ann is one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. The lake itself is formed by a dam and has beautiful reflections of the surrounding peaks. It’s easy to see why so many people come here to take photos or just enjoy the beauty around them. A peaceful walk along the shore will lead you to breathtaking views and it is easy to spend hours photographing the incredible scenery. This crystal clear lake is surrounded by old-growth forests, and home to a variety of wildlife including deer and bald eagles. It can be accessed by boat or on foot from the Cascade River Road Trailhead.

7. Ladder Creek Falls

Ladder Creek Falls is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. The falls are spectacular, but you can get closer to them by climbing down a rope ladder anchored to a rock wall. Use extreme caution when approaching the falls, as there is no guard rail or railing on the trail. The trail follows Ladder Creek through a lush forest of old-growth firs before it emerges into an open meadow, allowing you an up-close view of the falls. Enjoy this beautiful experience with friends or family while enjoying lunch at one of two picnic tables located just off the creek bed.

8. Luna Peak

The scenic location of Luna Peak is one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. The area is known for its lush vegetation and towering evergreens, which makes for stunning photographs. Hikers can reach this ridgeline by hiking up a steep but well-marked trail from Artist Point, located 5 miles from Paradise Lodge.  The magnificent Luna Peak is located in the North Cascades National Park, in Washington State. This place is famous for its spectacular views and majestic beauty.

9. Ross Dam

Ross Dam is one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. Its position in the national park offers a unique vantage point that includes Ross Lake and Sand Point, the dam itself, and the nature surrounding it.  The dam is over 700 feet high and has been referred to as one of “the best-kept secrets in Washington State” due to its remoteness, beauty, and lack of crowds. The best time to photograph is at sunset or sunrise when colors are more vibrant and the contrast between colors is greater.

10. Cascade Pass

Discover Cascade Pass, one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. Enjoy an easy hike from the trailhead to the viewpoint and back with amazing scenery along the way. Trek across a snowfield and over Cascade Creek, where you’ll enjoy views of Mount Shuksan from above. On your way back, take time to explore the many viewpoints and look for wildlife such as deer, moose, and marmots along the way.

Best Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park

11. Skagit River

One of the most popular photography spots in North Cascades National Park, the Skagit River is a must-visit for anyone who loves waterfalls and hiking. It’s also a hotbed for rafting, kayaking, and fishing, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities by locals and visitors alike. This route takes you through one of the most beautiful national parks in Washington State, passing through forests and waterfalls to some of America’s most scenic vistas. The Skagit River is a popular spot for photographers, so bring your camera!

12. Mt Shuksan

Mt. Shuksan, one of the most photographed mountains in North Cascades National Park, is also one of the easiest volcanoes to climb. During the summer months, you can hike up in less than two hours from the parking area at Artist Point on Mt. Baker Highway. One note: this 10,00-foot volcano can be prone to avalanches, so make sure you’re prepared with your own avalanche beacon and shovel. From sunrise to sunset and beyond, this peak offers incredible views that are just as remarkable as hiking the rugged trails or skiing down its slopes.

13. Artist Point

Artist Point is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. From this rocky perch, enjoy views of Mount Shuksan, hiking trails, and wildflowers. Artist Point is one of the most photographed sites in North Cascades National Park.  This viewpoint, which hangs at the edge of a trail and offers sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the entire park, is a popular destination for hikers looking to catch a glimpse of one of America’s most inspiring mountains.

14. Sterling Munro overlook trail

The Sterling Munro overlook trail is one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. This hiking trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, with the opportunity to capture stunning views of the mountain ranges and valleys below. The trail leading up to the summit makes for a moderately strenuous about 1-mile one-way hike that is totally worth every step. It winds along a ridge and offers spectacular views of Mount Rainier and beautiful meadows. This is an excellent spot for photographers and hikers alike.

15. Sahale Arm Trail 

The Sahale Arm Trail is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. This three-mile hike, along the west side of the river, offers breathtaking views of Mount Shuksan and Goat Mountain, some of the most recognizable mountains in Washington State. Beautiful scenery, pristine lakes, and waterfalls are what make Sahale Arm Trail one of the most photographed places in North Cascades National Park. Whether you hike it or drive it, the views are stunning.

Best Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park

16. Alpine Meadow

Alpine Meadow is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. This large open meadow, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks and American Alpine larch trees, is an amazing place for hiking and backpacking. Alpine Meadow will find abundant wildflowers and views of the Granite Mountain peaks. The high peaks against clear blue skies are overwhelming but also inspiring – you could hike here for hours and spend several days exploring its many trails.

17. Hidden Lake

Located in the heart of North Cascades, Hidden Lake is one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. This trail offers stunning views, and challenging topography and is a great option for those seeking to escape from the crowds at nearby Diablo Lake. Hidden Lake is often overlooked due to its distance from civilization and lack of road access. However, even without these distractions, it is still an enchanting place that holds its own against the other nearby hikes.

18. Mount Baker

Mount Baker is one of the highest peaks in the North Cascades. It is also a very accessible peak that can be climbed by anyone with a moderate fitness level. The summit offers stunning views of British Columbia and parts of Washington, as well as some excellent opportunities for mountaineering and backcountry skiing. If you love the outdoors, want to photograph the beautiful scenery, and enjoy a good adventure, Mount Baker is one of the most popular spots for photographers. The park’s diverse landscapes and variety of flora and fauna will inspire you to get out there and explore!

19. Gorge Lake

When you are looking for a place to relax, Gorge Lake is the ideal spot. Located near the center of North Cascades National Park, it is an oasis surrounded by mountains. The lake averages 16 feet deep and has clear water with a sandy bottom. For added rest and relaxation, this area has beaches that are ideal for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. When you are looking for a place to relax, Gorge Lake is the ideal spot. Located near the center of North Cascades National Park, it is an oasis surrounded by mountains. The lake averages 16 feet deep and has clear water with a sandy bottom. For added rest and relaxation, this area has beaches that are ideal for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.

20. Forbidden Peak

Forbidden Peak was one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. The peak offered a 360-degree view with deep valleys and lakes, snow-capped mountains surrounding the peak, glaciers, and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. At 7,953 feet tall, Forbidden Peak is one of the most challenging and photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. Hikers will enjoy a trek through a beautiful alpine meadow filled with wildflowers and granite boulders before heading up to complete the climb on the ridge line to reach the summit.

Best Photography Spots in North Cascades National Park

21. Washington Pass

Washington is known for its beautiful landscapes and now, with Washington Pass, you can photograph them while hiking up the mountains. This photography spot is one of the most popular places to hike in North Cascades National Park. Washington Pass at North Cascades National Park, Washington state is one of the most photographed spots in the world. With its lush mountain greenery and snow-capped peaks, it’s easy to see why this place has made its mark for generations.

22. Thornton Lake

The Thornton Lake footpath is a popular hike that leads to one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. The moderate hike passes through an old forest and offers spectacular views of the lake. There are some short steep sections that can be slippery when wet. The lake itself is a popular spot for boaters, anglers, and kayakers, who flock to its shores every summer to water ski, relax and enjoy nature at its finest. The isolated scenery of Thornton Lake is a photographer’s paradise. With its picturesque alpine scenery and striking sky, this lake is one of our favorite backcountry destinations.

23. Rainy Lake

Rainy Lake is one of the most photographed spots in North Cascades National Park. The colors are so reminiscent of the fall here when so many colors change. This morning was perfect, with a little mist hanging around and just right overcast to keep the day comfortable.

24. Cutthroat Lake

Cutthroat Lake resides in one of the most photography spots in North Cascades National Park. A rugged paradise, it’s a pristine alpine wilderness that calls to you like no other place. With glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and clear waters all sitting within a stunning mountain landscape, it is truly a stunning destination.

 

THESE ARE OUR BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK

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