The North Cascades NPS Complex was established by Congress to preserve the majestic scenery and unique natural features of this beautiful landscape. Since its inception in 1968, the park's mission has evolved to include concerns for the entire ecosystem.Ice Sculpted Mountains: Jagged peaks of the North Cascades rise above deep forested valleys-terrain carved by moving ice. The Park Complex contains more glaciers than any other national park in the United States outside Alaska. These glaciers are an important source of water for salmon, other wildlife, plants, and people in the Puget Sound region.
Richness of Life: The Park's 9,000+ feet of vertical relief and the great contrast between climates east and west of the Cascade crest provide habitat for one of the greatest diversities of plant life in North America and for varied fauna including rare and sensitive species. Ancient forest holds millions of living organisms and thousands of diverse life forms.
Cascading Waters: The variety of waters (lakes and rivers) and topography provides a large and expanding nearby population with a wide array of recreational opportunities, from boating and camping to climbing and backpacking.
Vast Wilderness: The Complex, which adjoins public lands preserved in Canada, is the core of one of the largest protected wild areas in the United States; a substantial portion of it is designated Wilderness. Humans here are visitors, who come to enjoy nature on nature's terms.
Human History: The Complex includes 49 National Register structures and sites, 3 National Historic Districts, and over 250 archeological sites. It was home to at least 4 tribes whose descendants now live nearby and includes, within its boundaries, three contemporary communities.
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North Cascades Overview
