Welcome to the ultimate showdown of two of the most breathtaking national parks in the United States: Dry Tortugas and North Cascades. Imagine crystal clear waters, breathtaking sunsets, and abundant wildlife. Now imagine discovering the best of both worlds in two vastly different landscapes.
Dry Tortugas, located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, is a collection of seven small islands surrounded by turquoise waters and abundant marine life. North Cascades, on the other hand, is located in Washington state and boasts rugged mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests.
So, which one will reign supreme? Will it be the tropical paradise of Dry Tortugas or the rugged beauty of North Cascades? Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the unique offerings of each park and determine the ultimate winner.
Hiking Trails in Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles west of Key West, is known for its scenic beaches and crystal clear waters, but it also offers challenging hikes to visitors. One notable trail is the Garden Key Trail, an easy hike that leads to historic Fort Jefferson. The trail is only 0.6 miles long and is ideal for families with young children or those seeking a leisurely stroll. Another easy trail is the Loggerhead Key Trail, a 1-mile loop that provides views of the surrounding waters and wildlife.
On the other hand, North Cascades National Park in Washington State offers a variety of challenging hikes for experienced hikers. The Cascade Pass Trail is one of the hardest hikes in the park, a 5.5-mile trek with an elevation gain of over 3,000 feet. The trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, but it can be strenuous for those who are not in good physical condition. Another challenging hike is the Maple Pass Loop, a 7.2-mile loop with an elevation gain of 2,200 feet. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, but it can be difficult for those who are not used to steep inclines.
In conclusion, both Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park offer a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes. Whether you are looking for scenic views or a physical challenge, these parks have something for everyone.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Dry Tortugas National Park
Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fort Jefferson Loop | 804.67 | 0.9144 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in North Cascades National Park
Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue Lake Trail | 8529.502 | 291.9984 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail | 17541.806 | 1175.9184 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
Sourdough Mountain Trail | 14644.994 | 1555.6992 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
Cascade Pass Trail to Cottonwood Camp | 25588.506 | 1422.8064 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
Cascade Pass Trail | 10460.71 | 542.8488 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
Sahale Arm Trail to Quien Sabe Glacier | 19955.816 | 1651.7112 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
Trail of the Cedars Nature Walk | 3057.746 | 21.9456 | Easy | loop | 4 |
Fourth of July Pass via Panther Creek Trail | 14966.862 | 759.8664 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
Ruby Mountain Summit via Fourth of July and Thunder Creek Trail | 23335.43 | 1949.8056 | Hard | out and back | 4 |
Gorge Creek Falls Trail | 804.67 | 11.8872 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
Wildlife in Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Gulf of Mexico and is known for its diverse marine wildlife. Visitors can see a variety of sea turtles, including the green sea turtle and loggerhead turtle, as well as bottlenose dolphins and manatees. The park is also home to over 200 species of birds, including pelicans, terns, and frigatebirds. There are also numerous species of fish, including snapper, grouper, and barracuda, that can be seen in the waters around the park.
North Cascades National Park, located in Washington State, is known for its diverse array of plants and animals. Visitors can see black bears, mountain lions, and elk. The park is also home to over 200 species of birds, including the bald eagle, osprey, and peregrine falcon. Additionally, there are over 700 species of plants, including wildflowers, ferns, and trees, that can be seen in the park. The park is also home to several glaciers, which provide unique habitats for a variety of wildlife, including marmots and mountain goats.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
Dry Tortugas National Park | North Cascades National Park |
---|---|
Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
Osprey | Osprey |
Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
Mallard | Mallard |
Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
American Robin | American Robin |
Red-Tailed Hawk | Great Horned Owl |
Northern Flicker | Red-Tailed Hawk |
Merlin | Merlin |
Barn Swallow | Barn Swallow |
Savannah Sparrow | Savannah Sparrow |
Great Blue Heron | Great Blue Heron |
Hermit Thrush | Hermit Thrush |
American Kestrel | American Kestrel |
Song Sparrow | Bald Eagle |
European Starling | Song Sparrow |
Northern Pintail | European Starling |
Green-Winged Teal | Northern Pintail |
American Pipit | American Wigeon |
Swainson’s Thrush | Green-Winged Teal |
Killdeer | American Pipit |
Mammals
Dry Tortugas National Park | North Cascades National Park |
---|---|
House Rat | Coyote |
American Beaver | |
Muskrat | |
Big Brown Bat | |
Bobcat | |
Striped Skunk | |
Little Brown Bat | |
Deer Mouse | |
Raccoon | |
Black Bear | |
Porcupine | |
Silver-Haired Bat | |
Hoary Bat | |
Red Fox | |
Long-Tailed Weasel | |
House Mouse | |
Puma | |
Mink | |
Black-Tailed Deer | |
Wolf | |
Long-Legged Myotis | |
Western Long-Eared Bat | |
Ermine | |
California Myotis | |
Snowshoe Hare |
Fish
Dry Tortugas National Park | North Cascades National Park |
---|---|
Redband Trout | |
Brook Trout | |
Largemouth Bass | |
Longnose Sucker | |
Lake Trout | |
Burbot | |
Silver Salmon | |
King Salmon | |
Slimy Sculpin | |
Longnose Dace | |
Threespine Stickleback | |
Kokanee | |
Pink Salmon | |
Chum Salmon | |
Dolly Varden | |
Cutthroat Trout |
Reptiles
Dry Tortugas National Park | North Cascades National Park |
---|---|
Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | |
Western Yellowbelly Racer | |
Prairie Rattlesnake | |
Common Garter Snake | |
Rubber Boa | |
Western Fence Lizard |
Insects
Dry Tortugas National Park | North Cascades National Park |
---|---|
Orange Sulphur | |
Painted Lady | |
Red Admiral | |
Mourning Cloak | |
Silvery Blue | |
Clouded Sulphur | |
Honey Bee | |
Purplish Copper | |
Anise Swallowtail |
Beautiful Landscapes in Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its clear waters and breathtaking landscapes. The park is located off the coast of Key West, Florida and is home to a number of natural wonders, including the famous Fort Jefferson. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the turquoise waters that surround the park, which are home to an abundance of marine life. In addition, the park is also known for its incredible sunsets and sunrises, which are a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
North Cascades National Park, located in Washington state, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering rugged peaks and stunning vistas. The park is known for its incredible mountain ranges, including the North Cascades themselves, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy a number of overlooks and waterfalls, including the popular Diablo Lake Overlook, which provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a large number of bird species, making it a popular destination for wildlife viewing.
Things To-Do and Activities in Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park both offer unique outdoor experiences. Dry Tortugas, located in Florida, is a collection of seven small islands and is known for its crystal clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can also take a ferry to Fort Jefferson and explore the historic fort, or go birdwatching to spot exotic species like the sooty tern.
North Cascades National Park, located in Washington, is known for its rugged peaks, glaciers and alpine lakes. While the park offers many popular hikes, it is also a destination for rock climbing, camping, and fishing. The North Cascades are home to several species of salmon, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Both parks offer opportunities for adventure, but Dry Tortugas is better suited for water-based activities and North Cascades is better for land-based activities. Whether it’s snorkeling in the clear waters of Dry Tortugas or exploring the rugged peaks of North Cascades, these parks offer a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse oneself in nature.
Best Time to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Gulf of Mexico and has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The summer months tend to be the warmest and most humid, with temperatures ranging from the high 80s to low 90s, while winters are mild with temperatures in the mid-70s. The park experiences its peak tourist season from December to April when the weather is pleasant and the water is clear for snorkeling and diving.
North Cascades National Park, on the other hand, is located in the Pacific Northwest region and has a more temperate climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Summer temperatures range from the low 60s to the high 80s, while winter temperatures can drop to below freezing. The park is popular for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, but is also a popular destination for hiking and camping in the summer months. The best time to visit North Cascades National Park is from May to October when the weather is dry and the trails are accessible.
Family Friendliness of Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is a family-friendly destination located in the Gulf of Mexico, offering crystal clear waters and pristine beaches perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The park’s highlight is Fort Jefferson, a historic military fort that kids can explore and learn about its history. There are also opportunities for birdwatching, camping, and fishing. However, the park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it a more remote and less convenient option for families.
North Cascades National Park, on the other hand, is located in the Pacific Northwest and offers a range of outdoor activities for families. Hiking trails, camping, and fishing are just a few of the many options available. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, and deer, making it a great destination for animal lovers. In addition, the park is easily accessible by car, making it a more convenient option for families.
In conclusion, both Dry Tortugas National Park and North Cascades National Park are family-friendly destinations, but North Cascades is better suited for families due to its convenient location and range of activities. Dry Tortugas is a great option for families who are looking for a more remote and unique experience, but may not be ideal for families with young children or those who are looking for a more relaxed vacation.