North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve are two of the most magnificent national parks in the United States. Both have unique features that make them stand out from the rest and attract millions of visitors every year. This article is going to be an exploration of these two magnificent places. From towering peaks to pristine glaciers, we will be diving into what makes each of these parks special.
North Cascades National Park, located in Washington state, is a hiker’s paradise. With over 500 miles of trails, visitors can explore the rugged peaks and deep valleys of the Cascades. The park is also home to more than 300 glaciers, making it one of the largest concentration of glaciers in the lower 48 states.
Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve, located in Alaska, is the largest national park in the United States. It covers an area of over 13 million acres and boasts some of the tallest peaks in North America. The park is a hub for adventure, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and even dog sledding. With its remote location, visitors can experience the true wilderness of Alaska.
Hiking Trails in North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
North Cascades National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve are two stunning natural destinations in the United States. Both parks offer breathtaking landscapes and challenging hikes for visitors. However, the hiking trails at these two parks have some differences that are worth exploring.
North Cascades National Park boasts over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy scenic walks to strenuous backcountry treks. One of the easiest hikes in the park is the Cascade Pass Trail, which offers great views of the park’s lush forests and towering peaks. On the other hand, the challenging Sahale Glacier Trail is one of the park’s toughest hikes, with steep ascents and rocky terrain.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, on the other hand, is known for its remote and rugged wilderness. The park boasts over 100 miles of trails, including the Root Glacier Trail, which is a relatively easy hike to a stunning glacier. Another popular easy hike is the Nizina River Trail, which offers great views of the park’s stunning glaciers and valleys. However, the park’s hardest hike is the Kuskulana River Trail, a strenuous backcountry trek that takes visitors deep into the heart of the park’s rugged wilderness.
These two parks offer a diverse range of hiking experiences, from easy scenic walks to challenging backcountry treks. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, both North Cascades National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve offer something for everyone.
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 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rankin Ridge Interpretive Trail | 1609.34 | 72.8472 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Wind Cave Canyon Trail | 6115.492 | 64.9224 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Lookout Point Trail and Centennial Trail Loop | 8368.568 | 156.972 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
| Cold Brook Canyon Trail | 4506.152 | 60.96 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| East Bison Flats Trail | 16254.334 | 445.9224 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Boland Ridge Trail | 7724.832 | 248.7168 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Centennial Trail: Highway 87 to Highlander Rd | 13035.654 | 286.8168 | Moderate | point to point | 4.5 |
| Elk Mountain Interpretive Trail | 4023.35 | 99.9744 | Easy | out and back | 3.5 |
| Prairie Vista Loop | 1609.34 | 31.6992 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Highland Creek Trail to Centennial Trail Loop | 21887.024 | 443.7888 | Hard | loop | 4.6 |
Wildlife in North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve are two of the largest wilderness areas in the United States. Both are known for their diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
In North Cascades National Park, visitors can see a variety of mammals including black bears, mountain goats, elk, and deer. The park is also home to a diverse array of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons. Additionally, the park is known for its lush vegetation, including old-growth forests and alpine meadows.
Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve is often referred to as the “Land of 10,000 Glaciers.” This park is home to a large number of glaciers, as well as a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors to this park can expect to see grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. Additionally, the park is home to a large number of bird species, including trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, and various species of waterfowl.
Both parks offer visitors the chance to see unique and diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rugged terrain of North Cascades National Park or the icy glaciers of Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve, these parks are sure to provide an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| North Cascades National Park | Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Great Horned Owl | Great Horned Owl |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Merlin | Northern Flicker |
| Barn Swallow | Merlin |
| Savannah Sparrow | Barn Swallow |
| Great Blue Heron | Savannah Sparrow |
| Hermit Thrush | Great Blue Heron |
| American Kestrel | Hermit Thrush |
| Bald Eagle | American Kestrel |
| Song Sparrow | Bald Eagle |
| European Starling | Song Sparrow |
| Northern Pintail | European Starling |
| American Wigeon | Northern Pintail |
| Green-Winged Teal | American Wigeon |
| American Pipit | Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
| North Cascades National Park | Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Coyote | Coyote |
| American Beaver | American Beaver |
| Muskrat | Muskrat |
| Big Brown Bat | Little Brown Bat |
| Bobcat | Black Bear |
| Striped Skunk | Porcupine |
| Little Brown Bat | Red Fox |
| Deer Mouse | Puma |
| Raccoon | Mink |
| Black Bear | Mule Deer |
| Porcupine | Wolf |
| Silver-Haired Bat | Short-Tailed Weasel |
| Hoary Bat | Snowshoe Hare |
| Red Fox | Land Otter |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | Common Shrew |
| House Mouse | Water Shrew |
| Puma | Red Squirrel |
| Mink | Montane Shrew |
| Black-Tailed Deer | Long-Tailed Vole |
| Wolf | Lynx |
| Long-Legged Myotis | Wolverine |
| Western Long-Eared Bat | American Marten |
| Ermine | Northern Flying Squirrel |
| California Myotis | Grizzly Bear |
| Snowshoe Hare | Meadow Vole |
Fish
| North Cascades National Park | Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Redband Trout | Steelhead |
| Brook Trout | Longnose Sucker |
| Largemouth Bass | Lake Trout |
| Longnose Sucker | Northern Pike |
| Lake Trout | Burbot |
| Burbot | Silver Salmon |
| Silver Salmon | King Salmon |
| King Salmon | Slimy Sculpin |
| Slimy Sculpin | Threespine Stickleback |
| Longnose Dace | Sockeye Salmon |
| Threespine Stickleback | Pink Salmon |
| Kokanee | Chum Salmon |
| Pink Salmon | Dolly Varden |
| Chum Salmon | Cutthroat Trout |
| Dolly Varden | Arctic Grayling |
| Cutthroat Trout |
Reptiles
| North Cascades National Park | Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | |
| Western Yellowbelly Racer | |
| Prairie Rattlesnake | |
| Common Garter Snake | |
| Rubber Boa | |
| Western Fence Lizard |
Insects
| North Cascades National Park | Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Orange Sulphur | Silvery Blue |
| Painted Lady | Clouded Sulphur |
| Red Admiral | |
| Mourning Cloak | |
| Silvery Blue | |
| Clouded Sulphur | |
| Honey Bee | |
| Purplish Copper | |
| Anise Swallowtail |
Amphibians
| North Cascades National Park | Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Wood Frog |
Beautiful Landscapes in North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
North Cascades National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve are two of the most stunning national parks in the United States. Both are located in the western part of the country and offer breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders.
North Cascades National Park is known for its rugged peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys. The park boasts over 300 glaciers, making it one of the largest glacial systems in the contiguous United States. The park also features cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning mountain vistas, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, on the other hand, is the largest national park in the country and boasts an incredibly diverse landscape. The park is home to towering peaks, glaciers, and rolling valleys, as well as the largest concentration of glaciers in North America. Visitors can also explore the park’s many rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, making it a great destination for outdoor adventure.
Both North Cascades National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve offer a unique and unforgettable experience to visitors. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountain vistas, challenging hikes, or tranquil lakes, these parks have something to offer for everyone.
Things To-Do and Activities in North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. Both parks offer a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
North Cascades National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and scenic drives. Visitors love to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes from the park’s many scenic overlooks. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and boating.
In contrast, Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve is a wilderness lover’s paradise. The park is one of the largest wilderness areas in the country and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its rugged terrain and stunning glaciers. Visitors can take part in activities such as backpacking, rafting, and wildlife viewing. The park is also a popular destination for mountaineering, with several challenging peaks to climb.
Both parks offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive or a rugged wilderness adventure, North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve have something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve are two contrasting National Parks in the United States. They differ in terms of their seasonal weather, which affects the best time of the year to visit.
North Cascades National Park, located in Washington State, is known for its wet and cool climate, with an average annual precipitation of over 140 inches. The park is best visited in the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is clearer and drier, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Winter is also a good time to visit for skiers and snowboarders, as the park is known for its heavy snow accumulation and challenging terrain.
Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve, located in Alaska, is known for its harsh and unpredictable weather. The park experiences heavy rainfall and snowfall, with average annual precipitation of over 200 inches. The best time to visit the park is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmer and drier, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Winter is also a good time to visit for skiers and snowboarders, as the park is known for its challenging terrain and abundant snow.
Both North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve offer unique weather patterns and experiences, making them both great destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Family Friendliness of North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve
North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve are two of the largest national parks in the United States. Both parks offer unique experiences, but when it comes to family-friendliness, they have different advantages.
North Cascades National Park is located in Washington state and is known for its stunning alpine scenery, glaciers, and high peaks. It is a great destination for families who love hiking and exploring nature. There are several trails that are suitable for families of all ages, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Additionally, the park has a variety of campgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic drives that are perfect for families.
Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve, on the other hand, is located in Alaska and is the largest national park in the United States. It is known for its beautiful glaciers, stunning mountains, and remote wilderness areas. Although the park is more remote and less developed, it is still a great destination for families who enjoy outdoor adventure and exploring nature. There are several ranger-led programs and activities that are designed for families, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
In conclusion, both North Cascades National Park and Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve offer unique family-friendly experiences, but North Cascades is the better choice for families who are looking for a more developed park with a variety of trails and scenic drives. On the other hand, Wrangell – St. Elias is the better choice for families who are looking for a more remote and adventurous experience.