Things To Do Near Ross Lake National Recreation Area
You won't find sleek visitor centers and sprawling picnic areas at Ross Lake National Recreation Area, but what it lacks in amenities, the park makes up for in adventure. The easiest way to explore is on foot since a network of beautiful hiking trails travels into the mountains and along the eastern shore of the lake. Boating is also a fantastic way to explore. Plan to portage your boat around the Ross Dam or drive to the northern end of the lake via Hope, Canada, and use the boat launch there. Ross Lake Resort provides paddleboat and motorboat rentals as well as a water taxi to points around the lake.
Hiking Trails
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East Bank Trail
The East Bank Trail starts next to the North Cascades Highway and travels through the forest to the shores of Ross Lake. From there, it winds for many miles up the eastern shore, offering beautiful views and access to the many beaches and backcountry campsites on the water. Create your own out-and-back hike, or book a one-way water taxi with the Ross Lake Resort for a shorter trip. As you hike, look out for signs of the 1880 gold rush. With its flat terrain and minimal elevation gains, this trail is a great option for beginning hikers and kids.
Location
East Bank Trailhead, North Cascades Highway, Milepost 138, Rockport, WA 98283
Length
31 miles
Intensity
Intermediate
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Ross Dam Trail/Big Beaver Trail
The Ross Dam Trail and the Big Beaver Trail are fun ways to check out the historic Ross Dam. From the trailhead, you'll hike about 1 mile to get to the dam. The trail runs across the top, offering views of Riprap Creek and Ross Lake. For a short hike, turn around after you reach the other side of the dam. If you're up for more, keep going along the western shore of Ross Lake on the Big Beaver Trail. After about 6 miles, you'll come to an enormous colony of beaver dams and a stand of beautiful ancient cedars.
Location
Ross Dam Trailhead, North Cascades Highway, Milepost 134, Rockport, WA 98283
Length
24.6 miles
Intensity
Intermediate
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Sourdough Mountain Trail
If you're in search of a challenging hike and spectacular views, plan to spend the day on the Sourdough Mountain Trail. It's one of the most difficult routes in Ross Lake National Recreation Area and the entire North Cascades National Park, so make sure to start early, bring layers and wear sturdy shoes. This trail ascends to a historic fire lookout that sits on the summit of Sourdough Mountain. Once you get past 3.5 miles of intense switchbacks, the trail passes through stunning mountain meadows. Keep going — the scenery opens up dramatically during the last 1.5 miles, and the 360-degree views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. With peaks, brilliant blue lakes, and steep valleys in every direction, you'll be tempted to stay for hours.
Location
Sourdough Mountain Trailhead, North Cascades Highway, Milepost 126, Rockport, WA 98283
Length
10.4 miles round trip
Intensity
Difficult
Sightseeing
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Diablo Lake
With its shocking green water, Diablo Lake is a sight to behold. It's located close to Ross Lake, and you can access it by road easily. If you're short on time, stop at the Diablo Lake Overlook along the North Cascades Highway. The overlook parking area features restrooms and interpretive signs, so it's a great spot to stretch your legs. For a better view, drive down to the lake, or enjoy an easy hike on the Diablo Lake Trail. In the summer, you can take a fantastic boat tour aboard the Alice Ross IV from the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center.
Location
North Cascades Highway, Mile Marker 132, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
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Gorge Powerhouse
Get a sense of the industry of water management in the Ross Lake area during a tour of the Gorge Powerhouse. Operated by Seattle City Light, these tours take you through the historic town of Newhalem. Then you'll see the remarkable Gorge Powerhouse. If you book the Insider's Tour, you'll get to go inside the powerhouse to see the inner workings of the remarkable hydroelectric system.
Location
North Cascades Highway, Mile Marker 20, Newhalem, WA 98283
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Gorge Overlook
Get another perspective on the spectacular North Cascades landscape at the Gorge Overlook. From the parking area, a short trail runs to an observation deck that offers a stunning view of the rocky gorge. Keep an eye out for the Gorge Dam and Gorge Lake as you hike. Part of the trail is paved, so it's a good option for strollers and wheelchairs. Don't leave after you've checked out the overlook. Instead, cross the highway, and take the sidewalk that runs along the bridge over Gorge Creek. In the center of the bridge, look back into the canyon to see a gorgeous waterfall tucked back into the rocks.
Location
810 North Cascades Highway, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
Museums
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Skagit General Store
Located about 14 miles west of Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Skagit General Store is one of the closest places to pick up food and essentials. You'll also find a nice selection of drinks and prepared food items.
Location
502 Newhalem Street, Rockport, WA 98283
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Chevron
Fill your tank, and grab last-minute treats at the Chevron gas station. Located 28 miles west of Ross Lake, it's one of the closest places to get gas.
Location
60103 North Cascades Highway, Marblemount, WA 98267
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Marblemount Diner
Casual and friendly, Marblemount Diner serves burgers, fries, and other fast-food classics. If you're passing through in the morning, make sure to stop in for one of the diner's enormous egg breakfasts.
Location
60147 North Cascades Highway, Marblemount, WA 98267
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Rockport Bar and Grill
Revive yourself after a long day of hiking with an excellent espresso at Rockport Bar and Grill. Serving pub-style appetizers, pizza, and hot sandwiches, it's the perfect place to relax and refuel.
Location
52807 Railroad Avenue, Rockport, WA 98283