North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park came into my travels during a visit to Seattle, where Marty was recording techniques classes. With a few hours to myself, I decided to make the drive, about three hours from the city, and what I found felt like stepping into another world

They call this region the “North American Alps,” and it doesn’t take long to understand why. The mountains rise sharply, layered and rugged, with snow clinging to the peaks and deep blue lakes stretching through the valleys below. It is dramatic and unexpected and a quiet national park.

Winding along the North Cascades Highway, each turn seemed to open to another view. I remember thinking how much I wished I had shared this drive. It had that kind or presence, something to be experienced, and shared.

North Cascaded was established as a national park in 1968, preserving one of the most rugged landscapes in the country. This park contains more glaciers than any other national park in the lower 48 states.

One highlight along the way was discovering Cascade Organic Farm, a welcoming stop and a familiar brand. Here it was, simple, local and grounded in a land.

What a great day and a continued reminder just how quickly the landscape can change, and how easily I can find myself somewhere that is entirely new.