Book a boat tour through the deep gorge of stunning Diablo Lake in Washington State. Your email address will not be published. 2. Near Ross Dam, you can either portage your boat around the dam (portage is about one mile with over 500 feet of elevation gain) or utilize Ross Lake Resort 's portage service . The launch is open year-round, and there is a fee for launching your boat. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. During the warmer months, you can also take the Diablo Lake Ferry to get to the gorgeous lake. Got a kayak atop your car? The road will be signed for the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center. Drive back up to the highway to the Diablo Lake Vista Pointfor an amazing photo opportunity. More details . Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not they would like to paddle board at Diablo Lake. Wed love to expand our repertoire of routes! Explore and book active vacations in over 80 countries. Diablo Lake is tucked inside North Cascades National Park and the parking lot for the Diablo Lake Trail can be accessed from Diablo Dam Road off North Cascades Highway (SR 20). We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. The cement factory is closed, but Concrete's cute downtown remains. YouTube sets this cookie via embedded youtube-videos and registers anonymous statistical data. You can have lunch with a view of Diablo Lake, thanks to the lookout point that features picnic tables and viewing areas. The 7-mile hike meanders through various terrains offering glimpses of the pretty lake along the way. Diablo Lake, and the nearby Ross Lake and Gorge Lake, are man-made reservoirs formed by the dam system. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Just making sure because I am leaving to go on Tuesaday. Diablo Lake is a gorgeous reservoir in the Cascade mountains of northern Washington. The pattern element in the name contains the unique identity number of the account or website it relates to. yes, its huge and gorgeous, but requires more advanced planning. State Route 20 is closed over winter, so plan your trip for the warmer months . 98284, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trash/Litter Receptacles. Learn about water, geology, glaciers, and the plants and animals that call this place home. It is not a good idea to use the ferry dock. As a result, the lake becomes greenish-blue as a result of sunlight being absorbed more effectively. Skip the Line: Jay Alexander Mind Tricks Live Show @ Marrakech Magic Theater: Bahama Kayak Full Day Water Sports Package at Junkanoo Beach, Cades Cove Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. link Copy Link. Remember, it's easier going down to the lake than it is coming back up; especially for those of us who are seniors or not in the best shape to walk up and down the hills. WTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! Stay overnight at theNorth Cascades Environmental Learning Center at Lake Diablo. This overlook along Hwy 20 provides great views of the lake behind Diablo dam as well as of the forested mountains surrounding it. The 7-mile hike meanders through various terrains offering glimpses of the pretty lake along the way. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. You can stop at Federation Forest to see the old growth and the interpretive center, The Dalles Campground for a little hike, and Tipsoo Lake. Diablo Lake Overlook. Any advice or things to know? We suggest hiking out during the summer months for the full ferry experience. In another 1.6 km, reach a signed overlook of Ross Dam. So, Ill submit it again. Cross the bridge, and continue for another 1.5 miles, then turn left onto Diablo Dam Road. It's so good, it doesn't look real. App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead. share Share . Do I need a special pass of any kind if I am going to Colonial Creek Campground? Baker Scenic Byway (State Route 542). Want to find more amazing hikes in North Cascades National Park? 9. There are a variety of ecosystems along the route, including an old-growth forest, alpine meadows, and a subalpine lake. On one hand, the lakes clean and clear water makes it seem like an ideal place to take a dip. A bridge just past the Thunder Knob trail will provide your first full look at Diablo Lake and the impressive mountains that surround it. The cookie stores information anonymously and assigns a randomly generated number to recognize unique visitors. A smaller waterfall becomes visible, cascading into the turquoise waters of Lake Diablo. The launch is located on the north side of Diablo Lake, just off of Highway 20. Id love to hear more tips and favorite spots from others whove spent time at this incredible park. Great idea. Get up close to this wildness with a short hike along the Thunder Creek Trail near Diablo Lake. The Diablo Lake Boat Launch is a great place to take your boat out for a day on the water. The elevation gain on the road to the portage is 525 feet, and the elevation loss is 100 feet. From June to October, Seattle City Light provides ferry service on the lake, allowing for a one-way hike and scenic boat ride back. North Cascades > North Cascades Highway - Hwy 20, North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Day Hiking: North Cascades (Romano - Mountaineers Books), Buy the Green Trails Diablo Dam No. It was a lot of climbing for very little payoff. The three dams running from east to west, are Ross Dam, Diablo Dam and Gorge Dam. What hotels are near Diablo Lake Overlook? There are a few things to consider before paddling in the lake, such as the weather and the water level. . If youre traveling in the summer season without reservations, be sure to get to the park by mid-morning. My family and I were just saying we need to go for a drive for Fall. Of course, Diablo Lake is one of the prettiest. On a boat tour this summer, you can take a dip, kayak, or play tourist. Fly from Portland (PDX) to Bellingham (BLI) PDX - BLI. Before arriving, check road conditions for seasonal closures. Diablo Lake was formed after the construction of Diablo Dam in the late 1920's to harness hydro electric power from the Skagit River. TheFamily Staysincludeguided hikes, canoe trips, outdoor games, arts and crafts, fireside storytelling and night-time walks. There is no direct connection from Mukilteo to Diablo Lake. He wasthe father and early superintendent of the Skagit Hydro-electricity project. I'm driving in the back roads in South Carolina, so service is going in and out and I'm not quite understanding what he's saying. The Overlook is super easy to get to off Highway 20. Enjoy a meal on a patio beside the river while listening to music. The ferry only comes twice daily during the summer, so be sure to arrive on time (9am and 3:30pm). This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Unique, outstanding, fascinating, enchanting - all these words cannot fully describe the real beauty of this place. , Washington is a paradise for those who love waterfront fun but sometimes, nothing tops a day at the lake. Power lines buzz overhead - a reminder that the Diablo, Gorge, and Ross dams have generated hydroelectricity here for decades. This national park is the most glaciated mountain system in the Continental US, with 312 glaciers. After you've finished the boat tour on Diablo Lake, it's fun to explore some trails near the Learning Center, including theDeer Creek Trail(0.25 miles), and theSourdough Creek Trail(1.75 miles). Mountain views Dogs allowed on leash Lakes Parking Pass/Entry Fee None Cross the Sourdough Creek trail -- which is not shown on the Green Trails map -- and follow the trail on a gentle uphill grade through old-growth forest. Easily accessible, right off Route 20. $186 - $760. A cookie set by YouTube to measure bandwidth that determines whether the user gets the new or old player interface. Your email address will not be published. Overview. You will start to see lush foothills of the North Cascades. In winter, hikers can enjoy listening to only the sound of rushing water, since the highway visible across the way is closed to vehicle traffic.Continue on, enjoying views of the vibrant blue lake. Tukwila Family Fun Center & Bullwinkle's Restaurant, Tukwila, The One Pristine Inland Beach In Washington That Will Make You Swear Youre On The Coast, 7 Swimming Spots With The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Washington, 10 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Washington, This Off-The-Beaten-Path River Tubing Spot In Washington Is The Perfect Place To Escape, 5 Incredible Washington Day Trips You Can Take By Train, The Clearest Lakes In Washington, Enchantment Lakes, Are Almost Too Beautiful To Be Real, Washington Is Home To A Bottomless Lake And Youll Want To See It For Yourself, 9 Underrated Washington Lakes Perfect For A Summer Day. I know that most of the higher elevation hiking trails will still be snow covered at this time of year, but what will Hwy 20 be like? Views from the trail are just as breathtaking as those from the lake itself. I think one of the great things about North Cascades National park is that a lot of really great sites can be see with little effort. It's very easy to get to, with campsites directly off State Route 20. Then, you can follow Diablo Lake until you reach Colonial Creek campground. Take a thrilling drive across the 389-foot Diablo Dam! North Cascades National Park Washington Info Alerts Maps Calendar Fees Accessibility at Diablo Lake Overlook Accessible parking, curb ramps and toilets available. The Diablo Lake Overlook is 11-miles east of Newhalem on State Route 20. Go kayaking on the pristine waters, explore trails with incredible viewpoints, and stay at a choice of four campgrounds. Are they safe and well maintained ? And should you need to stay overnight, you'll find plenty of campgrounds in. Required fields are marked *. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 38 min to complete. Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers. Alternatively, hikers and backpackers may use the ferry to get to or from Ross Lake. A 1-hour Diablo Lake Boat Touris available near the Environmental Centerat the lake's edge. Newhalem PH of 2 mw is nearly adjacent to a NCNP campground across the Skagit River from Newhalem WA. What attractions are near Diablo Lake Overlook? This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as it depends on personal preference. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Access to Diablo Dam should be found by crossing SR 20 and following the road to the top of Diablo Dam. June, [] wildlife, rugged terrain and abundance of stops and trails to explore go, and go and go. The Diablo Lake Overlook is 11-miles east of Newhalem on State Route 20, with gorgeous views over Diablo Lake to Diamond Peak. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Heres a cool YouTube video by Family Time4Fun showing pretty aerial images of the lake as well as the surrounding area. North Cascades National Park is one of the lesser-visited but most stunning in the national park system, and Diablo Lake is an easily accessible attraction. The glaciers grind against the rocks, forming a powdery silt . Diablo Lake is used as a reservoir, created by the Diablo Dam. The reflection of sunlight off the suspended particles in the lake creates a turquoise appearance. Diablo is the lower smaller part. more, #2 of 26 things to do in North Cascades National Park. This gorgeous lake is surrounded by vertical walls of solid granite, and jagged, snowcapped peaks. The lake is approximately 15 miles (24 km) long and is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Thanks to its proximity to Diablo Lake and trails and its boat launch, Colonial Creek Campground is a popular spot. Will this also require a 4wd or accent will do? These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The tour is narrated by both a Park Ranger and Naturalist, providing a fascinating insight into the rich history of the lake. The cement factory is closed, but Concretes cute downtown remains. This is the, Diablo Dam comes back into view on the way back to the, Finally some blue sky on Diablo Lake! Be sure to keep kids and dogs nearby! Visitors can hike the 7.5-mile Diablo Lake Trail to enjoy views of Ross Dam, as well as spectacular lake views. I would say the view is even better than the one you get hiking the 3.3 mile Thunder Knob Trail. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Weather can play a role though - the crystal blue colours are usually only on sunny days. When ice erodes the rock from the surrounding mountains, it produces ice grains known as glacial flour, which float into the lake from glacial streams. We were gone the week of Oct. 5th to the 11th. More:Day Hikes and Cheap Sleeps in the Methow Valley| Check conditions on the North Cascades Highway, View North Cascades Highway Scenic Drive in a larger map. The lake, which was created by Diablo Dam, is located between Ross Lake and Gorge Lake on the Skagit River. Can they be on leash at the lookout point and trail nearby? Camping is also availableat theNewhalem Creek Campground9-miles west of Diablo Lake, or you can travel one hour east along the highway to the Western-themed township of Winthrop for a wide range of lodging options. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. TheNorth Cascades Environmental Learning Centerhas some exciting packages for overnight stays, with meals and lodgingincluded. The Family Stays includesfun hikes, outdoor games, canoeing, fireside storytelling and nocturnal walks. 48.7278, -121.0628 Map & Directions Length 1.6 miles, roundtrip Elevation Gain 500 feet Highest Point 2,100 feet Calculated Difficulty Easy Check out the view over Ross Lake and Ross Dam on the Ross Dam Trail. You need to be able to do some climbing if you want to get down to either lake at ground level. We like to stop and visit the old forts, then get out and walk across Deception Pass Bridge. more information on current conditions Washington State Department of Transportation, Explore exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the park complex, View the Picket Range from the Sterling Munro Boardwalk, Enjoy the forests and creeks of Newhalem on a variety of easy trails, Walk along a short, interpretive trail to an overlook, Take in views of a waterfall, gorge, and dam, Enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountain peaks, Take a peaceful, shaded stroll through a moss-covered forest. Of course, Diablo Lake is one of the prettiest lakes in Washington, but here are some more lakes that are equally notable. Description: Don't let the name of Diablo Lake deceive you! It does not store any personal data. It was around 4.5 miles and while some of the views of the lake and dam were ok, nothing was spectacular. Restrooms and information are available at the Institutes Environmental Learning Center. Leonardo DiCaprio fans have flocked here for nearly 20 years; Concrete was the setting and filming location for a movie he starred in calledThis Boys Life, based on a memoir of the same name. From here, the landscape becomes more forested as you begin your ascent into the North Cascades. Get more stories delivered right to your email. A primitive campground has been established near Diablo Lake. Bicycling in the park can be both challenging and scenic. Where does the closure occur? There is no direct connection from Diablo Lake to Seattle. It's referred to as the Diablo Lake Vista Point on Google Maps. Visit the Diablo Lake Overlookfor an amazing photo opportunity. to admire this truly breathtaking view. Drive down the hill and then across the 389-foot Diablo Dam, before ending at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center. Along the Skagit River, fishermen cast for steelhead, the same salmon that draws hundreds of Bald Eagles to this corridor each winter. Appreciate any information/advice here! In summer, the distinctive turquoise color of the lake is the result of suspended fine rock particles refracting sunlight. The trail rises and falls for 3.8 miles (6.1 km), then crosses Diablo Lake on a high bridge. After leaving the boat tour, visitors are free to explore the gift shop and trails at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center. How to get to Diablo Lake? Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State. I love the drives around Lopez Island and, also, the one around San Juan Island and camping at San Juan Island County Park. A must-see stop if you are touring the highway through the North Cascades. Anglers looking to catch rainbow trout can fish at Diablo Lake all year. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. What you aren't going to get is that great view from above it, since that's taken from an overlook that's not plowed until a bit later. Youll want to walk slowly both to soak in the views and to take in the breathtaking views as the gorge rises 700 feet. document.write( new Date().getFullYear() ); Stay Little Harbor, Paddle Boarding On Lake Arrowhead: A Great Way To Enjoy The Water And Scenery, Lake Julia: A Peaceful Paddle Boarding Experience, What Wind Speed Is Ideal For Kitesurfing? Rainier is stunning. Explore different ways to experience this place. This highway open in spring (usually May) and closes in winter, usually sometime in November. Here are some other ideas for amazing summer day trips in Washington. Everyone waits patiently for the boat to arrive. Unfortunately there are no kayak rentals at Diablo Lake. The Diablo Lake Overlookis 2.5 hours from Seattle in the North Cascades National Park. A must see, with views of Diablo Lake, Davis, Jack, Pyramid and Colonial Peaks. For decades, hydroelectricity created by water power harnessed through the dams has provided a significant source of electricity for Seattle. Own or manage this property? The Diablo Lake Trail is an excellent choice year-round, but it's a particularly good option for an early season hike in the stunning North Cascades National Park, much of which is inaccessible during the winter and spring.The trail starts out from the North Cascades Institute parking lot. 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It was super cold in the heat of Augustwe did see a family swimming but it is a COLD swim. During summer months you can hear the constant flow of snowmelt and water descending from the lofty heights of these majestic mountains. Now that summer is in full swing, you should really make the most of it. Heres some pictures: http://www.slowtrav.com/blog/marta/archives/010018.html. Sedro-Woolley, The quickest way to get from Lynnwood to Diablo Lake is to drive which costs $19 - $29 and takes 2h 25m. Alternatively, you can take the tram to Northgate Station, take the walk to Northgate Station Bay 2, take the bus to Lynnwood Transit Center Bay D2, take the walk to . Or rather, those are the vivid memories I haveon a, Terms of Service | Disclosure Notice | Archives. Because of the waters glacial, cold conditions, and large deposits of silt, floatation devices are required. Read our. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". They both are accessible from Hwy.20 from Interstate 5 about 40-50 miles to the east. There's also Base Camp package geared towards adults. I would love to take my Mom on this drive especially since its fall! Is there a stop over that has that view or is it a specific trail that you have to hike? Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure. This area was originally a gorge, flooded in 1930 after the construction of the Diablo Dam created this 5-mile long reservoir. Step inside a visitor center and explore the exhibits and interpretive offerings, or talk to a ranger. Fine silt is still suspended in the water. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. However, you can take the bus to Everett Station Bay A4, take the line 201 bus to Smokey Point Transit Center, take the walk to Smokey Point Transit Center Bay 2, take the . Bull trout and Dolly Varden, which are both prohibited from being taken, are among the fish found in the lake. Swimming is one of the recommended activities if you can access the lake easily. You can also launch canoes, kayaks, and other portable crafts right from Colonial Creek Campground, then paddle up to five miles to the end of Diablo Lake. Or is there another trail or overlook spot that we could still see Diablo? 1. Thunder Knob is also a great place for picnicking and swimming. I love the North Cascades, the Olympic Peninsula, and Whidbey Island, but I also really like going over Chinook Pass; the colors there cant be beat, and looking back at Mt. The lake is located in the North Cascade mountain range in Washington state, and is a popular spot for paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Since then our climate has become rainier and the temps have dropped substantially. 95% of travelers recommend this experience. Kitesurfing In Daytona Beach: An Adventure Awaits! 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Fall color heightens the scenery all the more look for red maple along the lower Skagit River and spot golden larches near Rainy Pass. The Diablo Dam is part of the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project, wherea series ofthree hydroelectricdams were built along the Skagit River in the 1920s and 1930sto generate 20% of Seattle's electricity. There is lots of hiking around Chinook Pass. And while a weekend spent at Lake Chelan or one of our other top vacation spots is always amazing, if you need a more peaceful retreat, wake up with the sun and head to Diablo Lake for the day. After crossing the North Cascades Highway (SR 20), take the Gorge Lake Bridge for 20 miles. Be wary of this in winter and early spring -- it can be dangerous since that's where snow lingers on trail. Facebook sets this cookie to show relevant advertisements to users by tracking user behaviour across the web, on sites that have Facebook pixel or Facebook social plugin. Diablo Lake is a teal gem nestled in the Cascades. If youre feeling adventurous and decide to take a dip in Diablo Lake, be sure to take extra precautions and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Glacial flour is a type of rock particle that enters the lake when rock from the surrounding mountains is eroded by ice and flows into the lake through a glacial stream. There are several options for hiking views of Diablo Lake. I got home, I read it, and I was like, "Oh, wow, okay. Continue to an unsigned overlook at 2.9 km, where Colonial Peak and Pyramid Peak are visible from a makeshift bench. To get to these regions, you can either drive on one of the dirt roads or go backpacking. The south tolt river and cedar river hydro plants are run in conjunction with the the water supply dams on said rivers, NE and SE of Seattle respectively. ross lake requires portage, fees, and reservations at the singular resort + backcountry national park camping permits. One-way or round-trip, the Diablo Lake Trail offers a nice hike above the shores of Lake Diablo. Exploring The Factors That Impact Kitesurfing Performance, Learn The Basics Of Edging And Master The Art Of Kitesurfing, Exploring The Differences: Kiteboarding Vs Kitesurfing, Explore The Stunning Beaches And Thrilling Windsurfing And Kitesurfing Opportunities Of Tarifa Spain, A Kitesurfers Dream: Exploring Brazils Perfect Beaches, How To Capture The Thrill Of Kitesurfing On Film: Equipment Techniques & Tips For Stunning Videos, Exploring Kitesurfing In Germany: An Overview Of The Best Spots Safety Measures And More. We hiked the Diablo Lake Trail from the North Cascades Institute parking lot to the ferry.