Ever since I started backpacking in 2014, I’ve wanted to venture into the North Cascades to experience the ruggedness and remoteness of the landscape for myself. Jagged snow-topped peaks (the park is home to 300 glaciers), emerald alpine lakes, mountain ridges, wildflower meadows, densely forested valleys, diverse flora and fauna … what more could one seek in a back country adventure? When I hear the famous John Muir quote, “the mountains are calling, and I must go” - I think of the North Cascades.

The place feels truly wild.