In this continuation of our epic Washington and Montana road trip, we’re taking you to two jaw-droppingly scenic and lesser-visited gems in the U.S. national park system — North Cascades National Park in Washington and Glacier National Park in Montana.

North Cascades National Park is often referred to as the “American Alps,” thanks to its rugged peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and jaw-dropping viewpoints along Highway 20. This national park is one of the most underrated in the U.S. — and it’s completely FREE to visit!

Glacier National Park, just across the Montana border, features glacier-carved valleys, alpine meadows, and the world-famous Going-to-the-Sun Road — a scenic mountain highway packed with waterfalls, wildlife, and dramatic vistas. This national park is a bucket list destination for hikers and road trippers alike.

This week’s episode picks up where we left off last week, hitting the road to explore the final two national parks of this multi-park Pacific Northwest adventure.

Highlights from North Cascades National Park include:

• Cascade Pass Trail - A 6.5 mile hike leading to glaciers, alpine meadows and stunning views
• Trail of the Cedars - An easy 1-mile nature walk across a suspension bridge and through the forest
• Diablo Lake Vista Point - Epic roadside viewpoint of the glacier-fed, turquoise lake
• Blue Lake Trail - A serene 5-mile hike through alpine forest to a crystal-clear lake surrounded by peaks

Highlights from Glacier National Park include:

• Going To The Sun Road - One of the most scenic drives in the U.S., spanning 50 miles across the continental divide. Scenic stops on the Going To The Sun Road include: Heavens Peak, Bird Woman Falls, Garden Wall & Weeping Wall, Logan Pass Visitor Center, Mount Jackson Glacier, and Saint Marry Lake & Wild Goose Island
• Hidden Lake Overlook - A 2.8 mile hike to alpine lake views in an area known particularly for grizzly bears
• McDonald Falls & Lake McDonald - An iconic place to watch the sunset and see the colorful rocks beneath the crystal-clear waters of the lake
• Avalanche Lake via Trail of the Cedars - A 5.7 mile forest hike ending at a glacier-fed lake with waterfall backdrops

To make it easier to finding your accommodations for this trip easier, we have included a link ⁠HERE⁠ for you to search for hotels .

Don’t forget to check out our ⁠Viator Experience⁠ page for additional activities and things to do in these National Parks, as well as the surrounding region that may be of interest to you!

If you're looking for a flight deal to these national parks, the surrounding region, or anywhere else, we recommend signing up for ⁠Thrifty Traveler Premium⁠ to get daily flight deals (points & cash) emailed directly to you!

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