Founded in 1986, North Cascades Institute is a nonprofit conservation organization that helps people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, and human communities of the North Cascades—so that everyone will care for and protect this special place. Our mission is ...
Many of our programs take place at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center, a hub of discovery and adventure operated in partnership with the National Park Service and Seattle City Light. Located on Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park, the campus features modern accommodations, food service, lake access and trails, classrooms and a library, and stunning mountain views!
We believe that shared experiences in nature strengthen community. Everyone benefits when people have equitable access to natural places and spaces for education, recreation, and renewal. Will you join us on this journey?
We believe that hands-on learning about the environment begins in childhood—that’s why serving young people is one of our top priorities. We provide equitable access to outdoor spaces, offering opportunities for young people to discover, reflect, learn, grow, and thrive.
A three-day, two-night hands-on outdoor school program for local fifth-grade students at the Environmental Learning Center, focusing on science as well as the natural and cultural history of the North Cascades.
ncascades.org/mountainschool
Through backpacking and canoe camping trips, diverse high school students develop outdoor skills, practice leadership, and engage in climate change solutions. These immersive experiences on public lands empower the next generation of environmental leaders.
ncascades.org/youth
Explore our wild backyard with Field Excursions and Online Classes exploring a range of engaging topics with local experts—birding, mushrooms, photography, watercolors, geology and more. Year-round ncascades.org/classes
From the North Cascades to the Skagit and Methow Valleys to the Salish Sea, learn about the natural and cultural history of the region in small groups led by passionate instructors and naturalists. We’ll even meet you online wherever you are!
Connect with your family—and nature, too—with handson learning and fun activities for all ages. Enjoy outdoor games, canoe voyages and campfires under the stars with lodging and meals included. Multi-generational groups and non-traditional families welcome! July-August
ncascades.org/family
Enjoy North Cascades National Park with comfortable lodging, meals, and guided learning adventures— including gentle hikes, seasonal nature explorations, and stargazing. June-September
ncascades.org/basecamp
Gather at the Environmental Learning Center for your next training, workshop, reunion, or group event. Enjoy lodging, facilities for up to 92 guests, meals, and engaging educational programming. Year-round
ncascades.org/retreats
Take a boat tour on Diablo Lake for spectacular views and to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Upper Skagit Valley. Tour options include Lake & Lunch, Morning, and Afternoon cruises. July-September ncascades.org/skagittours
REGISTER Call 360-854-2599 or visit ncascades.org/get _ outside
Scholarships & discounts for students, military and disability may be available
4/12 Pacific Northwest Native Plants
4/27 Salish Seaweed Garden
5/10 Spring Birding on the Snow Goose
5/11 Snake Count in the Methow Valley
5/17-18 San Juan Islands Exploration on the Orion
5/30 Stewardship at Kukutali Preserve
6/6-8 Spring Birding in the Methow Valley
6/7 Amphibians of PNW Ponds and Wetlands
7/19 Spoon Carving and Conservation
7/26 Night Sky Photography at Artist Point
8/17 Naturalist's Journey Up Sauk Mountain
8/22 Floating the Skagit River's Geologic History
9/5-7 North Cascades Naturalist Seminar (ELC)
9/5-6 Watercolor Wildflowers Seminar (ELC)
9/20 Writing to Connect with Nature
9/27 North Cascades Carnivores
10/18 Baker Lake Fungal Foray
10/26 Befriending Fungi at Bowman Bay
12/** Skagit Valley Winter Birding
12/** Bald Eagles of the Skagit Valley
IN - PERSON CLASSES ** See ncascades.org/classes for dates
2025 ONLINE CLASSES
3/19 Finding their Way: How Birds Migrate
4/9 Wolves in Washington Update
4/30 Frogs and Salamanders of the Puget Trough
9/3 Wildfires and North Cascades Canada Lynx
11/16 Drawing Mountains in Ink
To hear about new programs and events, sign up for our eNewsletter ncascades.org/fieldnotes