North Bend Ranger District

Attractions - The North Bend Ranger District is a picturesque area featuring glacier-cut valleys, snow capped peaks, forested ridges, scenic hiking trails and campgrounds. Alpine Lakes Wilderness encompasses approximately 394,000 acres and is accessed by 47 trailheads and 615 miles of trails. The name Alpine Lakes takes its origin from the nearly 700 small mountain lakes nestled like jewels among the high rock peaks and timbered valleys of the region.

There are two developed campgrounds found within the District. Denny Creek Campground and Tinkham Campground are found just off of I-90 near Snoqualmie Pass.

Recreation - Plenty of recreational opportunities can be found in the North Bend Ranger District. Hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, picnicking, viewing scenery and wildlife as well as alpine skiing and snowshoeing in the winter are just a few of the activities available to visitors.

Climate - The climate within the North Bend Ranger District changes drastically with elevation. The area receives a high amount of precipitation. Much of the precipitation comes from October to April in the form of rain at the low elevations and as wet heavy snow in the higher elevations. Deep winter snowpacks accumulate in the high elevations. Although snow is possible in the lowest elevations, it is less frequent. Late spring, summer and early autumn tend to bring clear, sunny days with moderate temperatures.

Location - The North Bend Ranger District is located in northwestern Washington within the central portion of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The District is bordered by the Skykomish Ranger District to the north, the Wenatchee National Forest to the east, and the White River Ranger District to the south. The District can be accessed from Seattle via I-90 eastbound.