Roadschooling North Cascades National Park
We couldn’t take being cooped up any longer and decided to load up in our Class C motorhome and take a roadschooling trip through North Cascades National Park, which – compared to all the other national parks we have been to so far as a family – is right in our backyard!
Our 3-day, North Cascades itinerary started out in Winthrop and headed west.
Day 1: Winthrop and Washington Pass
Considered a gateway to all the beauty that belies the miles of road northwest from here, Winthrop is an adorable town with western flair. We stopped in to stock up on some fun road trip treats and enjoy a little family put-put sesh at Sherri’s Sweet Shoppe.
From there, we loaded back up to continue our roadschooling adventure through North Cascades National Park. But first: a stop to climb a snow hill along the side of the highway (yes, this was the end of May!)!
Just a preview to the more epic, jagged mountain views at Washington Pass!
That night, we just boondocked in the trees of national forest.
Day 2: Gorge Overlook Trail and Padilla Bay
What a rainy day! We started out trying to enjoy the Diablo Lake area but it was miserable. Instead, we pivoted for a little more protection with the forest canopy and checked out Gorge Overlook Trail.
If you want to see a waterfall, just cross the street from the parking lot!
We then loaded back up in the motorhome and made a straight shot for Padilla Bay, where the weather seemed less wet and more conducive to riding bikes.
Then we flipped back around and headed back into national forest for the night!
Day 3: Diablo Lake Area and Ross Lake Trail
Yay – we were gifted clear and sunny skies! First a little time near the water.
And then breathtaking views at the overlook!
After taking a bajillion photos, we headed for a hike on Happy Creek Trail.
From there, we headed straight home for our beds!
It was much needed respite from all the cray of this world right now. Such a sobering and heavy season. But the gift of creation? It does what it does best in the midst of this fallen world – and that is point to the glory of the unchanging and great I Am.
Check out our other roadschool adventures at these national parks:
Three-Day Driving Itinerary Through North Cascades National Park (WA)
A Drive Around Crater Lake National Park (OR)
A Morning at Pinnacles National Park (CA)
Overnight at Joshua Tree National Park (CA)
Grand Adventure at Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)
Exploring Cliff Dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park (CO)
One-Day Itinerary at Arches National Park (UT)
Wonderfully Wet at Zion National Park (UT)
Outdoor Science Classroom at Bryce Canyon National Park (UT)