Paddling the Lakes of North Cascades National Park

Four lakes, different access

Kayaking and canoeing are popular on Gorge, Diablo, and Ross lakes and on Lake Chelan. Launches are located at Gorge Lake, Diablo Lake, the north end of Ross Lake at Hozomeen, and Lake Chelan. Ross Lake has no launch at its south end and cannot be reached by car from State Route 20, so a paddling plan there depends on where the boat enters the water. NPS

The Colonial Creek boat ramp is dirt and accessible for some wheelchairs. Equipment access and rental options vary: Diablo and Gorge have no boat rentals, while Ross Lake Resort rents motorboats, kayaks, canoes, and other equipment and offers a water taxi. Limited paddle-craft rentals are available at Stehekin on Lake Chelan. NPS

The Ross–Diablo transfer

A boat route between Diablo and Ross lakes includes a land transfer: boats must be portaged between them. For canoe and kayak portage from Diablo, use the portage dock rather than the ferry dock. The gravel-road portage is 1.2 miles, with an elevation gain of 525 feet and elevation loss of 100 feet. NPS

For a separate approach from State Route 20, the Ross Dam Trail at milepost 134 descends one mile and 900 feet to Ross Lake on a rocky, switchbacking path. For the between-lake portage, Ross Lake Resort offers a service that can be requested using the phone near the dock. Larger power boats, and any craft that cannot be carried, cannot be portaged between the lakes. NPS

Permits and cold water

Boat-in camping is available on Ross and Diablo lakes and Lake Chelan. Ross and Diablo require a backcountry permit from the Wilderness Information Center; Lake Chelan requires a federal dock permit if using the dock. Those distinctions make the destination and overnight plan part of the launch decision. NPS

Water temperatures in the park complex seldom reach above 50°F (10°C). Hand-powered craft can overturn, and getting to shore after a fall can be difficult. Wear a properly fitting life jacket, check the forecast, dress in synthetic clothing suited to air and water conditions, and have a self-rescue plan. Sudden gusty winds and swells are common in the afternoon, though they can occur at any time. NPS