Just returned from a trip to North Cascades NP in WA. No crowds, no entrance fee, very scenic (more of a "sound of music" look with snow capped mountains jutting out of green forests and meadows). If you're ever up in that part of the country, it may be worth a look.

It is a 3-4hr drive from Seattle.

This is the view from our lodge on the east side of the park.


This is the view at 6500 ft "Easy Pass", 3.5 mi from the trailhead (at which we were the only ones parked).


And this is a scenic overlook on the west side of the park.

Been there once. Cascade Pass was great. Need to go back. Easy Pass looks great. Thanks for posting.

Very nice. Thanks for posting.

Great pics. Thanks for posting.

Lucky you with no crowds! When we spent a few weeks a few years ago day hiking the three National Parks, I remember full trailheads and lots of people... Especially when the weekends rolled around. It was berry season!!!

Really lovely shots!

The view from the 6500 ' pass reminds me how strange I felt in alpine country up there-- too much air!!!

We must have avoided the crowds by going on a weekday, and you're right about the thick air. It was nice not having to deal with the faint headache that I sometimes get at the higher altitudes of Yosemite.