North Cascades in November: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Shoulder · VisitWhen score 57/100 · #8 of 12 months
November is a solid shoulder-season month to visit North Cascades National Park: crowds run 1% of the July peak (62 average visits), days average 40°F with 9.2 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in November
North Cascades averages 62 recreation visits in November — 1% of what July, the peak month, draws — the third-quietest month of the year. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — this is genuine quiet-season territory.
Weather & daylight
It is properly cold (highs average 40°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 30°F). This is one of the wetter months (6.7″ of precipitation on average). Normal snowfall is 10″ — expect snow on the ground. Mid-month daylight runs 9.2 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station STEHEKIN 4 NW, WA US (12 mi from park coordinates, 1,257 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of November.
What to pack for North Cascades in November
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 30°F, below freezing
- Rain shell + pack cover — 6.7″ of precipitation is normal this month
- Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — 10″ normal snowfall
- Headlamp — only 9.2 hours of daylight in mid-November
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for North Cascades are May and June.
Common questions
Is North Cascades crowded in November?
No — November is one of the quieter months: 1% of the July peak, averaging 62 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in North Cascades in November?
Average highs of 40°F, lows of 30°F, 6.7″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, STEHEKIN 4 NW, WA US station).
What should I pack for North Cascades in November?
Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves; Rain shell + pack cover; Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
Is everything open at North Cascades in November?
State Route 20 (the North Cascades Highway) typically closes November–late spring due to avalanche danger. Always check the park's live NPS alerts for current conditions.
See also: the best national parks to visit in November · Last verified 2026-07-16