Educational Offerings

Seattle City Light Information and Tour Center. Based at a history museum that has exhibits about the onset of electric power through the Cascade ranges, Seattle's public electric company offers tours and programs during summer. Several trails start at the building, and the group offers sightseeing excursions on Diablo Lake in partnership with the North Cascades Institute, Thursday through Monday in summer by advance reservation, and afternoon cruises on summer weekends. The tour includes a visit to the Diablo Dam. Free 45-minute walking tours through the historic town of Newhalem are offered daily from July through Labor Day. Milepost 120, North Cascades Hwy., Newhalem, Washington, 98283. 360/854–2589; www.skagittours.com. Walking tour free, afternoon boat tour $20, day boat tour $40 (includes lunch). Closed Oct.–Apr..

Ranger Programs

In summer, rangers conduct programs at the visitor centers, where you also can find exhibits and other park information. At the North Cascades Visitor Center (in Newhalem) you can learn about rain-forest ecology, while at the Golden West Visitor Center (in Stehekin) there's an arts-and-crafts gallery as well as audiovisual and children's programs. Check center bulletin boards for schedules.