Glacier Peak Wilderness
Glacier Peak Wilderness, Protected wilderness area in Chelan County, United States.
Description
Glacier Peak Wilderness is a protected area spanning over 566,000 acres with dense forests, steep valleys, and numerous glacial formations throughout. The 10,541-foot volcano at its center rises dramatically above the surrounding peaks and valleys.
History
The area was protected in 1960 by the North Cascades Conservation Council, four years before the national wilderness legislation took effect. This early designation made it a pioneer in the movement to protect wild lands.
Culture
Indigenous peoples maintain deep ties to this land that reach back through generations. The wildlife inhabiting these forests and peaks, from black bears to mountain goats, shapes how people understand and relate to the place.
Practical
Access is only by foot since no roads lead directly into the wilderness, and the terrain requires careful navigation. Most trails become clear of snow by mid-August, making this the best window for serious hiking trips.
Did you know?
This wilderness recorded the last confirmed grizzly bear sighting in the United States portion of the North Cascade ecosystem. That rare encounter marks an important moment in how the region's wildlife populations have changed over time.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Chelan County).
Glacier Peak
71 m
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
21.4 km
Bonanza Peak
23.1 km
Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
41 km
Henry M. Jackson Wilderness
21.5 km
White Chuck Glacier
5.3 km
South Cascade Glacier
27.9 km
Mount Fernow
23.5 km
Mount Pugh
19.7 km
Rainbow Falls
40.1 km
Sloan Peak
18.6 km
Buckner Homestead Historic District
39.4 km
Columbia Glacier
24.2 km
Monte Cristo Peak
23.1 km
Green Mountain Lookout
22 km
White Chuck Cinder Cone
7.8 km
Green Mountain
22 km
Purple Point-Stehekin Ranger Station House
40.4 km
Kyes Peak
23.2 km
Chocolate Glacier
2.3 km
Stehekin School
40 km
Cache Col Glacier
37.7 km
Company Glacier
23.8 km
Mary Green Glacier
23.9 km
Castle Rock
35.2 km
Chickamin Glacier
23.2 km
Columbia Peak
24.9 km
Spectacle Buttes
26.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes