North Cascades Institute

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Learning Center and Field ProgramsFrom natural history explorations to the visual arts to backcountry adventures, our programs connect people to the Pacific Northwest. |
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Base CampStay at the Learning Center on your own schedule and enjoy meals, accommodations and a variety of exciting outdoor learning adventures. |
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Citizen ScienceDiscover opportunities to help the scientific community as well as learn about North Cascades ecosystems from some of the best in the field. |
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Diablo DowntimeSpend a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend at the Learning Center full of hiking, canoeing, yoga and slow food at the Learning Center. |
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Group RentalsAn intimate retreat center within a national park, the Learning Center is available for rental for your organization’s next gathering. |
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M.Ed Graduate ProgramEstablish your career in environmental education by earning a M.Ed. in our unique professional residency program. |
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Skagit ToursTake an interpretive bus, boat or walking tour and explore the natural and cultural history of the Upper Skagit Valley. |
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Sourdough Speaker SeriesAn overnight gathering with delicious food, drink and fascinating presentations from the Pacific Northwest’s most visionary citizens. |
North Cascades Institute seeks to inspire closer relationships with nature through direct experiences in the natural world. Our mission is to conserve and restore Northwest environments through education. Since 1986, we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of the natural and cultural history of the Pacific Northwest. Our goal is to help people of all ages experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest – so all will care for and protect this special place.
North Cascades Institute (Main Office)
810 State Route 20
Sedro Woolley, WA 98284
(360) 854-2599
Directions to the Environmental Learning Center
From west of the Cascades: Take Interstate 5 to exit 230, North Cascades Highway/State Route 20 East. Drive 65 miles to Diablo Dam Road, milepost 127.5. Turn left, drive over Diablo Dam, turn right and park at the end of the road in the lot. Estimated time from Seattle: 3 hrs, Bellingham: 2 hrs, Sedro-Woolley: 1.5 hrs.
From east of the Cascades: Take North Cascades Highway/State Route 20 West. Drive 35 miles west from Washington Pass to Diablo Dam Road, milepost 127.5. Drive over Diablo Dam, turn right and park at the end of the road in the lot. Estimated time from Winthrop: 1.5 hrs.