Conferences and Retreats

North Cascades Institute invites you to reserve space at the Learning Center for gatherings of all kinds. Located on the wooded shores of Diablo Lake in the heart of North Cascades National Park, this unique, green-built venue inspires reflection and connection to the natural world as well as to each other. Welcoming conferences, events, retreats, workshops, trainings, reunions and other gatherings, our venue offers: 

  • Lodging for up to 92 guests, including bed and bath linens
  • Delicious, local and organic dining in our lakeside dining hall
  • Conference rooms, outdoor shelters, lounges and a library
  • Guided canoeing and hiking opportunities
  • High-speed wireless Internet and audio-visual equipment
  • An onsite coordinator to help with your event
  • Proceeds benefit youth environmental education

Booking Options for 2023

We are currently scheduling for 2023. To learn about availability, please complete our request information form and we will be in touch.
For 2023 weddings, we are currently booking for these dates: 
  • June 23-25 (maximum capacity 92)
  • July 14-16 (maximum capacity 92)
  • September 8-10 (maximum capacity 64)

  • Discover_ELC

    Facilities

    The Learning Center is a hub of discovery for all ages in one of the wildest, most biologically diverse landscapes in North America. From this green-built base camp, you can explore cascading streams and pristine peaks, wildflower meadows and old-growth forests.

  • Dining

    Dining

    We offer three superb meals a day, served buffet-style in the historic lakeside Salmonberry Dining Hall. Our kitchen staff prepares meals that showcase the fresh and flavorful foods of the Skagit River Valley.

  • Discover_ELC

    Activities

    We’re always excited to help people explore, learn, and appreciate the ecosystems of the North Cascades. During your stay, our experienced staff naturalists serve as teaching guides, providing informal natural history education that adds depth and meaning to your retreat experience.

  • Weddings

    Weddings

    The North Cascades Environmental Learning Center is an ideal venue for a wedding. Bring your friends and family to the North Cascades to celebrate your special occasion.

  • Wilderness Medical Courses

    Wilderness Medical Courses

    Medical skill-building courses for individuals working or playing in a remote or wilderness settings, hosted at the Environmental Learning Center.