Diablo Lake and Lunch Tours

Come be a part of Skagit history! Seattle City Light has been offering this tour for more than 90 years. Now in partnership with North Cascades Institute, the tradition continues better than ever.

On the Diablo Lake & Lunch Tour, you will learn about the area's natural history, biodiversity and geology, as well as the unique relationship between the North Cascades environment and the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project, which provides clean, low-cost, renewable power to the citizens of Seattle. The history of the Project and the area’s indigenous inhabitants are also included in this multifaceted tour

In 2025, Diablo Lake & Lunch Tours run Wednesday - Sunday, July 4 - September 1 (plus Labor Day Monday). Check-in begins at 10:15 am. Tour experiences are approximately 2.5 - 3 hours long including check-in, orientation, time on the boat and lunch.

The adventure begins by boarding the Alice Ross IV – a modern watercraft designed especially for Skagit Tours by Rozema Boatworks in Bayview, Washington. The boat features heating and air conditioning, as well as an onboard head, and the cabin’s roof is mostly glass to allow for the best possible views. A 14-foot open aft deck also allows passengers to enjoy the tour from outside.

As you cruise the glacier-fed Diablo Lake, you’ll learn about the surrounding wildlife habitat and enjoy views of snow-clad mountain peaks, islands and waterfalls. Experience parts of the lake that are hidden from view when traveling the highway or trails. Your tour will come alive with stories about human history in the area and the challenges of building the three Skagit River Hydroelectric Project dams and powerhouses in a very remote location. 

The tour ends with a delicious lunch at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center on the shore of Diablo Lake.

Whether this is your first time taking a Diablo Lake Boat Tour, or you have joined us many times before, this is an adventurous and enriching way to experience the inspiring North Cascades landscape.

We also offer tour options without lunch:

• Diablo Lake Afternoon Cruises run Wednesday - Sunday, July 4 - September 1 (plus Labor Day Monday) and Saturday & Sunday, September 6-28
• Fall Morning Cruises run Saturday & Sunday, September 6 - 28

For more information, call (360) 854-2599 or send us an email.