Hozomeen Ranger Station

Overview

Hozomeen Ranger Station anchors the far north end of Ross Lake right along the international border. It’s a true outpost—quiet, remote, and a useful touchpoint if you’re exploring the Hozomeen area. Expect a low-key ranger presence focused on education and safety, with the campground, dock, and concrete boat ramps nearby.

Critically, the Hozomeen gate is closed until further notice, and you cannot cross the border here. Reaching this station means committing to a boat approach on Ross Lake or a long backcountry hike.

Getting There

• By boat: Launch on Diablo Lake at Colonial Creek, travel to Ross Dam, and portage to Ross Lake (a portage service operates on Ross Dam). Two graded concrete ramps at Hozomeen are generally usable mid-June through September, and there’s a dock.
• By trail: The East Bank Trail runs about 31 miles from the SR 20 corridor to Hozomeen. Overnight trips require permits.

What to Expect on Site

• Remote setting with no cell service.
• Pack-it-in/pack-it-out—there’s no trash service.
• Lake levels fluctuate; the lake is typically at full pool from July through Labor Day, which affects boat access.
• Mosquitoes can be heavy in August–September near the water.
• Restroom and potable water availability are not guaranteed here—plan to be self-sufficient and confirm current status with the park before you go. Staffing and hours can vary.

Nearby and What to Do

The ranger station sits about half a mile from Hozomeen Campground, making it a convenient check-in point if you’re camping, boating, or starting/finishing a long trek on the East Bank Trail. The area is popular for warm-weather swimming and boating when lake levels are up. Fishing is common on the lake and nearby river; license requirements differ by jurisdiction.

Geology Note

Hozomeen sits in the North Cascades’ terrane collage, with the Hozomeen Group’s ocean-floor basalts and cherts uplifted and faulted over time. It’s a great place to appreciate the park’s complex geologic story from lake level while looking up at rugged peaks.

Permits and Contacts

Backcountry and boat-in camping requires permits year-round. For the latest on permits, staffing, restrooms, and seasonal operations, call Park Information at 360-854-7200 or the Wilderness Information Center at 360-854-7245.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-June through September is the sweet spot for boat access, with lake levels typically highest July–Labor Day. Aim for early mornings or midweek for a quieter vibe around the dock and campground. Shoulder seasons can be serene but bring more uncertainty—confirm access, staffing, and facilities before you commit.