The Napeequa River system spans 16 miles, connecting glacial fed headwaters to the White River and eventually Lake Wenatchee. Both the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service found the Napeequa eligible for Wild and Scenic status for its outstanding scenic and geologic values.

The National Park Service’s Nationwide Rivers Inventory found that the Napeequa has outstandingly remarkable natural or cultural values and is therefore a candidate for Wild and Scenic Rivers status.The unique scenery draws hikers and mountain climbers because the Napeequa is so remote and inaccessible by road, it sees relatively light use—providing recreational users a rare opportunity for solitude. Given the remote nature of the entire valley, researchers believe it is likely the area supports notable species such as spotted owl, mule deer, lynx, black bear, gray wolf, mountain goat, and grizzly bear.

The Napeequa is also notable for its geologic history and features. Because the Napeequa  carves through a narrow, rugged canyon, a variety of ecosystems coexist—glaciers, alpine forests, old-growth forests, meadows, wetlands, and river frontage all sit side-by-side.  The Napeequa’s headwaters are high in the Cascade Mountains. This glacial river will become more critical over time, as climate change drives water temperatures up throughout the watershed, threatening salmon and other aquatic species that rely on cold water.  The Napeequa will play a critical role in maintaining cool water temperatures in the White River and Lake Wenatchee.