I think most of the crowds have to do with IG and FB these days, but it is hard to say. What is most certainly true is that the North Cascades are WAY busier than they were 20 years ago. The gong show at the ranger station on weekends is pretty amazing. Of course, probably most are not climbers, but the climbing areas are increasingly busy as well. I'm especially amazed at how the Picket cross country zones fill up in July and August. Inconceivable!