In 2007 three NRCAs, Morning Star, Mount Pilchuck and Greider Ridge were unified under the name Morning Star NRCA.

Description of original Morning Star NRCA:
This area's attractions are extremely steep and rugged terrain, numerous small alpine lakes and glaciers.  The 10,003 acre NRCA ranges in elevation from 1,600 feet to the 6,610 foot Del Campo Peak.  The snowfree season at higher elevations is short. Alaska harebell and Cooley's buttercup exist in rock crevices and cliff ledges; both are state sensitive plant species.  Lush meadows are extensive in the subalpine areas.  The conservation area adjoins the Mount Pilchuck NRCA and the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest.  (Snohomish County)

Description of original Mount Pilchuck NRCA:
This 9,606-acre area within an hour's drive of Everett is home to diverse ecological communities, ranging from low-elevation to alpine forests and meadows.  The forest ecosystem supports stands of western hemlock, Pacific silver fir and western red cedar, approximately 300 years old.  Five primitive hike-in campgrounds are connected by an extensive trail system.  The east-west ridge offers tremendous views of the Puget Trough, Cascades and the San Juan Islands.  (Snohomish County)

Description of original Greider Ridge NRCA:
This 6,700 acre area features spectacular, mid-to high- elevation subalpine areas with many exposed rocks and cliffs.  Silver fir and mountain hemlock forests give way to low growing huckleberry parklands as elevation increases.  It also includes hiking trails to Big Greider and Little Greider Lakes, and to Boulder Lake.  (Snohomish County)