United States Washington Washington's Cascade Loop Scenic Driving Tour By Angela Brown Angela Brown Facebook Twitter Angela has been writing about life, travel, and recreation in the Northwest, where she grew up, since 2000. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 06/26/19 Map Resources The Cascade Loop is a scenic driving tour that takes you through diverse sections of the beautiful state of Washington. Cities and towns on the loop route include Everett, Snohomish, Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Chelan, Winthrop, Anacortes, and Coupeville. Washington is an incredibly diverse state that includes lush forests, fertile orchards, jagged mountain peaks, sage-covered desert, urban centers, and island communities. By taking the Cascade Loop scenic driving tour, you can experience all of this and more. How Long Does It Take? The Cascade Loop scenic driving tour covers 440 miles. You can't do the whole loop in one day. While the entire loop is on improved highways, there are stretches where you won't make the same progress you experience on an Interstate freeway. To allow time to enjoy the many attractions and activities found along the Cascade Loop, we recommend a 4-5 night trip. If your time is limited, a two-day trip is feasible. No matter how long you spend doing the Cascade Loop, you'll be left with a list of things to check out "next time." The loop can be done clockwise or counterclockwise. When Should I Do It? If you plan to drive the entire Cascade Loop, schedule your trip between June and October. The section of the loop through the North Cascades Highway is always closed during the winter months. Contact the Cascade Loop Association to request a free travel guide. 01 of 09 Activites and Attractions in Everett and Snohomish Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour Everett, a waterfront city located 27 miles north of Seattle, is known for its huge Boeing manufacturing facility and for its Naval Station. As you travel east from Everett along Highway 2, you'll pass through the pastoral towns of Snohomish and Monroe. Snohomish offers unique shopping, including a number of antique shops. Activities and Attractions Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing TourInteractive exhibits and displays designed to provide an understanding and appreciation of technology as applied to the science of flight.Flying Heritage CollectionHistoric aircraft, primarily from World War II.Mukilteo LighthouseThis picturesque 1906 lighthouse offers exhibits and a gift shop and is open weekends and holidays, noon to five, April through September.Centennial TrailThis recreational trail, which runs 17 miles from Snohomish to Arlington, is suitable for walking and biking.Antique Shopping in SnohomishYou'll find dozens of antique malls and shops, most within walking distance of each other. Food in Everett/Snohomish Snohomish BakeryLocated along First Street in the historic shopping district, this cozy bakery offers wonderful bread and pastries, breakfast items, and pizza.Nana Carmela'sThis popular Italian family restaurant is located at the golf course in Monroe. Continue to 2 of 9 below. 02 of 09 Fun Things to Do in Stevens Pass PhotoviewPlus / Getty Images You'll make your way through the Cascade Mountains via Highway 2 over Stevens Pass. Along the way you'll travel through lovely forest and mountain scenery, occasionally passing beside the Skykomish River. Activities and Attractions Hike the Iron Goat TrailThe 6-plus miles of this scenic trail run along an abandoned section of the Great Northern Railroad. As you hike along you'll see the remains of the historic railroad, including old tunnels, walls, and equipment. You can choose to do some or all of the Iron Goat Trail. This trail is family friendly; much of the trail is wheelchair accessible. Wonderful WaterfallsThere are several waterfalls located along the stretch of Highway 2 between the town of Gold Bar and Stevens Pass. Bridal Veil Falls, Sunset Falls, and Deception Falls can be seen from the highway. Wallace Falls, located near Gold Bar, can be reached via a 2.5-mile hike. Stevens Pass Ski ResortSkiing and snowboarding are available at this full-service ski resort, open during the winter months. Food Near Stevens Pass Zeke's Drive-InThis roadside food stand, located in Gold Bar, is beloved for its burgers and shakes. Continue to 3 of 9 below. 03 of 09 Activities and Attractions in Leavenworth Connie Coleman / Getty Images Located on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a fun Bavarian-themed town. The surrounding mountains and rivers provide an opportunity for recreation in summer and in winter. While in Leavenworth, spend an afternoon wandering the shops and strolling in Waterfront Park. Combine that with great food, charming lodgings, and fantastic festivals and you have everything you need for a great Northwest getaway. When doing the Cascade Loop, Leavenworth makes an excellent place to stop for a night -- or two! Activities and Attractions Nutcracker MuseumYou'll see more ways to crack nuts than you ever imagined.Outdoor RecreationLeavenworth is heaven for hiking, biking, rafting, and skiing. Stop by the ranger station located on Highway 2 in the main part of town for maps and information.FestivalsLeavenworth finds reasons to celebrate throughout the year.ShoppingLeavenworth offers a variety of shops and galleries.Wine TastingEnjoy wine tasting in town or visit a nearby winery.CashmereThe town of Cashmere, a few miles east of Leavenworth, has a wonderful Museum and Pioneer Village. While in Cashmere, take the Applets & Cotlets Factory Tour to learn about candy making, enjoy some tasty treats, and check out their gift shop. Food Gustav'sAwesome bratwurst and beer.Café MozartFine Bavarian dining for a special evening with that special someone. Lodging Run of the River InnThis amazing bed and breakfast inn is perfect for a memorable romantic getaway.Enzian InnAn outdoor pool, free putting course, and a buffet breakfast make The Enzian Inn a good choice for families. Continue to 4 of 9 below. 04 of 09 Fun Things to Do in Wenatchee Spaces Images / Getty Images Sunny Wenatchee is a rich agricultural center, home to orchards and vineyards. Located on the Wenatchee River, it is also a great place for outdoor recreation. Activities and Attractions Apple Capital Recreation Loop TrailThis 13-mile riverside trail is popular with bicyclists, joggers, skaters, and walkers. Ohme GardensThis charming oasis, which looks out over the Wenatchee Valley, is filled with stone paths and features, interesting water features, and lush greenery. Washington Apple Commission Visitor Center & Gift ShopTake a short stop to view the commission's extremely interesting film about apple production in the state of Washington. While there, you can sample apple products, check out their exhibits, and pick up an apple-themed gift item. A must-see for Washingtonians. Ice Age Floods Driving TourThis geological side tour will give you some insight into one of the region's great untold stories. Along the way, you'll learn about the ice age floods that helped shape much of the Northwest landscape. You can pick up a self-guided driving tour map in Wenatchee. Raft the Wenatchee RiverThere are a number of local outfitters that offer whitewater rafting trips on the Wenatchee River. Skiing and Snow SportsFrom Wenatchee, you can access Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort as well as cross-country and snowshoe trails in the Wenatchee National Forest. Food McGlinn's Public HouseOffers upscale pub dining in the historic Garland Building.Caffè MelaEnjoy fresh-roasted coffee drinks, pastries, salads, and panini in a welcoming setting. Lodging Wenatchee offers some fine bed and breakfasts as well as a number of chain hotels. If, as part of your Cascade Loop driving tour, you plan to stay more than one night, it's a good idea to choose accommodations in Leavenworth or Chelan. Continue to 5 of 9 below. 05 of 09 Fun Things to Do in Lake Chelan Jaredq Eygabroad / EyeEm / Getty Images In a region filled with lakes, Lake Chelan stands out. Fed by glaciers, this skinny lake is over 50 miles long and reaches depths of close to 1500 feet. Activities and Attractions Lady of the Lake Ferry to StehekinFrom the town of Chelan, you can enjoy a scenic 50-mile Lake Chelan cruise to Stehekin. Fast and slow options are available, depending on whether you want to savor the tour or just get to Stehekin as efficiently as possible.GolfingChelan offers several championship golf courses with magnificent views, including Desert Canyon Golf Resort and Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course.Boating and Water SportsA 50-mile long lake makes for great water recreation, including boating, water skiing, kayaking, and fishing.Wine and WineriesLake Chelan was recently designated as an official American Viticultural Area. There are over a dozen wineries in the Chelan Valley. Food Apple Cup CaféThis popular breakfast place serves all day. Lodging Campbell's Resort on Lake ChelanThis popular lakeside resort hotel is great for families.Best Western Lakeside Lodge & SuitesYou'll appreciate this hotel's access to the lake and park. Continue to 6 of 9 below. 06 of 09 Fun Things to Do in Methow Valley methowtime / Getty Images As you follow Highway 153 and then Highway 20, you'll wind through the scenic Methow Valley, passing through the towns of Pateros, Twisp, Winthrop, and Mazama. Activities and Attractions HikingThe Methow Valley is home to some great hiking trails. Popular hikes include Goat Peak and Rainy Lake. Trails are also available for biking and horseback riding. You can find Methow Valley trail maps on the Methow Valley Sport Trails Association website. Hot Air BallooningExperience a truly incredible view of Methow Valley and the surrounding hills and mountains. Morning Glory Balloon Tours offers morning balloon rides followed by a light gourmet picnic. Shopping in WinthropThe Old-West-themed town of Winthrop offers surprisingly good shopping. Many artists make their home in the Methow Valley; you can view and purchase their work in local galleries. Snow SportsWith over 120 miles of groomed trails, the Methow Valley is a wonderland for cross-country ski enthusiasts Food Sun Mountain Lodge Dining RoomNot only will you enjoy a fabulous view of Methow Valley and the North Cascades, you'll experience excellent food and service at this highly-acclaimed restaurant.Twisp River PubHome of Methow Valley Brewing Company, this fun pub serves great food with a variety of ethnic influences.Duck Brand CantinaThis Winthrop hangout offers burgers, salads, Mexican food, and a full bar. Lodging Sun Mountain LodgeThis destination resort has everything you might want for a truly memorable getaway. The rooms are elegant, yet comfortable, with magnificent views. On-site services and amenities include a spa, a bar and grill, special event space, outdoor pools, tennis courts, a network of hiking and biking trails, and more. Chewuch Inn & CabinsLocated within walking distance of Winthrop's frontier-themed shopping district, this a bed and breakfast provides modern, high-quality accommodations. Guests can choose from rooms in the inn or cabins. All have kitchenettes with microwaves, mini refrigerators, and coffee makers. Breakfast is served buffet-style in the rustic breakfast room and includes a delicious assortment of hot and cold items. Continue to 7 of 9 below. 07 of 09 Fun Things to Do in Washington's North Cascades Angela M. Brown Ancient forests, craggy peaks, and blue-green lakes make the North Cascades stretch of the Cascade Loop driving tour unforgettable. While driving this section of Highway 20 you'll pass through the North Cascades National Park and the towns of Diablo, Rockport, and Marblemount. Note: The Northwest Cascades Highway between Mazama and Newhalem closes from late fall through mid-spring. Activities and Attractions Diablo Lake CruiseSeattle City Light offers 2 different boat tours of Diablo Lake. You'll meet near the Skagit General Store in Newhalem to board a bus that will take you to the boat dock just above the amazing Diablo Dam. The boat tour traverses the length of Lake Diablo up to the Ross Dam powerhouse and back. If you take the dinner tour, the bus will stop at the dining hall for a family-style meal on the way back from the boat trip.Stop at Scenic OverlooksAs you drive along Highway 20 in the North Cascades you'll come across scenic viewpoints where you can get out of your vehicle and take in the beauty of the lakes and mountains. There are overlooks at both Diablo Lake and at Ross Lake.North Cascades National Park Visitor CenterAfter you check out the visitor center's exhibits on local natural and human history, take a hike on one of the nearby nature trails. Food The EateryThis Rockport food stop is known for its fresh cinnamon rolls and other home-baked goodies.Buffalo Run RestaurantThis historic roadhouse specializes in buffalo and game meats. They also serve steak, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Lodging Clark's Skagit River ResortThis resort's cozy cabins come in a variety of sizes and themes. In addition to the cabins, Clark's offers tent and RV space. Continue to 8 of 9 below. 08 of 09 Activities and Attractions in Skagit Valley Angela M. Brown The Skagit Valley, known for its annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, is a great getaway throughout the year. The fertile valley and water views inspire many artists, giving rise to a number of shops and galleries. You can also choose from a variety of outdoor activities, including bird watching and rafting. Activities and Attractions Bird WatchingBald eagles, trumpeter swans, and great blue herons are among the birds that call the Skagit Valley home during portions of each year. Hot bird watching spots include the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and along the Upper Skagit River.Skagit Valley Casino ResortThis full-service casino resort offers a hotel, gambling, live entertainment, a lounge, a buffet, and fine dining.La Conner Shops and GalleriesThis charming waterfront community provides a wonderful setting for strolling among the shops and galleries. You'll find a great selection of fine crafts and home furnishings at such shops as The Wood Merchant, Earthenworks Gallery, and Two Moons Gallery & Gifts. Food Nell Thorn Restaurant and PubFoodies will relish their gourmet menu, which features fresh local ingredients.Skagit River BreweryMicrobrews and great pub food in a casual setting. Lodging Wild Iris InnThis bed and breakfast inn is a fine choice for a romantic retreat. Continue to 9 of 9 below. 09 of 09 Activities and Attractions on Whidbey Island Angela M. Brown Once on Whidbey Island, you can relax and just wander. You'll find fun places to stop and check out in every direction. The towns of Coupeville and Langley offer the chance to stroll, shop, and dine. Fort Casey State Park and Deception Pass State Park are both great for hiking and for taking in gorgeous water views. Activities and Attractions Greenbank FarmThis historic farm has been turned into a picture-perfect complex that includes event space, gardens, galleries, shops, and a winery.Fort Casey State ParkThe grounds of this sprawling park include the Admiralty Head Lighthouse and a historic artillery post.Deception Pass State ParkMiles of hiking trails wander through this park's rocky terrain, while great water views can be had in every direction.Meerkerk Rhododendron GardensOver 4 miles of nature trails wind around this lovely display garden. Food Whidbey Pie CafeThis Greenbank Farm eatery serves fresh loganberry pie as well as other lunch items.Fraser's Gourmet HideawaySeasonal Northwest cuisine in an intimate and elegant setting. Lodging The Farmhouse Bed and BreakfastThe floral-themed rooms at The Farmhouse B&B are perfectly appointed to make you feel comfortable and at home.The Coachman InnLocated in Oak Harbor on the north end of the island, The Coachman offers comfortable and affordable hotel rooms. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Share Pin Email