Publication

2
Table of Contents
Snohomish River Valley 4

Everett, Mukilteo, Snohomish, Monroe
Stevens Pass Greenway 12

Sultan, Startup, Gold Bar, Index, Skykomish
Leavenworth/Cascade Foothills 16
Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee, Plain, Peshastin,
Cashmere
Wenatchee/Columbia River Valley 24
The Cascade Loop Travel Guide is produced

annually by The Cascade Loop Association,
a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing
and protecting our scenic byway and encouraging
travelers to visit us and experience the natural
beauty, diverse attractions, unique heritage and
friendly rural communities along our highways.
CASCADELOOP.COM
Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Entiat
Lake Chelan Valley 31

Chelan, Manson, Stehekin
Methow Valley 38
Pateros, Carlton, Twisp, Winthrop, Mazama
North Cascades 50
Diablo, Newhalem, Marblemount, Rockport, Concrete
Skagit Valley & Fidalgo Island 57
Cascade Loop Association

PO Box 3245, Wenatchee, WA 98807
(509) 662-3888 info@cascadeloop.com
Anacortes, Sedro-Woolley, Burlington,

Mount Vernon, La Conner
Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way 65
2016 Cascade Loop Association - All Rights Reserved

Editor: Annette Pitts
Design: ChecalaRoni, Wenatchee, WA
Printing: InPrint Printing, Inc.
East Wenatchee, Washington
Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, Clinton
Festivals and Events 73/75

Mileage Chart 74
Roadtrippers Checklist 76
Winter on the Loop 77
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations 78
Permit Information
See Map
Cover Photo - Andy Porter
Lake Ann, visible from the Heather Maple Pass Loop

via Rainy Pass Trailhead
PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER
Diablo Lake Overlook, North Cascades National Park
PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM
Marine views are abundant off Snohomish County shores
Everett, Mukilteo,
Snohomish, Monroe
Made possible in part with assistance from
the Snohomish County Hotel-Motel Tax Fund.
4
Kick off your vacation in the expansive

Snohomish River Valley. Visit the laid-back
waterfront community of Mukilteo known
for its inviting waterfront setting. Explore
shops and restaurants as well as the waterfront
park and beautifully restored 1906 lighthouse
(see Photo Op above). Visit one of the regions
most popular attractions, the Future of
Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour
located at Paine Field. Aerospace exhibits and
interactive displays, galleries and gift shops add
to the experience. While at Paine Field, dont
miss Paul G. Allens rare collection of vintage
military aircraft at the Flying Heritage
Collection and the Historic Flight
Foundation which offers an historic assembly
of the most important aircraft of the past. Next,
travel north to visit the Cascade Loops largest
metropolitan area - Everett.
Resting on the tranquil shores of Port Gardner
Bay, Everett boasts brilliant westerly views
of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains,
and easterly views of the Cascade Mountains.
The Everett waterfront is home to the second
largest marina on the West Coast. Enjoy the
invigorating scent of salt and sea, the rhythmic
sounds of lapping waves and ferries shuttling
to and from Jetty Island in the summer. Everett
is home to one of the nations best childrens
museums, the Imagine Childrens Museum,

a must-see for the kids!
Your next stop is just east along Highway 2 in
historic Snohomish, listed on both the State
and National Registries of Historic Places.
Snohomish is known as the Antique Capital of

the Northwest and is a shopping treasure trove
with hundreds of antique dealers and boutiques
in a six-block section of town. The citys historic
district also boasts beautiful Victorian and Arts
& Crafts era homes built around the turn of the
20th century.
Continuing 10 miles east, youll come to
Monroe, located near the junction of the
Snoqualmie and Skykomish Rivers. Monroe
provides abundant opportunities for rafting,
fishing, and other water sports. It is home
to the Evergreen State Fair, an eleven-day
event running in late August through Labor
Day delivering serious thrills with everything
from car races to exciting equestrian shows
and carnival rides. The fairgrounds house the
Evergreen Speedway and the Western Heritage
Center (see details on p. 8). Bicycle enthusiasts
and sightseers appreciate Monroes agricultural
roots and the miles of country roads that wind
through green, pastoral farmlands.
Heritage & History

The Snohomish River flows northwest,
beginning at the confluence of the
Snoqualmie and Skykomish Rivers, near
present-day Monroe, and ends about 12
miles downstream where it empties into
Port Gardner Bay, north of Everett. The river
valley was created over thousands of years of
glacial movement and flowing meltwater.
Native American tribes lived here for
thousands of years enjoying readily available
seafood and a temperate climate. The name
Snohomish honors native people who lived in
this area prior to Euro-American settlement.
The Snohomish people moved north to the
mouth of the Snohomish River where they
built the village of Hibulb. Settlers came to
the area in response to government-granted
homesteads and in hopes of establishing
industries extracting natural resources such
as timber and ore.
Historic Snohomish
Outdoor Adventure
Community Culture
Birding in North View & South View

Parks, Everett. Marine View Dr. Inter-tidal
mud flats and shallow bay. Ospreys arrive
in spring to nest on offshore pilings; purple
martins nest in boxes on southern pilings.
Paved walking trail through both parks.
(425) 257-8300. everettwa.org/parks
(See Permit Info.)
Jetty Island, Everett. Small island hosts
nesting birds with wide sandy beaches and
shallow warm water. Free 10-minute public
ferry ride (seasonal), foot traffic only.
(425) 257-8304. everettwa.org/parks
(See Permit Info.)
Whale Watching Excursions, California
gray whales in spring and resident orca
whales year round.
Island Adventures (ad p 59) Everett.
(800) 465-4604, (360) 293-2428
orcawhales.com
Blackman House Museum, Snohomish.

The 1878 home is built in the style of early
Snohomish settlers.
snohomishhistoricalsociety.org
Flying Heritage Collection (ad p. 11)
Paine Field, Everett. The home of the Flying
War Birds at Paul G. Allens rare collection
of vintage military aircraft. Tours conducted
by military aviation enthusiasts restored to
near-perfect authenticity. (877) 342-3404
flyingheritage.com
Future of Flight Aviation Center &
Boeing Tour (ad page 6), Paine Field, Everett.
World-class aviation gallery, audio-visual
presentations and exhibits, and tours of the
Boeing airplane assembly plant - the largest
building in the world. (425) 438-8100,
(800) 464-1476. futureofflight.org
Historic City of Snohomish, Antique
Capital of the Northwest, founded in 1859,
features Victorian homes and hundreds of
antique dealers and boutiques. Self-guided
Victorian Home tour. Download the guide at
Snohomish.org/guides
Imagine Childrens Museum (ad p. 9)
Everett. Hands-on adventure including art,
history and science. Closed Mon. 1502 Wall St.
(425) 258-1006. imaginecm.org
Western Heritage Center, Monroe.
Evergreen State Fairgrounds Bldg 611.
Interactive displays, kid-friendly, guided
tours feature the history of logging, mining,
construction, transportation, and agriculture.
(425) 232-3493. westernheritagecenter.org
Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Monroe
14405 179th Ave SE. evergreenfair.org
See more at cascadeloop.com
Be sure to
check with individual
businesses and
activities for their
hours of
operation
8
Lodging
Holiday Inn Downtown, Everett.
(866) 700-1188, (425) 339-2000
hieverett.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Everett. 425-609-4000
holidayinnexpress.com/everettwa
Inn at Snohomish, Snohomish.
(800) 548-9993, (360) 568-2208
Pack a picnic and take in the view!
Food & Drink

When youre this close to the waterfront, you
have to try the local seafood--its incredibly
fresh and full of flavor! Also, dont miss local,
seasonal U-Picks in Everett, Snohomish and
Monroe. For maps and locations, use the Trip
Builder on CascadeLoop.com, click Dream &
Plan!
Take in the countryside while picking produce
in beautiful, rural farmlands.
U-Pick & Farm Tours, Everett, Snohomish,
Monroe. Enjoy the fertile countryside picking
fresh produce in sprawling, rural farmlands.
Berries, pumpkins, corn, flowers, watermelons,
potatoes and much more. (888) 338-0976
Find more info about

Farm Markets and Fruit Stands
and Plan Your Trip
at
cascadeloop.com
10
Visitor Info
Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber

Marysville. 8825 34th Ave, NE, Ste. C.
(360) 659-7700, marysvilletulalipchamber.com
Monroe Chamber, Monroe.
125 S. Lewis Street. (360) 794-5488
choosemonroe.com
Mukilteo Chamber (ad p. 10) Mukilteo.
4902 76th St SW. (425) 347-1456
mukilteochamber.org
Snohomish Chamber, Snohomish.
802 1st Street, Snohomish. (360) 568-2526
cityofsnohomish.com
Snohomish County Tourism Bureau
(ad p.8) Lynnwood. 1133 164th Street SW,
Suite 204. Free hiking guide. (888) 338-0976,
(425) 348-5802, snohomish.org
East Snohomish County Visitor Center
Snohomish. 1301 1st Street. (360) 862-9609
snohomish.org
Washington State Ferries

provide an up-close glimpse of
beautiful Puget Sound
11
PHOTO BY MARK KLEIN
View of Mount Index from

Espresso Chalet on Highway 2
Sultan, Startup, Gold Bar,

Index, Skykomish
Made possible in part with assistance from
the Snohomish County Hotel-Motel Tax Fund.
12
Osprey Park. Thousands of pink salmon fill the Sultan River to spawn (on odd years). This park
offers front row seats to this phenomenon as well as wheelchair and baby stroller-accessible walking
trails to the Sultan River. Let the kids get their wiggles out in the baseball field, basketball court or
playground. Join hundreds of other guests here at the Return of the Salmon celebration, the last
Saturday of September. snohomish.org/explore/detail/osprey-park
Sasquatch. Stop and have your photo taken with Sasquatch (yes, he is wooden, but he still marks the
location where Harry and the Hendersons was filmed). Amazing Bridal Veil Falls is your backdrop.
Located next to the Espresso Chalet at Milepost 36 on Highway 2 near Index.
Wallace Falls. 265 ft. of mist-spraying beauty! This hike delivers abundant flora-filled, waterfall
views whether you walk to the lower, middle or upper falls so choose the route that matches your
fitness level. Aim for the upper falls and hike, 2.8 miles with 1,300 feet of elevation gain. From
Everett on Hwy 2, approach the city of Gold Bar. Turn left onto 1st Street, then drive .4 miles and
take a right onto May Creek Road. Ample signage will guide you!
wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/wallace-falls (See Permit Info.)
PHOTO BY ANNETTE PITTS
Follow the Skykomish River as it ascends the

west slope of the Cascades to 4,061 Stevens
Pass east of Monroe. The Stevens Pass
Greenway, a National Scenic Byway on the
Loop, is home to inspirational views, hikes
and natural landscapes. In late Spring and early
Summer, the Skykomish River is immensely
popular for whitewater rafting. Fishermen
line the banks and driftboats float the more
tranquil waters that surround prized fishing
holes. Hikers explore alpine lakes and soaring
peaks. Autumn (particularly the first weeks
of October) welcomes leaf peepers eager for
shades of gold and orange while Winter ushers
in ski, snowboard and snowshoe season. Be
prepares to encounter snow when traveling in
the Winter! Check mountain pass conditions at
wsdot.com/traffic/passes
The highway climbs toward the foothills and
passes through the historic mining and logging
towns of Sultan, Startup and Gold Bar,
each rich in history, local charm and outdoor
activities. Continue driving east and visit
Index, nestled on the banks of the Skykomish
River just one mile off Highway 2. Get your
climbing gear ready and hit up the famous Mt.
Index Town Wall, considered to be one of the
nations premier rock climbing destinations.
13
Prefer to catch stunning views from your

vehicle? When in Index simply look up toward
Mt. Index and neighboring Bridal Veil Falls.
The Stevens Pass Greenway provides ecofriendly drivers access to multiple electric
vehicle charging stations. (See the guide on page
78 charge station locations or cascadeloop.com for
complete details. More stations are in the planning
stages this summer!)
Outdoor Adventure
Barclay Creek Trail, Milepost 41. North on

Barclay Creek Rd #6024 at Baring. A scenic,
comfortable hike that meanders through mossy
old growth forest on its way to Barclay Lake.
(See Permit Info.)
Bridal Veil Falls, Milepost 28 past Index.
The falls begin in a narrow draw near Mount
Index. They widen and fall down rocky cliffs
forming several distinct veils which are visible
from Highway 2. For a closer look, hike the
Lake Serene trail and spur trails to a viewing
deck where you are close enough to feel the
spray. (See Permit Info.)
Deception Falls, Milepost 56. This loop
trail descends into a moss-drenched forest and
meanders along rocky streams. Picnic area,
nature loop, restrooms. (See Permit Info.)
Doolittle Park, Index. Located right in the
middle of town.
Osprey Park, Sultan (See Side Trip)
Iron Goat Interpretive Site & Trailhead
Milepost 58.3. This remnant of the 1892 rail
line of the Great Northern Railroad has been
developed into a rest stop with short and long
trail options and a historic caboose on display.
Mountain Biking. Stevens Pass Bike Park, at
the summit (Ski Area).
Rock Climbing. Index Town Wall, a 500-foot
vertical climb.
Heritage & History
Numerous tribes lived in this region: the

Snohomish occupying the western edge,
the Snoqualmie near Monroe and along the
Skykomish River, and the Wenatchi on the East
side of Stevens Pass. Per the Treaty of Point
Elliott in 1855, the tribes were incorporated
into the Tulalip Tribes and many eventually
moved to the Tulalip Reservation. Today, Pacific
Northwest tribes are working hard to maintain
their distinctive traditions and cultural ways of
life throughout the region.
Euro-Americans first explored the more easily
accessible coastal areas of Washington State,
but with the introduction of fur trading, more
inland exploration occurred, and the Cascade
Mountains attracted traders harvesting beaver
and other fur-bearing animals in the early
1800s. As more homesteaders came to the
region in the 1850s a greater need for reliable
transportation arose, and in 1888 the Great
Northern Railway Engineer, John F. Stevens,
surveyed a more direct route from St. Paul
Minnesota to Everett, crossing the Cascade
Mountain pass which bears his name.
Hiking Info & Forest Passes:
www.fs.usda.gov/mbs
Skykomish (360) 677-2414
PHOTO BY MARTIN WAYNE
Fall Colors on the wild Skykomish River
14
Visitor Info
Community Culture
Skykomish Chamber, (360) 677-2030

Sky Valley Visitor Center (ad this page)
Sultan.(360) 793-0983. skyvalleychamber.com
Snohomish County Tourism Bureau
(ad p.8) Lynnwood. 1133 164th Street SW,
Suite 204. Free hiking guide. (888) 338-0976,
(425) 348-5802, snohomish.org
Pickett Interpretive Museum, Index.

Mining, quarrying, logging, and areas natural
disasters are featured. 510 Ave. A.
snohomish.org
Skykomish Towncenter Depot Park
Free miniature train ride depicting 1898
Great Northern & Cascade Railway.
greatnortherncascaderailway.com
State Salmon Hatchery, Startup.
Fish harvest development operation.
(360) 793-1382. wdfw.wa.gov
Food & Drink

Look to cafes, diners and road-side stands in
these small towns for incredible, tasty
handmade fare and super friendly service.
Cascadia Inn (ad this page) Skykomish.
(360) 677-2030, (866) 677-2030
historiccascadia.com
Espresso Chalet, Milepost 36, Hwy. 2 near
Index. (360) 793-7932
Winter Fun
Cross-Country Skiing. Stevens Pass Nordic
Center (25k). (206) 812-4510. stevenspass.com
Skiing and Snowboarding. Stevens Pass
Ski Resort (206) 812-4510. stevenspass.com
Snowmobiling. Sno-park permits, trail maps
and condition reports can be obtained from area
Forest Service Ranger Stations. (See Permit Info.)
Lodging
A Riverside Retreat, Index.
(206) 429-5210, ariversideretreat.com
Cascadia Inn (ad this page) Skykomish.
(360) 677-2030, (866) 677-2030
historiccascadia.com
Dutch Cup Motel, Sultan.
(800) 844-0488, (360) 793-2215
dutchcup.com
Mysty Mountain Properties
(206) 219-6427 vacationrentalcabins.com
Sky Cabins, Baring. (360) 793-7616
skycabins.com
15
PHOTO BY LEAVENWORTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A little bit of Bavaria on the Cascade Loop
Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee,

Plain, Peshastin, Cashmere
Made possible in part with assistance from the Chelan County Hotel-Motel Tax Fund.
16
Side Trip
Lake Wenatchee/Plain Loop. Turn left onto SR 207 to check out camping, boating, swimming,
and golf at mountain-flanked Lake Wenatchee. Continue on and discover the small mountain town
of Plain - friendly, nature-loving and absolutely robust in play! Mountain Springs Lodge offers
ziplines, guided horseback rides, sleigh rides, snowmobiling and hearty northwest cuisine by a
roaring fire in the lodge. Visit Plain Hardware, the local hangoutits truly the community hub.
Enjoy the carefully crafted Plain Valley Nordic Ski Trails. Winter rental equipment is available,
including cross country and skate skis, and snowshoes. Hiking and birding maps are also available.
Photo Op
Tumwater Canyon. Prepare to pull over repeatedly as you approach Leavenworth through this
winding canyon. Following along the crashing river, watch for numerous pullouts, perfect locations
to snap photos with jagged granite alpine peaks in the background. This area is one of the most
popular leaf-peeping opportunities in the U.S. each Fall due to blazing red vine maple set against
golden aspen and orange cottonwood.
Hikes & Sites
PHOTO BY BRAD STEDENFELD
Icicle Gorge Nature Loop. This is a popular trail for good reasonit showcases a multitude of
natural habitats and geological formations all within a clearly-defined 3.9 mile trail that follows the
Icicle River. Great for birders, families and anyone looking for a great stretch of the legs! From the
gas station on Highway 2 at the mouth of the Tumwater Canyon, turn south onto Icicle Road. The
pavement ends after 12.4 miles, and the remaining 3 miles to the trailhead is mostly gravel, but
well-maintained. (See Permit Info.)
The Route
Wind your way into Bavarian Leavenworth

and the landscape shifts to an Alpine village
like you would imagine high in the peaks of
Europe. Leavenworth delivers high-voltage
Bavarian memorieseverything from yodeling,
schnitzel, oom-pa-pa music, lederhosen and
dirndls-a-plenty. Its even home to one of
the worlds largest nutcracker collections at

the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum!
Intricately-detailed Bavarian architecture
houses an abundant and growing food scene
including international restaurants and some
amazing hand-crafted food purveyors. Guests
enjoy festive outdoor beer and brat gardens,
17
and hugely-popular festivals such as Maifest,

Oktoberfest, and Christmas Lighting. Flowers
flow throughout town and can be enjoyed
while taking in the shops on foot, or by horsedrawn carriage. Visitors choose from a variety
of lodging including family-friendly hotels,
upscale resorts, rustic cabins, vacation homes,
and B&Bs. Recognized by the A&E Network,
Travel Channel, HGTV, and Good Morning
America, as a must see in the winter, the NY
Times penned Leavenworth, Its like living
in a snow globe. The Today Show and Conde
Nast Traveler tagged Leavenworth as a top
destination for unusual and unique fall foliage.
With over 800 miles of trails, Leavenworth
offers amazing outdoor recreation! Mountain
bike Freund Canyon, day-hike the Alpine Lakes
Wilderness or float the Wenatchee River with
Orion Rafting. Rock climbing is also huge
here. Rock and Ice Magazine named the Icicle
climbing network in the neighboring Icicle
River Valley among the top five in the nation.
Want to try out new outdoor activities but
dont have the gear? Rent it at Leavenworth
Mountain Sports!
The arts also have a role to play here. Live

music is often played from the gazebo on Front
Streeet while Art in the Park can also be found
on display. After a full day of fun in the sun, take
in an outdoor play at Icicle Creek Center for
the Arts located next to award-winning LEED
certified Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort,
home to expansive outdoor art installations and
a stunning organic garden.
Traveling east from Leavenworth you follow
the meandering Wenatchee River. Stop and
shop at local fruit stands such as Preys Fruit
Barn to keep your snack cache full! In small
town Cashmere youll find a community with
a whole lot of heart. Cashmere can only be
described as All-American. The town takes its
high school football seriously, the locals know
their history and their neighbors, and they
welcome visitors whether they are from near
or far. Cashmeres Cottage Avenue Historic
District features early 1900s-era Craftsman
bungalow homes, lined with picket fences
and mature trees. Learn about the regions
founding days at the Cashmere Museum and
Pioneer Village featuring 20 original buildings
including homes, blacksmith shop, doctors
office, school, mission and hotel, recovered
from sites in North Central Washington. Want
to literally try a taste of Cashmere? Sample
internationally-recognized confections created
at the Aplets & Cotlets Candy Kitchen.
Stop in for free samples and their factory
tour. Next, pop over to the enormous Apple
Annies Antique Gallery, home to the
largest gallery of antiques in the Northwest!
Standup paddleboarding on
the Icicle River
PHOTO BY ICICLE TV
18
PHOTO BY LEAVENWORTH CHAMBER
Heritage & History
The Wenatchi-Psquosa,Yakama and Kittitas

tribes traveled seasonally to this area for fishing,
gathering, and hunting. Many ancestors of these
tribes are now part of the Confederated Tribes
of the Colville Reservation.
The 1800s brought fur trappers and explorers
to the area, followed by prospectors, miners
and settlers. A small town-site at the mouth of
the Tumwater Canyon was originally settled in
the 1890s and incorporated in 1906 by Captain
Charles Leavenworth. The town boomed with
the construction of the Great Northern Pacific
Railway but suffered greatly when the rail line
and rail yard were relocated to Wenatchee in
the 1920s. That, combined with the Great
Depression and the ensuing sawmill closure
delivered a swift blow to the local economy.
Local business leaders put their heads together
in the 1960s and developed the concept of the
Bavarian themed village, and the Leavenworth
we know today was reborn.
19
Aplets & Cotlets Candy Kitchen, (ad p. 2)

Cashmere. Candy factory offers free daily tours
and samples. Gift Shop. See ad inside front
cover for tour hours. (509) 782-4088.
libertyorchards.com/tour
Apple Annie Antique Gallery (ad p. 18)
Cashmere. Huge antiques and collectibles
gallery with a vast array of glassware, pottery,
jewelry, furniture, 50s kitchenware, clothing
and more! 70,000 sq. ft. (509) 782-4004.
appleannieantiques.com
Art Walk & Garden Tour at Sleeping
Lady Mountain Resort (ad this page)
Leavenworth. A self-guided outdoor walking
tour with extensive collection of original
artwork by professional artists and local crafts
people. Dale Chihulys first permanent outdoor
installation! Art map in lobby. Guided organic
garden tour. Electric Vehicle Level 2 Charge
Station. (509) 548-6344. sleepinglady.com
Icicle Creek Center for the Arts

Exceptional performances amidst the Cascade
mountains. Just 5 minutes from downtown
Leavenworth. (877) 265-6026, (509) 548-6347.
icicle.org
Icicle Junction Activities Center
Leavenworth. Spa, arcade, soda fountain, mini
golf. (509) 548-2400, 505 Hwy 2.
iciclevillage.com/play.htm
Leavenworth City Hall
Level 1 Charge Station. cityofleavenworth.com
Leavenworth Fish Hatchery. Self-guided
tours, exhibits identifying fish species, picnic
area and a one-mile easy trail teaches about
salmon, river ecology and the role of fish
hatcheries. (509) 548-7641.
fws.gov/leavenworth/
Leavenworth Summer Theater
Critically acclaimed performances in July and
August at Ski Hill Amphitheater, Hatchery
Park, and Leavenworth Festhalle. Holiday
performace every December. (509) 548-2000.
leavenworthsummertheater.org
Leavenworth Waterfront Interpretive
Walk & Birding.Take this flat walk along the
quiet riverbank forest. Signs explain natural
and cultural history. Small inlets for swimming.
Look for gray catbird, veery and bullocks
oriole, belted kingfisher, osprey, harlequin and
wood ducks. Access near 8th and Commercial,
(509) 548-5807, (509) 548-0181.
leavenworth.org
Preys Fruit Barn, Peshastin. Fresh fruit and
vegetables, local wine, preserves.
(509) 548-5771. preysfruitbarn.com
Vineyard & Winery Tours. Boutique
wineries in a beautiful rural landscape. Visit
regional tasting rooms where you can sample
several local and regional wines at one time.
Free Winery & AgTourism map.
(509) 548-6784.
cascadefarmlands.com
cascadevalleywinecountry.com
ncwwine.org
20
Snow and cooler temperatures offer a new brand

of outdoor adventure - many are unique to this
region! Look to leavenworth.org for information
on backcountry skiing, dog sledding, nordic
skiing, sledding, tubing & snowshoeing.
Plain Valley Nordic Ski Trails/Plain
Hardware, Plain. Hiking and birding maps.
Winter rental equipment is available,
including cross country and skate skis, and
snowshoes. (509) 763-3836, skiplain.com,
plainhardware.com
Sleigh Rides & Guided Snowmobile Tours
Plain. Experience the snowy natural landscape
at the speed that suits you best, whether on
a state-of-the-art heated snowmobile or in a
classic 2-horse sleigh.
Mountain Springs Lodge, Plain.
(800) 858-2276, (509) 763-2713
mtsprings.com
Mountain Bike Riding. Options range from

beginner to extreme. wenatcheeoutdoors.org.
Horseback Riding. Guided mountain trail
rides with dinner option.
(800) 858-2276, (509) 763-2713
mtsprings.com
River Rafting. Whitewater in spring, float
trips, kayaking and canoeing through October.
Orion Expeditions, Leavenworth.
Full-service, professional river outfitter
offering family, group and group adventures.
(509) 548-1401, orionexp.com
Rock Climbing. Some of the best rock
climbing faces in the state are in this region.
wenatcheeoutdoors.org (See Permit Info.)
Leavenworth Mountain Sports. Rent or
buy all the gear you need. (509) 548-7864
leavenworthmtnsports.com
Leavenworth Ziplines, Plain. Ride 8
ziplines and cross 2 suspension bridges.
(800) 858-2276, (509) 763.2713
mtsprings.com
Look for Deals,

Discounts and
Specials on
cascadeloop.com
PHOTO BY JIM MEYERS
Leavenworth is a haven for climbers and boulderers
21
Look for LOTS of artisanal products from

cured meats, local and imported cheese, fruit
stands, fruit ciders, wines, gelato and handmade
chocolate.
Aplets & Cotlets Candy Kitchen (ad p.2)
Cashmere. Free candy factory tour See ad inside
front cover for tour hours. 117 Mission Ave.
(509) 782-4088 libertyorchards.com
Preys Fruit Barn, East of Leavenworth on
Hwy 2. Load up with traveling snacks and
locally grown produce including 13 varieties of
pears grown in their orchard.
(509) 548-5771 preysfruitbarn.com
Sleeping Ladys Kingfisher Dining
Hall (ad p. 20) Leavenworth. World-class
Pacific Northwest cuisine featuring produce
from their onsite organic garden.
7375 Icicle Rd. (509) 548-6344
sleepinglady.com
Cascade Farmlands (ad p. 21) Free driving

map. cascadefarmlands.com
Cashmere Visitor Center & Chamber of
Commerce. 103 Cottage Ave. (509) 782-7404
cashmerechamber.org
Leavenworth Visitor Center &
Chamber of Commerce (ad p. 19)
940 Hwy. 2, Ste. B. (509) 548-5807
leavenworth.org
Choose from 700 miles of trails and

dozens of campgrounds,
in areas including the Alpine Lakes
Wilderness, Okanogan-Wenatchee
National Forest, and
Washington State Parks.
Permits are often required - see
Map for Permit Info, and
leavenworth.org for trail
information.
22
Pension Anna, (509) 548-6273

(800) 509-2662. pensionanna.com
Run of the River Inn & Refuge
(800) 288-6491, (509) 548-7171
runoftheriver.com
Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort
(ad p. 20) (800) 574-2123,
(509) 548-6344. sleepinglady.com
Wenatchee River County RV Park
Monitor. 40 riverside RV hook-ups, WIFI
& full facilities. April-Oct. (509) 667-7503
wenatcheeriverpark.org
All accommodations are in or near Leavenworth unless

otherwise noted.
Alpine Rivers Inn, (509) 548-8888
(800) 873-3960. alpineriversinn.com
Autumn Pond B&B, (800) 222-9661
(509) 548-4482. autumnpond.com
Bavarian Lodge (ad p. 22) (509) 548-7878
(888) 717-7878, bavarianlodge.com
Central Reservations Lodging Service
(800) 422-3048, (509) 996-2148.
centralreservations.net
Chelan County Expo Center RV Park
Cashmere. 300 RV hook-ups, full facilities on
33 acres, (April-Oct). (509) 782-3232
chelancountyexpocenter.com
Der Ritterhof Motor Inn (ad this page)
(800) 255-5845, (509) 548-5845
derritterhof.com
Enzian Inn, (800) 223-8511 (509) 548-5269
enzianinn.com
Icicle Village Resort, (800) 961-0162
iciclevillage.com
Downtown Cashmere

(509) 763-2713, (800) 858-2276
mtsprings.com
Mysty Mountain Properties
(206) 219-6427. vacationrentalcabins.com
For more info about activities

and attractions visit
cascadeloop.com
PHOTO BY BEN ELLIS
23
WenatcheeValley iconic
landmark, Saddle Rock
Wenatchee, East Wenatchee,

Entiat
24
Side Trip
Ohme Gardens. Drive just minutes off the Loop and find yourself standing under the shade of
towering pines, gazing at pristine pools and blankets of alpine flowers. The local landmark delivers
a dose of history and outstanding views of the Wenatchee Valley. Visit ohmegardens.com for seasonal
hours, special events and admission rates. From Hwy 2 turn left off Easy St., right on Ohme
Gardens Rd. and follow the signs.
Photo Op
Rocky Reach Dam &Visitor Center. Get your camera readythis stop delivers all manner of
photo ops. Ham it up next to enormous salmon in the fish viewing room, or on the dam itself,
offering massive views of the Columbia River. Explore the FREE museum, then head back outside
to explore impeccably kept flowering grounds. Got kids? Theyll love the playground! Nationally
recognized geocaching. Grab a bite at local favorite Mama Ds Kitchen. Located 7 miles north of
Wenatchee on Hwy 97-A. chelanpud.org/visitor-center.html
Hikes & Sites
Horse Lake Trails. This 1,500-acre reserve is part of protected lands in the Wenatchee Foothills.
Wildlife moves from mountains to valley here, including mule deer in the Winter. Miles of hiking
trails. From N. Wenatchee Avenue, turn west on Horse Lake Road and follow it up a dirt road until
it ends at the trailhead. cdlandtrust.org
Look a salmon in the eye at the Rocky Reach Dam Fish Ladder
PHOTO BY CHELAN COUNTY PUD
The Route
Following the Wenatchee River near orchardlined Sleepy Hollow, descend into the
Wenatchee Valley, historically known as the
Apple Capital of the World. Wenatchee is
located at the confluence of the Wenatchee
and Columbia Rivers. Hot summer sun
and abundant irrigation yield ideal produce
growing conditions. Wine grapes also thrive
here. Check out Wenatchee.org for detailed
information about area farms, wineries and
vineyards.
Follow the highway into Wenatchees downtown
National Historic District. Chat with
25
friendly shopkeepers and explore boutiques,

galleries, cafes and an impressive collection
of outdoor public art. Many of Art on the
Avenues stunning outdoor sculptures change
annually, bringing art-loving fans back year after
year. Pybus Public Market is a community
gathering spot and the permanent home of
the Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market,
shops and restaurants. Rent a bike at Pybus
or go for a walk on the adjacent waterfront,
linking over 25 miles of well-maintained paved
paths constituting the Apple Capital Loop
Trail, crossing two bridges and circling both
sides of the Columbia River. The Wenatchee
Valley Museum & Cultural Center, also

located in the historic district, is home to local
historic artifacts, hands-on activities, expansive
collections, and contemporary exhibits that the
whole family will love.
The Wenatchee Valley is rapidly gaining
international notoriety for its access to yearround outdoor recreation. Locals hike the
surrounding foothills during warm months,
exploring well maintained trail systems. Visit
cdlandtrust.org for detailed trail information
and maps. Wenatcheeoutdoors.org is a
longstanding, highly-regarded resource for
muscle powered outdoor recreation. Read
personal, up-to-date blogs about the latest
seasonal activities, or peruse their extensive
online library of suggested activities (even rated
for skill and accessibility.)
Adventurewenatchee.com is a comparatively
new online resource but links viewers with a
comprehensive view on area outdoor activities
whether they be guided hiking tours, weekly
running groups, paddle boarding opportunities,
or seasonal outdoor events. Warm months are
hugely popular with standup paddleboarding

and swimming at numerous local riverfront
parks with exceptional beach access, kayaking,
canoeing and fishing. Winter draws alpine skiers
and snowshoeing enthusiasts to neighboring
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort, just a short
12 miles out of town.
Next, travel north along the Columbia River
on Hwy 97-A. Build a couple hours into your
schedule to detour to Ohme Gardens to
explore the amazing alpine gardens (see Side
Trip). Next head toward Rocky Reach Dam
& Visitor Center! Stretch your legs and
explore the manicured gardens and have a
picnic (see Photo Op).
Continue north to small town of Entiat. Stop
along the river at Entiat City Park complete
with beach access, boat launch, restrooms and
camping. A little further up the road, stop at
the Columbia Breaks Fire Interpretive
Center (Milepost 217). This FREE self-guided
walk explains the role wildfires play in local
forests and foothills.
26
The Wenatchi-Psquosa people (Wenatchee

Valley namesake) lived along the Wenatchee
and Columbia Rivers and traveled seasonally
to gather, fish and hunt. David Thompson was
one of the first Euro-American fur-traders/
surveyors to encounter these early residents
as he canoed down the Columbia in 1811.The
Entiat people occupied the region from the
Columbia to the Cascade Mountains along the
Entiat River.
In 1855 local native tribes signed the Yakama
Treaty under the guidance of Governor Isaac
Stevens. The treaty terminated the indigenous
peoples rights to 10.8 million acres of land
and many tribes eventually joined with the
Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.
Soon thereafter some tribes claimed to have not
understood the outcome and intent of the treaty
and numerous clashes and small wars broke out
resulting in loss of life.
Settlers arrived in the 1870s and within a
few decades, Wenatchee became the center
of the greatest apple-producing region in
the world. Access to reliable irrigation, ideal
growing conditions, the relocation of the Great
Northern Railway, and ultimately, the damming
of the Columbia River at Rocky Reach and
Rock Island, all played key roles in shaping
the Wenatchee Valley into the agri-centric
community it is today.
Art on the Avenues, Wenatchee. Explore

downtown and Riverfront Park to see over 80
public art pieces. FREE. Map at Visitor Center.
(509) 699-3377. artontheavenues.org
Columbia Breaks Fire Interpretive
Center, Entiat (Milepost 217). Self-guided Trail
of Fire & Forest explains role forest fires play in
the environment. 17 acres with Forest Service
fire lookout towers, and interpretive signs.
columbiabreakswildfire.com
Ice Age Floods Geological Trail Self-Drive
Tour, See evidence of this catastrophic event
throughout the area. Driving Map at Visitor
Centers. (800) 572-7753, wenatchee.org
Ohme Gardens (ad p. 28) Wenatchee.
80+ year-old oasis perched high on a bluff
above Wenatchee. One of the NWs premier
gardens. Seasonal (509) 662-5785
ohmegardens.com
Pybus Public Market, Wenatchee.
Public market housed in renovated historic
building on the riverfront. Home to farmers
market when in season and year round market
store, restaurants, boutique shops.
(509) 888-3900. pybusmarket.org
Rocky Reach Dam (ad p. 29) Wenatchee.
Hwy 97-A. Free self-guided tour includes
museum, gallery, fish-viewing window,
arboretum, 18 acres of landscaped grounds with
picnic area, restrooms and playground
(see Photo Op.) (509) 663-7522.
chelanpud.org/visitor-center.html
PHOTO BY PYBUS PUBLIC MARKET
Pybus Public Market houses restaurants

boutique shops inside an historic building
27
Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail

Wenatchee and East Wenatchee. Walk, run,
bike or skate this 25-mile paved loop skirting
the shores of the Columbia River. Visit the
Xeriscape Garden at the foot of the 2nd St.
Pedestrian Bridge. It showcases plants that
thrive in an arid environment. Next to it,
the Sculpture Garden features large outdoor
touchable art. chelanpud.org
(Free) Foothills Trail Maps
cdlandtrust.org/whats-new/publications
Silver Falls Trail, 29 miles up Entiat River
Road. Hike the gorgeous National Recreation
Trail, stroll the Entiat River paved Interpretive
Trail, or camp. (see Permit Info).
See More:
www.CascadeLoop.com
Confluence of Wenatchee and

Columbia Rivers
PHOTO BY PYBUS SHIRLEY MONSON
Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural

Center,Wenatchee. Featuring seasonal
exhibits, explore substantial collections of
native and pioneer artifacts. The whole family
will love interactive exhibits such as the
miniature railway and, of course, the renowned
museum gift shop! (509) 888-6240, wvmcc.org
Vermilyea Pelle, Wenatchee. Exceptional
authentic leather travel goods, handmade onsite.
(509) 881-0335, vermilyeapelle.com
Vineyard & Winery Tours
The Columbia River Valley is home to several
boutique wineries open for tasting and tours.
FREE winery and AgTourism maps:
ncwwine.org
28
Lodging
Coast Wenatchee Center Hotel, Wenatchee.
(509) 662-1234, coasthotels.com
Entiat City RV Park (ad p. 30) Entiat. On
the shore of the mighty Columbia River, at the
mouth of the Entiat River.
(509) 784-1500. entiatwa.us
La Quinta Inn & Suites, Wenatchee.

(800) 753-3757, (509) 664-6565
laquintawenatchee.com
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
(ad p. 28) Wenatchee. (509) 667-2775
wenatcheespringhill.com
PHOTO BY GREG MARES
Local hikes deliver big views of the Wenatchee Mountain foothills
29
Chelan County PUD Parks (ad p. 29)

Wenatchee & Entiat. (509) 661-4551
chelanpud.org/parks.html
City of Entiat/Entiat Chamber
(ad this page) (509) 784-1500. entiatwa.us
Comcast, Wenatchee. (509) 667-4421
comcastspotlight.com
Wenatchee Downtown Association
(509) 662-0059. wendowntown.org
Wenatchee Valley Chamber (ad p. 26)
Wenatchee. Located in historic downtown, with
info about all the valley has to offer.
(509) 662-2116. wenatchee.org
Pangborn Airport, East Wenatchee. Daily
flights to and from Seattle on Horizon Air.
(509) 884-2494, pangbornairport.com
Washington Apple Commission
Wenatchee. Displays and video on apple
production, gift shop. (509) 663-9600
bestapples.com
30
Breathtaking lakeside views all year long.

PHOTO BY LAKE CHELAN CHAMBER
31
Manson Scenic Loop. Travel along scenic backroads through orchards and vineyards.Visit numerous
award-winning wineries, shop and dine in the village of Manson on Lake Chelan. (Take SR 150 from
downtown Chelan.) moretomanson.com
Stehekin via Lady of the Lake. Snap photos of the incredible scenery and peaks over 9,000
feet, as you ride aboard one of the Lady of the Lake vessels. The nationally-renowned boat tour
takes you to off-the-grid Stehekin, which serves as a hub to explore the 61,958-acre Lake Chelan
National Recreation Area and a gateway to the rest of the North Cascades National Park Complex.
ladyofthelake.com
PHOTO BY LAKE CHELAN BOAT CO.
Chelan Butte. This hike is a local favorite as it delivers hard-won, sweeping views of Chelan,
neighboring hilltops and of course, the Lake! Follow a fairly steep trail 4+ miles up toward the top of
the Butte and past a false summit. When you get close to the radio/TV towers, hike up to the road and
finish the last 100 feet to see the backside of the Butte and the Columbia River. Watch for paragliders!
wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/chelan-butte (See Permit Info.)
Following Hwy 97-A, descend into the glaciercarved valley and approach the massive lake
flanked by wooded hillsides and rolling vineyards.
One of the most stunning lakes in the world,
Lake Chelan has drawn generations of families to
its shores. Watersports, beachside fun, wine and
small-town charm combine to make the area an
idyllic year-round getaway.
The lower end of the lake is home to the resort
communities of Chelan and Manson. Both
feature water recreation, visitor amenities and
resort facilities. Swimmers play in shallow
shoreline waters, while sail, fishing and motor
boats slice through deeper water offshore. The
whole family will love a day of fun in the sun
at Slidewaters Waterpark. Choose from
accommodations on long, sandy beaches with

lakefront views, hotels in the center of town,
or private cabins tucked in the hills. Explore
boutiques, gift shops, galleries, exceptional
gourmet fare, and locally-owned wineries.
Skydiving has become immensely popular here
toowhat better way to check out the view
than from thousands of feet up? Book the dive
of a lifetime with Skydive Chelan while
youre here and if youre lucky, time it along
with SkyFest, the first weekend of October.
The Lake Chelan Wine Valley became
Washington States 11th American Viticultural
Area (AVA) comprised of boutique wineries
growing more than 150 acres of vineyards,
and estate winery vineyards with 110 acres
32
33
of additional grape production. Tasting rooms

dot the north and south shores of the lake,
providing a wine tasting experiences yearround. Mark your calendars for special wine
events at the lake such as Spring Barrel Tasting,
or the ultimate wine experience, Lake Chelan
Crush in October.
Travel seven scenic miles uplake on SR 150 to
reach Manson, a friendly village surrounded by
vineyards and orchards. The towns centerpiece
is a waterfront park at Manson Bay with picnic
facilities, swim area and boat moorage. The
Manson Apple Blossom Festival, held in
May, is popular with locals and guests alike.
Meander along Mansons Scenic Loop for
great views of Chelan, Wapato, Dry, and Roses
Lakes, in addition to Lake Chelan (see Side Trip).
State parks and Forest Service campgrounds
along the entire length of the Lake Chelan
allow you to plan a boat trip of several days
with overnight stops along the way. Along the
steeper south shore, the paved highway ends at
25-Mile Creek State Park. Lake Chelan State
Park, also on the south shore, features camping,
picnicking, water sports and boat launch
facilities (see Permit Info). Keep your eyes open
for wildlife - mountain goat, bear, deer, sheep
and a variety of birds are often spotted. Fishing
in Lake Chelan is exceptional year-round.
These cool depths yield land-locked ling cod
or burbot, lake trout, kokanee which are landlocked sockeye salmon, as well as land-locked
Chinook salmon. Rainbow trout, cutthroat
trout, and smallmouth bass are abundant in the
shallower, warmer, clear waters near shore.
Looking to really get off the beaten path? Then
a trip to Stehekin is a must. There are no
roads to this tiny uplake, mountain wilderness
village. It is accessible only by boat, floatplane

or hiking. The Lady of the Lake leaves Chelan
with regularly scheduled passenger service to
Stehekin and back (see Photo Op).
While in Stehekin, ride horses, kayak, bicycle
or fish. Visit the historic Buckner Orchard to
see the tools and techniques early settlers used
to make a living in this valley over a century
ago. Cool off at Rainbow Falls, a picturesque
312-foot waterfall. The Stehekin Valley is
the southern gateway to the North Cascades
National Park. Hundreds of miles of trails carry
hikers into four adjoining wilderness areas.
Winter in the lower valley finds skiers and
snowboarders on the slopes at Echo Valley, with
three rope tows, a 1,400-foot lift, and tube hill!
Echo Ridge also offers miles of cross-country
ski and snowshoe trails.
For more info about activities

and attractions visit
cascadeloop.com
34
History & Heritage
The pristine 50.5-mile-long glacial lake slices

Northwestward into the Cascade Mountains.
The first people in the area were from the
Chelan tribe. The word Chelan (originally
spelled Tsillan) means deep notch, a fitting
name for the third deepest lake in the US
situated in a valley deeper than the Grand
Canyonand largest natural lake in Washington
State. The Chelan Tribe spent the winter along
the south end of the lake and the Chelan River
that drained the lake to the Columbia River. The
Chelan people paddled canoes 50 miles to the
head of the lake (Stehekin) and then followed
a trail over the mountains to trade with Puget
Sound tribes. Stehekin is derived from a Salish
word that means the way through. By the
1860s tribes were decimated by smallpox

epidemics and wars that broke out after the
treaties. Remaining Chelan tribal people
became part of the Confederated Tribes of the
Colville Reservation.
Chinese miners on the hunt for gold in the
rivers and streams were some of the first nonnatives to come to the Lake Chelan Valley. In
1888 L.H. Woodin arrived in the valley from
Minneapolis. He built a sawmill at the foot of
the lake. Today Chelans main street is named
for him. At the same time, local ranchers began
to realize the climate was perfect for growing
fruit, and Chelans long-standing fruit-focused
history began.
PHOTO BY SERGEI AKULICH
Lake Chelan is Washington States 11th American

Viticultural Area (AVA)
35
All accommodations are in or near Chelan unless

otherwise noted.
Apple Inn Motel (ad this page)
(509) 682-4044, (800) 276-3229
appleinnmotel.com
Campbells Resort on Lake Chelan
(ad p. 34) (800) 553-8225, (509) 682-2561
campbellsresort.com
Darnells Lake Resort, (800) 967-8149
(509) 682-2015. darnellsresort.com
Kellys Resort (ad this page), (800) 561-8978
(509) 687-3220, kellysresort.com
Lakeside Lodge & Suites (ad p. 37)
(800) 468-2781, (509) 682-4396
lakesidelodgeandsuites.com
Midtowner Motel (ad p. 37)
(800) 572-0943, (509) 682-4051
midtowner.com
Mountain View Lodge, Manson
(800) 967-8105, (509) 687-9505
mvlresort.com
Manson Lakefront Park & Marina

Manson. Walk from downtown, swim, picnic,
restrooms. (509) 687-9635, mansonparks.com
Manson Apple Blossom
Since 1920. Royalty, parade, street fair, art
show. mansonappleblossom.com
Slidewaters Family Waterpark, Chelan.

Featuring 11 slides, Lazy River, kids Aqua Zoo,
50-person hot tub & caf, all with stunning
views of Lake Chelan. Memorial Day- Labor
Day. (509) 682-5751, slidewaters.com
Skydive Chelan (ad this page) Chelan.
Enjoy a scenic ride to altitude with stunning
views of Lake Chelan, the Cascade Mountains,
and the Columbia River. 201 Airport Way,
(509) 881-0687, skydivechelan.com
Travel the Loop

before you arrive!
See the video on
cascadeloop.com
36
Echo Ridge US Forest Service Nordic Ski

Trails. Groomed trail system. Passes at Chelan
Ranger Station, (509) 682-4900
lakechelannordic.org
Echo Valley Ski Resort. 8 miles from
downtown Chelan. Kid-friendly with rope
tows, poma lift, tube hill, day/night skiing, ski
shop, school, lodge. (509) 687-3167
echovalley.org
Snowmobiling. 170 miles of well marked,
groomed trails. (800) 424-3526
lakechelan.com
The lake valley is home to great restaurants,

wineries, breweries and local markets.
Campbells Resort on Lake Chelan
(ad p. 34). (800) 553-8225, (509) 682-2561
campbellsresort.com
Lake Chelan Visitor Center & Chamber

of Commerce (ad p. 33) Chelan, 216 E.
Woodin Ave. (509) 682-3503, (800) 424-3526.
lakechelan.com
Manson Business Association (ad p. 35)
moretomanson.com
Vineyard & Winery Tours
Chelan and Manson. Discover numerous
boutique wineries nestled amongst the rolling
hills of Lake Chelan.
lakechelanwinevalley.com
Get maps and details at

www.cascadeloop.com
See Permit Info on Pullout Map
PHOTO BY LAKE CHELAN CHAMBER
Echo Ridge trails offer views

overlooking Lake Chelan
37
Liberty Bell from

Washington Pass Overlook
Pateros, Carlton,Twisp,
Winthrop, Mazama
Made possible in part with assistance from the Okanogan County Hotel-Motel Tax Fund.
38
Side Trip
The Okanogan Trails Scenic Byway. 83 miles long and beginning in Pateros, the byway follows the
Okanogan River to the Canadian border. Visit roadside fruit stands as you travel through orchards,
many owned by 3rd and 4th generation farmers. Historical markers narrate rich history along the
route. The byway provides access to the Audubon Societys Great Washington Birding Trail, Osoyoos,
and Conconully State Parks as well as the Highland Historic Loop and the Many Lakes Historic
Loop. Learn more at okanogancountry.com.
Photo Op
Washington Pass Overlook. With sweeping views of Liberty Bell Peak, Early Winters Spires and
the Methow Valley, Washington Pass Overlook delivers one of the Cascade Loops most iconic views.
Hikes & Sites
Goat Peak Lookout. This Methow Valley classic is 5 miles round trip and delivers you to an active
fire lookout on top of Goat Peak. The steep 2.5 miles to the lookout are not easy but the views make
it worthwhile! For driving directions: wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/goat-peak (see Permit Info).
The Route
and all manner of local cuts for grilling). Local

favorite, Twisp River Pub, sadly was closed
due to a fire, but stay tuned for info about
possible reconstruction and re-opening. The
famous Twisp River Recreation Area takes you
Extending from Pateros to the crest of

the Cascade mountains, the Methow Valley
is Washington States Wild West! Stop at
Howards on the River for an outstanding
meal with a view of the mighty Columbia River.
Turn onto Hwy 153 and jagged mountains form
a backdrop for quaking aspen, log ranch homes,
and the meandering Methow River. Dry shrub
steppe hillsides give way to stands of Ponderosa
pine and Douglas fir as you gain elevation.
Pass through the tiny towns of Methow and
Carlton. Fuel up and grab supplies at the
Carlton Store.
Next, head into the Methow Valleys largest
town, Twisp, a community that has a
penchant for the arts and welcomes all. Visit
methowvalleyarts.org for complete details
about the Methow Arts scene galleries,
music, live theater and festivals. Restaurants
favor locally-grown and harvested ingredients,
so expect incredible cuisine here. Stop at
nationally-acclaimed Blue Star Coffee
Roasters for a cup of their award-winning joe,
or pick up some coffee to take home - a great
locally-made souvenir! Stop at TwispWorks
and check out local artisans live, working
studios on this renovated 6+ acre campus.
Next, stock up your cooler at Thomsons
Custom Meats, located just 1/2 mile south
of Twisp (hand-cut steaks, house-made sausage,
39
deep into the wilderness and offers dozens of

campgrounds and trails. Get outside for hiking,
biking, photography, fishing, river rafting and
more! Heading north on the Twisp-Winthrop
Eastside road (off Hwy 20/153 just south
of Hanks Market), youll find a meandering
country road that winds around farms and
ranches. Halfway to Winthrop, stop at the North
Cascades Smokejumper Base for a free tour of
the birthplace of smokejumping. Kids and adults
alike love to see the parachutes, and the plane
(in season). Plan time to stop for 9 holes of golf
at the Bear Creek Golf Course.
As you continue up valley, Winthrop takes
you back to the old Wild West with its 1890
storefronts. Stop and walk the wooden
boardwalks, take photos and enjoy the towns
fantastic shops, restaurants, bakeries and
pubs. Enjoy casual dining and handcrafted
brews at favorite local watering hole, the
Old Schoolhouse Brewery. If you are
looking for an upscale dining experience, the
Methow Valley is home to three acclaimed
restaurants, each presenting their take on
locally-sourced, meticulously prepared cuisine:
make a reservation at Arrowleaf Bistro,
Sun Mountain Lodge or the Freestone
Inn restaurants. Looking for adventure?
Book a horseback ride at the Sun Mountain
Lodge Stables or a hot air balloon ride with
Morning Glory Balloon Tours.
Downtown Winthrop is anchored on each end
by pedestrian bridges that span the Chewuch and
Methow rivers with viewing platforms to watch
salmon spawning as well as people enjoying fly
fishing, river rafting and tubing. The surrounding
hills provide opportunities for mountain biking,
hiking, camping, hunting and fishing.
North Americas largest Nordic ski trail system,

Methow Trails, is found in the Methow Valley,
making a winter mecca for skiers to enjoy over
120 miles of groomed trails.
As you continue westerly on Highway 20 you
follow the Methow River to the small village of
Mazama. While the core of Mazama is small,
it has some fabulous food, stellar shops, and is
surrounded by incredible vistas, ranch lands and
soaring mountains. This is your last opportunity
for gas until you reach Marblemount, on the
other side of the pass. As you head further west
youll see immediately why this Cascade Loop
Travel Guide presents the route in a counterclockwise direction-- the eastern approach to
Washington Pass offers jawdropping views you
dont see when you drive from west to east.
Check cascadeloop.com

for deals, specials
and packages
PHOTO BY PETE FREUND
Wildlife abounds in the

MethowValley
40
Community Culture
TwispWorks (ad p. 45) Twisp

Local artisans and live working studios.
(509) 997-3300, twispworks.org
Winthrops Western Town
The Spirit of the Old West is recaptured in
Winthrops main street with its colorful old
buildings, wooden boardwalks and acclaimed
Shafer Museum. Shop, dine, hike, bike or ride
through thousands of acres of wilderness.
(509) 996-2125, winthropwashington.com
Methow Arts, Twisp. Theater, music, dance &

poetry performances, art festival, film series.
(509) 997-4004. methowarts.org
Methow Valley Interpretive Center
Twisp. hosts events and displays that highlight
the cultural and natural history of the Methow
Valley. (509) 997-0620
methowvalleyinterpretivecenter.com
National Fish Hatchery, Winthrop. Exhibits
and interpretive information. (509) 996-2424
fws.gov/winthropnfh/
North Cascades Smokejumpers Base
Twisp. Aerial-delivered firefighter training
and departure base since 1939. Birthplace of
smokejumping. Guided tours, kid friendly,
a dont-miss experience. (509) 997-9750.
ncsbsmokejumpers.com
Pateros Museum (ad p. 42) Pateros. See what
the Columbia River and local terrain was like
before the hydroelectric dams were built.
(509) 923-2571. pateros.com
41
42
Our nations largest Nordic ski trail

system
Winter Fun
PHOTO BY METHOW VALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Loup Loup Ski Area: 1,240 feet of vertical

alpine family fun. 22km of groomed Nordic ski
trails. (509) 557-3401, skitheloup.com
Methow Trails: Ski, hike, run, walk and
mountain bike. North Americas largest ski trail
system: nearly 120 miles of groomed trails.
(509) 996-3287. methowtrails.org
Outdoor Adventure
Alta Lake State Park, Pateros. Swimming,
fishing, boat launch, camping and picnicking.
(888) 226-7688, (509) 923-2473. parks.wa.gov
(see Permit Info)
Bear Creek Golf Course, Winthrop.
View the Sawtooth and Pasayten Mountain
Ranges from this challenging and well-groomed
9-hole course tucked away in a rural setting.
(509) 996-2284, bearcreekgolfcourse.com
Bird Watching. Pateros and the Lower
Methow Valley. Hawks, eagles, ospreys, yearround lapland longspurs and gyrfalcons.
(509) 923-2571. pateros.com
44
Cutthroat Pass
PHOTO BY METHOW VALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Fly Fishing. World-class steelhead, smallmouth

bass, rainbow trout and salmon.
(360) 902-2500. wdfw.wa.gov
Lake Pateros. Fishing, boating, and jetskiing
on the upper Columbia River.
(509) 923-2571. pateros.com
Morning Glory Balloon Tours, Winthrop.
Experience the thrill of ballooning!
(509) 997-1700. balloonwinthrop.com
Pearrygin Lake State Park, 4 miles from
Winthrop. Swimming, fishing, camping, beach
and boating. parks.wa.gov (see Permit Info.)
Twisp Ponds Interpretive Trail, Twisp.
See restoration of historic waterways and habitat
to help the endangered Steelhead trout at the
Twisp Rearing Ponds. Site includes interpretive
walk, picnic area and plenty of natural beauty.
View Ridge Interpretive Loop Trail
Sun Mountain Lodge, Winthrop. Views of the
Methow Valley from this easy 1-mile loop
trail. Several other trails depart from here as
well. Pick up map in lobby. (509) 996-2211
sunmountainlodge.com
45
Lodging
Timberline Meadows, Mazama.
(509) 996-3949, (800) 848-7723
timberlinemeadows.com
Twisp River Suites (ad p. 44) Twisp.
(855) 784-8328. (509) 997-0100
twispriversuites.com
Wolfridge Resort, Winthrop. (800) 237-2388
(509) 996-2828. wolfridgeresort.com
Abby Creek Inn (ad p. 48) Winthrop.

(509) 996-3100. abbycreekinn.com
Best Western Plus Peppertree Inn (ad p. 49)
Omak (509) 422-2088.
BestWestern.com/PeppertreeOmakInn
Central Reservations Lodging Service
Methow Valley. (800) 422-3048
(509) 996-2148. centralreservations.net
Chewuch Inn & Cabins (ad p. 43) Winthrop.
(800) 747-3107, (509) 996-3107
chewuchinn.com
Freestone Inn (ad this page) Mazama.
(800) 639-3809. (509) 996-3906
freestoneinn.com
Hotel Rio Vista, Winthrop. (800) 398-0911
(509) 996-3535. hotelriovista.com
Howards on the River (ad p. 41) Pateros.
(877) 923-9555, (509) 923-9555
howardsontheriver.com
Idle-A-While Motel (ad p. 40) Twisp.
(509) 997-3222, idle-a-while-motel.com
Mazama Country Inn (ad p. 49) Mazama.
(800) 843-7951, (509) 996-2681
mazamacountryinn.com
Methow River Lodge & Cabins, Winthrop.
(509) 996-4348, methowriverlodge.com
Methow Suites B&B, Twisp.
(509) 997-5970. methowsuites.com
Mt. Gardner Inn, Winthrop.
(509) 996-2000. mtgardnerinn.com
River Run Inn, Winthrop. (800) 757-2709
(509) 996-2173, riverrun-inn.com
Rivers Edge Resort, Winthrop
800-937-6621, (509) 996-8000
riversedgewinthrop.com
Sun Mountain Lodge (ad p. 43)
Winthrop. (800) 572-0493, (509) 996-2211
sunmountainlodge.com
The Winthrop Inn, Winthrop.
(800) 444-1972. (509) 996-2217
winthropinn.com
Campgrounds
Pine Near RV & Campground (ad p. 48)
Winthrop. (509) 341-4062, pinenearpark.com
Riverbend RV Park, Twisp.
(509) 997-3500, (800) 686-4498
riverbendrv.com
Silverline Resort RV Park &
Campground, Pearrygin Lake, Winthrop.
(509) 996-2448. silverlineresort.com
Winthrop KOA (ad p. 43) Winthrop.
(800) 562-2158, (509) 996-2258
methownet.com/koa/
Hiking Info & Passes

www.fs.usda.gov/okawen
Methow Valley (509) 996-4003
46
Methow Made, Twisp.

(509) 997-3300. methowmade.com
Okanogan County Tourism Council
(ad p. 41) Omak. 320 Omak Ave.,
(888) 431-3080, okanogancountry.com
Omak Visitor Center, Omak.
401 Omak Ave., (800) 225-6625,
(509) 826-4218, omakchamber.com
Pateros Chamber & Visitor Center
(ad p. 42) Pateros. 113 Lakeshore Dr.
(509) 923-2571, pateros.com
Twisp Chamber (ad this page) Twisp.
118 S Glover St., (509) 997-2020
twispinfo.com
Twisp Visitor Center, Twisp.
201 S. Hwy 20. (509) 997-2926, twispinfo.com
Winthrop Chamber & Visitor Center
(ad back cover) Winthrop. 202 Highway 20
(509) 996-2125 winthropwashington.com
All-American horse culture is

alive and well in the Methow
47
PHOTO BY DANIELLE BEXX
Visitor Info
FOOD & Drink

Thomsons Custom Meats, Twisp.
(509) 997-9353, thomsonscustommeats.com
Twisp River Pub, Twisp.
(888) 220-3360, (509) 997-6822
www.methowbrewing.com
(Due to a recent fire,Twisp River Pub was closed for
renovation at time of printing. Call or check their
website for Grand Reopening Date.)
Locally-sourced, and freshly-prepared is the

name of the game.
Arrowleaf Bistro, Winthrop.
(509) 996-3919. arrowleafbistro.com
Blue Star Coffee Roasters, Twisp.
(509) 997-2583, bluestarcoffeeroasters.com
Freestone Inn Restaurant (ad p. 46)
Mazama. (800) 639-3809, (509) 996-3906
freestoneinn.com
Old Schoolhouse Brewery, Winthrop.
(509) 996-3183, oldschoolhousebrewery.com
Pateros Trading Company (ad p. 41) Pateros.
(509) 923-2200, paterostradingcompany.com
Rivers Restaurant (ad p. 41) Pateros.
(509) 923-2200 x512 howardsontheriver.com
Sun Mountain Lodge Restaurant
(ad p. 43) Winthrop. (800) 572-0493
(509) 996-2211, sunmountainlodge.com
48
PHOTO BY MICHAEL RAULS
Jaw-dropping Washington Pass
49
Unforgettable nighttime views
Diablo, Newhalem,
Marblemount, Rockport,
Concrete
50
Side Trip
Darrington and Oso. Detour off the North Cascades Highway from Rockport onto Highway 530
and drive toward the small, historic communities of Darrington and Oso. These communities are
surrounded by wooded alpine wilderness, waterfalls and rivers. The communities are tightly knit
but always welcome visitors year-round! destinationdarrington.com
Photo Op
Diablo Lake Overlook. Milepost 132 is a spectacle to behold. Plan for lots of jaw-dropping
shotsit is that beautiful. Diablo Lake is a reservoir created by Diablo Dam. It is located between
Ross Lake and Gorge Lake on the Skagit River at an elevation of 1,201 feet above sea level.
Hikes & Sites
PHOTO BY GREG MARES
Heather Maple Pass Loop. This 7+ mile roundtrip hike wows year-round as it features ridgelines
blanketed in riots of wildflowers in summer, and lakes ringed with brilliant golden larches in fall.
Pack a picnic, binoculars and of course, your camera! Trail departs from the Rainy Pass Trailhead
(see Permit Info).
The Route
Passing by the massive bulk of Liberty Bell

and Early Winters spires, the North Cascades
Highway 20, climbs steadily through expansive,
rugged beauty toward Washington and Rainy
Pass viewpoints (MP 157.6). The North
Cascades Scenic Byway is a designated byway
located on the Cascade Loop and is surrounded
by jagged peaks, deep valleys, waterfalls, and
more than 300 glaciers within the North
Cascades National Park. Several peaks
rise well above 9,000 feet in elevation! Not
surprisingly, hiking, climbing and camping are
hugely popular here.
51
Continue onward and upward until you reach

the brilliantly colored Ross and Diablo Lakes.
Views from these glacier-fed bodies of water
reach north to Canada and south into the most
glaciated valley in North America outside
of Alaska. Colonial Creek and Newhalem
Campgrounds offer the most vehicle accessible
campsites in the park with summer programs
and excellent ancient forest hikes. Seattle
City Light offers summer cruises - Skagit
Tours - on Diablo Lake and provide a
regularly scheduled shuttle service between
Diablo and Ross Lakes. The North Cascades
Environmental Learning Center at

Milepost 127.5 offers year-round, nature-based
field trips and adventure learning, youth and
graduate student programs, facility rentals for
weddings and other gatherings.
Near Newhalem, stop at the North Cascades
National Park Visitor Center to chat with park
rangers and check out park maps, information,
exhibits, audio-visual displays, trails and
viewpoints. Get hands-on knowledge about the
North Cascades while creating memories that
last a lifetime. The Skagit Information Center,
nearby Ladder Creek Falls Trail and the Trail of
the Cedars offer opportunities to learn local
history as well as delivering a healthy, quick
stretch of the legs! (See Permit Info.)
Marblemount is the first full-service
community you reach on the western slope
of Highway 20. Stop and grab a tasty bite to
eat at the Buffalo Run Inn & Restaurant
before venturing on. Rockport State Park offers
numerous places to hike through forests with
sweeping views of the Skagit River (see Permit
Info.) The upper Skagit Valley supports a growing
list of recreational experiences including fishing,
camping, river rafting, snowmobiling, hiking
and wildlife watching. Make sure to stop at the
Cascadian Farm Organic Roadside Stand,
and check out their acres of berries and pick up
snacks for the road!
Next, continue westward toward the Skagit
Wild & Scenic River System which includes
the Cascade, Sauk and Suiattle Rivers. These
clean, rushing waters are home to five species
of Pacific salmon as well as two species of trout.
Nearly 300 species of wildlife populate the
area, including black-tailed deer, black bear,
bald eagle, great blue heron and osprey. High
mountain glaciers feed the Skagit watershed,
flowing south from British Columbia and
providing ideal conditions for migratory birds.
Bird watchers, this is a place where youll want
to have your binoculars handy!
The historic town of Concrete was fittingly
named when it served as a cement production
center. Today, a stroll down Main Street evokes
a sense of small town nostalgia. Locals are super
friendly here - chat while grabbing a bite to eat
at Annies Pizza Station.
History & Heritage
The Skagit Tribe fished, hunted and gathered

resources in the North Cascades for thousands
of years, forging ancient travel and trade
routes within valleys and along ridges of jagged
mountain peaks. The Skagits used Cascade
Pass connecting to Stehekin, at the head of
Lake Chelan, as a primary trade route with the
people of the Columbia River Basin.
In 1814, Scottish fur trader Alexander Ross
crossed Twisp Pass and descended Bridge Creek
to the Stehekin River, upstream via Cascade
Pass, and then traced the Cascade River
downstream to the confluence of the Skagit
River, marking the earliest traverse of the North
Cascades by a Euro-American. Fur trapping
was a popular wintertime economic driver.
Gold was discovered in the North Cascades in
the late 1800s, and while mining continued,
many miners were disillusioned and traded in
mining for logging in the Skagit and Stehekin
Valleys. Many who stayed on in the North
Cascades became shopkeepers, rather than
farmers, and supported the needs of trappers
and prospectors. Marblemount was established
as a base for miners.
By the 1900s people began to recognize that
the North Cascades rivers had tremendous
potential for hydroelectric development. Major
hydroelectric development of the Skagit River
began in 1918 when Seattle City Light was
issued permits to begin constructing three dams
on the river. They eventually built a railroad
up the Skagit Valley to company towns of
Newhalem and Diablo built for employees of
the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project. Diablo
52
Dam, which was the highest dam in the world

at the time at 389 feet, was completed in 1930.
Ross Dam at 540 feet was completed in 1949, and
Gorge Dam at 300 feet, was competed in 1961.
In 1968 President Lyndon B. Johnson signed
the bill to establish North Cascades National
Park, and it wasnt until 1972, following years
of proposals and explorations, that the modern
road was built to traverse the North Cascades.
Now travelers can enjoy accessible trails to
unique mountain vistas, normally snow-free
from July through October.
Food & Drink
Look for down-home cooking when in the

North Cascades!
5bs Bakery, Concrete. (360) 853-8700
www.5bsbakery.com
Annies Pizza Station, Concrete.
(360) 853-7227, anniespizzastation.net
Buffalo Run Restaurant and Inn (ad p. 55)
Marblemount (360) 873-2103
(877) 828-6652. buffaloruninn.com
Cascadian Farm (ad p. 52) Rockport.
(360) 853-8173 cascadianfarm.com
The Eatery, Rockport.
(800) 273-2606, (360) 873-2250
northcascades.com/eatery.htm
Important Note
About Winter
The North Cascades receive

incredible amounts of snowfall each
winter. Because of this abundant
precipitation, Highway 20 will
be closed from MP 171 (west of
Mazama) to MP 134 (East of Diablo)
each year, usually late November
through late April.
Visitor Info
Concrete Chamber of Commerce

Concrete. 45770 Main St. (360) 853-8784
concrete-wa.com
For National Park Visitor Center info see
Resources on pullout map.
53
54
Lodging
Community Culture
Buffalo Run Inn (ad this page) Marblemount.

(360) 873-2103, (877) 828-6652
buffaloruninn.com
Clarks Skagit River Resort (ad p. 56)
Rockport. (800) 273-2606, (360) 873-2250
northcascades.com
Grace Haven, Rockport. (360) 873-4106
gracehavenretreat.com
North Cascades Institute Environmental
Learning Base Camp, (ad p. 53) MP 127.5
across Diablo Dam. (360) 854-2599
ncascades.org/basecamp
Ovenells Heritage Inn & Cabins
(ad this page) Concrete. (360) 853-8494
ovenells-inn.com
Totem Trail Motel, Rockport.
(360) 873-4535. totemtrail.com
Concrete Heritage Museum, Concrete.

Saturdays (noon to 4:00) Memorial Day
Weekend through Sept. (360) 853-8347
concreteheritagemuseum.org
North Cascades Environmental Learning
Center, (ad p. 53) Milepost 127.5
Drive over Diablo Dam, park at end of
road on right.Year-round nature-based
field trips and adventure learning, youth
and graduate student programs, facility
rentals for weddings and other gatherings
and healthy, organic food service. Check
schedule available in park visitor centers
or at ncascades.org
Puget Sound Energy Visitors Gallery
Concrete. Information on hydro-electric
projects and fish enhancement efforts.
(360) 853-8341. Winter 7am-3pm M-F,
Summer all week.
PHOTO BY GREG MARES
Iconic Mount Baker
55
Outdoor Adventure
Rainy Pass Picnic Area and Lake Trail
(Milepost 158) Paved one-mile accessible trail to
Rainy Lake with glacier views, 2 miles to Lake
Ann (See Cover Photo), or 7.5 miles around Maple
Pass Loop. Trails may be snow covered until late
July. At 4,860, Rainy Pass is the lower of the
two highest points on Hwy 20 (Washington Pass
is 5,477). Trail contours along the mountainsides to enter a glacier-carved cirque that
holds Rainy Lake and the impressive waterfall
that feeds it. A short, level trek well-suited to
wheelchairs. (See Permit Info.)
www.fs.usda.gov/mbs
Skagit River Bald Eagle Natural Area
& Interpretive Center, Howard Miller
Steelhead County Park between Marblemount
& Rockport. This 7,800 acre area is the winter
home to the largest population of bald eagles in
the lower 48. Interpretive Center open Dec-Feb
offering guided walks, slide shows and guest
speakers. Also, learn about the Skagit River
and its plants and animals. (360) 853-7626
skagiteagle.org
Baker Lake & Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie

National Forest, 10 miles north of Concrete.
A favorite recreation spot for fishing,
swimming, hiking and boating, camping
facilities nearby. (360) 856-5700 x515.
www.fs.usda.gov/mbs (see Permit Info).
Cascade Pass, Marblemount. Travel the
historic Mine-to-Market Road (now Cascade
River Road) for 23 scenic miles to Cascade Pass,
the original route east to Stehekin and Lake
Chelan for Native Americans, prospectors and
miners. nps.gov/noca
Colonial Creek Campground on Diablo
Lake, (Milepost 130). Campground offers
naturalist programs in summer, picnic area,
fishing platform, Thunder Creek, Thunder
Woods and Thunder Knob trails (3.6 mile
round-trip, great for families) goes through
diverse forest with scenic views. nps.gov/noca
Diablo Lake Adventure-Skagit Lake
Boat & Dinner Tour (ad p. 54) Newhalem.
Spectacular Dine on the Dam tour and lunch,
free Newhalem walking tour. Learn about
the natural history, geology, ecology and the
abundant wildlife of this pristine environment.
Reservations recommended. July 2-Sept.14.
(360) 854-2589 skagittours.com
Diablo Lake Trail, Departs from the parking
lot offering dramatic views of Diablo Lake
Gorge. (360) 854-2599 ncascades.org
Happy Creek Forest Walk (just east of
Milepost 134. Parking, restroom. A short
interpretive boardwalk. www.fs.usda.gov/mbs,
nps.gov/noca (see Permit Info).
See More:
www.CascadeLoop.com
Sahale Arm, North Cascades Park
56
SkagitValley is home to the largest commercial

flower bulb industry outside of Holland
Anacortes, Sedro-Woolley, Burlington,

MountVernon, La Conner
57
Side Trip
La Conner. Nestled between the Swinomish Channel, the Skagit River Delta and the Salish Sea, La
Conner, with a new boardwalk, is a combination of fishing village and artists colony. Views of the
water and Mt. Baker mix with eclectic shops, galleries and museums downtown. Visit any time in
March to explore and photograph fields of daffodils during the La Conner Daffodil Festival!
lovelaconner.com
PHOTO Op
Mount Erie. With the summit accessible via a single-lane, paved road from the base, the San
Juan Islands, Mount Baker and Mount Rainier can be seen on a clear day. In Anacortes, turn onto
Campbell Lake Road and drive about 1.5 miles along the lake. Turn onto Heart Lake Road and climb
1,273 feet to the top!
Hikes & Sites
Padilla Bay. Explore this estuary at the edge of the large delta of the Skagit River in the Salish Sea.
It is about eight miles long and three miles across. Explore either at Bay View State Park (See Permit
Info) or via neighboring walking paths, the Shore Trail or Upland Trail. 10441 Bayview-Edison Road,
Mount Vernon. padillabay.gov
The Route
PHOTO BY STEVE BERENTSON
Dotted with farmhouses and heritage barns and

home to more than 80,000 snow geese in the
winter, the Skagit Valley is home to the largest
commercial flower bulb industry outside of
Holland. Beginning in March and continuing
through May, the entire valley is one huge
carpet of blooms backdropped by dramatic
views of 10,775 ft. Mount Baker and the
North Cascade Mountains.
Sedro-Woolley is known for its logging
history which can be seen downtown with its
collection of life-size wood carvings. Outfit
yourself for outdoor adventure at the NW
Mountain Shop, or take it further and book a
guided mountaineering trip with NW Mountain
Guides! Visit during Independence Day week
and join locals at Loggerrodeo and experience
logging and chainsaw carving contests, the
rodeo, bluegrass jubilee and fireworks.
Burlington is located at the crossroads of I-5
and the North Cascades Highway 20. Its a great
base from which to explore many recreational
activities within easy driving distance. Visit
during Berry Dairy Days held each June,
celebrating local berry harvests and dairies.
Just to the south, Mount Vernon sits at
the juncture of several rivers and sloughs, an
58
irresistible attraction for an assortment of bird

species. The riverfront and adjacent historic
downtown are ideal for exploring on foot. It is
featured on the National Register of Historic
Places.
Make your way next to Anacortes, a
waterfront community nestled in the heart of
Fidalgo Island. Its historic downtown is home
to funky shops and boutiques. Pick up a
souvenir handmade candle from the Anacortes
Candle Company. Take a whale watching tour
with Island Adventures where excursions
lead to sightings 95% of the time! Rent a kayak
from Anacortes Kayak Tours and paddle
through salt water while taking in views of
abundant wildlife!
History & Heritage
The Skagit River flood plain is some of the

richest agricultural land in the Northwest.
Before agricultural development, however, the
Coastal/Northern Straits Salish people thrived
here fishing and harvesting shellfish. Summers
brought the harvest of berries, and hunting and
gathering was plentiful.
In the late 1700s with the arrival of non-native
explorers to the region, the first wave of diseases
swept through the area, significantly affecting
native populations. Local tribes initially traded
furs and pelts for supplies such as muskets and
blankets. By the 1820s non-native traders and
trappers were crossing the Cascades and settling,
resulting in pelts being traded with the Hudson
Bay Company instead, diminishing native trade
routes. In 1855 the Point Elliot Treaty was
signed and many of these tribes moved to the
Swinomish Reservation on Fidalgo Island. In
spite of these challenges, native people maintain
active communities throughout the area today.
In 1791, Spaniard Juan Francisco de Eliza
charted Rosario Strait, naming it Canal de
Fidalgo. British Captain George Vancouver
explored Rosario Strait in 1792 naming
Deception Pass. Mining camps were
established upvalley in 1879. Timber and
logging contributed greatly to the growth and
development of the area during this time as
well. Agriculture has continued to be the main
industry for the Skagit Valley since the late
1800s with todays massive flower bulb industry
resulting as an extension of the early flower
production thanks to Mary Brown Stewart who
started growing tulips with bulbs from Holland
in 1906.
PHOTO BY ERIK SCHORR
Explore Fidalgo Islands

calm protected waters with
Anacortes Kayak Tours
59
60
Community Culture
Mount Erie, Anacortes. 1300 atop Fidalgo

Island provides impressive views (see Photo Op).
Museum of Northwest Art, La Conner.
121 S. 1st St. (360) 466-4446
monamuseum.org
Quilt & Textile Museum, La Conner. In the
historic Gaches Mansion (1891). 703 S. 2nd St.
(360) 466-4288, laconnerquilts.org
Sculpture Walking Tour, La Conner.
Downtown sculptures by Northwest artists
Map at Chamber.
Sedro-Woolley Museum. Blacksmith,
ag/logging displays. 725 Murdock Street
(360) 855-2390, sedrowoolleymuseum.org
Skagit County Museum, La Conner. Skagit
history, family friendly. Skagit Audio Driving
Tour CD $5, call to order. (360) 466-3365
501 S. 4th St. skagitcounty.net/museum
Smuggler Brothers Marijuana
Mercantile, Sedro-Woolley. Friendly,
knowledgeable staff, thoughtfully sourced
products. 1912 W. Hwy 20. (360) 746-9229
smugglerbrothers.com
Tommy Thompson Parkway, Anacortes.
Waterfront scenery along level paved trail from
downtown, (3.3 miles).
Washington Park Loop Road, Anacortes.
220-acre forested park with campground,
playground, picnic shelter. (See Permit Info.)
Anacortes Candle Co. Ecofriendly candles

made by local owners, all by hand! Candlemaking parties also available. (360) 836-1103.
anacortescandles.com
Andy Porter Photography (ad p35) SedroWoolley. Photo tours, souvenir art prints and
photography classes. andyporterimages.com
Annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. April
1-30. Blooms carpet the valley floor each spring
(tulip, daffodil, iris) in the largest US display
of tulips. Farm tours, events and displays all
month. (360) 428-5959. tulipfestival.org
Birdwatching. Snow geese, trumpeter swans
(Dec-Mar), waterfowl. Many bird watching
sights throughout the Skagit River Valley. Free
bird map at Chambers.
Childrens Museum of Skagit County
Burlington, in the Cascade Mall.
(360) 757-8888 skagitchildrensmuseum.net
Daffodil Festival, La Conner. Get Daffy
March. lovelaconner.com
Farm Tours, Farmers Markets, Tulip Fields
Local farms open their barns and fields to
visitors. farmtour.com
Historic Walking Tour, Sedro-Woolley.
Murals, historic buildings & parks. Map at
Chamber. (360) 855-1841.
PHOTO BY SALLY WOOD
A ride on a Washington state ferry is a great part of the trip on the Loop.
61
Outdoor Adventure
Visitor Info
Anacortes Chamber and Visitor Center

(ad p. 60) 819 Commercial Ave.
(360) 293-3832, anacortes.org
Burlington Visitor Center & Chamber
(ad p. 63) 520 E. Fairhaven Ave.
(360) 757-0994. burlington-chamber.com
La Conner Chamber, 511 Morris St.
(888) 642-9284, (360) 466-4778
lovelaconner.com
Mount Vernon Chamber (ad p. 64)
301 W. Kincaid St. (360) 428-8547
visitmountvernon.com
North Cascades National Park HQ
810 Hwy 20. Sedro-Woolley (360) 854-7200
nps.gov/noca
Sedro-Woolley Chamber (ad p. 64)
810 Metcalf St. (360) 855-1841
sedro-woolley.com
Skagit County Bike Map (Free)
Available at local Chambers.
Skagit Valley Tourism (ad inside back cover)
visitskagitvalley.com
Sea Kayaking Tours: Search for porpoise,

seals, sea lions, whales, eagles and other birds.
Family friendly.
Anacortes Kayak Tours (ad this page)
Family, wildlife and multi-day tours.
(800) 992-1801, (360) 588-1117
anacorteskayaktours.com
Whale Watching & Wildlife Boat
Excursions: The Puget Sound is home to
nearly 100 resident Orca whales and visiting
California Gray whales during the summer.
Island Adventures Boat Tours (ad p. 59)
Anacortes, Everett. (800) 465-4604,
(360) 293-2428, island-adventures.com
NW Mountain Shop & Guide Service
(ad p. 63) In the Woolley Market,
829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley.
(360) 854-8761, nwmountainshop.com
PHOTO BY JASON RUVELSON
See More:
www.CascadeLoop.com
SkagitValley Sunset
62
Snowy summer sunrise atop the Coleman Demming Glacier
63
Lodging
Farm Stay Skagit at Hoehn Bend Farm
Sedro-Woolley. (360) 466-0135
farmstayskagit.com
Hampton Inn & Suites, Burlington.
(800) 426-7866, (360) 757-7100
burlingtonsuites.hamptoninn.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Burlington.
(360) 755-7338 hiexpress.com/burlingtonwa
La Conner Country Inn, La Conner.
(888) 466-4113, (360) 466-1500
laconnerlodging.com
Majestic Inn and Spa, Anacortes.
(360) 299-1400, (877) 370-0100
majesticinnandspa.com
Sterling Motor Inn, Burlington.
(360) 757-0071
Best Western Skagit Valley Inn, Mount

Vernon. (360) 428-5678 bwskagitvalleyinn.com
Candlewood Suites, Burlington.
(877) 226 3539, (360) 755-3300
Cap Sante Inn, Anacortes.
(800) 852- 0846, (360) 293-0602
capsanteinn.com
Channel Lodge, La Conner.
(888) 466-4113, (360) 466-1500
laconnerlodging.com
Cocusa Motel (ad p. 62) Burlington.
(800) 628-2257, (360) 757-6044
cocusamotel.com
Days Inn, Mount Vernon (360) 424-4141.
Reservations (800) 225-3297, daysinn.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites, Burlington.
(360) 757-2717. marriott.com/otsfs
SkagitValley Barns are often an

art form of their own
64
Snag a little island R & R year-round!
Oak Harbor, Coupeville,

Freeland, Langley, Clinton
65
Side trip
Cama Beach State Park on Camano Island. Take a little time and side trip to Whidbeys sister
island. A restored 1930s fishing resort with year-round cabin rentals, the park offers a unique
opportunity to step back in time. (See Permit Info.) parks.wa.gov
Photo Op
Deception Pass. Walk across the bridge soaring above Deception Pass, which spans the passage
between Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands. The views are spectacular, and it is no surprise to learn it
is one of the most photographed places in Washington state. Adjoining state park offers picnic
areas, beach, trails, boat launch, campgrounds, bird watching. (360) 675-3767, parks.wa.gov
(See Permit Info.)
Hikes & Sites
Fort Casey Historical State Park. Explore this 467-acre park, a well-preserved military
artillery post and the site of Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Take in 10,810-feet of saltwater
shoreline views of Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Watch for deer on the
premisesthey are prolific! parks.wa.gov (See Permit Info.)
The Route
Travel south down the 55-mile long island,

whose pace and natural beauty have dubbed it
The Shortest Distance to Far Away. Driving
along the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way (the entire
island is a Scenic Byway), will take you to
the islands largest town, Oak Harbor. This
patriotic community is home to one of the
top three rated U.S. Naval Air Stations in the
country. Explore the PBY Naval Museum and
historic shopping district on Pioneer Way.
Check out the nearby marina and Windjammer
Park with miles of waterfront walkway, and
grab photos at the life-sized windmill.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL STADLER
Coupeville is the second oldest town in

Washington state, with over 100 of its buildings
on the National Historic Register. The town is
home to famously delicious Penn Cove mussels,
the historic wharf, art galleries, charming
waterview restaurants, wine shops, and the
Island County Historical Museum. Stretch
your legs with a walk along the quaint town or
the Kettles Trail from Coupeville to Fort Ebey
State Park. Fort Ebey is a preserved military
installation that once protected the entrance to
Puget Sound.
Continue south on Highway 525, and glimpse
salt-water passages to the east and west at
Greenbank, the narrowest point of the island.
Views of the Olympic and Cascade Mountain
66
67
68
ranges can be seen in either direction. Stop for

a tour of a Whidbey Island Grown member
farm, Greenbank Farm, home to an off-leash
dog park with bird watching, art galleries and
wine tasting. South of Greenbank, explore
stunning Meerkerk Rhododendron
Gardens, a 53-acre forest preserve. Visit this
garden year-round and find many blossoming
woodland offerings beyond the rhodies.
After the gardens, continue south to Freeland
whose main street is the service and shopping
center for south Whidbey, including antique,
art and thrift shops. Freeland Park offers a boat
launch, picnic facilities and a playground with
views of Holmes Harbor. The island is home
to several electric vehicle charging stations,
two of them are in Freeland. Next, check out
Bayview with its wine tasting and world class
farmers market, one of several the island has to
offer. Then travel along the Langley Loop to
the Village by the Sea, the charming town of
Langley. Overlooking Saratoga Passage and the
Cascade Mountains, its streets are lined with
historic buildings, pretty shops, flower-filled
walkways and parks. Langley is home to local
cuisine, a new whale museum, spas, galleries
and theaters. Hands-on art opportunities
include glass blowing at an old fire house.
The final stop on Whidbey Island is Clinton.
While waiting for the beautiful ferry crossing
from Clinton to Mukiteo, grab a juicy
hamburger or enjoy the seaside park near the
ferry dock. View wildlife from the beach or visit
the playground. Washington State Ferries leave
every half hour back to the mainland and the
town of Mukilteo.
History & Heritage
Whidbey Island is the largest island in Puget

Sound. Its landscapes are a combination of
open prairie, wetlands and farmlands mixed
with upland forests. Coastal Salish people lived
here for thousands of years subsisting on fish,
shellfish and wild game as well as roots and
berries. In the late 1700s-1800s the tribes
were nearly decimated by disease transmitted
through contact with Euro-American explorers.
In some areas diphtheria, smallpox and measles
killed 90% of the native people. Following the
Point Elliot Treaty in 1855, many Salish people
were placed on the Tulalip reservation.
Whidbey Island was named in 1792 by British
Captain George Vancouver for Joseph Whidbey,
Master of the HMS Discovery. Whidbey proved
it was an island by discovering Deception Pass
and was the first documented non-native man
to set foot on the island landing at Penn Cove
that was to become Coupeville. Settlers farmed
the rich black loam soil planting wheat, oats and
potatoes. Agriculture is still a driver in the local
economy and culture.
Plan Your Trip!

Use the
Cascadeloop.com
Trip Builder!
A sunset Ferry crossing between Mukilteo and Clinton, on Whidbey Island
PHOTO BY JACK PENLAND

69
Community Culture
A rainbow over Whidbey Island

as seen from near North
Hoypus Point
Island County Historical Museum

Coupeville. Special events, family friendly.
(360) 678-3310, islandhistory.org
Ebeys Landing National Historic Reserve
The nations first historic reserve. 17,400
acres with picturesque farmland, bluff trails &
beaches. (360) 678-6084, nps.gov/ebla/ (See
Permit Info.)
Wine Tasting Whidbey Island
whidbeyislandvintners.org
Outdoor Adventure
Fort Casey & Fort Ebey State Parks
(360) 678-4519 and (360) 678-4636. Military
installations protected the entrance to Puget
Sound. Admiralty Head Lighthouse, interpretive
center, hiking and biking trails, campgrounds.
parks.wa.gov (See Permit Info.)
Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens
Greenbank. 10-acres of mature rhodies
interplanted with thousands of daffodils
and flowering trees enveloped by 43 acres
of woodland preserve and 5 miles of nature

trails. Open year-round. (360) 678-1912.
meerkerkgardens.org
South Whidbey State Park. Old growth
forest surrounds secluded campsites with
picnic areas. Walk along forest trails or take the
high bluff trail through old growth trees to a
secluded sandy beach. parks.wa.gov
(See Permit Info.)
Whidbey Bird Watching. Well-known
birding spots include: Penn Cove, Crockett
Lake, Ala Spit, Joseph Whidbey State Park,
Grassers Lagoon and West Beach. Birding maps
available at local chambers.
Whale Watching & Wildlife Boat
Excursions. The Puget Sound is home to
nearly 100 resident Orca whales and visiting
California Gray whales during the summer.
Deception Pass Tours near the bridge
888-909-TOUR, deceptionpasstours.com
Whidbey Beach Combing
Double Bluff Park & Useless Bay: miles of
broad sandy beach, tidal pools, unusual bluff
erosions, sweeping views. Gray whales visit
here in spring.
Grassers Lagoon: Extensive tidelands, great
clamming and Penn Cove mussels.

70
Lodging
Coupeville Chamber, 905 NW Alexander

(360) 678-5434, coupevillechamber.com
Clinton Chamber, (360) 341-3929
9546 Hwy 525, discoverclintonwa.com
Greater Freeland Chamber (ad p. 70)
5575 Harbor Ave., Ste. 102
(360) 331-1980, www.freeland-wa.org
Greater Oak Harbor Visitor Center
(ad p. 68 & 72). 32630 SR 20, (360) 675-3755
oakharborchamber.com
Island Transit Whidbey Island
(800) 240-8747, (360) 678-7771
islandtransit.org
Langley Visitor Center, 208 Anthes Ave.
(360) 221-6765. visitlangley.com
Whidbey & Camano Islands Tourism
(ad p. 67) whidbeycamanoislands.com
Washington State Ferries
Whidbey & Fidalgo Island Routes.
Daily passenger and car ferry service.
www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries.
See More:
www.CascadeLoop.com
Anchorage Inn, Coupeville

(360) 678-5581. anchorage-inn.com
Best Western Plus Harbor Plaza
Oak Harbor. (360) 679-4567, (800) 927-5478
bestwestern.com/harborplaza
Blue Goose Inn, (360) 678-4284
bluegooseinn.com
Eagles Nest Inn, Langley. (800) 243-5536
(360) 221-5331. eaglesnestinn.com
Farmhouse B&B, Clinton
(888) 888-7022, (360) 321-6288
farmhousebb.com
Fort Casey Inn, Coupeville
(866) 661-6604, (360) 678-5050
fortcaseyinn.com
Garden Isle Guest Cottages, Coupeville
(360) 678-5641 gardenislecottages.com
Saratoga Inn, Langley
(866) 749-5565, (360) 221-5801
saratogainnwhidbeyisland.com
Whidbey Island B&B Association
whidbeyislandbandb.com
Ebeys Bluff Trail is part of Ebeys Landing National Historical

Reserve, and offers stunning views as well as interpretive and
recreational opportunities.
71
PHOTO BY MITCH RICHARDS
Visitor Info
72
2016 Calendar of Events

For a comprehensive list of events throughout the Cascade Loop,
visit our website: cascadeloop.com/events-festivals/
(Region noted in parenthesis)
April
1-30 .......Skagit Valley Tulip Festival (8)

2-3 .........Taste of Leavenworth (3)
2-3 .........Sedro-Woolley Wood Fest (8)
16-24 .....Lake Chelan Nouveau Wines
Release (weekends-5)
22-23 .....Leavenworth Ale Fest (3)
22-24 .....Evergreen State Spring Festival

(Monroe-1)
28-5/8 ....Washington State Apple Blossom
Festival (Wenatchee-4)
28-5/1 ....Holland Happening (Oak Harbor-9)
30-5/1....Everett Rock & Gem Show (1)
May
6-7 .........Classy Chassis Parade & Car Show

(EastWenatchee-4)
6-8 .........49er Days (Winthrop-6)
13-14 .....Manson Apple Blossom Festival (5)
13-15 .....Leavenworth Maifest (3)
14 ..........Penn Cove Water Festival

(Coupeville-9)
19-20 .....Leavenworth Bird Fest (3)
21-22 .....Lake Chelan Spring Barrel Tasting (5)
28-29 .....Twisp Art Walk (6)
28-29 .....Methow Valley Rodeo (Winthrop-6)
June
3-4 .........CruiZin Chelan Muscle Car Show (5)

4 ...........Leavenworth Spring Wine Walk (3)
4-5 .........Anacortes Waterfront Festival (8)
17-19 .....Berry Dairy Days (Burlington-8)
17-19 .....Wenatchee River Bluegrass Festival

(Cashmere-3)
18 ..........Whidbey Island Garden Tour (9)
18 ..........TriMonroe Triathlon (1)
24-25 .....Celebrate Cashmere Founders Day (3)
25..........Chelan Century Challenge Ride (5)
25-26 .....Mukilteo Car Show (1)
July
1-4 .........Loggerodeo (Sedro-Woolley-8)

4 ...........Variety of Independence Day

Celebrations around the Loop
4............Methow Arts Fest (Twisp-6)
8-10 .......Sultan Shindig (2)
7-16 .......Lake Chelan Bach Fest (5)
9 ...........Poochapalooza (Marysville-1)
9-10 .......Choochokam Festival of the Arts

(Langley-9)
9-10 .......Highland Games (Mt.Vernon-8)
9-17 .......Kla Ha Ya Days (Snohomish-1)
15-17 .....Apple Pie Jamboree (Pateros-6)
15-17 .....Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival (6)
16..........Anacortes Shipwreck Festival (8)
22-24 .....Gold Dust Days (Gold Bar-2)
PHOTO BY JENESSA SOMES
Coles Corner, Highway 2 in Fall
75
73
Driving Distances
Driving the Cascade Loop is a scenic experience. Give yourself plenty of time to stop
and explore. The Cascade mountain passes are well maintained and have no cumbersome
switchbacks or narrow roads. Enjoy driving this spectacular scenic highway!

Anacortes
15 Burlington
201 186 Chelan
48 35 155 Everett
53 57 177 22 Langley
148 135 55 100 122 Leavenworth

8 65 133 100 122 190 Newhalem
19 28 216 61 34 161 93 Oak Harbor

227 212 19 174 196 74 116 235 Pateros
76 63 166 27 36 118 128 62 202 Seattle
98 85 103 50 72 48 150 111 122 78 Skykomish
123 11 90 69 91 35 176 137 109 97 19 Stevens Pass
173 160 40 125 147 25 173 186 59 153 73 60 Wenatchee
152 137 61 172 194 116 72 165 44 200 164 151 101 Winthrop
74
2016 Calendar of Events

August
November
4-7.........Whidbey Island Area Fair (Langley-9)

5-7.........Anacortes Arts Festival (8)
6............Index Arts Festival (2)
6 ...........Classic Yacht & Auto Show

(LaConner-8)
10-13 .....Skagit County Fair & Rodeo

(Mt.Vernon-8)
13-14 .....Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival (9)
20 ..........Tour de Whidbey (Greenbank-9)
20 ..........Meerkerk Bluegrass Concert

(Greenbank-9)
20-21 .....Pateros Hydro Races (6)
20-21 .....Everett Dahlia Show (1)
25-9/5 ....Evergreen State Fair (Monroe-1)
27 ..........Methow Cutthroat Classic (6)
25-27 .....Christkindlmarkt (Leavenworth-3)

25-27 .....Fall Barrel Tasting (Chelan-5)
25-26 .....Christmas at the End of the Road

(Winthrop-6)
December
2-18........Leavenworth Christmas Lighting

Festival (weekends-3)
3 ...........Sultan Winterfest (2)
January 2017
13-22......Winterfest (weekends, Chelan/Manson-5)

14-15......Bavarian Ice Fest (Leavenworth-3)
February 2017
September
3-12 .......Red, Wine & Chocolate (Chelan-5)

18-19......Snowshoe Softball (Winthrop-6)
8-11 .......Chelan County Fair (Cashmere-4)

9-11 .......Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival (1)
10..........Shore to Shore Marathon (Chelan-5)
10..........Vintage Wheels Show (Winthrop-6)
10..........Leavenworth Fall Wine Walk (3)
10-11 Snohomish Pumpkin Hurl &

Medieval Faire (1)
15-17 .....Wenatchee River Salmon Festival

(Leavenworth-3)
17 ..........Downtown Harvest Festival

(Wenatchee-4)
23-25 .....Washington State Autumn Leaf
Festival (Leavenworth-3)
24..........Return of the Salmon Celebration

(Sultan-2)
25 ..........Anacortes Oyster Run (8)
29-10/1...Scare Crazy Festival (Cashmere-3)
29-10/1...Wings and Wheels Festival

(Wenatchee-4)
30-10-/15.Oktoberfest (weekends, Leavenworth-3)

March 2017
1-31 .......La Conner Daffodil Festival (8)

3-5.........Hot Air Balloon Roundup (Winthrop-6)
10-11......Penn Cove Mussel Fest (Coupeville-9)
October
1-31......Scare Crazy Festival (Cashmere-3)

8 .........Sky Valley Farm Festival (Sultan-2)
1-9.......Lake Chelan Crush (weekends-5)
29 ........Boneshaker Bicycle Festival

(LaConner-8)
75
75
Walla Walla Point Park
Roadtrippers
Checklist
Kick-start your vacation with the peace of mind
that comes from doing a little organizational
legwork before the trip.
Decide how many days you can
spend on your vacation
Most Cascade Loop travelers spend more than
4 days, but not to worry, you can see the Loop
in 2 days or 10--whatever works for your time
frame and budget.
Make reservations
We always recommend making reservations
for lodging and camping. To find great specials
when doing research, use cascadeloop.com
PHOTO BY SHIRLEY MONSON
Establish a flexible itinerary

We recommend traveling the Loop counterclockwise for the best views. Decide early on
your must-see stops, and how much time
youd like to spend there. Road trips are so
much more fun when you have ample time to
really get out and explore.
Reserve your transportation
If flying into Seatac Airport and renting a
vehicle, make your life easier and reserve your
vehicle in advance. The Port of Seattle has a
great set of instructions and a complete list of
vehicle rental companies on-site: portseattle.org
- OR Driving your own vehicle
Make sure its road-trip-ready (see right)
Driving an electric vehicle? Weve got you
covered - the entire Cascade Loop is EV ready.
Plot your course by taking into account where
you will charge your vehicle.
Be tech-ready
If planning to use GPS, spend time getting
familiar with your equipment and researching
your route before your trip so you arent
learning while driving. Pack charging cords for
all of your electronics--plan to charge in-vehicle
and while at your nightly accommodations.
Load up your smartphone with music,
audiobooks and podcasts to listen to while
driving.
Consider taking a GoPro
Video all your fun activities for live action
footage. Make sure all of your electronics have
ample space to store the THOUSANDS of
photos and videos you will take.
Make sure your vehicle is

Road Trip Ready
Start out with a fresh oil change, topped-off
fluids, tires aired-up properly and in good
condition, fresh wiper blades, and of course,
a full tank of gas. Place GPS and/or road
maps where they are easily accessible. Pack
a first-aid kit, flashlight with fresh batteries,
and if it is your vehicle, an extra key. Pack for
comfort and ease of travel.
Pack extra water and snacks for the trip.
A pair of binoculars will be instrumental
for viewing wildlife.
Bring a small cooler for picnicking or
bringing home perishable souvenirs.
Check the forecast before you leave; pack
appropriate clothing for the weather.
Make sure to choose clothing that is
comfortable both for driving and the
activities you plan.
No matter what time of year, always pack
for rainy weather (and an extra pair of
socks doesnt hurt either).
If youre planning to camp, pack
appropriately and dont forget the bug
spray, just in case.
See our list of

charging stations
on page 78.
Be ready for sticky fingers whether from

snacks, picnicking or sappy trees--wet
wipes are a must-bring item.
76
Winter
on the Loop
Interested in downhill skiing or
snowboarding? Take your pick from Stevens
Pass Ski Resort, Mission Ridge Ski &
Snowboard Resort, Echo Valley Ski
Area, and Loup Loup Ski Bowl, all easily
accessible from the highway.
Treat yourself to a truly memorable
experience - a festive sleigh ride or a guided
snowmobile tour in Plain, located just
minutes away from Bavarian Leavenworth.
Mountain Springs Lodge offers both.
Reservations are required.
The Cascade Loop also offers miles of
groomed nordic ski trails! Choose from
Plain Valley Nordic Ski Trails,
Echo Ridge Nordic Ski Trails and
Methow Trails!
Washingtons Sno-Park Permits allow you
to park at plowed lots accessible to
groomed and backcountry trails. Day
Permits are $20/day and Day Permits are
valid at any Sno-Park location, including
Special Groomed Trail locations, until
midnight of the purchase date, and can be
purchased online (see Permit Info).
IMPORTANT CLOSURE
INFORMATION
Because the North Cascades receive abundant

snowfall each year the North Cascades
Highway closes for the season in late Fall/early
Winter, reopening in Spring, depending on
the conditions. This means our Loop becomes
more of a crescent, and travelers should
schedule accordingly.
Learn why the pass closes by visiting
wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/northcascades
Winning submission in our 2014 Photo

Contest. Photo by Iron Tazz Skaggs, at
Colchuck Lake. in the Alpine Wilderness.
You can also find historic opening and closure

dates for years past.
77
Electric Vehicle Charge Stations

The Cascade Loop is fully electrified!
Region 1
Everett Community College

2000 Tower St, Everett
Evergreen State Fairgrounds
14405 179th Ave SE, Monroe
Fred Meyer
8530 Evergreen Way, Everett
Future of Flight
8415 Paine Field Blvd, Mukilteo
Harbor Pointe Shopping
11706 Mukilteo Speedway Mukilteo
Providence-Colby Campus
1800 14th St., Everett
Providence-Cancer Center
1717 13th St, Everett
Snohomish County Garage
1799 Pacific Ave
Walgreens:
11216 4th Ave W, Everett
13110 Bothell Everett Hwy
6807 Evergreen Way, Everett
Willis Tucker County Park
6705 Puget Park Dr, Snohomish
Region 4
Pybus Public Market

7 North Worthen Street, Wenatchee
Springhill Suites
1730 N. Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee
Wenatchee Convention Center
121 N. Wenatchee Ave., Wenatchee
Wenatchee Valley College
1300 Fifth St Wenatchee
Region 5
Campbells Resort
104 West Woodin Ave, Chelan
City of Chelan
137 East Johnson Ave, Chelan
Lakeshore RV Park
Nixon Ave. & Manson Hwy., Chelan
Mellisoni Vinyards
3155 97A, Chelan
Region 6
59er Diner-Coles Corner

15361 U.S. 2 Leavenworth
Gold Bar-600 Orchard Ave.
Sky Deli & Liquor
148 N 5th Street, Skykomish
Sky Valley Chamber of
Commerce and Visitors Center
320 Main St., Sultan
Stevens Pass Resort
Hwy 2, Milepost 65
Howards on the River

233 Lakeshore Drive, Pateros
Mazama Country Inn
15 Country Rd, Mazama
Pine Near RV Park
316 Castle Avenue Winthrop
Riverbend RV Park
9961 Highway 20, Twisp WA
Sun Mountain Lodge
604 Patterson Lake Rd., Winthrop
Twisp River Pub
201 Washington 20, Twisp
Winthrop KOA
1114 State Route 20, Winthrop
Region 3
Region 7
Region 2
Icicle Village Resort

505 Highway 2, Leavenworth
Leavenworth City Hall
700 US Highway 2, Leavenworth
Mountain Springs Lodge
19115 Chiwawa Loop Rd,
Leavenworth
Sleeping Lady Mtn Resort
7375 Icicle Road, Leavenworth
Howard Miller
Steelhead Park 5110
Railroad Ave, Rockport
Coming Spring 2016:
Newhalem public
charging station
Skagit General Store
500 Newhalem St,
Rockport
78
Region 8
Burlington Supercharger
9386 Old Highway 99 North Road,
Burlington
IBEW Local 191
306 Anderson Rd, Mt Vernon
Island Hospital:
1211 24th Street , Anacortes
1203 26th Street, Anacortes
The Outlet Shoppes
448 Fashion Way, Burlington
Padilla Bay Reserve
10441 Bayview-Edison Road,
Mount Vernon
Skagit County Public Works
Administration Building
1800 Continental Place, Mt Vernon
Walgreens 909 17th St. Anacortes
Region 9
China City Restaurant:

33185 Washington 20, Oak Harbor
1804 Scott Rd, Freeland
Deception Pass State Park
Whidbey Island
Oak Harbor Dock #2
1270 SE Dock Street, Oak Harbor
South Whidbey Animal Clinic
11197 WA-525, Clinton
Whidbey Telecom
1651 E Main St, Freeland
More stations are being
installed - for the most
current information, visit
www.Cascadeloop.com
79
Region 1 - Snohomish River Valley

Everett, Mukilteo, Snohomish, Monroe
From the waters of Puget Sound, through fertile farm valleys, to the foothills of the
Cascades, where vibrant cities and towns serve as gateways to the Cascade Loop
Region 2 - Stevens Pass Greenway
Sultan, Startup, Gold Bar, Index, Skykomish
Lush forests and thundering waterfalls line the scenic byway up and over Stevens
Pass, traversing through charming historic towns that offer friendly hospitality
and remnants of the past on the drive across the Cascades
Region 3 - Leavenworth/Cascade Foothills
Leavenworth, LakeWenatchee, Plain, Peshastin, Cashmere
A Bavarian village and classic all-American small towns nestled together in
the foothills of the eastern slope offer a diversity of recreational and cultural
experiences
Region 4 - Wenatchee/Columbia River Valley
Wenatchee, EastWenatchee, Entiat
Orchards, vineyards, and farmlands roll across the landscape and along the shores
of the Great Columbia River, with bustling towns that are commercial hubs of
Washingtons important fruit industry
Region 5 - Lake Chelan Valley
A pristine, glacier-fed lake slices deeply into the heart of the Cascade Mountains
in a setting that offers abundant scenic beauty and recreational opportunities
Region 6 - Methow Valley
Pateros, Carlton,Twisp,Winthrop, Mazama
From the confluence of the Columbia to the crest of the Cascades, with miles of
open range, endless star-filled skies, natural recreation, and a frontier atmosphere
of the Old West, year-round experiences can be enjoyed
Region 7 - North Cascades
Diablo, Newhalem, Marblemount, Rockport, Concrete
Dramatic mountain peaks and spectacular scenery across National Forest and
park land this is the Cascades at their bestwith lakes, rivers, creeks, abundant
hiking trails, and travelers rests along the way
Region 8 - Skagit Valley & Fidalgo Island
Anacortes, Sedro-Woolley, Burlington, MountVernon, La Conner
A proud agricultural heritage, American bald eagles, and colorful carpets of
tulips across the lowland plains to Puget Sound, many experiences await travelers
as they descend from the Cascades
Region 9 - Whidbey Scenic Isle Way
Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, Clinton
Saltwater beaches and historic towns connected to the mainland by bridge and
ferry, offering spectacular scenic views of farmlands, forests, and snow capped
peaks of the Olympics and Cascades
For more information about all regions, lodging, activities,

hikes, videos and more, visit www.Cascadeloop.com
If You are Planning to Hike, Camp or

Access Forest Lands or Parks ...
...chances are youll need a pass of some kind. To determine which pass(es) you
need, youll need to consider which agency manages the land where you want to hike,
whether its managed by the federal government or the State of Washington.
Federal recreation sites include: national
forests, national parks, national wildlife
refuges, national historic sites, Bureau
of Land Management lands, and places
managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.
An Interagency Pass gets named
passholders into all of these sites. A
Northwest Forest Recreation Pass
allows trailhead parking on national
forests only for $5/car for one day (or a
$30 annual pass). The pass is available at
national forest offices and visitor centers,
ranger districts, via private vendors, or
online at www.fs.usda.gov/main/r6/
passes-permits/recreation
2016 Forest Service Fee Free Days

On these days, standard amenity fees at
federally operated sites will be waived.
Participation for concession operated sites
may vary. The Forest Service is waiving
standard amenity recreation fees at sites
nationwide to celebrate:
June 11 National Get Outdoors Day
September 24 National Public Lands Day
November 11 Veterans Day
For 2017 Fee Free Dates check
www.fs.fed.us/passespermits
The Discover Pass is required

State Parks Discover Pass Free Days
to park at Washington State Parks,
Washington State Parks offers several free
Department of Natural Resources
days when a Discover Pass is not required to
lands and Department of Fish and
visit a state park. Dates in 2016 are:
Wildlife trailheads. For one day use
April 22 - Earth Day
only, purchase your Discover Pass Day
May 8 - Sunday Spring Day
Pass for $10/car. For a full years worth
June 4 - National Trails Day
of use, purchase the Annual Discover
June 11 - National Get Outdoors Day
Pass for $30. Purchase your pass online
Aug. 25 - National Park Service Birthday
or in person from any of nearly 600
Sept. 24 - National Public Lands Day
recreational license vendors where state
fishing and hunting licenses are sold.
Nov. 11 - Veterans Day
Order your Discover Pass online and check 2017 Free Days at discoverpass.wa.gov
Washingtons Sno-Park Permits allow you to park at plowed lots accessible to groomed and
backcountry trails. Day Permits are $20/day and are valid at any Sno-Park location, including
Special Groomed Trail locations, until midnight of the purchase date, and can be purchased
online at: https://fortress.wa.gov/parks/ecomm/prod/Store/SNO/SnoChoice.aspx
North Cascades
National Park &
Visitor Info
Mountainous region featuring over 300 glaciers
is represented by three park units North
Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National
Recreation Area and Lake Chelan National
Recreation Area managed collectively as one
park complex. The Park Complex Headquarters
is open seasonally. Check website for hours.
810 S.R. 20, Sedro-Woolley.
(360) 854-7200 nps. gov/noca
Campground reservations: recreation.gov
Golden West National Park Visitor
Center, Stehekin, (509) 699-2080 x14
National Park Wilderness Info Center,
Marblemount, (360) 854-7245. MP 105,
Ranger Station Rd. May-Oct, Backcountry
Permits, NW Forest Passes, camping info.
North Cascades National Park Visitor
Center, Milepost 120, Newhalem. Interpretive
exhibits include natural, historical theater and
geological displays, relief map, ranger talks
and several short and long interpretive trails.
Restroom, picnic area. Daily May-Oct.
(206) 386-4495 x11, nps.gov/noca
Wilderness Info. Center, Marblemount
May-Oct. Back country Info. & Permits.
(360) 854-7245
Visitor Resources
ADA Accessible Recreation Sites
parks.state.wa.us/156/ADA-Recreation
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance
evergreenmtb.org
Fall Foliage, 1-800-354-4595,
chiff.com/travel/washington-foliage.htm
Visit Seattle, (866) 732-2695, visitseattle.org
Washington State Bicycling Hot Line
(360) 705-7277
Washington State Boat Launch Info.
www.rco.wa.gov/maps, www.boat.wa.gov
Washington State Dept. of Natural
Resources, www.dnr.wa.gov
Washington State Dept. of Fish &
Wildlife (360) 902-2200, wdfw.wa.gov
Washington State Ferries, (888) 808-7977
wsdot.wa.gov/ferries
Washington State Outfitters & Guides
Assoc. (509) 997-1080, woga.org
Washington State Parks, (360) 902-8844
parks.state.wa.us. For Reservations
(888) CAMP OUT (226-7688)
Washington State Tourism
experiencewa.com
Washington Trails Association
(206) 625-1367, wta.org
The Wilderness Society, Pacific N.W.
(206) 624-6430, wilderness.org
Ranger Districts
Skykomish Ranger Station
74920 NE Hwy 20, Skykomish
(360) 677-2414
Wenatchee River Ranger District
600 Sherbourne, Leavenworth
(509) 548-2550 or (509) 548-2551
Okanogan-Wenatchee Natl. Forest
215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee
(509) 664-9200
Entiat Ranger District
2108 Entiat Way, Entiat
(509) 784-4700
Chelan Ranger District

428 W. Woodin Avenue, Chelan
(509) 682-4900
Methow Valley Ranger District
24 West Chewuch Road, Winthrop
(509) 996-4003
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Natl. Forest
810 S.R. 20, Sedro-Woolley
(360) 856-5700 x515
North Cascades National Park Info
Voortex Productions filming at Harts Pass.

View the Cascade Loop video on cascadeloop.com

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2

Snohomish River Valley 4

Stevens Pass Greenway 12

Wenatchee/Columbia River Valley 24

The Cascade Loop Travel Guide is produced

Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Entiat

Lake Chelan Valley 31

Skagit Valley & Fidalgo Island 57

Cascade Loop Association

Anacortes, Sedro-Woolley, Burlington,

Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way 65

2016 Cascade Loop Association - All Rights Reserved

Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, Clinton

Festivals and Events 73/75

Cover Photo - Andy Porter

Lake Ann, visible from the Heather Maple Pass Loop

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

Diablo Lake Overlook, North Cascades National Park

PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM

Marine views are abundant off Snohomish County shores

Kick off your vacation in the expansive

PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM

museums, the Imagine Childrens Museum,

PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM

Snohomish is known as the Antique Capital of

Heritage & History

Birding in North View & South View

Blackman House Museum, Snohomish.

See more at cascadeloop.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM

Pack a picnic and take in the view!

PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM

Food & Drink

Find more info about

PHOTO BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY TOURISM

Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber

Washington State Ferries

PHOTO BY MARK KLEIN

View of Mount Index from

Sultan, Startup, Gold Bar,

PHOTO BY ANNETTE PITTS

Follow the Skykomish River as it ascends the

Prefer to catch stunning views from your

Barclay Creek Trail, Milepost 41. North on

Heritage & History

Numerous tribes lived in this region: the

Hiking Info & Forest Passes:

PHOTO BY MARTIN WAYNE

Fall Colors on the wild Skykomish River

Skykomish Chamber, (360) 677-2030

Pickett Interpretive Museum, Index.

Food & Drink

PHOTO BY LEAVENWORTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A little bit of Bavaria on the Cascade Loop

Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee,

Hikes & Sites

PHOTO BY BRAD STEDENFELD

Wind your way into Bavarian Leavenworth

the worlds largest nutcracker collections at

and hugely-popular festivals such as Maifest,

The arts also have a role to play here. Live

PHOTO BY LEAVENWORTH CHAMBER

Heritage & History