Cascade Loop Scenic Byway

experience mountains, lakes, and Washington’s largest island

Length

440 Miles | 708 KM

Drive Time

9 Hours

Recommended Stay

5 Days

Regions

Metro Puget Sound, North Central, Northwest

explore the cascade loop Scenic Byway

Multiple highways, including US 2 and SR 20, link Puget Sound, the North Cascades, North Central Washington, and Whidbey Island

Designated as a national scenic byway in 2021, the Cascade Loop includes some of the state’s most scenic landscapes. Journey across the Cascade Mountains, passing through communities like Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Chelan, and the Methow Valley before returning west through the Skagit Valley and continuing on to Whidbey Island. Along the way, enjoy hiking trails, wine tasting, water recreation, scenic farmland, and island views.

The Cascade Loop includes three other scenic byways, each with its own charm: Stevens Pass Greenway, North Cascades Scenic Highway, and the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way.

Time Your Trip: A stretch of Highway 20 across the North Cascades closes annually due to snowfall and avalanche risk. The Washington State Department of Transportation typically closes the highway between mileposts 134 and 171 from late November until late April or early May. During winter, travelers can still enjoy other portions of the Cascade Loop, including Whidbey Island, the Skagit Valley, Methow Valley, Leavenworth, and the Stevens Pass Greenway. However, completing the full loop is only possible from mid-spring through late fall.

Two men bike on a gravel path along the Skagit River with mountain foothills in the background.

A group of three people splash in a river in the Methow Valley with a bridge in the background

Field of daffodils in the Skagit Valley with a farm in the background

A flock of snow geese take flight from a field in Skagit Valley — Snow geese come in for a landing in a tilled corn field near Blanchard in October 2021.

discover destinations

To help with trip planning, the Cascade Loop is divided into nine regions. Explore highlights for each region below.

Snohomish River Valley
Beginning near the shores of Puget Sound, the Snohomish River Valley blends waterfront cities with rural scenery in Monroe and Snohomish. The western gateway to the Cascade Loop, Everett and Mukilteo offer waterfront parks and aviation history.

Stevens Pass Greenway
Following U.S. 2 east and a scenic byway on its own, this region passes through communities such as Sultan, Gold Bar, Index, and Skykomish before climbing toward Stevens Pass. Travelers will find ample hiking and popular stops like Wallace Falls State Park. In the winter, Stevens Pass is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding. Explore the region.

Leavenworth and Cascade Foothills
This stretch of the loop centers on Leavenworth, Cashmere, and Peshastin east of the Cascades. The Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth draws visitors with its seasonal festivals and mountain scenery. Nearby, Cashmere offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural roots, while Peshastin provides a quieter setting with scenic river views and access to hiking and climbing.

Wenatchee and Columbia River Valley
Anchored by Wenatchee and East Wenatchee, this region combines orchards, riverfront recreation, and sunny Central Washington scenery. Visitors can explore parks and trails along the Columbia River and enjoy easy access to local wineries and recreation areas.

Lake Chelan
Home to Washington’s deepest lake, this region includes Chelan, Manson, and the remote village of Stehekin. One of Washington’s wine tasting regions, Chelan is known for boating, beaches, and vineyards. On the north end of the lake, Stehekin offers a quiet gateway to the North Cascades, reachable only by boat, floatplane, or trail.

Methow Valley
Stretching through communities like Pateros, Twisp, Winthrop, and Mazama, the Methow Valley offers four-season fun. Winthrop is a favorite stop for its Western-inspired downtown, while the surrounding valley offers year-round recreation, including hiking, biking, and Nordic skiing at the largest cross-country ski network in North America.

North Cascades
One of the most dramatic portions of the Cascade Loop, this region follows Highway 20 through rugged mountain terrain. Communities such as Concrete and Marblemount serve as gateways to alpine lakes and iconic stops like Diablo Lake and Washington Pass Overlook.

Skagit Valley and Fidalgo Island
This region links the agricultural heart of the Skagit Valley with nearby coastal communities. Travelers can explore Mount Vernon, Burlington, Sedro-Woolley, La Conner, and Anacortes, enjoying everything from seasonal tulip displays to waterfront parks.

Whidbey Scenic Isle Way
Forming the island portion of the Cascade Loop, this region follows Whidbey Island through communities such as Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Greenbank, Langley, and Clinton. Highlights include Deception Pass State Park, Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, quiet beaches, and historic waterfronts.