Mountains to Sound Greenway

explore nature and culture on I-90

Length

100 Miles | 160 KM

Drive Time

2 Hours

Recommended Stay

2 Days

Regions

Metro Puget Sound, North Central

explore the mountains to sound greenway

Interstate 90 between Seattle and Ellensburg

Stretching along the Interstate 90 corridor, the Mountains to Sound Greenway connects the urban core of Seattle with the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains. Designated as a national scenic byway in 1998, the route travels from Puget Sound through the forested Cascade Mountains and over Snoqualmie Pass before officially ending in Thorp. Passing through the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area, which includes nearby Ellensburg and encompasses 1.5 million acres around Interstate 90, visitors will find historic towns, outdoor recreation, and cultural discovery.

Time Your Trip: The Mountains to Sound Greenway follows Interstate 90, one of Washington’s primary cross-state routes, and is generally accessible year-round. During the winter, Snoqualmie Pass can sometimes close due to heavy snowfall, so it’s best to check pass conditions if traveling during that time. Time your trip for autumn for a gorgeous display of fall foliage.

A couple bikes along a paved bath under a bridge in Seattle

Aerial view of Bellevue and the lake — Courtesy of Visit Bellevue

Bellevue Botanical Gardens — Courtesy of Visit Bellevue

Photo Credit: Downtown Issaquah Association

discover destinations

Seattle
Washington’s largest city boasts a rich cultural scene, lakes and waterfront, museums, diverse dining options, and access to outdoor trails and parks. Spend a few days exploring iconic sights like the Space Needle and hidden gems scattered throughout the city’s many neighborhoods. Explore Seattle Southside, discover the city’s thriving coffee scene, eat your way through the Chinatown-International Disctrict, and more before heading out on your scenic byway road trip.

Bellevue
Just east of Seattle across Lake Washington, Bellevue is known for its high-end shopping, stellar dining, and lakefront trails and parkland.

Issaquah
Just off I-90, Issaquah is known for its historic downtown, charming shops, salmon hatchery, and gateway to the Issaquah Alps and forested hillsides. Families will find plenty to do, from visiting a massive troll sculpture to paragliding.

Snoqulamie and North Bend
These classic mountain foothill communities offer easy access to outdoor recreation areas. North Bend’s downtown is a scenic stop before climbing toward the mountains.

Snoqualmie Pass
This year-round recreation hub provides access to hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, mountain biking trails, and snow sports. In winter, The Summit at Snoqualmie is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Easton
Small community near Keechelus Lake and Lake Easton State Park, popular for water recreation and trail access on the eastern Cascades.

Cle Elum
Historic railroad and logging town that now blends outdoor recreation with restaurants and local lodging, serving as a gateway for year-round outdoor recreation. In the winter, base yourself nearby for the perfect winter weekend in the Cascades.

Roslyn
Explore a preserved historic core, mining heritage, and easy access to trails and quiet mountain life. The small town famously stood in for the fictional Cicely, Alaska, in the hit TV series Northern Exposure and is the perfect stop for film lovers.

Thorp
This tiny community serves as the gateway between the Cascades and the farmland of the Upper Yakima Basin. Make a roadside stop at the Thorp Fruit & Antique Mall or the historic Thorp Mill before continuing to Ellensburg.

Ellensburg
The eastern terminus of the Greenway National Heritage Area, Ellensburg is home to Central Washington University and the annual Ellensburg Rodeo. Dive into art, culture, rodeo culture, and more as you explore the walkable downtown.