North Cascades Scenic Highway

discover mountain peaks and glacial lakes

Length

140 Miles | 225 KM

Drive Time

3 Hours

Recommended Stay

3 Days

Regions

North Central, Northwest

explore the North Cascades Scenic Highway

State Route 20 between Sedro-Woolley and the Methow Valley

Part of the larger Cascade Loop, this byway connects Sedro-Woolley in the west to the Methow Valley in the east. From spring through fall, visitors can travel across the rugged North Cascades and enjoy outdoor recreation in the North Cascades National Park Complex. Stop at scenic overlooks, discover trailheads leading to alpine lakes, and soak in the pristine landscape. Charming small towns dot both ends of the byway, providing the perfect base before and after your journey.

Time Your Trip: This byway closes each winter 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.

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

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

Three people walk past wall with sketches of mountains in Winthrop in the Methow Valley

discover destinations

Burlington
Located in the heart of the Skagit Valley, Burlington is a convenient hub for exploring Northwest Washington. Browse kid-friendly museums and explore riverfront parks before making your way east along the byway.

Sedro-Woolley
Visit Sedro-Woolley’s charming downtown, home to shops, local eateries, and wooden carvings that nod to the town’s roots in the timber industry. Time your visit for the Fourth of July weekend to attend the annual Loggerodeo.

Concrete
The tiny town of Concrete sits at the confluence of the Baker and Skagit rivers. Stroll its quaint streets and enjoy water activities, or visit the towering cement silos, which appear in the film This Boy’s Life.

Newhalem
The last town on the western side of the byway, Newhalem is located near campgrounds, hiking trails, and the Gorge Powerhouse. Stop by the North Cascades Visitor Center to talk with rangers and find detailed information about the area.

North Cascades National Park Complex
This quieter national park is home to towering mountain peaks and around 300 glaciers. Stop by iconic overlooks at Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and Washington Pass. Diablo Lake is known for its vivid turquoise water, while the Washington Pass Overlook boasts a paved trail leading to sweeping views of Liberty Bell Mountain’s jagged peaks.

Mazama
Located in the Methow Valley in the eastern foothills of the North Cascades, Mazama is surrounded by stunning scenery. While it’s one of the smaller towns in the valley, you’ll find lodging options and easy access to outdoor recreation.

Winthrop
Winthrop charms visitors with its Western-themed streets and rolling hills. Soak up the Wild West feels with a stroll downtown. Get adventurous with nearby hiking, biking, and river floating or rafting. In winter, the Methow Valley transforms into North America’s largest cross-country ski area.

Twisp
A vibrant creative hub, Twisp is home to cute cafes and boutiques. Explore outdoor sculptures and local art, learn about the area at the Methow Valley Interpretive Center, and visit the riverfront park and trails.