North Cascades Scenic Highway
State: Washington
National Forest: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Okanagon National Forest, Wenatchee National Forest
Length: 140.0 mi / 225.3 km
Time to Allow: 3 hours
The eastern edge of the North Cascades Highway begins in the remote high desert of the Methow Valley and rises gently as it approaches Washington Pass and the snow-capped peaks of the North Cascade Mountains.
Stories
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North Cascades Scenic Highway Overview
Dec 13, 2004
Approaching the Cascade Mountains via the Methow Valley, visitors will cross up and over the scenic Washington Pass and Rainy Pass. To the north and south are the two sections of North Cascades National Park. The road drops down into the thick woods of the Skagit Valley and comes out onto the coastal flats in Burlington. Visitors who travel the byway in the fall will see the roadside in beautiful combination of reds, oranges, and vibrant golds.
Local Information
Methow Valley Ranger District
509-996-4003
- Experience Washington:
- Find travel information including an extensive section about Washington byways at this tourism website.
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest:
- This page contains lots of valuable links to all sorts of information about the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
- Okanogon National Forest:
- The official website for the Okanogon National Forest
- Wenatchee National Forest:
- Visit the official site for the Wenatchee National Forest for more information.
Forest Message
Be weather wise. Many byways in National Forests can climb in elevation over thousands of feet, and pass through remote areas. While the scenery is spectacular, it is important when driving in these conditions to be prepared. Check weather forecasts before leaving home, and remember that it becomes cooler and often more prone to storms at higher elevations. Be prepared with jackets, water, and emergency kit in your car.
