Stevens Pass Greenway

State: Washington
Length: 89.2 miles / 143.6 km
Time to Allow: 2 hours and 30 minutes, but allow 6 to 8 hours for all activities.

The Stevens Pass Greenway Byway follows route 2 for 89 miles north of Seattle. Expect epic vies as the byway starts out by the water near Whidbey Island before heading southeast through the Mount Bakers Snoqualmie National Forest and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The byway follows the Skykomish River through the pastoral Puget Sound and over the peaks of the Cascade Mountains. Find peace and tranquility deep in the mountains with tiny hamlets ready to provide an adventure.

Route 2 starts out in Snohomish with a historic downtown and the Centennial Trail. Visit some farms and antique malls or stop for a meal at Andy’s Fish House for a nice seafood meal. Nearby are a circuit of rivers, including the Skykomish, Snohomish, and the Sultan River, with several lakes nearby too. Nearby in the town of Monroe, find the Evergreen State Park along with a speedway, horse park, and a unique reptile zoo.

From there, head to Wallace Falls State Park for a night of camping near waterfalls and beautiful tree-laden walking bridges. Find trails for every level, nine waterfalls, mountain biking paths, fishing, swimming, and more, making this a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Add skiing to your trip at the Stevens Pass Ski and Mountain Biking Area on the crest of the Cascade range. With an abundance of snowfall perfect for snow sports.

The town of Leavenworth offers some Bavarian culture and architecture with rugged landscapes in the distance. With tons of Tudor revival architecture and annual festivals, feel like you are in Germany without a passport. Make sure to visit the Reindeer Farm or go on a sleigh ride in this magical town. Then visit the Icicle Gorge and the water at Lake Wenatchee State Park or Waterfront Park. In the summer, visit the outdoor theater for a play. Don’t forget to book a stay at the Bavarian Lodge for some charm and wonder.

Next on the docket is another incredible state park Calle the Peshastin Pinnacles, with orchards and golden hills. Giant sandstone slabs pepper the landscape with mountains in the distance. From there, head to the Ohme Gardens for a mile of pathways and stairways made from native stone wind on this alpine oasis. Additionally, the Gardens offer a reflecting pool, waterfalls, and even a wishing well, making this a necessary stop for those who love whimsy.

The trail leaves off in the town of Cashmere at the Chelan County Museum by Icicle Creek and the Columbia River. Enjoy some unique local beverages like hard cider in town and visit a 9/11 memorial. Nearby sits the town of Wenatchee at the confluence of the two rivers, and it’s that apple capital of the world with many orchards and several other attractions. Stay at the Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort to end the trip with a little more outdoor activity. The options are endless on this trail as we only hit the highlights and left so much more for you to explore for a true adventure.

More Washington Byways

You can check out additional Byways in Washington by clicking on the list of byways below, or by going to the Washington Byways home section. To find even more of scenic byways in the United States, visit our scenic byways map.