Here in Winthrop Washington we take outdoor recreation seriously – in a fun way. If you’re making a New Year’s Resolution, why not set a goal to complete a race… Read More >>>>
The Cascade Loop Scenic Byway spans the east and west sides of Washington State's Cascade Mountain Range, and photo opportunities along the route are varied and spectacular, covering all interests… Read More >>>>
Geocaching is kinda like a family-friendly treasure hunt! There are a variety of types of Geocaches from large containers like ammo cans or plastic containers (snap-lock-type) to small magnets stuck… Read More >>>>
If you're looking for something a bit thrilling this fall as Halloween approaches, we're happy to introduce you to a few spooky places in the area. Washington is home to… Read More >>>>
Do you enjoy the great outdoors, sleeping under the stars, and huddling around a campfire at night with your loved ones while roasting marshmallows over a hot flame?
If you said… Read More >>>>
These days you can’t think about the State of Washington without envisioning the iconic Space Needle towering over the Seattle skyline. It was built for the 1962 World’s Fair, for… Read More >>>>
The best times of year to spot deer is fall through spring, when they tend to forage in orchards and yards (they are fond of black sunflowers from bird feeders).… Read More >>>>
Since time immemorial, Coast Salish and Columbia Plateau tribes and bands have lived throughout the regions that the Cascade Loop now connects. For thousands of years and up until a… Read More >>>>
Sometimes seen as country bumpkins next to Washington’s sophisticated wines, hard ciders are quietly making themselves at home in the heart of Washington State. Read More >>>>
The most common owl found on the North American continent is the great horned owl -- and they are what most people imagine when they think of owls in storybooks.… Read More >>>>
Being the first weekend in March in Wenatchee, it was chilly, but the birding was great! My husband loves to spend time by a campfire so we stocked up on… Read More >>>>
Outdoor recreation is the number one reason that so many adventurous folks choose to live in Whatcom County. Situated between the Salish Sea and the North Cascades, Whatcom is a… Read More >>>>
It was in December of 1900 when the longest railroad tunnel in the US was opened for train travel over Steven’s Pass. Nine years later the tunnel was electrified! Read More >>>>
On December 14, 1872, at almost 10pm, folks across the region were awakened by a massive earthquake. Contemporary accounts describe the earth rolling from North to South, no jolting bumps,… Read More >>>>
We’ve known Michelle and Steven for a few years and know that one of the things that they really enjoy together, like many Cascade Loop travelers, is our state’s amazing… Read More >>>>
With a scenic byway that’s as large in scale as the Cascade Loop, naturally the landscape, views and activities vary wildly from region to region. Each area delivers its own… Read More >>>>
As you are driving along the waterways of the Cascade Loop, be on the lookout for the majestic Great Blue Heron. They are regularly spotted wading in shallow water, patiently… Read More >>>>
The thing that folks love most about the Cascade Loop is its diversity of views throughout the byway, and fall colors are no exception. The colors are wild and vibrant… Read More >>>>
Two air-horn blasts, loud enough to be heard in every corner of camp brings a scurry of activity at North Cascades Smokejumper Base. The men and women stationed here have… Read More >>>>
Symbolized as the National bird of the United States in 1782, Bald Eagles are unique to North America and they can be found in abundance in many areas of the… Read More >>>>
March 1, 2020 marks the 110th Anniversary of the most deadly avalanche in US History. Late in February, two Great Northern trains bound for Seattle, the Spokane Local No. 25,… Read More >>>>
One of the most prevalent birds to be found year round on the Cascade Loop are the California Quail. These birds are Identified by a topknot, a protruding group of… Read More >>>>
The Gray Partridge (Perdix perdix) is also known as the Hungarian Partridge, or around these parts, especially for game bird hunters, simply "Huns." Like many of our other "game birds,"… Read More >>>>
If you're visiting Winthrop Washington, taking in the western boardwalks and relaxed atmosphere, you might as well stop to enjoy some local wine along the way. There are many great… Read More >>>>
For over 100 years boats have been transporting goods and passengers to points along Lake Chelan where there are no roads. The original "Lady of the Lake" was built at… Read More >>>>
It's that time of year when we are starting to see fewer birds. The long-distance migratory birds like our warblers are long gone, and many species who just head a… Read More >>>>
If you’re into mountain biking, we have some exciting news for you from Winthrop Washington! Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance | Methow Chapter has reaped the rewards of a ten-year permitting… Read More >>>>
"The Varied Thrush is a gorgeous bird with a simple single note for a song. It is closely related to the American Robin and other thrushes who are considered amazing… Read More >>>>
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of gliding across glistening ice on a pair of skates. Add a stunning outdoor setting, complete with towering mountains and bald eagles soaring overhead,… Read More >>>>
These woodpeckers are not especially abundant - in fact they are currently candidates for listing on the WA state endangered species list and they are a species-of-concern for Audubon Washington… Read More >>>>
Right in the heart of the town of Winthrop, a piece of land has been donated and dedicated to locals and visitors alike. Homestream Park is beautiful park is full… Read More >>>>
Okanogan County is fortunate to be one of the few places in Washington where one can regularly see - and hear- Sandhill Cranes each spring and fall as they migrate.… Read More >>>>
On October 5th in 1931, Pangborn, an aerial acrobat and barnstormer along with his co-pilot, successfully completed the first non-stop flight eastbound across the Pacific Ocean in their red Bellanca… Read More >>>>
The elk rut begins around the time of the autumnal equinox in mid-September, and lasts a month. During this time, male elk, called bulls, will challenge each other for the… Read More >>>>
"Grouse hunting season opened Sept 1 in Washington, and while I'm not a hunter I do think about Dusky Grouse a fair bit this time of year as the weather… Read More >>>>
"Osprey are some of the largest and most common birds of prey in our region. We see them regularly along all our big rivers and other large bodies of water,… Read More >>>>
The 2019 theme of the Chelan County Fair is “From Pioneer Days to Modern Ways” and features some great new entertainment and vendors. The fair begins on Thursday, September 5th… Read More >>>>
Many of us see these big, colorful, and raucous finches in winter at our seed feeders, but because the Methow and Okanogan valleys and the surrounding mountains have high elevation… Read More >>>>
Spotted Sandpipers are "shorebirds" that are common just about all over Washington. Here in Okanogan County, we see (and hear!) them along rivers and streams though they could also be… Read More >>>>
It’s a bird .. it’s a plane … what exactly is that in the sky?
As you travel around the Cascade Loop you will likely see a variety of wildlife, including… Read More >>>>
A bit of European history has found its way onto Whidbey Island. And, if the woman responsible for bringing them here has her way, you’ll soon be able to see… Read More >>>>
Written by Candice ReedAs multicolored peonies, chrysanthemums and willows bloom across the night sky this 4th of July, you might wonder what goes into a firework display from the unseen… Read More >>>>
With a cinnamon body and bright blue bill, the male Ruddy Duck is one of our most noticeable and memorable ducks. But look closer and longer and you'll notice that… Read More >>>>
The House Wren, a common, native bird all over the United States, is a small bird with a big voice that readily inhabits natural tree cavities and anything it can… Read More >>>>
There are few animals in the wild as thrilling to see as a whale. Here in Washington state, we are fortunate enough to be on the migration route for several… Read More >>>>
Sapsuckers are woodpeckers but instead of pecking into and excavating wood in search of insects, they drill small holes in trees in order to make the tree's sap run. Read More >>>>
I wish I could remember the first time I had mole. Even though the specific moment doesn’t stand out, I do know that I never looked at Mexican food the… Read More >>>>
This article was written by local photographer Mukul Soman. Take a look at these amazing photographs and enjoy some tips from a pro! The Skagit Valley has been one of my… Read More >>>>
Spring is a time of great change in the Pacific Northwest. The warmer weather and abundant daylight signals species from insects to plants and animals to emerge from Winter dormancy… Read More >>>>
The Environmental Learning Center is coming alive with young leaves and new growth. Brightly colored flowers add vibrancy to the already spectacular landscape of snow capped mountains and turquoise Diablo… Read More >>>>
The Rufous Hummingbird is one of three hummingbirds that breed in Okanogan County. The other two are the Calliope and the Black-Chinned (occasional reports of Anna's come up but they… Read More >>>>
The hike from the Skagit Valley up and over Cascade Pass and down along the river to the remote village of Stehekin, on the northern shore of Lake Chelan is… Read More >>>>
Spring brings a bevy of babies, and we can’t get enough of the avian species found here in every corner of the Cascade Loop. There are many lakes, rivers, creeks… Read More >>>>
The Western Tanager is one of our most common forest birds in Eastern Washington, and with a yellow body and red head (on the male) you'd think they'd be easy… Read More >>>>
There are six swallow species in our area, and they are all incredible multi-tasking flyers who can communicate, catch insects and deftly swerve around each other all while flying. Read More >>>>
The Sinlahekin Wildlife Area is located within the Sinlahekin Valley. It offers a variety of fishing and recreational opportunities thanks to natural lakes, ponds, and man-made impoundments. Read More >>>>
"While the Ring-Necked Duck can be found fairly easily year-round in Okanogan County, I love watching them in the spring when they begin to congregate in large groups and pair… Read More >>>>
Washington Pass is one of the most scenic spots along the entire Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. Washington Pass is the highest point along the North Cascades Highway, at an elevation… Read More >>>>
Western Meadowlarks are some of the first birds to come back to the Methow in early spring, and they aren't shy about announcing their arrival. Read More >>>>
The start of spring in Skagit Valley heralds the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Broad swaths of brightly colored tulips spring up all over the flats.This is one stop along the Cascade Loop that you… Read More >>>>
The La Connner Daffodil Festival signals the start of spring in the Skagit Valley. As the dreary winter drags to a close the fields of the Skagit Flats slowly come… Read More >>>>
At fifty-plus years of age, I had a chance to go snowshoeing for the first time this winter. My husband and I stayed at Sun Mountain Lodge in the beautiful… Read More >>>>
The arrival of the Say's Phoebe is one of our first signs of spring here in Okanogan County, and they have been spotted daily for about a week now. Read More >>>>
According to the Seattle Audubon Society, Red-winged Blackbirds are widespread and abundant breeders throughout Washington's lowlands. In winter they are often less widespread, but can be abundant along the Columbia… Read More >>>>
Photographing sunrise requires a bit of luck. You have to decide where to be for the sunrise, and so you go, in the dark, hoping for nice light...Once you're there… Read More >>>>
Skagit Valley is the winter home for Trumpeter and Tundra Swans. The Johnson'/Debay Swan Reserve, located along Francis Road in Clearlake, is a wonderful place to visit them.The Johnson/DeBay Swan Reserve (JDSR), near Mt. Vernon,… Read More >>>>
Northern Flickers are large woodpeckers, mostly brown, with black-scalloped plumage and a flicker of crimson color on the top of their heads. According to the WDFW these woodpeckers were previously… Read More >>>>
The severity of winter in Western Washington is all about elevation. The lowlands usually get very little snow, not counting this year of course! And the mountains get slammed. Several… Read More >>>>
Join Charley Voorhis in the field as he shares photography and video tips that will help equip you for your next adventure. This round, learn to shoot that gorgeous starburst… Read More >>>>
Winter tends to be a bit wet and gray. But then the Snow Geese arrive! If you're out and about on the Cascade Loop in the winter months, be sure… Read More >>>>
These little sparrows can be spotted fluttering around the forest floor in search of seeds. During the warmer season, juncos are commonly found in the western mountains and the tips… Read More >>>>
As you drive along the North Cascades Highway section of the Cascade Loop there plenty of wonderful vistas and things to see. There are three dams along the Skagit River,… Read More >>>>
The Baker River drains an area of 270 square miles in a complex of deep valleys partially inside North Cascades National Park. Access is year-round via the Baker Lake Road. Read More >>>>
Both valley (California) quail and mountain quail are found in Washington. Valley quail are by far the more abundant of the two and are found in vast numbers on both… Read More >>>>
The English Flower garden at Willowbrook Manor is a beautiful place to enjoy a quiet summer afternoon. When we purchased the property back in 1996 it was just a cow pasture.… Read More >>>>
In a corner of the East Lawn at Willowbrook Manor is a large rock. It is the grave marker for the place I buried a most faithful dog and… Read More >>>>
Rough-legged Hawks are just 1 of 3 hawk species in the U.S. with feathers reaching all the way to their toes, an adaptation for life in cold climates.The Rough-legged hawk… Read More >>>>
There is nothing more stunning than a clear image of the Milky Way Galaxy arcing overhead. The Majesty of the Galaxy is on display and you can feel yourself on… Read More >>>>
The North Cascades Highway (Highway 20) follows the Skagit River from the Puget Sound deep into the mountains, reaching its highest point at Washington Pass, 100 miles east of I-5,… Read More >>>>
These blue feathered birdies have deep blue coloring on the top of their heads, wings, and tail with bold rufous coloring on their breast. Females have slightly less coloring than… Read More >>>>
Each week we will visit some place in the North Cascades. The best camp sites; day hikes and overnight trips; lookout towers, the best locations for sunrises, sunsets and night… Read More >>>>
Over the years Trumpeter Swans have battled extinction due to hunters and feather collectors decimating the population. In the early 20th century swan feathers were often converted into writing quills,… Read More >>>>
The chukar is slightly larger than a valley quail and a little smaller than a ruffed grouse. Also known as red-legged partridge and rock partridge. Read More >>>>
Introduced to North America in the late-nineteenth century, these European imports were first released in Washington and California but are now found in about a dozen Western and Midwestern states… Read More >>>>
Methow Trails is officially open for skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing! Currently about 50% of the trails are groomed and open, primarily in the Sun Mountain, Rendezvous, and Mazama areas.… Read More >>>>
Merriam turkeys are native to the coniferous mountains and canyons of Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. They live in the canyons and forests of northeast and central Washington. These turkeys… Read More >>>>
The Northern Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium gnoma) is our smallest owl, at 7 inches tall, including its long tail. Because of its size, long tail, proportionally small head, and daytime hunting behavior,… Read More >>>>
As the new Outreach and Access Manager of Methow Trails, Erika Kercher Halm is tasked with spreading the word about North America’s largest cross country ski network connecting over 120… Read More >>>>
Eagles can be found in every region of the Loop, and winter migration can bring hundreds of birds from Alaska to the local river valleys, like the Skagit, Methow, Wenatchee… Read More >>>>
Being in touch with nature comes easily for Leaf Little Fox Seaburg, owner and guide of Methow Fishing Adventures in Twisp, WA. Born and raised in the Methow Valley,… Read More >>>>
Petra Kellie has always loved the valley. After working 4 years in various managerial positions at the Freestone Inn, Kellie is now its new general manager. While growing… Read More >>>>
Maybe it’s the aromatic whiff of rich, roasted coffee that envelops you as soon as you walk in the coffee bar; maybe it’s the playful baristas who love to photobomb… Read More >>>>
Nicknamed for her auburn hair and a penchant to blush, Debbie “Red” Schrock expertly navigates the frosted terrain on the horseback trails at Sun Mountain Lodge. Read More >>>>
Local Color on The Loop is an ongoing, multi-issue installment featuring the colorful personalities one might just encounter while traveling the Cascade Loop. This installment features the talents of the… Read More >>>>
Above me, the distinct sound of airplanes soaring through the air follows me from Mukilteo to Everett. Sometimes it’s a light hum, other times deeper roar. No matter which sound… Read More >>>>
“Mentally, emotionally, and spiritually prepare yourself for your encounter . You must learn to listen to the heartbeat of the true land that is distant and removed from the sense-… Read More >>>>
New York City has the subway, London has the double-decker bus, and Seattle NorthCountry has the ferry. For over 65 years, ferries have been used to shuttle people from the… Read More >>>>
The Skykomish River Valley in Seattle NorthCountry is full of the verdant natural beauty that can only be experienced in this corner of the country. The river valley’s route and… Read More >>>>
Imagine sipping your morning coffee in the stillness of the forest, kicking back in a cabin above the trees. The morning sun paints the snow-blanketed peaks all around you and… Read More >>>>
A little known fact is that the Methow Trails system is indeed THE largest cross-country trail system in North America! While another U.S. trail system boasts their 140 km of… Read More >>>>
Each year, my eight-year-old son and I make a "bucket list" of things we want to do over the summer and visiting Ohme Gardens is always on it. My son… Read More >>>>
If you live near the state of Washington and you are interested in taking your first road trip, then few routes can beat the Cascade Loop: a scenic tour that… Read More >>>>
There is something to be said about trekking high into the mountains to take in the sub-alpine country. It may be the heather flowers, the huckleberries, or the pine and… Read More >>>>
Spider Meadows had been on my bucket list for too many years. Finally a date opened to tick it off and I texted my friend, Mandy, who agreed to join… Read More >>>>
A popular travel quote reads: “Take vacations. Go as many places as you can. You can always make money. You can’t always make memories.” Every year millions of visitors flock… Read More >>>>
Spending time outdoors with your children is one of the greatest gifts you can bestow upon them. The Cascade Loop affords families with ample opportunity to explore the picturesque natural… Read More >>>>
One of the favorite birds to migrate to the state of Washington are hummingbirds. Three species can be found from early spring until late fall when they migrate back to… Read More >>>>
What makes Kiket Island so special is the fact that it has been protected for so long. These hikes are on the Kukutali Preserve and opened up to the public… Read More >>>>
Do you know your beer farmer? Skagit Valley does! Usually when imbibing your favorite craft beer, you are drinking a combination of 4 ingredients: water, malted barley, hops and yeast… Read More >>>>
The North Cascades’ 13 million acre ecosystem includes 7 million acres of protected public lands on both sides of the border – and endless opportunities for recreation, exploration, naturalizing and… Read More >>>>
When people think of Mount Vernon, most picture rows of colorful tulips at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, but what happens when the flowers disappear? Mount Vernon is blooming with… Read More >>>>
When I was small and we would camp near Lake Chelan, my dad and I would challenge each other to be the first to spot the wildlife, and I would… Read More >>>>
Encountering a black bear in the wild is thrilling and crazy scary at the same time. Spring and fall are the best times to view these predators, and it is… Read More >>>>
Location: Paine Field in Everett, WA Everett located just 30 miles north of downtown Seattle is the birthplace of the Boeing 747 and home to four world class aviation experiences. Over… Read More >>>>
Each year, Mukilteans give one last hurrah each September to the passing of summer with a huge community party that we lovingly call the Lighthouse Festival. Its grown over the… Read More >>>>
Everett, Mukilteo, Snohomish, Monroe The Cascade Loop begins in the bustling port city of Everett, located just 28 miles north of Seattle via I-5. Take a quick side trip to Spencer… Read More >>>>
For Seinfeld fans, Mukilteo can provide a fond reminder of a minor, but memorable character. Do you recall the Soup Nazi? For those who missed the oddball, sometimes sophomoric sitcom that… Read More >>>>
Summer is a popular time for guests to visit Anacortes we completely understand why! With our mild summer temperatures, lush forest lands to explore, and water that surrounds us on… Read More >>>>
Aviation is a big deal in the Snohomish River Valley region of the Cascade Loop. But what I didn't realize is how catching the passion could be to engage in… Read More >>>>
Bald eagles, marsh wrens and oyster-catchers; these are just a few of the birds one can spot on Fidalgo Island. Whether you are visiting for the day or staying for… Read More >>>>
By Joni Kirk The holidays are upon us, and I don't simply mean the time between Christmas and New Years Day. Schools also close for extended breaks over the Martin Luther… Read More >>>>
Symbolized as the National bird of the United States in 1782, Bald Eagles are unique to North America and they can be found in abundance in many areas of the… Read More >>>>
Looking for some fresh air, space to move freely and get that heart a pumpin'? Look no more! The Cascade Loop has all manner of outdoor activities to keep you… Read More >>>>
By Joni Kirk There is something magical about making our way through the forest with snow or rain falling around us, side-stepping muddy paths, and warming chilled noses that motivates my… Read More >>>>
By Joni Kirk As the beautiful fall colors appear on trees, my internal holiday clock starts ticking. I know I have a limited amount of time to prepare gifts for loved… Read More >>>>
In the Pacific Northwest, water is our lifeline. From the Cascade Mountains, hundreds of miles of glistening rivers and streams make their way to Puget Sound. Those waterways teem with… Read More >>>>
Pybus Market has garnered a name for itself with some one-of-a-kind "events" such as our"bra chandelier" in October for breast cancer awareness month, our chess and lego tournaments or antique… Read More >>>>
Going to the movies these days is an exercise in high-tech CGI, 3D imaging techniques, wait staff for food and beverages, and large recliners to enhance the overall experience. Plush,… Read More >>>>
A nature lovers playground complete with thousands of pink salmon fighting their way up the Sultan River to spawn. This park offers front row seats to this amazing struggle, which… Read More >>>>
Explore 3.6 miles of trails, a boardwalk and amazing bird watching! Spencer Island provides opportunities to encounter shorebirds, American Bitterns, Vireos and Warblers. From northbound I-5, take exit 195. Drive… Read More >>>>
For years I've read articles about Spider Meadows, but for one reason or another, just never made it that way. Well, happily that all changed this week. Me and a… Read More >>>>
You'll pack more into your weekend getaway and keep the lid on your budget when your island destination is picturesque, fun, historic Anacortes on Fidalgo Island. The best-kept secrets often are… Read More >>>>
August is typically a warm month in the Pacific Northwest. The rain disperses for weeks at a time, and people actively seek ways to cool off. Along the Cascade Loop,… Read More >>>>
Over the 4th of July holiday weekend Forest Service firefighters extinguished abandoned campfires on most ranger districts of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Luckily, these fires were either still inside fire… Read More >>>>
As you head down the west slope of the Cascade Mountains on Highway 2, imagine early settlers moving in the area. Towns in the Skykomish and Snohomish River valleys honor… Read More >>>>
Campfires are one of the pleasures of camping in the woods, but along with the cozy campfire is the responsibility to make sure it is COMPLETELY out before leaving the… Read More >>>>
Car enthusiasts understand how amazing it is to belong to a car club. There is a common love of all things metal, leather and chrome. As a community you share… Read More >>>>
Summer is a popular time for guests to visit Anacortes- we completely understand why! With our mild summer temperatures, lush forest lands to explore, and water that surrounds us on… Read More >>>>
Andy Porter Images North Cascades Photo Tours. If you're planning a visit to the North Cascades and you love photography you may want to consider a North Cascades Photo Tour! Andy Porter… Read More >>>>
The Anacortes Waterfront Festival is all about letting your inner sailor embrace life on the water. This annual Anacortes event has something for everyone: an open-air car show, food vendors,… Read More >>>>
To get away from city life on a weekend, my family indulges in road trips - known as "Mom's Adventures" - to explore new things. While we often think as… Read More >>>>
The Cascade Loop starts in Mukilteo, and there are some great upcoming events that help you encounter its amazing aviation attractions. I was able to experience some of these with… Read More >>>>
Take it from a person who lived on an island in Alaska for 30 years; going to a bona fide Farmers Market is awesome! Don't misunderstand me, living in a… Read More >>>>
As the days grow shorter and temperatures become chillier, families can keep their kids entertained at some of Snohomish Countys top indoor attractions. Western Heritage Center, Monroe This agricultural, logging and mining… Read More >>>>
As the holidays approach, everyone is looking for those unique gift items or special holiday treats! Snohomish County is home to many unique specialty food and drink establishments- and a… Read More >>>>
Skydive Chelan will re-open in March and by appointment Nov-Feb! Call to inquire about a Winter Wonderland Skydive! Look for us at the Pybus Market in Wenatchee or visit our… Read More >>>>
The Cascade Loop wants to build an audience that uses Instagram, and we're gonna make it worth your while! Starting next week, expect to see us post images taken along… Read More >>>>
Even if you've traveled just a small part of the Cascade Loop there is no doubt that the magnificent scenery stayed with you, beckoning you to return. The mountains and valleys,… Read More >>>>
One of the most iconic fall activities is visiting the pumpkin patch -- picking out that perfect pumpkin, enjoying corn mazes, hay rides, apple cider and cute farm animals. Here… Read More >>>>
Skydive with us over beautiful Lake Chelan, Washington's largest natural lake. Enjoy a scenic ride to altitude with stunning views of Lake Chelan, the Cascade Mountains, and the Columbia River.… Read More >>>>
Leavenworth, Plain, Lake Wenatchee, CashmereThe Tumwater Canyon is the spectacular gateway to the renowned Bavarian Village of Leavenworth. The Wenatchee River hugs sheer canyon walls on one side, twisting through… Read More >>>>
Sultan, Gold Bar, Index, Skykomish, Stevens Pass Stevens Pass Greenway is a designated National Scenic Byway following the Great Northern Railway's, Iron Goat Trail and the thundering Skykomish and Wenatchee Rivers.… Read More >>>>
Anacortes is the crown jewel of Fidalgo Island, easternmost of the San Juan Islands and jump-point to the rest of the world-renowned archipelago. Fidalgo, the drive-to island, is accessible by… Read More >>>>
Lake Chelan is a Washington original destination. Only here will you find four seasons of wine, sun, stunning natural beauty and adventures that you can tune to your own tastes. 50.5… Read More >>>>
The contrast between seasons on the Cascade Loop is sharp, and flashy Fall colors emerge from warm summer weather with a force each September/October. Depending on the year and the… Read More >>>>
You'd expect that even in the beauty-packed Cascade loop that you'd notice if you drove right over a six-story waterfall wouldn't you? But that's exactly what several thousand drivers do… Read More >>>>
Celebrate Pacific Northwest wildlife and landscapes along with local expert. Visit a complete gallery of current work on his Facebook page. CONTACT: https://www.facebook.com/PeteFreundPhotog Read More >>>>
Whidbey and Camano Islands have their own rhythm. There's the molten glow of glass being blown, bagels boiling, tractors and other farm equipment all over both islands, and a thousand… Read More >>>>
Just outside of Wenatchee we often encounter a herd of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) who call the Swakane Wildlife Area home. Bighorn sheep get their name from the large, curved… Read More >>>>
Anacortes, on Fidalgo Island (the most accessible island in the San Juan archipelago), is 90 miles between Seattle and Vancouver BC, and is the destination point for the San Juan… Read More >>>>
Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Entiat Following the Wenatchee River, orchards flank the riverbanks and deliver travelers to the "Apple Capital of the World", Wenatchee. Numerous family-owned fruit stands dot the highway selling… Read More >>>>
Chelan, Manson, StehekinLake Chelan is home to four seasons of wine, sun, stunning natural beauty and adventure! The 50-mile-long lake slices northwestward into the Cascade Mountains. As you drive into town,… Read More >>>>
Pateros, Carlton, Twisp, Winthrop, MazamaThe Cascade Loop follows the Columbia River to Pateros, then swings northwestward to the Methow River Valley. This is the eastern gateway to the North Cascades… Read More >>>>
Diablo, Newhalem, Marblemount, Rockport, Concrete The North Cascades highway (Highway 20) crosses Washington Pass at 5,477'and Rainy Pass at 4,860'. Pack a picnic and take any one of… Read More >>>>
Sedro-Woolley, Burlington, Mount Vernon, La Conner, Edison, AnacortesAs it reaches toward the Salish Sea from the North Cascades, the Skagit River has deposited a vast triangle of flood plain soil… Read More >>>>
Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, ClintonThe Whidbey Scenic Isle Way is the ninth and final region of the Cascade Loop, and is a state designated scenic byway in its own… Read More >>>>
Seattle is the Gateway to the Cascade Loop!The lion's share of Cascade Loop travelers start their journey by flying in to Sea-Tac International Airport, renting a vehicle and heading to… Read More >>>>
