Pass through chartreuse farm fields outside of Monroe as you head toward jagged peaks on the not-too-distant horizon! Follow the Skykomish River as you continue on the Stevens Pass Greenway. It winds through the western slopes of the Cascade mountains toward a series of small historic mountain towns: Sultan, Startup, Gold Bar, Index and Skykomish. The Stevens Pass Greenway, a National Scenic Byway in its own right, and also located on the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway, serves up plentiful electric vehicle charging stations in addition to inspirational views, prodigious hikes and jaw-dropping views.
The small community of Sultan is often our travelers’ first visitor information stop — the Sky Valley Visitor Information Center is a great place to pop in and pick up an extra copy of this printed guide and get a little inside scoop on local must-visit locations! Plan to throw on your walking shoes once you arrive in Gold Bar, and spend a couple of hours checking out Wallace Falls State Park. The falls are world-renowned and offer a variety of walks to suit each level of fitness and comfort on the trail. In spring and early summer, the falls are rushing and the Skykomish River becomes an immensely popular whitewater rafting destination as snow melts away from the granite peaks overhead. Fishermen line the riverbanks, and drift boats float the more tranquil waters that surround prized fishing holes. Hikers and backpackers (many are actually Pacific Crest Trail hikers) explore alpine lakes and miles upon miles of alpine trails. Continue driving east and visit the tiny town of Index, nestled on the banks of the Skykomish River, just 1 mile off Highway 2. Index is the home of Outdoor Adventure Center, a family-owned whitewater rafting and kayaking outfitter. Are you a rock climber? Get your climbing gear ready and hit up the famous Index Town Wall, considered to be one of the nation’s premier rock climbing destinations. Once you’re back on Highway 2 be sure to stop at the Espresso Chalet, home to Harry from the movie "Harry and the Hendersons," filmed in part right at this very spot! Look up and see majestic Mount Index right behind the parking area. Bridal Veil Falls are those gorgeous falls right below the ominous peak. For hikers with time to spare, this is a gorgeous hike and can also take you to Lake Serene along the way. Once you’re caffeine needs have been attended to, drive on toward the historic railroad town of Skykomish. The Cascadia Inn is located here — a great place to grab an excellent handmade diner-style meal served by friendly locals. Looking for a perfect spot to picnic? Deception Falls is located right off the highway, a fabulous spot to enjoy the falls and for photographers to practice those slowww shutter speeds!
Next up, ascend 4,061-foot Stevens Pass. The views are mind-blowing here year-round! The ski and snowboard resort operates during winter months. During the summer months, it transforms itself into a mountain bike park. Autumn (particularly the first weeks of October) welcomes leaf-peepers from around the world, all eager for brilliant hues of gold and orange. Be prepared to encounter snow when traveling in the winter! Check mountain pass conditions at wsdot.com/traffic/passes.
The Stevens Pass Greenway ends once you reach Coles Corner, where you can take state Route 207 to Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake or Plain. Prepare for more mountainous beauty on the next leg of your journey - Leavenworth/Cascade Foothills!
The Stevens Pass Greenway provides eco-friendly drivers access to multiple electric vehicle charging stations.
Stevens Pass Visitor Services
Current Info
Stevens Pass (Mountain Pass info)
