North Cascades - Scenic Highway

Washington Pass Overlook

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North Cascades Scenic Highway

The North Cascades Scenic Highway is located in north-central Washington State, extending 74-miles across a spectacular mountain pass, from Newhalem to Winthrop.  It’s recognized as one of the most spectacular drives in North America.  Sections of the highway close for winter, so please check highway status before leaving.

The highway offers incredible vistas of the North Cascades National Park, often referred to as the "American Alps".  With over 300 glaciers, the North Cascades National Park is the most glaciated territory in the continental US.  The scenic highway includes a bird’s eye view of Diablo Lake, glimpses of the wild upper reaches of the Skagit River, and an overlook with awe-inspiring views of Liberty Bell Mountain. One of the key highlights is the abundance of waterfalls along the roadside.   

North Cascades Scenic Highway:  "Newhalem to Winthrop" (74 miles)

This driving itinerary provides an overview of the 74-mile trip from Newhalem to Winthrop along the North Cascades Highway.

The North Cascades Scenic Highway starts at the small hydroelectric town of Newhalem.  Newhalem is a company town first established in 1920 to house employees from the Skagit Hydroelectricity Project.  The must-see attractions at Newhalem include the Ladder Creek Falls behind the historic Gorge Powerhouse, and the lovely "Trail of the Cedars" across a suspension bridge just off the main street. During summer months, there's an evening light show at the waterfall.  For information on longer hikes, visit the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center in Newhalem, just outside of town.

After driving another 6-miles east along the highway, take the turnoff to the North Cascades Environmental Learning Centre and drive across the Diablo Dam to the Learning Center’s parking lot on the shores of Diablo Lake.  The Skagit Boat Tour leaves from here in summer months, but tours must be booked in advance by calling 206 684 3030.  Even if you haven’t booked a boat tour, it’s worth traveling to the Environmental Learning Center to experience the thrill of driving over the 389 foot Diablo Dam!  Other attractions at the Learning Center include picturesque walking trails and a gift shop.

After returning to the North Cascades Scenic Highway, your next stop is the Diablo Lake Overlook providing a bird’s eye view of the lake and dam.   There is a parking lot here, and plenty of interpretive information.   The lake's greenish-blue hue is the end result of glaciers grinding underlying soil into a fine silt which is deposited in the lake and reflected by the water.

As you continue up the Pass, there are some smaller pull-outs providing views of Ross Lake and Ross Dam.  A remote wilderness resort at Ross Lake is only accessible by boat.

The road follows the wild Skagit River and continues its ascent to Rainy Pass (4,855 feet), providing a great place for photo opportunities.  The Washington Pass Overlook exit is next, and at 5,477 feet is the highest point of your journey.  An easy 5-minute walk from the large parking lot takes you to an overlook with incredible views of Liberty Bell Mountain and sweeping vistas of the surrounding valley.

When you drive back on the highway you will encounter a series of hairpin turns as you make your gradual descent.   The mountain vistas are soon replaced with the wide-open fields and ranches of the sunny Methow Valley.  The western themed town of Winthrop is the perfect place for an overnight stay, and has a charming downtown area with plenty of restaurants, gift shops and cafes.  This is one of Washington State's loveliest small towns.

Hotels, inns, lodging, camping along the North Cascades Highway

Accommodation options before you reach Newhalem (no lodging at Newhalem):

• Buffalo Run Inn at Marblemount – 15 miles SW
• Clark’s Skagit River Resort at Rockport – 23 miles SW
• Ovenell’s Heritage Inn at Concrete – 43 miles SW

Accommodation options on the North Cascades Scenic Drive:

• Newhalem or Colonial Creek Campgrounds

There is also a wide choice of lodging options when you reach lovely Winthrop.

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