North Cascades Hwy

Holiday weekends are a great excuse to take road trips. The North Cascades Highway closes every winter sometime in November depending on snow depth and does not generally reopen until May. This year wsdot cleared the pass on May12th. The pass is 5,477 ft. above sea level! It is one of the state’s oldest highways; it was roughed out in 1897. Before that is was a well-used Native American trading route. It is the United States northernmost route across the Cascade Mountains and was the 1st designated National Scenic Highway in the United States. From Marblemount to Winthrop you will want to stop several times to take pictures. The most scenic drive starts in the North Cascades National Park and is absolutely spectacular past a turquoise Lake Diablo and crystal blue Ross Lake. I have taken the drive once and will not forget it! The town of Winthrop was established in 1886 along the banks of Methow River. Gold was discovered in 1868 which began a mini gold rush in the valley. Winthrop offers a pleasant old western town theme with dining takeout options. From Seattle you will put over 500 miles on your car and it will be a full day adventure. Enjoy the trip!