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Discover the Cascade Loop

If you've been wanting to see what the state of Washington has to offer, few ways capture the vast cultural and historical area better than the Cascade Loop. This popular scenic drive guides you through some of Washington's renowned islands, through the natural beauty of North Cascades National Park, and to each of the small communities in between.

Tre trip is a long 430 mile drive (around 9 ½ hours the whole way without stopping), but it sure is worth the journey.

This scenic drive is divided into three sections: The North Cascades Highway, Stevens Pass, and Whidbey Scenic Isle Way. These are some of the most prominent detours and stops you may want to make in each of these sections of the drive.

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North Cascades Highway

La Conner - Pateros
If you move clockwise around the loop, you'll start your journey on the North Cascades Highway. This scenic byway is the most popular part of the entire drive, as it's decorated by mountainous scenery, vast evergreen forests, and glistening lakes.

Some of our guests have so much fun here that they end up spending their whole day in these towns and pull-offs—forcing them to return to La Conner Country Inn without driving the whole loop.

Skagit Tours

In Marblemount, WA, you can visit the Skagit Information Center and you go on the Diablo Lake Boat Tour. You'll learn about the local wildlife and history that shaped the landscape around you. Reservations fill up quickly, so call ahead before you begin the scenic drive.

Reserve a Tour

Kangaroo Temple Trail

Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 4.2 miles

We can't list all of the hikes you can trek on your drive—there's just too many. However, we would like to highlight one of our favorite trails for expert trailblazers. Kangaroo Temple is a tall mountain with steep inclines and a peak that's begging to be explored. While it's not a long hike, it's definitely worth stretching your legs on before you drive again.

Hike the Kangaroo Temple Trail

Washington Pass Overlook

This is easily one of the best overlooks on the scenic drive. Park your car, take a short walk that can easily be made by anyone, and stand in awe at the sheer size of the Cascade mountains. Great for any travel group—even drivers with young kids.

Check Out the Washington Pass Overlook

Stevens Pass

Pateros - Wenatchee - Everett
The quietest portion of the drive will still draw you in with its beauty and attractions. While the hikes here are breathtaking, there are also a ton of unique towns to explore along the way.

Ohme Gardens

Address: 3327 Ohme Rd, Wenatchee, WA

The highlight of Wenatchee has to be Ohme Gardens, a local garden that does walkthroughs. Explore miles of flowers, shrubbery, and curated natural architecture. It's peaceful and mesmerizing—perfect if you're tired of traffic and driving.

Walk the Gardens

Leavenworth

The entire town of Leavenworth is a love letter to German culture. The architecture and decor of the downtown buildings, the restaurants, the shows, and especially the Oktoberfest celebration are themed around Deutschland. Definitely worth a pit stop.

Tour Leavenworth

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Stevens Pass

Ohme Gardens

Walk the Gardens

Leavenworth

Tour Leavenworth

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Whidbey Scenic Isle Way

Everett - La Conner
After you're done driving through the mainland, you're now on the home stretch. Arguably the busiest and most visually distinct part of the drive, the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way will guide you across the water and into local fishing villages.

Coupeville

Visiting downtown Coupeville should be a priority when you're passing through. The town has the feel of a quaint fishing village with historical sites and beautiful ocean vistas to adore. At the end (or start) of your drive, it can lighten your spirits.

Drive through Coupeville

Return to La Conner Country Inn

After you've crossed Deception Pass Bridge, you've only got a short drive left before you've made it back to La Conner Country Inn. After a long drive like that, you'll need a place to rest, and we are happy to be your base of operations for this long but fulfilling drive. Check out our rooms and book one today.