We’re incredibly lucky to live here in Washington—a state filled with beautiful scenery and mountainous landscapes. There’s no better to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest than by motorcycle. At Evergreen Motorcycle Attorneys, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite motorcycle routes. One of the routes is Highway 20 Washington Pass, which is the next stop on our EMA Summer Motorcycle Tour.
From Burlington to Winthrop, this beautiful 132-mile drive will take you through some of the most spectacular and diverse scenery that northwestern Washington has to offer. The route passes through the North Cascades National Park and is nationally recognized as a scenic byway.
Be careful though! Once the winter season hits, this route can get closed due to weather, snow coverings and avalanche danger. Cell service can be spotty on this drive, so be sure to plan ahead. All in all, this ride can be done all within a few hours, making it perfect for a day trip for you and a passenger.
SIGHTS THROUGH THE NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY
Your tour begins in the historic district of Burlington (exit 230 via I-5). On clear days, there’s a gorgeous view of Mount Baker that you can see in the distance. Following the Skagit River, riders can observe bald eagles diving down to fish. Eagles can be seen as early as November to as late as March. As you drive, the route takes you through the North Cascade National Park and Ross Lake.
Halfway through the route, you can stop in the town of Diablo. From there, you can pull off and check out the lake, go fishing, camping or even go take a hike through the Diablo Lake Trailhead. Travel around Whistler Mountain and Cutthroat Peak, where you can view them along with many other different mountains in the distance.
You’ll end your drive in the town of Western-inspired town of Winthrop—home of the oldest legal saloon in Washington State.
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITES LOCATED AROUND HIGHWAY 20
Ross Lake Resort: Ross Lake is a perfect spot to stop to stretch your legs. Inaccessible from the road, you can only reach the Resort from either hiking, or taking the Diablo Lake Ferry. Ross Lake offers fishing, hiking, backpacking, camping, kayaking and canoeing.
Anderson and Watson Lake Hike: This hike takes you through a beautiful hemlock forest, meadows filled with wildflowers, with both lake and mountain views. Only a six-mile roundtrip, it was featured in the Washington’s Must-Do Hikes.
North Cascade National Park: Within the National Park, there is an abundance of trailheads leading off into different directions for every exploring needs. Bicycling, guided tours, and bird watching are just some of the many opportunities that North Cascade offers. You can further your knowledge of the magnificent area by educating yourself at the visitor centers.
DINING OPTIONS ALONG THE WAY
Between driving and exploring, you’ll no doubt get hungry while on the road. Grab some food at the Marblemount Diner, just off the highway. If you wait a little longer, you can visit Three Fingered Jacks in Winthrop known for its swinging doors, good food and rustic western appearance.
Summer may be winding down, but it’s not too late to take a motorcycle trip. If you plan to visit the North Cascades Highway this summer, let us know. Feel free to share your photos on Facebook or Instagram. Don’t forget to stay safe out there and enjoy the ride!
___________________________________________________
Take a look at the other rides on our Washington Motorcycle Tour: