8 of the Most Scenic Drives in Washington State

From winding mountain passes to coastal highways, here are the dreamiest drives you can do in a day (or weekend)

Washington isn’t just beautiful — it’s ridiculously beautiful. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, planning a peaceful nap-drive for the toddler, or just looking for a “let’s get out of town” kind of adventure, these scenic routes deliver.

Here are 5-8 of the most breathtaking, family-friendly drives you can do in a day from Wenatchee — with a mix of mountains, rivers, forests, and sea.

1. Cascade Loop Scenic Highway

Length: 440 miles total — but you can do it in segments
Best For: Big views, charming towns, all-day drives
Route: Wenatchee → Leavenworth → Lake Wenatchee → Stevens Pass → Everett → Deception Pass → Whidbey Island → Hwy 20 → Winthrop → Chelan → Wenatchee

Why It’s Worth It: This is the crown jewel of Washington road trips. You’ll pass through Bavarian villages, mountain passes, farmland, ocean views, and more. Great for a multi-day family road trip or breaking into day-trip sections.

Mom Tip: Do the Leavenworth → Lake Wenatchee → Stevens Pass leg in fall for unbeatable foliage.

2. North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20)

Length: 140 miles from Sedro-Woolley to Twisp
Best For: Alpine drama, waterfalls, and jaw-dropping views
Route: Sedro-Woolley → Diablo Lake → Washington Pass Overlook → Twisp

Why It’s Worth It: Called the “American Alps,” this drive features turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and quiet forests. Diablo Lake alone is worth the trip.

Kid Perk: Stop at the Gorge Powerhouse Visitor Center for a short nature walk and interactive exhibits.

3. Chuckanut Drive (Hwy 11)

Length: 20 miles
Best For: Coastal vibes, seafood stops, and short but stunning views
Route: Bellingham → Bow → Edison

Why It’s Worth It: Hugging the coastline above Puget Sound, this winding cliffside road is full of views, oyster shacks, and peaceful pullouts. Great for a laid-back afternoon.

Mom Tip: Combine with a stop in Fairhaven or Taylor Shellfish Farms for a scenic lunch.

4. Blewett Pass (US-97)

Length: ~35 miles
Best For: Quick mountain escape + foliage
Route: Wenatchee → Blewett Pass → Cle Elum

Why It’s Worth It: A local favorite for fall color, Blewett is a short and sweet way to escape town and feel tucked into the woods.

Family Tip: Stop at Mineral Springs or The Brick in Roslyn for a lunch break before looping back.

5. Whidbey Island Scenic Byway

Length: 50 miles
Best For: Coastal charm, ocean views, and ferry rides
Route: Clinton → Coupeville → Deception Pass

Why It’s Worth It: Ferry across from Mukilteo, then meander past lighthouses, tidepools, naval history, and one of the most famous bridges in the state.

Kid Perk: Fort Casey’s bunkers and Deception Pass beach are perfect for explorers.

6. Columbia River Gorge (WA-14)

Length: 124 miles (but you can drive sections)
Best For: River views, roadside hikes, waterfalls
Route: Vancouver → Maryhill

Why It’s Worth It: Less crowded than the Oregon side, Washington’s Hwy 14 has sweeping views of the Columbia, plus stops like Beacon Rock and Maryhill Stonehenge.

Mom Tip: Pack a picnic and pull over at one of the riverside viewpoints.

7. White Pass Scenic Byway (US-12)

Length: 124 miles
Best For: Lakes, mountains, and lesser-known beauty
Route: Yakima → Packwood → Randle

Why It’s Worth It: Often overlooked, this peaceful route follows rivers and climbs toward Mt. Rainier’s quieter side.

Family Stop: Rimrock Lake is great for a stretch and a snack.

8. Entiat River Road

Length: ~30 miles
Best For: Secluded nature drive close to home
Route: Entiat → Cottonwood Campground area

Why It’s Worth It: A peaceful, narrow road following the river through thick forest and wildlife. No cell service — just nature.

Mom Tip: Great for quiet car naps, wildlife spotting, or fall leaf-peeping without crowds.

Before You Go:

• Check road conditions — especially for mountain passes (some close in winter)

• Pack snacks, water, and layers — PNW weather is moody

• Fill up on gas (some routes have limited services)

• Download offline maps if you’ll be out of cell range

Scenic drives are one of the easiest ways to get out of the house, clear your head, and show your kids how beautiful their home state really is. Whether you’re planning a family weekend or sneaking away solo, there’s something soul-filling about Washington’s open roads.

Let the kids nap in the back, cue up your favorite playlist, and drive slowly enough to take in the beauty.