How to Explore the Stevens Pass Greenway in Washington

This high mountain drive through Stevens Pass starts from the Salt Water Port of Everett, Washington, leading the way through the rugged Cascades and a historic railroad district. The Greenway is one of Washington's two year-round accessible mountain passes and follows the wilderness of the Skykomish and Wenatchee rivers. These rivers are almost the length of the Greenway. The greenway was developed for the Old Great Northern Railway and is rich in railroad history. Activities along the Greenway include whitewater rafting, skiing, hiking, fishing, camping and auto touring. At Leavenworth, the byway changes to U.S. 2/97 and exits the Wenatchee National Forest. Follow the thundering Skykomish River from pastoral Puget Sound through the towering peaks of the Cascade Mountains. At Stevens Pass, the byway descends sharply to the fragrant pine forests and fruit orchards of the Wenatchee River Valley. Historic communities shaped by the rugged landscape share their stories and their hospitality. Majestic pines and gently sloping hills embrace the road leading into the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. Travel through the pathways and see what the Stevens Pass Greenway has to offer. This byway is 89 miles long and takes about 2 to 3 hours to pass through.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin at Everett, Washington, and U.S. 2 East. Follow this route through the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie and Wenatchee National Forests. Take the time to visit Langus Riverfront Park near Everett.

2. Visit the Cascade Mountain Range which awaits with its many rivers, cross country trails, and wildlife, including bald eagles, deer, hawks and salmon. Take a break from driving and explore some of the numerous trails, such as the Iron Goat Trail, which starts at a 100-year-old tunnel. Walk along to Wallace Falls and the fruit orchards, and sample fresh fruit from one of the many stands lining the byway.

3. Take a lunch break in Leavenworth. This town resembles a charming Bavarian Village, with its mountain vistas and wooden frames which greet you. Plan to visit their many festivals throughout the year. Walk through their Bavarian Village of Flowers. Greetings from Leavenworth! or "Willkommen."

4. Stop in Cashmere to see the Aplets & Cotlets candy factory tour. This factory tour is short, but it is also interesting and packed with information. Go to the store afterwards and buy the world famous candies, to share with friends and family. There's always something for everyone because the candy is made in so many different flavors.

5. Change highways from U.S. 2 East to U.S. 2/97. Exit the Wenatchee National Forest area. Continue Southeast to the town of Wenatchee. Stay and visit two parks called Lincoln Rock State Park and the Wenatchee Confluence State Park. This Greenway ends here in Wenatcheee, so you will need to look around for another one, never too far away.

Tips & Warnings

• Take plenty of water, both for you and your traveling vehicle. You may even want to take some extra oil and gas.
• Be extra careful and aware of snakes, since most of this trip is through mountain country.
• Make sure your traveling vehicle is in proper running condition.
• Do not get stranded on this stretch of road, if you can avert it.

Resources

• WenatcheeValley.org