Washington's Mountain Loop Highway Is a Scenic Road Trip Waiting to Happen

Washington is home to endless mountains, forests, and national parks that will put you in a road-trip state of mind. There's an endless number of winding routes to get sightseers off the beaten path, but the Mountain Loop Highway showcasing the famous Cascades is one of the most impressive.

Where to Find the Mountain Loop Highway

Beginning in Granite Falls and ending in Darrington, both remote cities in Snohomish County, this 50-plus mile drive around the Western Cascades is unsurpassed in Pacific Northwestern beauty.

The "loop" in its name is rather deceiving, take note, as the horseshoe-shaped route is part of a larger actual loop. In any case, it does circle around lush wilderness, and there's nothing stopping you from continuing past Darrington on State Route 530, which follows the perimeter of the beautiful Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Where to Stop

This highway offers great access to hiking and camping but is still beautiful if you're more interested in the drive alone.

About 20 miles east of Granite Falls, you'll come across Big Four Mountain. At 4,000 feet, it's north face is in clear view from the Mountain Loop Highway. The mountain was named after a giant "4"-shaped snowpatch that can be seen on its east face. You can stop for a photo at this gorgeous landmark, and if you're an avid hiker, there are several trails to take up the mountain.

Before you leave Big Four Mountain, head to Big Four Ice Caves, a natural phenomenon created from a mixture of snow runoff, waterfalls, and windy conditions. The mile-long hiking path to get there is well-maintained and not difficult for those who don't mind a small hike. Once you reach the caves, however, you'll need to admire them from afar. Entering or climbing on top of the caves is strictly prohibited.

After your tour of Big Four, make time to stop at White Chuck Overlook for panoramic views and, if you're lucky, mountain goat sightings in late summer and early fall. After a picnic along the White Chuck River, perhaps, hop back in the car and head toward the old mining town of Monte Cristo for a dose of local history. In the late 1800s, the town was booming with thousands of people seeking their fortunes. Unfortunately, flooding and miscalculations of what could actually be mined left this town in shambles. Today you'll find a ghost town, but you can embrace the quiet and spend some time picturing what life was like a hundred years before.

When you arrive in Darrington, there's still plenty to explore. In warm weather, consider whitewater rafting or hiking any of the hundreds of miles of picture-perfect mountain vistas. When the weather turns cold, enjoy holiday bazaars and Christmas-tree shopping before packing your car up for a scenic trip back home.

Good to Know

Although beautiful, this scenic highway isn't always the easiest to navigate. After you reach Barlow Pass, the two-lane road ends and 14 miles of gravel begins. It's drivable if you take your time, but always err on the side of caution.

Also, keep in mind these are the mountains: Snow and ice are not restricted to winter. Check weather conditions before you go, and plan accordingly.