The Cascade Loop -- From salt water to mountain passes and glacial lakes to orchard steppes, the Cascade Loop offers 440 miles of pure cruising pleasure. Loop experts suggest taking 2-4 days to do the trip, starting from Everett and heading east up Highway 2. There is a myriad of activities along the way; what’s available depends upon the time of year. Stop in the Bavarian town of Leavenworth for a local microbrew and brat. Try white water rafting along the Wenatchee River. Take a boat ride up Lake Chelan, or try hot air ballooning in Winthrop. Finish by traveling down Hwy 20 and out through the tulip strewn Skagit Valley. Follow the sunset west to Whidbey Island. The memory-making opportunities are endless. Visit www.cascadeloop.com, or call 509-662-3888 for more information.
Mt. St. Helens -- She’s sleeping now, but when Mt. St. Helens erupted over 25-years ago, she dramatically changed the landscape forever. The Spirit Lake Memorial Highway is a 54-mile drive that cuts across the top of battle-scarred ridges and offers sweeping views of the surounding area. Stop at the Ape Caves, rent a lantern and explore the longest lava tube cave on the American continents. Get a good look at the volcano’s crater from the Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center. For more information, visit:http://www.byways.org/browse/byways/2237/ or call Cowlitz County Tourism, 360-577-3137.
Locals suggest...