Planning a road trip to Seattle, plan to include this adventure. Then looking forward to heading back to Montana. Snow is melting and the claims are calling. Looking forward to an interesting and adventurous summer.
Road Trip Adventures: Seattle to Leavenworth
The Adventure…
Open winding roads, towering waterfalls, rushing rivers, a pristine lake, 200-foot desert spires and a Bavarian themed town to top it all off? Sign me up for this adventure!
Leaving from Seattle, Highway 2 serves as the perfect passageway to escape the city for a weekend and discover some outdoor fun in central Washington. This recommended two day adventure takes you from forested hikes across a mountain pass and over into central Washington’s unique arid environment. Along the way, you’ll visit three great state parks — Wallace Falls, Lake Wenatchee and Peshastin Pinnacles. Each park offers its own unique activities ranging from waterfall exploration to desert rock climbing.
Don’t Miss…
Approximately nine miles east of Gold Bar, you’ll begin a small ascent as you climb into the Cascade mountains. Keep an eye out on your right for a 10-foot statue of Sasquatch and a small espresso chalet. The landmark was a shoot location for the 1987 movie “Harry and the Hendersons” and features a number of Sasquatch-related wood carvings. As you take a pit stop, be sure to head behind the chalet near the picnic tables for what is certain to be a jaw-dropping view of 5,979 ft. Mt. Index off in the distance.
Trip Planner…
Stop One: Wallace Falls State Park
As you begin you’re journey on Highway 2, you’ll run into the quaint town of Gold Bar about 14 miles east of Monroe. Keep an eye out for the sign directing you to Wallace Falls State Park. On a clear day, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the falls from the highway. Park the car and spend a few hours hiking the trail and soaking in views of the upper and lower Falls.
Stop Two: Lunch
Continue down the Highway for 21 miles for a lunch stop in the small town of Skykomish.
Stop Three: Deception Falls Picnic Area
Travel another eight miles down the highway and you’ll find a great roadside treasure at Deception Falls. Deceptive indeed as the casual traveler will mistake the parking lot for a normal rest stop area. A quick stop here is well worth 20 minutes of your time as you roam around the quick half-mile loop trail that brings you alongside a raging river. Cap your stop off with a climb up the stairs to view the roaring whitewater rushing from Deception Creek.
Stop Four: Lake Wenatchee State Park
Continue your adventure as you coast along another 28 miles through Steven’s Pass. Eventually you’ll end up in Coles Corner, WA where Highway 207 intersects with Highway 2. Grab some supplies from the local market and head onto Highway 207 for four miles to reach Lake Wenatchee State Park. Set up camp for the night and enjoy some great hiking, biking and swimming at the Lake.
Stop Five: Leavenworth
Ease into the morning before heading back to Highway 2. Take your time to pullover and enjoy the picture-perfect views of the river below as you head another 15 miles down the road to the amazing town of Leavenworth. First time visitors will think that they have stepped into the town of Fauxvaian (“fake Bavarian”) while return visitors will relish in the German-themed goodness that embodies the spirit of the town. Grab lunch and head down to the Waterfront Park to hop in the chilly water. Those looking for a touch of adventure can find plenty of options for fun whitewater rafting, kayaking and paddleboarding trips.
Stop Six: Peshastin Pinnacles State Park
Before you head back home, travel 11 more miles east down Highway 2 to Peshastin Pinnacles State Park. Hiking, birdwatching and rock climbing await at this 34-acre desert park that features a group of sandstone slabs and spires called “the pinnacles.” You also find climbable spires that reach 200 feet into the air. Rocks and trails provide views of surrounding orchards, the Enchantment Mountain Range and the Wenatchee River valley.
Ready to head out? Check out our interactive map below to plan out your trip!
View Adventure Awaits – Highway 2 Road trip in a larger map
Have you trekked out along Highway 2? Be sure to share your story and photos with us!
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Images courtesy of Peter Prehn (Mt. Index), Scott Butner (Deception Falls), J. Brew (Skykomish),Steve Lodefink (Lake Wenatchee), Keary O. (Leavenworth) and Peter Prehn (Peshastin Pinnacles).
Sources: Seattle Times
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