Two mountain passes, one day. Tackle the Snoqualmie and Stevens Passes — and the charismatic towns lining their peaks and valleys — for a crash course in the lovable ruggedness that the PNW is known for. Opt for one of the drive-thru espresso chalets sprouting up as you climb in altitude, or curb your hamburger hankering at Zeke’s Drive-In in historic Gold Bar. The Iron Goat Trail is the perfect side-trip for folks who prefer to do their hiking inside the car, and its drive-by waterfalls can capture the attention of city-slickers and backcountry regulars alike. Grab a slice of cheesecake or pizza at Steven’s Pizza in the quirky town of Skykomish, and nearby Lake Serene and Mount Index create the cascading glory that is Bridal Veil Falls — a four-mile loop serving as the perfect post-lunch refuge. If you have the time, scoot over to Leavenworth for a Bavarian getaway without the airfare or relish in the mining yesteryears of Liberty’s Ghost Town. Outdoorsy folks can snowshoe at the East Fork Foss River or spot salmonberries along the Barclay Lake hike between the hills of largely-empty ski resorts and homey cabins. 

 


The Great Cascades Road Trip

Distance from Bellevue: ~80 miles 
Roundtrip distance and suggested time: 150 to 170 miles, 4 to 8 Hours

Two mountain passes, one day. Tackle the Snoqualmie and Stevens Passes — and the charismatic towns lining their peaks and valleys — for a crash course in the lovable ruggedness that the PNW is known for. Opt for one of the drive-thru espresso chalets sprouting up as you climb in altitude, or curb your hamburger hankering at Zeke’s Drive-In in historic Gold Bar. The Iron Goat Trail is the perfect side-trip for folks who prefer to do their hiking inside the car, and its drive-by waterfalls can capture the attention of city-slickers and backcountry regulars alike. Grab a slice of cheesecake or pizza at Steven’s Pizza in the quirky town of Skykomish, and nearby Lake Serene and Mount Index create the cascading glory that is Bridal Veil Falls — a four-mile loop serving as the perfect post-lunch refuge. If you have the time, scoot over to Leavenworth for a Bavarian getaway without the airfare or relish in the mining yesteryears of Liberty’s Ghost Town. Outdoorsy folks can snowshoe at the East Fork Foss River or spot salmonberries along the Barclay Lake hike between the hills of largely-empty ski resorts and homey cabins. 

 


 


 

 

PITSTOP


Iron Goat Trail: Follow signage to the Iron Goat Trail — and jump out for the namesake hike, if you are up for it — for a drive-through tour of a quintessential Central Cascades forest. Waterfalls of varying sizes included. For hiking information, refer to the WTA website

Stevens Pass Ski and Mountain Biking Area: Even if sliding down the slopes isn’t typically your speed, the Stevens Pass Ski Area has plenty of powder hound whimsy and breathtaking views to satisfy all visitors. Resort-specific details at stevenspass.com.

Bridal Veil Falls: Ever wanted to stare straight up a massive waterfall? Us too. Trail conditions and updates on the WTA website.

 



WHERE TO EAT


Zeke’s Drive-In: Whether you like your hot dog doused in chili cheese or burgers fit for a vegetarian, Zeke’s has you covered. For hours and menu options, refer to Zeke’s Facebook

Steven’s Pizza: Locals tip: If you ask nicely, they’ll make you one kickass pizza sandwich. Stay updated on Steven’s Pizza’s Facebook page.  

The Summit Pancake House: Made from scratch, swimming in syrup, and waiting for you on the Snoqualmie pass. Check out their full menu and hotel information on their website.  

DRU BRU: Mask up and bask in the sun at Dru Bru’s mountaintop taproom and patio, serving up craft beer, cider, and soda. More information at drubru.com

 

 

SIDE TRIPS


Town of Liberty: Flashback to 1867 by touring this historic, mining ghost town. Highlights on the WTA website

Leavenworth: Bavaria is calling… and it is only 110 miles from Bellevue! Updates on the status of Leavenworth’s shops, restaurants, and recreation areas at leavenworth.org

East Fork Foss River Snowshoe: The snow may be melting, but you can live your winter wonderland fantasy for a bit longer if you go high enough. Check trail conditions to ensure you are prepared to hike or snowshoe on the WTA website

Barclay Lake: Stretch your legs with this 4-mile jaunt nestled between Baring Mountain and Merchant Peak. Trail condition updates can be found on the WTA website

Franklin Falls: The waterfalls are in their best flow season — hop on this short and breezy 2-mile round trip hike to see what they are all about. Trail condition updates on the WTA website.



Driving Directions