7 Scenic Drives in Washington That Will Take Your Breath Away

Washington is full of roads that take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you want ocean views, mountain scenery, or lush forests, there’s a scenic drive for you to enjoy.

If you’re looking to escape and soak in natural beauty from your car, these seven scenic drives in Washington will show you some amazing spots. Each route offers something unique, making your time on the road memorable and refreshing.

Mountain Loop Scenic Byway

If you’re looking for a scenic drive with plenty of outdoor options, Mountain Loop Scenic Byway is a solid choice. It takes you through lush forests, rugged mountains, and quiet campgrounds along the way. You can stop for hikes, fishing, or just soaking in the views.

There are several spots to explore once you get there, including trailheads for family-friendly hikes and remote wilderness areas. The route offers a mix of natural beauty and peaceful settings away from the usual crowds.

Keep in mind, the road winds through national forest land, so conditions can vary, especially in different seasons. Planning ahead and checking trail updates is a good idea before you head out. It’s a place to enjoy if you like to combine driving with outdoor adventures.

Rating: 4.6 (19 reviews)
Location: Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252
Contact: (425) 783-6000
Website: Visit Website

Chinook Scenic Byway

If you’re looking for a scenic drive through Washington, the Chinook Scenic Byway is a solid choice. It stretches over 85 miles from Enumclaw, passing through mountain passes and valleys. The route takes about three hours to drive, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views.

Along the way, you’ll see glacier-fed rivers, dense forests, and towering peaks like Mount Rainier. There are also unique geological features like basalt flows and river canyons. The landscape changes from lush meadows to rocky ridges, making the ride visually interesting.

You might spot several waterfalls and plenty of spots to stop and take pictures. Some campgrounds along the byway require fees, so keep that in mind if you plan to stay overnight. Overall, it’s a straightforward drive with stunning nature on display.

Rating: 4.8 (37 reviews)
Location: 1421 Cole St, Enumclaw, WA 98022
Contact: (360) 825-7666
Website: Visit Website

Washington Pass Observation Site

When you drive along the North Cascades Scenic Highway, the Washington Pass Observation Site is a great spot to stop and stretch your legs. The views here are wide open, offering a chance to take in rugged mountain peaks and deep valleys. It’s a peaceful place to pause and appreciate nature.

You’ll find plenty of space to snap photos or just enjoy the outdoors. If you’re into hiking, there are trails nearby that can take you closer to the surrounding wilderness. It’s also a popular area for spotting wildlife and wildflowers during the warmer months.

The observation site is easy to reach by car and serves as a helpful rest point along the scenic route. Whether you’re on a short trip or a longer journey through Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this spot makes a solid stopoff for fresh air and stunning panoramas.

Rating: 4.9 (1020 reviews)
Location: Mazama, WA 98833
Contact: (509) 996-4003
Website: Visit Website

Wallace Falls Middle Falls Overlook

When you visit Wallace Falls, the Middle Falls Overlook is a cool spot to pause and take in the natural beauty. The view offers a great perspective of the waterfall cascading down the rocky landscape. You can hear the rushing water and feel the mist on your face, which adds to the experience.

The trail leading to the overlook is surrounded by lush forests, making the walk a pleasant adventure. It’s not too difficult, so you can enjoy the scenery without stressing too much about the hike. This spot is perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the peaceful vibes.

Since Wallace Falls is a popular hiking destination, the overlook can get busy during peak times. But if you visit early or late in the day, you’ll likely have more space to enjoy the view quietly. Either way, it’s a good idea to bring some water and wear comfortable shoes.

Rating: 4.8 (260 reviews)
Location: Woody Trail, Gold Bar, WA 98251

Sun Top Lookout

If you’re driving near Enumclaw, Washington, Sun Top Lookout offers a great stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the view. It’s a popular vista point where you can take in wide-ranging scenes of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The lookout is part of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and provides easy access to nature without a strenuous hike. It’s ideal if you want a quick nature break during a scenic drive. You can get outdoors, snap some photos, and enjoy the fresh air.

Facilities are limited, so come prepared. Since it’s a natural spot, it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The location gets good reviews for its peaceful setting and beautiful views, making it a solid stop on any road trip through the area.

Rating: 4.8 (296 reviews)
Location: Enumclaw, WA 98022
Contact: (360) 825-6585
Website: Visit Website

Scenic Overlook of the Columbia River

If you’re looking for a spot to stretch your legs and take in some beautiful views, the Scenic Overlook of the Columbia River in Quincy, WA is a solid choice. From this vantage point, you can enjoy sweeping views of the river as it winds through the landscape.

It’s a popular stop for travelers who want a break from driving or a quick photo op. The area is peaceful, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Clouds, sunsets, or even just a clear day make the views worth the visit.

You don’t need to plan for a long stop here since it’s easy to access and doesn’t require hiking. Just pull off, take a few moments to soak it in, and continue on your scenic drive through Washington.

Rating: 4.8 (3374 reviews)
Location: Scenic Overlook of the Columbia River, Quincy, WA

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

When you drive through the Columbia River Gorge, you’re traveling along an 80-mile canyon carved by the Columbia River. The views are stunning, with deep cliffs and the river winding below. It’s a spot that mixes natural beauty with a sense of history.

The area stretches across two states and includes small towns, farms, and lush forests. Weather changes fast here because of the mountains, so you’ll see everything from dense conifers to open grasslands depending on where you are.

The Gorge is more than just a pretty landscape. It also acts as a key route for transportation, running right through the Cascade Mountains. You get a real feel for how important the river and the surrounding land have been for both people and nature.

If you want to explore hiking trails, waterfalls, or just scenic spots to pull over, this drive offers plenty of options. It’s a great way to spend time if you enjoy being outdoors without venturing too far off the road.

Rating: 4.8 (13,615 reviews)
Location: Oregon
Contact: (541) 308-1700
Website: Visit Website

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