The North Cascade Loop
Driving the North Cascade Loop is like stepping into a living painting where every twist of the road reveals a new jaw-dropping vista. From the glistening waters of Diablo Lake to the sun-drenched vineyards of Lake Chelan, and the alpine charm of Leavenworth, this loop offers an ever-changing canvas of Washington State’s most stunning landscapes. You'll journey through old-growth forests, over dramatic mountain passes, and into valleys dotted with historic towns and welcoming roadside stops. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, sipping wine, or hiking to panoramic views, the North Cascade Loop is more than just a drive—it’s a transformative adventure that blends wild beauty, local culture, and unforgettable memories into one scenic road trip.
If you're craving a blend of majestic mountain landscapes, charming small towns, and outdoor adventure, the North Cascade Loop delivers it all. This 10-day RV itinerary will guide you through some of the most scenic and culturally rich areas of Washington State. Expect alpine lakes, quaint Bavarian villages, local breweries, and national parks—this is the Pacific Northwest road trip of a lifetime.
Let’s dive into the expanded day-by-day itinerary and uncover what makes each stop worth the drive.
Day 1: Seattle to Puget Sound – A Coastal Kickoff
Your journey begins in vibrant Seattle, where you can pick up your RV or van rental from Peace Vans is a trusted local favorite. We had a great chat with Harley Sitner, owner and CEO of Peace Vans, please go give it a listen. Before heading out, grab a coffee at a neighborhood café and be sure to stock up on supplies at a local grocery store.
Then drive north on I-5 out of the city, where lush forests meet salty sea air. Choose to camp at:
Kayak Point County Park – Ideal for coastal walks and sunset views over the Sound.
Bay View State Park – Offers RV hookups and views of Padilla Bay, great for birdwatching.
Wenberg County Park – Tucked away near Lake Goodwin, with peaceful picnic spots and beach access.
This is your chance to ease into road trip mode surrounded by the peaceful lowland forests of the Pacific Northwest.
Day 2: Journey into the North Cascades
Today, you’ll begin your ascent into the North Cascades, one of the least crowded but most beautiful national parks in the U.S.
Stop in the town of Concrete, a quirky historic spot with murals, a small-town bakery, and the Birdsview Brewery, perfect for a hearty lunch and a local brew.
Drive the North Cascades Highway (Highway 20) and be prepared for jaw-dropping views. Pull over at Diablo Lake Overlook for turquoise waters and sweeping alpine scenery.
Camp options inside or near North Cascades National Park include:
Newhalem Creek Campground – RV accessible and close to visitor centers and short hikes.
Gorge Lake Campground – Free and more primitive, but the views are unbeatable.
Skagit River RV and Camping - A rural RV park with full hook ups. We chatted with the new owner of this park back in Episode 90 before they changed their name.
Day 3: Exploring Ross Lake & Alpine Trails
As you explore this remote, glacier-fed lake, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering peaks, dense evergreen forests, and mirror-like waters that reflect the sky. It’s a haven for kayakers and hikers alike—those seeking solitude and a true connection with nature. For an unforgettable trek, lace up your boots and hit the Thunder Knob Trail or venture farther on the Maple Pass Loop, two of the most scenic alpine hikes in Washington State. These trails offer sweeping views of snow-capped mountains, vibrant wildflowers in the summer, and the kind of peace that only comes with being far off the beaten path.
Ross Lake spans approximately 23 miles (37 km) in length and up to 1.5 miles (2.5 km) in width, with a maximum depth of 540 feet (164 meters.) The lake was created by the impoundment of the Skagit River by Ross Dam, and is operated by Seattle City Light for hydroelectric power generation for the city of Seattle.
For hiking, try the Thunder Knob Trail, a moderately easy 3.5-mile round-trip with stunning lake views.
Want more of a challenge? The Maple Pass Loop offers high alpine vistas and vibrant wildflowers in summer.
Fun Fact: Jack Kerouac was a fire lookout in the North Cascades at Desolation Peak during the summer of 1956. He spent 63 days there, which served as inspiration for parts of his books The Dharma Bums and Desolation Angels.
This is the heart of the Cascade Mountains; it truly is a place to unplug and soak up the grandeur of rugged peaks and glacial waters.
Day 4: Methow Valley & Old West Charm in Winthrop
As you descend from the rugged peaks of the North Cascades into the Methow Valley, the landscape softens into a wide, golden expanse framed by rolling hills and big, open skies. The valley stretches out like a patchwork quilt of wildflower meadows, orchards, and winding rivers, all set against the dramatic backdrop of forested mountains. In summer, the air is warm and dry, scented with pine and sage, while old barns and wooden fences dot the countryside, adding a rustic charm. It feels like stepping into a peaceful frontier town, where life moves slower and nature takes center stage.
Visit Twisp, home to local art studios and the fascinating North Cascades Smokejumper Base, where you can learn about wildfire fighting.
Arrive in Winthrop, a town that feels like stepping into the Wild West, complete with wooden sidewalks, a swinging bridge, and a historic saloon.
Camp at:
Pearrygin Lake State Park – Lakeside campsites with opportunities for swimming and boating.
Winthrop KOA – A Holiday KOA with full hook ups and family friendly activities.
Day 5: Relax & Wander in Winthrop
Take it slow today and enjoy all Winthrop has to offer. This town feels like a step back in time to the Old West. Wooden boardwalks line the streets, where saloons, ice cream parlors, and boutique shops sit beneath false-fronted buildings straight out of a western movie. You’ll hear the hum of live music in the summer and see fly fishermen casting lines in the Methow River just steps from town. Winthrop may be small, but it’s full of character
Stroll through town to browse local shops and grab coffee from Rocking Horse Bakery.
In summer (mid-July), don’t miss the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival, a multi-day event with top-tier music and a friendly, laid-back vibe.
Go tubing on the Methow River, or rent bikes and explore the Methow Trails, one of the largest cross-country trail systems in the country (and open for summer use too!).
Winthrop offers a rich mix of outdoor activities and cultural charm that makes it a trip highlight.
Day 6–7: Lake Chelan – Sun, Water & Wine Country
Drive south toward Lake Chelan, a 55-mile glacier-carved lake that’s perfect for two days of fun in the sun. Lake Chelan stretches like a sapphire ribbon through the heart of central Washington. Driving into the area feels like entering a hidden resort town where summer never quite ends where vineyards cascade down the hills, boats glide across the crystal-clear water, and the air is filled with the scent of pine and ripe fruit. Mornings are perfect for sipping coffee on the lakeshore, while afternoons invite adventure: paddleboarding across calm coves, tasting your way through the region’s award-winning wineries, or hopping on the ferry, Lady of the Lake, to remote Stehekin at the lake’s far end.
Things to Do:
Rent a boat or jet ski and explore the lake.
Enjoy Slidewaters Water Park for the day.
Visit Stehekin, a remote village accessible only by boat or seaplane.
Tour some of Washington’s best wineries there are just so many to choose from. A couple of our favorites are Nefarious Cellars or Rio Vista Wines.
Stay at:
Lake Chelan State Park – A popular, family-friendly campground with a beach.
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park – More remote and quieter, nestled on the lake’s western shore.
Lakeshore RV Park - Located right in downtown Chelan, full hook ups and great walkability to the downtown.
Learn more about this great destination, please visit Destinations: Lake Chelan
Day 8–9: Bavarian Beauty in Leavenworth
Your next stop is the alpine-style town of Leavenworth. This town is right in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. It's a charming Bavarian-style village that feels like a European escape with alpine architecture, flower-filled balconies, and the smell of fresh-baked pretzels wafting through the air, it’s a place where every season shines. In summer, the surrounding mountains invite hiking and river rafting; in winter, the town transforms into a snow-globe scene with twinkling lights and holiday magic. You can explore local shops, sip craft beer in a biergarten, or enjoy a mountain sunrise. Leavenworth is a storybook town that captures hearts year-round.
Highlights:
Stroll through town for German brats, beer steins, and specialty shops. We love the Cheesemonger and Cured for all things charcuterie.
Explore Icicle Gorge Trail or go river rafting on the Wenatchee River.
Don’t miss Leavenworth Reindeer Farm or catch a live show at the Leavenworth Summer Theater.
Where to Stay:
Icicle River RV Resort – Scenic and peaceful, surrounded by trees and river views.
Leavenworth KOA – Well-equipped and close to town.
From Oktoberfest vibes to summer festivals and winter magic, Leavenworth is a year-round favorite. For more information on this great mountain town, please check out our blog Destinations: Leavenworth.
Day 10: Return to Seattle – Memories in Tow
As your RV winds back toward Seattle, reflect on all you've experienced: glacial lakes, mountain peaks, vibrant towns, and quiet forest mornings. Once back in the city, return your RV and enjoy visit the Emerald City. Go back to the early days of the show and listen to Episode 26 or find the Hidden Gems as we chat with Find Me in Seattle on another episode. Both will have great information on places to go and where to eat in the city.
Bonus Tips Before You Go:
Book campsites in advance, especially in summer and early fall.
Use the Recreation.gov app to manage reservations.
Pack layers—the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
Download offline maps (cell service can be spotty in remote areas).
Check current highway conditions for the North Cascades.
Ready to Plan Your North Cascade Loop Road Trip?
This 10-day North Cascade Loop RV itinerary offers the ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. From exploring ancient forests and sipping wine by the lake to strolling through charming Bavarian-style towns, this journey captures the spirit of Washington State’s most wild and wonderful places.
🎧 Want the full story? Listen to Episode 45 of the show: Destinations – The North Cascade Loop for more behind-the-scenes details and personal stories from the road.
