Getting Oriented

Former logging towns, nestled in the shadow of Mt. Baker to the north, line the upper ring of the Cascade Loop, encircling a vast series of national forests fanning north and east from Seattle. The ridges and valleys of the Cascade Range form the heart of this region, a mecca for skiers, snowshoers, white-water river rafters, campers, hikers, mountain bikers, and other adventurers drawn to its natural beauty. Fjordlike Lake Chelan reaches into the wilderness from the eastern edge of the loop. The alpine area is anchored by the orchards surrounding Wenatchee to the southeast, where the Columbia River forms a natural border between north-central and eastern Washington.

• North Cascades. West of Washington Pass, Highway 20 winds around the northern shore of Diablo Lake and southern tip of Ross Lake, continuing through the former cement-manufacturing town of Concrete and fertile Skagit Valley pastures. The route offers breathtaking views of snowcapped peaks, summer wildflowers, and fall foliage. Snowfall closes the pass from November to April, cutting the valley off from Okanogan County, which includes Old West–style Winthrop and the riverfront town of Twisp in the Methow Valley.
• Central Cascades. This picturesque region encompasses not only the resort town and fjordlike Lake Chelan, but also the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth and Wenatchee, self-proclaimed "Apple Capital of Washington," surrounded by orchards. Bordered by the Columbia River to the east, this stretch offers the ultimate in outdoor experiences, from boating and mountain biking to hiking and fishing, as well as plenty of outposts at which to relax and recoup.