Experience Americas Most Treasured Roads
Full Video Tour: Chinook Scenic Byway
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DAY ONE
Seattle
Though the area was inhabited by the Salish Peoples for thousands of years before the first European settlers, in 1851, Arthur A. Denny and his team named the city Seattle in honor of Chief Si’ahl of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes. Seattle city enjoyed a brief but robust logging industry before turning towards shipbuilding, later finding itself the commercial gateway to Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890’s. Nearly one hundred years later, technology became the driving force in the area with software, biotechnology, and Internet companies leading the way. Today, the city remains one of the country’s fastest-growing cities and both visitors and residents relish their time in a dynamic urban environment surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.
Pike Place Market
Come hungry and leave room in your luggage for more. As one of the largest and oldest continually operating public markets in the country, this nine-acre historic district offers over 500 different restaurants, fresh farm goods, specialty foods, artists and craftspeople, small independent businesses, and buskers. Find antique dealers, comic book shops, small family-owned cafes, fishmongers, produce stands, florists, jewelers, home decor, and more.
85 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101, 206-682-7453 Daily 9AM-6PM, some business hours vary.
Klondike Gold Rush Museum
Visit here to learn about Seattle’s role in the great Klondike Gold Rush. Located in the historic Cadillac Hotel building, two floors of interactive displays transport you to the late 1800’s where you can hear about prospector’s journey to northern parts unknown, how the gold rush gave new life to Seattle, and whether or not you would have struck it rich had you been part of the frenzy. Three different films showcase the adventures of Klondike explorers and rotating exhibits feature area art, history, and culture.
319 2nd Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98104, 206-220-4240 F-Sun 10AM-5PM.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Hotel Theodore 1531 Seventh Avenue Seattle, WA 98101, 206-621-1200
An historic 1929 hotel with warm and modern rooms, free Wi-fi, and complimentary tea, coffee, and wine tasting.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Lowell’s Restaurant 1519 Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101, 206-622-2036 Have breakfast, lunch or dinner with a side of gorgeous waterfront views.
Pike Place Chowder 1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101, 206-267-2537 Beloved local counter-service joint serving traditional and specialty chowders and seafood rolls.
2120 Restaurant 2120 Sixth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121, 206-829-8700 Contemporary restaurant offering inventive New American fare, cocktails, and local wine with patio seating.
Destination Distinctive Retail
Simply Seattle 1600 First Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, 206-448-2207 A one-stop-shop for Seattle-themed artwork, clothing, food, and other memorabilia.
The Handmade Showroom 600 Pine Street #330, Seattle, WA 98101, 206-623-0504 Featuring gifts by over 150 independent artists and designers from the Pacific Northwest.
Fireworks Gallery 400 Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98101, 206-682-6462 Local shop with Northwest-themed jewelry, home decor, toys, gifts, and more.
DAY TWO
Enumclaw
The word Enumclaw is derived from a Salish word meaning“place of evil spirits” in reference to Enumclaw Mountain, occasionally roiled with powerful windstorms from the east. After the city was homesteaded by Frank and Mary Stevenson in 1879, the Northern Pacific Railroad routed the transcontinental mainline right through the site in 1885. The Stevensons filed a plat and built a hotel, starting the bustling historic town center.
Enumclaw Public Library
Stop by the library to see the Logging Legacy Memorial, featuring a logger guiding a team of oxen, designed by local artist Dan Snider to honor the 8,000 individuals who have died in Washington State’s logging industry. Exhibit information describes the area’s timber heritage.
1700 First Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-825-2045, Th-Sat & M 10AM-5PM, Tu-W 1PM-8PM.
Pinnacle Peak Park
This 375-acre park surrounds Pinnacle Peak, a volcanic cone that rises directly out of the surrounding Enumclaw farmlands. Four miles of trails run throughout the park. Take the Cal Magnusson trail, a steep one-mile forested trail that climbs 1,000 feet to the top of the 1,800-foot cone for spectacular views of the north side of Mt. Rainier and the White River Valley.
26838 SE 481st Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 206-477-4527.
Thunder Dome Car Museum
Thunder Dome, the area’s premium car museum, is a car lover’s dream. A rotating collection of classic, vintage, and imported cars is on view, including a 1921 Model T Fire Truck, a 1964 Falcon Sprint, the Boss 429 Mustang, and race legend Sam Auxier Jr.’s Ford racing rig. A throwback “drive-in” bar offers light refreshments.
1920 Garrett Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-802-8964, Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun 10AM-4PM.
Mud Mountain Dam Park
Built to protect the lower White and Puyallup River Valleys from flooding caused by heavy rains and melting snow, when Mud Mountain Dam was completed in 1948, it was the highest rock and earth-filled dam in the world. It works by holding back water in the reservoir and slowly releasing it back into the river. The area surrounding the dam is now a popular park for picnicking, views of the dam, and hiking and biking in a scenic woodland setting.
30525 SE Mud Mountain Road, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-825-3211 M-F 9AM-4PM.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
40228 278th Way SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-625-8071 Escape the city and hustled life while you nestle yourself among the foothills of the Cascades with a majestic mountain view from your room.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Kettle 1666 Garrett Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-825-7033 Cozy, laid-back diner with American homestyle classics and surprisingly large breakfasts.
The Lee Restaurant and Lounge 1110 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-825-3761 Family-owned eatery serving breakfasts, burgers, pastas, salads, and more, for over 50 years.
Griffin & Wells Cafe 1239 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-226-3084 A rustic restaurant for standard American bistro fare and outdoor seating.
Destination Distinctive Retail
This-N-That 1523 Cole Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-825-1120 A unique country-themed store selling home and garden decor and gifts for all occasions.
DAY THREE
Federation Forest State Park
In 1928, the Washington Chapter of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs became concerned about the rapid pace of deforestation around the country and raised money to purchase the initial land for this park from a lumber company. The Federation Forest State Park now encompasses 574 acres of old-growth forest of Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, Sitka Spruce, and Western Red Cedar trees that provide excellent hiking, birdwatching, and fishing opportunities. There are nearly 12 miles of easy to moderate trails, picnic facilities, and an interpretive center surrounded by a native plant garden.
49201 WA-410, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-902-8844 Daily 8AM-Dusk, $10/vehicle.
Greenwater
A charming community with an eclectic personality located in a densely forested wilderness, Greenwater was a stop on the historic Naches Trail used by 19th century settlers. The area is now known for its access to exceptional outdoor recreation activities as well as the perfect place along the Chinook Scenic Byway to stop and stretch your legs.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Naches Tavern 58411 WA-410, Enumclaw, WA 98022, 360-663-2267 A family-friendly restaurant serving a wide variety of lunch and dinner entrees.
Skookum Falls Viewpoint
A highway pullout along the Chinook Scenic Byway offers a stunning view of the 250-foot Skookum Falls, named for a Chinook word meaning “evil spirit.”
Approximately 27.1 miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410.
Scenic Day Hikes
The Chinook Scenic Byway provides excellent access to some of the White River Valley’s best day hikes. You probably won’t have time for all of them, but here are four suggested hikes that may appeal to a variety of interests and abilities:
Skookum Falls
An easy 4.2-mile roundtrip hike on a mostly flat trail follows the White River upstream to reach the base of Skookum Falls. The trail may be wet in the springtime; this is also a popular trail for mountain bikers and people with dogs. Trailhead is located approximately 25.5 miles east of Enumclaw on
WA-410 and FS-7315 (Huckleberry Creek Road).
Snoquera Falls
A moderate 4.2-mile loop through lush, forested trail to Snoquera Falls, a striking fantail cascade that plunges down a sheer rock wall. Trailhead is located approximately 28.5 miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410, look for the Camp Sheppard Boy Scout Camp Trailhead.
Goat Falls
An easy 1.0-mile roundtrip hike that parallels Goat Creek as it leads to Goat Falls, a 10-foot waterfall surrounded by mossy boulders. Trailhead is located approximately 31.7 miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410 and FS-7174 (Coal Pass Road).
Sun Top Lookout
A short but steep 1-mile round trip hike that leads to a fire lookout on top of Suntop Mountain used during World War II in the U.S. Army Aircraft Warning System. At an elevation of 5,270 feet, on a clear day, the views extend for miles. Trailhead is located approximately 25.5 miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410 and 6.2 miles south on FS-7315.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Crystal Mountain Resort, 33723 Crystal Mountain Road, Enumclaw, WA 98022 350-663-2262
Slope side lodging, great dining, and relaxing in the outdoors.
DAY FOUR
Mt. Rainier National Park
Peeking out from Washington’s iconic landscape is Mt. Rainier, the highest point in the Cascade Range, is an active volcano, and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. The mountain and its surrounding areas were designated a National Park in 1899, now allowing visitors to safely explore over 235,000 acres of valleys, waterfalls, subalpine wildflower meadows, and ancient forest.
First stop, the Sunrise Visitor Center at the White River entrance. With an elevation of 6,400 feet, Sunrise is the highest point in the park that can be reached by vehicle. The Visitor Center features exhibits, interpretive programs, a picnic area, and access to subalpine lake hikes, as well as breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and Emmons Glacier and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
From there, you’ll get back on WA-410 and travel south on WA-123 to the Stevens Canyon entrance and the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, located in the southeast corner of the park, featuring exhibits, guided programs, a bookshop, and access to lower elevation hikes through waterfalls and an old-growth forest. Further on, you’ll discover Box Canyon and travel over to the Paradise area. The Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise is the park’s main visitor center with exhibits, guided ranger programs, an informational film, gift shop, and cafeteria, and access to higher elevation hikes, wildflower meadows, and glorious views, and finally on to the Longmire Historic District for your accommodations for the evening at the National Park Inn. The Longmire section of Mt. Rainier was once home to the park’s original headquarters and has since been designated a National Historic District. Located in the southwest corner of the park, the Longmire Museum tells the story of the early days of the park along with exhibits and other historic information, while the Wilderness Information Center provides wilderness permits and access to lower elevation hikes.
39000 State Route 706 East, Ashford, WA 98304, 360-569-2211. The park is open year-round, though Visitor Centers hours may vary. Call ahead for current road and facility status. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, and all vehicles are required to carry tire chains from Nov 1-May 1. $30 per vehicle.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
National Park Inn 47009 Paradise Rd East, Ashford, WA 98304, 360-569-2411 A rustic lodge located in Mt. Rainier National Park’s Longmire Historic District of Mt. Rainier National Park. Rustic rooms are equipped with the essentials, and there is a full-service restaurant and grocery store on site offering panoramic mountain views.
DAY FIVE
Chinook Pass
This morning as you get back on WA-410, the road reaches its highest peak at the crest of the Cascade Range, a point known as Chinook Pass. The summit, located above the tree line, offers unparalleled and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The Pass is also a trailhead to the Pacific Crest Trail, a long-distance trail that runs the entire length of the United States. Restrooms, information, and parking areas are available.
Located just east of the junction of WA-410 and SR-123. The pass is usually closed between November and mid-May.
Tipsoo Lake
An alpine lake in the middle of the Cascade Mountains, at an elevation of 5298 feet above sea level, Tipsoo Lake delivers a picture-perfect view of Mount Rainier reflected in the lake’s still waters. In one of the most photographed landscapes in the United States, there’s a flat trail for a relaxing stroll around the lake. Restrooms and picnic tables are also available.
Approximately 0.6 miles south of Chinook Pass on WA-410.
Naches Peak Loop Trail
Experience lush valleys, alpine lakes, grassy meadows, and fresh mountain air on this moderate 3.5-mile trail with memorable views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Wildlife sightings are common, including marmots, elk, and deer. Walking in a clockwise direction keeps Mount Rainier in view for much of the hike.
Follow signs for the trail from Chinook Pass.
Bumping Lake
This reservoir and lake are a popular recreational stop along the Chinook Scenic Byway, with hiking and mountain biking trails, swimming, fishing, boat launches, and camping facilities in a picturesque mountain setting.
Approximately 13.2 miles south on NF-1800 (Bumping River Road) and WA-410.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Whistlin’ Jack Lodge 20800 WA-410, Naches, WA 98937, 509-658-2433 An all-season resort located on the banks of the scenic Naches River with lodging options that include RV sites, cottages, and a lodge, restaurant, bar, convenience store, and gas station.
DAY SIX
Cliffdell
This quiet community surrounded by the Wenatchee National Forest was originally named Spring Flats, but renamed in 1920 to honor Cliff and Della Schott, friends of homesteader Russell Davison who helped develop the town. Cliffdell was also the site of an 1855 army camp.
Oak Creek Wildlife Area
One of the best locations in the country for viewing elk, the Oak Creek Wildlife Area boasts over 94,000 acres of mountain ridges, conifer forests, and bluebunch wheatgrass. An interpretive center with a large viewing area provides a safe platform for visitors of all ages to watch the daily feedings, and a Visitor Center offers exhibits and a kid’s corner.
16601 US-12, Naches, WA 98937, 509-698-5106 Visitor Center open daily 9AM-4PM, Donations accepted.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Gold Creek Station 18431 WA-410, Naches, WA 98937, 509-658-2583 A comfortable restaurant and saloon with breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including world famous fish and chips.
Naches
This tiny town, the official end point of the Chinook Scenic Byway, was settled in 1853 when members of the Longmire wagon train decided the region’s warm, dry climate was more attractive than the rainy coast of the Pacific northwest. Today, Naches enjoys a reputation as a gateway to both the wild forests of the Cascades and the Yakima Valley wineries and fruit orchards.
Naches Heights Vineyard
This vineyard’s unique volcanic soils combine with the area’s unusually high elevations to produce some of the most interesting wines in Washington State. Tours of the gorgeous vineyard landscape are available, as well as tastings of wines like their crisp Albarino, crowd-pleasing Red Blend, and their dark and sultry Syrah.
1857 Weikel Road, Yakima, WA 98908, 509-945-4062, Hours may vary.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
The Hotel Maison 321 East Yakima Avenue, Yakima, WA 98901, 509-571-1900 Understated rooms in a historic 1911 building with free Wi-fi and complimentary breakfast and 24-hour tea.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Mel’s Diner 314 North First Street, Yakima, WA 98901, 509-248-5382 Local favorite offering classic American comfort food, homemade soups, and the best milkshakes in town.
Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar 202 East Yakima Avenue, Yakima, WA 98901, 509-457-2007 Sleek and modern hotspot serving craft cocktails and classic food with a twist.
Miner’s Drive-In Restaurant 2415 South First Street, Yakima, WA 98903, 509-457-8194 A classic burger joint serving jumbo patties and shakes since 1948.
Destination Distinctive Retail
Fiddlesticks 1601 Summitview Avenue, Yakima, WA 98902, 509-452-7718 Locally-owned gift shop featuring home and seasonal decor, clothing, jewelry, art, gourmet food, and much more.
Larson Gallery 1606 West Nob Hill Boulevard, Yakima, WA 98902, 509-574-4875 A cooperative featuring shows and exhibits from over 60 local artists.