5 of the Most Scenic Washington Views That Are Just Steps from Your Car
Just Stretch Your Legs:
As much fun as trekking into the wilderness can be, those same mountain views that are so attractive during the summer can seem more harsh and inaccessible during the colder months. However, some of the most spectacular views Washington has to offer are just a few steps from the road! So whether you are looking for a departure point for a nice walk, or just looking for a good place to get out of the car and stretch your legs on the way to your final destination, these 5 scenic views are easily accessible, and totally worth it.
Diablo Lake Overlook
Diablo Pass & Washington Pass Overlooks
In the beautiful North Cascades there are dozens of beautiful views that you can enjoy no more than a few steps from the road. Diablo Lake overlook stands out as one of the most stunning of these pullouts, and is a must-visit if you ever find yourself driving along Highway 20. This makes for a great place to stop and stretch out your legs, offers ample parking, as well as restrooms and a small picnic area. There are several interpretive signs to help inform you about the beautiful sights as you take them in. Since this view is just off the road, it makes a great destination during all months, but be sure to be mindful of snow on the road during the winter! Also situated along the North Cascades Highway is the unforgettable Washington Pass overlook, which marks the North Cascades Highway’s highest point, and marks the dividing line between Western and Eastern Washington. The rest area here has several amenities including restrooms, picnic spots, and interpretive signs. It is just a short quarter-mile jaunt along a gentle paved trail to the overlook itself. This spot offers breathtaking views of the 8,000 foot spires that are the commanding Liberty Bell Group of peaks. There are several short walking loops that depart from the parking area if you are looking for a bit more of a walk, but this spot offers stunning views no matter the time of year so don’t be afraid to visit even if you stay close to the warmth of your car when it’s cold out!
Washington Pass Overlook
Map & Directions
From Twisp, drive east on the North Cascades Highway (SR 20) for 20 miles to the Gorge Lake Bridge. Cross the bridge, and continue for another 1.5 miles, then turn left onto Diablo Dam Road. The road will be signed for the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center. Stay on the road and cross the dam, and in a little more than a mile you will arrive at the end of the road and the trailhead.
Palouse Falls
I think by most standards of the term, Palouse Falls definitely qualifies as what you could call a “hidden gem.” It is a striking and awe-inspiring geologic feature located in the southeastern part of the state, a little over an hour from Pasco, Walla Walla, or Sprague. If you find yourself nearby, it is definitely worth a trip, even if you are interested in just seeing the falls from the parking area, which offers a stunning view all by itself. However, if the weather is nice I highly recommend taking at least a full afternoon to enjoy exploring the connected trail that allows you to not only appreciate some of the unique geology of the area and ford the Palouse River, but to practically stand at the mouth of these magnificent 200’ high roaring falls themselves, which is a really special way to experience the natural beauty of this area. Parking requires either a Discover Pass or the purchase of a day pass.
Directions
Palouse falls is in Eastern Washington Between the Tri-Cities and Lewiston. Past the town of Washtucna you will see signs for Palouse Falls State Park. Find the park on the Northwest Portal summer recreation map and get directions here.
Hurricane Ridge Scenic Overlook
Hurricane Ridge is another must-see scenic overlook, and is considered to be one of the most easily accessible mountain areas in Olympic National Park. Hurricane Ridge Road is open throughout the summer, and in the winter is open only on the weekends (Friday-Sunday). All vehicles must carry tire chains in the winter months. No matter what season you visit, prepare yourself for wonderful panoramic views that offer some of the best sights of Olympic National Park. If you are looking to explore the area and take in even more of the beautiful surrounding mountains there are several paved and unpaved trails available that leave from the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center.
Directions
Hurricane Ridge is located 17 miles south of Port Angeles on Hurricane Ridge Road, off Mount Angeles Road. Find it on the map here.
Guler Ice Caves
While there is no doubt that the sweeping landscapes of Washington are stunning, they are also quite plentiful. If you are a long-time Washington resident, you may be somewhat accustomed to all the peaks and valleys of the Washington mountain ranges. However, a little rarer is getting the chance to visit some of the amazing caves that can be found throughout the state. One of particular interest is the Guler Ice Caves, located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. These amazing lava tubes are part of a system of caves and tubes radiating out from Mount Adams, and were formed less than 20,000 years ago. The Guler Ice Caves are of special note, because this 650-foot formation harbors beautiful natural ice structures almost year round. Frigid air gets trapped in the lower eastern edge of the cave which creates this interesting phenomenon. Unlike other similar tubes in the area, the Guler Ice Caves can be accessed year round, although in the winter time it is best accessed by snowshoe or cross country ski, and coming from Atkinson Sno-Park. A NW Forest Pass is required for access.
Directions
From Trout Lake, Washington, drive west on Highway 141/Forest Road 24 for about 5 miles. After crossing the forest boundary travel about a mile to the well-signed turn on to spur road 031 that goes to the ice cave. Find the caves on the map here.
