No matter how you feel about Washington’s urban areas, there is no denying that city driving simply is not fun. In fact, there’s nothing quite like a peaceful drive down a rural highway to make you appreciate the beauty of our state and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Skykomish River Valley is full of the lush green beauty Washington is known for, and there are plenty of hidden gems along this route that can easily be completed in a day. This is one of the best road trips in Washington.

Google Maps

1. The charming little city of Monroe makes a great starting point for your adventure.

Monroe, WA, USA
Matt Davis / Flickr
Monroe sits at the confluence of the Skykomish, Snohomish, and Snoqualmie rivers near the Cascade foothills, and it is incredibly peaceful.

Take a look at this drone footage of Monroe by @jovayvisionss3887. You'll see why it's such a great stop along any of your Washington road trips:
While you're in Monroe, make sure to make a pit stop at Sky River Bakery.
Sky River Bakery, 117 W Main St, Monroe, WA 98272, USA
Sky River Bakery / Facebook
The small mom-and-pop spot has been on Main Street for almost three decades, and the pastries and coffee are divine. Head to the Sky River Bakery website to learn more.

2. Cruise down US-2 until you reach the quiet little town of Gold Bar.

Gold Bar, WA, USA
SoulRider.222 / Flickr
Gold Bar is often used as a jumping-off point for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Visit the City of Gold Bar website for more information.

Take a look at this drone footage of Gold Bar by @northernpeak9115:

3. Speaking of outdoors, you'll definitely want to stretch your legs at Wallace Falls State Park while you're here.

Wallace Falls State Park, 14503 Wallace Lake Road, Gold Bar, WA 98251, USA
Niccie King / Flickr
Wallace Falls State Park is a hiker's paradise, and it's chock-full of rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. Learn more about Wallace Falls State Park.

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4. Next, you'll reach the tiny town of Index, home to less than 200 people...

Index, WA, USA
Eric Friedebach / Flickr
... and if you see this building, stop immediately, even if you're not craving a coffee drink.
Espresso Chalet, 50000 Stevens Pass Hwy, Gold Bar, WA 98251, USA
Espresso Chalet / Facebook
Espresso Chalet, a Bigfoot-themed coffee shop, is harboring one of Washington's deepest secrets.
Simply step up to the back patio and you'll find an observation deck with some of the most remarkable views.
Espresso Chalet / Facebook
On a clear day, you can see Mt. Index easily. Read more about Espresso Chalet.

5. The last big stop before you hit Stevens Pass is Skykomish.

Skykomish, WA 98288, USA
Jasperdo / Flickr
This is one of the most rural towns in rural Washington, which is really saying a lot.
Skykomish was founded as a railroad town, and parts of its past can still be spotted throughout the area.
Jasperdo / Flickr
This is a perfect place to fill up your gas tank, get some snacks, and look at the surrounding scenic hills.

Take a look at this drone footage of Skykomish by @the1waystreet4u:

Doesn’t this road trip look enticing? It certainly does to me! If you keep driving down US-2 you’ll eventually hit Leavenworth, but you’ll have a great time on this route even if you don’t go over the pass.

Are you ready for some of the best road trips in Washington? Before you head out, make sure you check out our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List and don’t forget the snacks.

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More to Explore

Road Trips In Washington

Melissa M. | December 11, 2023

What are some other road trips in Washington I can take?

You may know how much we love our road trips here at OnlyInYourState and have created numerous road trip itineraries over the years. Check out a selection of some of the best road trips in Washington State:

  • If you only have one day then take a 1-Day Road Trip In Washington.
  • Take the 3-Day Weekend Road Trip in Washington if you want a fun getaway.
  • For coastal views, take the Washington Coast Road Trip.
  • For those who love natural and man-made wonders, you can embark on our Road Trip To Washington Landmarks & Natural Wonders.
  • We also have road trips for each season!

For routes and itineraries for these and more, check out our list of Ultimate Road Trips In Washington.

What are some of the must-see natural wonders in Washington State?

Discovering hidden gems makes traveling all the more exciting. Here are some of the must-see natural wonders in Washington State:

  • Mt. Rainier
  • Diablo Lake
  • Dry Falls
  • Hoh Rainforest

Take a look at more natural wonders in Washington.

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