Every time I drive the North Cascades Highway I ask myself: why don't I do this more often? This drive is absolutely spectacular, as it winds up from the river lowlands into the mountainous North Cascades National Park, along streams, trails and the gorgeous Diablo Lake. It's a drive to be savored, not rushed, and I like to take as much time as I can to hit the pull-outs and side trails where marvelous vistas can be found. My two favorite spots to stop are the Diablo Lake overlook with it's ahhhhmazing views over the turquoise-colored waters of the lake. This lookout seems to always be windy, so if you go on a cooler day it's wise to have a sweatshirt nearby. My second fave stop is Washington Pass Overlook, which is a little quieter and requires a short, level hike to a phenomenal overlook on top of a cliff (don't worry, there's a railing). If you keep walking past the overlook, there's a bit of climbing on the trail but also more gorgeous vistas. Shortly the trail winds back down to the parking lot, where there are some nice picnic tables to enjoy lunch. The North Cascades Highway is best enjoyed when you have time to camp out for a night or two and take some of the many day hikes in the area. Or, keep going until you get to the quaintly themed "cowboy" town of Winthrop, which sort of marks the unofficial eastern terminus of the NCH. However you do the NCH, just do it - it's got to be one of the most spectacular drives in the USA! read more

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We rented a supercar in Seattle and wanted to do this whole drive but it's closed this time of year. We were able to drive to Diablo Lake though and it was a great drive. We will definitely come back when the whole loop is open and so it in our vehicle. What a beautiful day, drive and trip to Diablo. read more