The Mountain Loop

If you’re looking for the ultimate scenic road trip, you’ve come to the right place.

Explore the Mountain Loop Highway, a 90+ mile loop via old railways, now a scenic byway. Expect stunning alpine lakes, ghost towns, towering timbers, and sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains #TruePNW style. A few can't miss stops along the way are- Mt Pilchuck, the Big Four Ice Caves, and the ghost town of Monte Cristo.

Check out the resources section below for information on passes, offline navigation, and tips for recreating responsibly.

How Will You Mountain Loop?

The Mountain Loop Highway is about as “far out” into the PNW wilderness as you can get on four wheels.A car camping dream spot. Expect to see breathtaking beauty. This route is also known as the Mountain Loop Scenic Byway. Byway as in, you don’t really need to go there. And maybe that’s the whole point: it’s out there just to be enjoyed.

With so much to see and do, we've cued up a few of our favorite Mountain Loop itineraries to get you headed in the right direction.

Your PNW Mountain Weekend Starts Here
Mountain Loop Highway
Explore the Mountain Loop

Arlington | Darrington | Granite Falls

Mt Pilchuck | Verlot | Lake 22 | Big Four Ice Caves | Heather Lake | Monte Cristo Ghost Town | North Mountain Fire Lookout | North Mountain MTB Trails | Verlot Ranger Station | Darrington Ranger Station | Granite Falls AirBnB Cabins | Mountain Loop Campgrounds | Northwest Forest Pass | Discover Pass | Seattle Paine Field International Airport

Lyla's Cafe | Omega Pizza & Pasta | Playa Bonita Mexican Restaurant | Granite Falls Ace Hardware | I.G.A Market | Granite Falls Historical Museum

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Resources for Recreating Responsibly

Recreating Responsibly is more than a reminder to stay on designated trails, to pack out what we pack in, or to minimize human impact on our natural resources and surroundings. To us, it’s a commitment – some might say an obligation – to preserve and protect, repair and restore, and to leave Mother Nature in a better state than we found it. It’s a way of life for those of us who call Seattle NorthCountry home, and we ask and expect the same from those who visit. Please enjoy responsibly!

Thank You

OUTDOOR BEST PRACTICES

10 OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS

The Mountain Loop Tour App

Download the “Mountain Loop Tour” from the App Store or Google Play. It covers trailhead information, campgrounds, historic sites, and other attractions on the Mountain Loop and will provide geo-alerts and driving directions, even when there is no cell service.

Pro Tip: many areas on the Mountain Loop have limited or no cell phone service, so download the app before you go.

Seattle NorthCountry Hiking Guide

A guide to some of the best hikes in the PNW. Hikes on National Forest lands require a Northwest Forest Pass at the trailhead. Be sure to purchase before you hit the trail. Hikes on State Park lands require a Discover Pass. These are good at all state parks, DNR lands, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife properties. Purchase online here.

Download Guide

Stories From the Mountain Loop

The mountains are calling. There are endless peaks and trails waiting to be explored, alpine lakes to be discovered, cozy cabins and yurts to unwind in after a day of adventure. Soak in the spectacular views or soak in the hot tub, you choose!

A Weekend In Granite Falls
Meet Mount Pilchuck
A Weekend In Darrington
Field Report: Robe Canyon
Field Report: Lake 22
North Mountain: Climb to the Lookout and Help Preserve It
Pride Month Profiles: Paca Pride Guest Ranch
A Weekend In Arlington