Visiting Washington Cascades

The Washington Cascade Range divides Washington state, leaving lush evergreen forests and the pacific coast to the east and two thirds of the state west of the mountains. Washington’s Columbia River Gorge is the only significant break in the US Cascades, providing drainage for the Columbia River Plateau and an important transportation passage. Mount Baker near the Canadian border is the northern most peak, followed by other notable peaks like Mount Rainier, Mount St Helens and Mount Adams. Mount Rainier, the most prominent peak in the Cascade Range, looms in the distance outside Seattle. Mount Baker east of Bellingham is one of the snowiest places in the world.

North Cascades National Park and Mount Baker are the most well-known geography in the Northern Cascades which also includes Chelan, Hidden and Ross Lakes among the amazing wilderness attractions. The Mt Baker Ski and Snow Board Resort is winding down its summer and fall fun and gearing up for the 2010 – 2011 season. Mt Baker receives the largest snowfall amounts for any resort worldwide. Remember if you have children, the resort offers a 5th graders ski free program for area youngsters.

Athletes can enjoy the cool October weather at the 2010 RunningShoes.com Duathlon around Padden lake in Bellingham. This is a great event for Mountain Bike enthusiasts featuring a six mile ride between two 2.6 mile runs. Travelers can enjoy accommodations at the Best Western Heritage Inn or the Best Western Lakeway Inn in Bellingham. Conveniently located near Interstate 5, these hotels offer easy access to Mount Baker and the Bellingham area.

Leavenworth, east of Mt Baker on the Cascade’s eastern slope, is a charming Bavarian inspired community created to inspire visitors with its beautiful surroundings. With a schedule full of events and activities, Leavenworth draws visitors all seasons. October brings a traditional Oktoberfest to town and for athletes, the Oktoberfest Marathon. You can get a jump on holiday shopping at Leavenworth’s November Christkindlmarkt at City Park. December is the nationally acclaimed Christmas Lighting Festival that turns the town into a holiday wonderland. The Best Western Icicle Inn in Leavenworth is a full service resort and ideal for lodging. Visit Leavenworth and enjoy a Bavarian experience at the Best Western Icicle Inn.

Cle Elum and Roslyn are nestled at the foot of the eastern slopes of the Cascades, southeast of Seattle on Interstate 90. Gateway cities to the outstanding outdoor wilderness of the Cascades, the cities offer events to entertain visitors year round. October festivities include the Cle Elum Eagles Halloween Costume Party, the downtown Halloween parade and Roslyn’s Harvest Party. The Winterfest in Roslyn in November and December brings the magic of the holidays to town. Downtown Cle Elum hosts a Parade of Lights early December and don’t miss Santa’s Christmas Eve visit to Roslyn. Have a holiday getaway at the Best Western Snowcap Lodge in Cle Elum and enjoy the festivities along with warm and comfortable accommodations.

Washington Cascades Hotel Map