If you’re an RVer looking for a fall adventure full of colorful foliage, alpine lakes, and charming small towns, Washington’s Cascade Loop RV trip is the perfect choice. Stretching 400 miles through the “American Alps,” this route takes you past golden larches, jagged peaks, glaciated passes, and riverside villages. All of it ideal for RV travelers seeking flexible pacing and unforgettable scenery.
Cascade Loop RV trip—by sections, or all at once
You can drive the Cascade Loop RV trip in sections or complete the full loop in about five days, following this suggested path from Travel + Leisure. Add an extra day or two to hike, explore, or linger at scenic campgrounds along the way.
Day 1: Everett to Leavenworth
Start in Everett and head east toward the Bavarian-inspired village of Leavenworth. The drive along Stevens Pass Greenway delivers stunning mountain views and colorful fall foliage. Notable stops include scenic pullouts and Wallace Falls State Park, perfect for RV travelers to stretch their legs.
Leavenworth itself feels like a storybook village, with alpine-style streets lined with breweries, boutiques, and cozy cafes. Nearby RV parks make it easy to spend the night and enjoy the surrounding peaks.
Day 2: Leavenworth to Mazama
From Leavenworth, the road winds through farmland and vineyards. Stop in Wenatchee Valley, the Apple Capital of the World, for local wines and orchard views. Continue to Lake Chelan for a lakeside picnic or a quick dip (well, maybe in summer), then into the Methow Valley, where golden fields stretch toward the mountains and hot air balloons sometimes drift overhead.
End the day in Winthrop, a Western-themed town with wooden boardwalks and historic storefronts. Nearby RV-friendly campgrounds make it easy to spend the night under the stars.
Day 3: North Cascades National Park
The North Cascades Scenic Highway is the highlight of any Cascade Loop RV trip. Explore more than 300 glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged peaks soaring more than 9,000 feet. Washington’s golden larches blaze among evergreens, creating one of the most stunning fall displays in the country.
RVers should plan carefully—there’s no cell service, gas, or restaurants inside the park. Take your time to stop at Washington Pass Overlook, Ross Lake, and Diablo Lake, and enjoy short hikes like Ladder Creek Falls Trail to stretch your legs. During the federal shutdown, the park “is as open as possible,” says its website, but services may be limited.
Day 4: North Cascades to Anacortes
Leaving the mountains, you’ll drive through the fertile Skagit Valley, then continue to Anacortes on Fidalgo Island. Stroll the marina, sample fresh seafood, and enjoy panoramic views from Cap Sante Park. RV-friendly campgrounds nearby make it easy to spend the night before exploring the San Juan Islands or taking a whale-watching tour.
Day 5: Anacortes to Everett
On the final leg, cross the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, one of Washington’s most photographed landmarks. Continue south through Whidbey Island, stopping at farm stands, beaches, and scenic pullouts. A short ferry ride returns you to the mainland, completing your Cascade Loop RV trip.
Whether you’re chasing fall colors, alpine lakes, or storybook towns, this RV-friendly fall road trip offers flexible pacing, scenic campgrounds, and endless photo opportunities. Washington’s American Alps are calling—and your RV is the perfect way to answer.
RELATED
- View elk and autumn colors in Montana from your RV
- Quirky fall festivals worth an RV trip
- Planning a fall getaway? These six U.S. national parks are must-visit destinations
- Top 10 fall foliage RV road trips
RVT1231
Thanks for the tips Russ and Tina, Washington state is on our bucket list and this will help with inspiration and planning!