Some of the amazing Fall scenery along the Cascade Loop.

The Cascade Loop, a 400-mile self-guided driving tour, leads from coastal lowlands north of Seattle into the forested, snow-capped peaks of the North Cascades, and across the high desert country of central Washington. Drive the route in autumn for sublime fall color dominated by bright yellows and golds of alder, ash, aspen, cottonwood and larch, all set against a backdrop of lush mountain lakes and deep green conifers. Fall is also harvest season for the nation's top apple-growing state.

When to Go

Given the wide range of elevation and climate along the loop, fall color peaks in different areas at different times. Leaves normally begin to turn in mid-September, with the most vivid color occuring early to mid-October. The apple harvest begins in late summer and continues through October.

Accommodations

It's best to allow a minimum of two or three days to drive the loop. Vacancies are plentiful this time of year, so free spirits need not make reservations. If you prefer to book ahead at a quaint B&B or rustic mountain lodge, search the online listings of the Washington Bed & Breakfast Guild and the Washington State Hotel & Lodging Association, or browse the accommodations links on the region pages of the Cascade Loop Association website below.

Dining

The fall salmon run brings plenty of fresh pink filets to Pacific Northwest dinner tables, and the apple harvest provides fruit for pies, cider and other dessert treats. Numerous breweries along the route serve special seasonal brews this time of year. If it's mealtime when you pass through the neo-Bavarian village of Leavenworth, be sure to sample the local German specialties.

What to Do

• Take a hike: Numerous spectacular trails are accessible from the route, including hikes in North Cascades National Park (360-856-5700), Wenatchee National Forest and Okanogan National Forest , both at 509-664-9200.

• Crunch an apple: The Wenatchee Valley below the eastern slopes of the Cascades is the heart of Washington's apple country. Stop by the Washington Apple Commission Visitors Center (509-663-9600) for information about local orchards.

• Buy some bulbs: The Skagit Valley north of Seattle is the largest producer of tulip bulbs outside of Holland, and fall is the time to buy and plant them. Retail nurseries in the area include Roozengaarde Flowers & Bulbs (866-488-5477) and Skagit Valley Bulb Farm (360-424-8152).

• Slip on your Lederhosen: Once a dying Northwest timber town, Leavenworth reinvented itself in the early 1960s as a Bavarian village as a way of attracting tourists. Bavarian architecture, bakeries, restaurants and shops fill the downtown business district, while the annual Oktoberfest features music, dancing and imported Munich bier. For more info visit Oktoberfest Leavenworth (509-548-7021).

Insider Tip

A 50-mile section of Highway 20 between Mazama and Newhalem closes annually from around mid-November until mid-April depending on the weather. Call 888-766-4636 for current road conditions.

Information

The Cascade Loop Association (509-662-3888) provides a detailed guide to the route, including maps, events listings, mileage table and general advice for travelers. Additional information is available from the Washington State Tourism website.

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