Highway 20 is the state’s longest highway, spanning 436 miles from Discovery Bay on the Olympic Peninsula all the way to the Idaho border. Also known as the North Cascades Highway, most folks think about Highway 20 as the main route to reach the North Cascades National Park Complex and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. On Highway 20, you’ll find countless hikes, viewpoints and car campgrounds .
Grab a buddy, pack your gear and head out this summer — here are six hikes for all different levels. More Main Street and Ladder Creek Lane, Newhalem Round-trip distance: 0.3 miles Elevation gain: none Pass required: none This wheelchair-friendly nature trail makes for a great leg stretcher after a long day of driving — or the perfect starter hike for kids.
The trail is accessed via the Newhalem town center, where you can also find restrooms and a general store. Before even getting to the trail, cross over the Skagit River on a suspension bridge, which is fun for kids and adults alike. You’ll have a lot to take in in a short time — the loop trail will take you by a number of interpretive signs and also by the Gorge Powerhouse , all while passing by towering old growth.
Colonial Creek Campground, Highway 20 Round-trip distance: 3.6 miles Elevation gain: 635 feet Pass required: none This trail starts on the north side of Colonial Creek Campground, making this an ideal hike if you are camping there . Start by crossing the creek on a series of bridges; be sure to watch yo.
