Chinook Panoramic Road

The Chinook Panoramic Road is a 219 km trip starting in Tacoma and ending in Yakima, both located in the United States. This trip is best done in 1 day and can be enjoyed any time of the year. The journey begins in Tacoma, and then moves through Enumclaw, where you can enjoy the views of the Cascade Mountains. After that, you'll pass Tipsoo Lake, where you can take in the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The road conditions along the route are generally good, although some sections may be curvy. Please be aware that seasonal road closures may occur due to weather conditions. This is an excellent road trip for all drivers, and can be managed on a moderate budget. So come and enjoy the stunning views of the Chinook Panoramic Road!

Tacoma is a great starting point for your road trip along the Chinook Panoramic Road. Located in Washington State in the United States, Tacoma is a vibrant city filled with a plethora of attractions and sights to explore. Start your journey by visiting the Museum of Glass. Here, you’ll be able to admire the works of some of the most renowned glass blowers in the world. After that, take a short drive to Point Defiance Park, where you can enjoy a stroll in the nature, go for a swim in the beach, or even feed the seals. For a more cultural experience, check out the Washington State History Museum, where you will learn more about the unique and fascinating history of the area. If you are traveling to Tacoma by air, the closest international airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (IATA code SEA), where you can rent a car to start your road trip. Once you have your car, you can easily explore the region and the Chinook Panoramic Road without any hassle. Tacoma is the perfect starting point for your road trip, offering plenty of interesting sights and activities for all to enjoy.

Welcome to an amazing journey from Tacoma to Enumclaw! This 26mi-long road trip will take you less than an hour to complete and will offer you some of the most breathtaking views you have ever seen. Start your journey in Tacoma, where you can visit the Museum of Glass, the Washington State History Museum, and the Tacoma Art Museum. As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for the scenic roads that will lead you to Enumclaw. Here, you can explore the Enumclaw Plateau, take a stroll through the Enumclaw Salmon Hatchery, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. This is just one of the stages of an unforgettable journey, and more information about attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the Itinerary. So, get ready for an amazing road trip from Tacoma to Enumclaw!

Embark on a 44-mile journey from Enumclaw, United States to Tipsoo Lake, and take in the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Rainier National Park. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the lush green forests, meadows and cascading waterfalls that make this area so special. As you drive, be sure to take in the scenic roads, which wind through the park and offer stunning views of the towering mountains. As you make your way through the park, be aware that some sections may be closed seasonally, so plan accordingly. Once you reach Tipsoo Lake, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Mt. Rainier and the surrounding area. It’s a sight you won’t soon forget. The journey will take you less than an hour to complete, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the park and its attractions. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Embark on a road trip from Tipsoo Lake to Yakima and experience the beauty of the Cascade Mountains. The journey of 65 miles should take no more than two hours. Along the way, you will enjoy the scenic views of the Cascade Mountains, with some sections of the route closed seasonally. Be aware that the road is very winding in some sections, so drive with caution. During the journey, make sure to stop at Tipsoo Lake, where you can take a stroll and enjoy the views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding meadows. You may also take a detour to White Pass Ski Area, where you can ski or snowboard in the winter, or enjoy the scenery in the summer. Once you arrive in Yakima, you can visit the Yakima Valley Museum, take a stroll in the Yakima River Canyon, or explore the Yakima Valley wineries. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Yakima, Washington, is the perfect destination to end your road trip along the Chinook Panoramic Road. Located in the Yakima Valley, this vibrant city is the perfect place to relax and explore the local culture after a long drive. One of the most popular attractions in Yakima is the Yakima Valley Museum. Here you can learn about the history of the city, its people, and the region. You can also explore the Yakima Valley's rich agricultural heritage. The museum also features interactive exhibits and a variety of art galleries. The Yakima Valley is also home to several outdoor recreation areas. Whether you're looking for a hike through the nearby mountains or a relaxing stroll through the lush valleys, there's plenty to do in the area. The nearby Naches River is also a great spot for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. If you're looking for a unique experience, check out the Yakima Valley Trolleys. These vintage trolleys will take you around town, allowing you to get a feel for the city and its culture. For those traveling by air, Yakima Air Terminal (YKM) is the closest international airport. Yakima is a great destination to end your road trip along the Chinook Panoramic Road. With its rich culture, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery, Yakima is the perfect place to relax and explore.

Before you set off

The Chinook Scenic Byway, stretching 219 km (136 miles) from Tacoma to Yakima, is a breathtaking drive that traverses the Cascade Range and affords extraordinary views of Mount Rainier National Park and Tipsoo Lake. While the journey can be completed in a single day, it offers numerous opportunities for exploration and is generally accessible year-round, though winter conditions can affect access. This Road Trip is an excellent choice for those looking for a rewarding adventure without an extravagant budget.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Tacoma: The vibrant urban starting point of the Road Trip with cultural attractions and a rich maritime heritage.
• Enumclaw: A charming gateway town providing stunning panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding Cascade foothills.
• Mount Rainier National Park: An iconic destination featuring old-growth forests, subalpine meadows, and the towering, glacier-capped Mount Rainier.
• Tipsoo Lake: An alpine lake known for its dazzling wildflower displays in the summer and for being one of the most photographed landscapes in the United States.

Best Time to Go:

This Road Trip can be enjoyed year-round, but the best experiences are often found from late spring to early fall when the mountain passes are clear of snow and full access to trails and viewpoints is available. The fall season offers a spectacular display of autumn foliage, while summer provides warm temperatures and abundant recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and photography.

Potential Risks:

• Seasonal Road closures, particularly of the Chinook Pass, due to heavy snowfall or avalanche danger.
• Narrow and winding mountain Roads which may be challenging for inexperienced drivers or during adverse weather conditions.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

- The drive covers a distance of 219 km (136 miles) and includes the 14,411-foot Mount Rainier, the highest peak in the Cascade Range.

- It is part of the Washington State Route 410 and crosses the Chinook Pass, an elevation of 5,430 feet.

- The byway is designated as an All-American Road, recognizing its exceptional scenic, historic, natural, and recreational qualities.

- The Chinook Pass is typically closed from November to May due to snow, so the full byway experience is seasonal.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Chinook Scenic Byway offers a memorable journey through the Pacific Northwest's stunning natural scenery. With diverse landscapes ranging from dense forests to alpine tundra, travelers are treated to a rich tapestry of the great outdoors. Careful planning, especially regarding seasonal weather conditions and pass accessibility, will ensure that this Road Trip becomes a treasured experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.