Reserve Status:  OPEN
Recession BUSTER:  $695

You'll start this trip in Anacortes with the sawtooth horizon of the mighty Cascade mountains before you. Wind through the Skagit river valley into the ancient forests of North Cascades National Park and peaceful Newhalem. Rugged mountains and turquoise glacial lakes surround you as you climb over two of Washington's highest passes and into the semi arid country of the east Cascades. From the western heritage town of Winthrop, you'll skirt the spiny backbone of the Chelan Mountains and the rocky banks of the Columbia. Bavarian Leavenworth and the whitewater Wenatchee River will enchant you as you climb Stevens Pass and enter the primordial forest that Bigfoot calls home. Stop in Skykomish, where railroad history is alive and well, then amble through rich farmlands returning to the Puget Sound for the conclusion of this awe-inspiring week of cycling.