Mountain scenery, ice caves, camping, and more in the Western Cascades.
Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, then boomerangs back to Darrington, just northeast of Granite Falls.
The Mountain Loop Highway is officially 55 miles long and takes about two hours to travel in one direction.
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It’s bookended by two remote cities in Snohomish County, neither very bustling nor equipped with accommodations.
In good weather, camping is a great option that allows for a full wilderness experience.
Both are operated by the National Forest Service and are only open seasonally, around May to September.
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Road Conditions
Although beautiful, this scenic highway isn’t always the easiest to navigate.
It’s drivable if you take your time, but always err on the side of caution.
Because of winter weather, the road closes from around September through April, often into May.
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Keep in mind that snow and ice are not restricted to winter.
Even when the road is open to traffic, you should be cautious.
Always check the weather androad conditionsbefore you go, and plan accordingly.
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About 30 minutes from Granite Falls, the first major attraction you’ll come across isBig Four Mountain.
At 4,000 feet, its north face is in clear view from the Mountain Loop Highway.
Stop for a photo at this gorgeous landmark before continuing on toBig Four Ice Caves.
Once you reach the caves, however, you’ll need to admire them from afar.
Entering or climbing on top of the caves is strictly prohibited.
In the late 1800s, the town was booming with thousands of people seeking their fortunes.
Unfortunately, flooding and miscalculations of what could actually be mined left this town in shambles.
After Monte Cristo, you’re in for a long stretch of scenic driving.
If you’re lucky, you could spot a mountain goat in the late summer and early fall.
From White Chuck Overlook to the end of the Mountain Loop Highway, Darrington, is a 15-minute drive.
Its nickname, “the Shingle Capital of the World,” says a lot about it.
In other words, there isn’t much to do here save a casino and kangaroo farm.
