Winthrop is part of the Methow Valley on Highway 20 (North Cascade Highway) in the north-central part of Washington State. No matter which way you enter Winthrop, the scenery is outstanding. The North Cascades Highway 20 is a national scenic byway (Cascade Loop) passing through the North Cascades National Park. This route is an efficient way to arrive and depart Winthrop when coming from the West and heading back to the West. However, the North Cascades Highway is closed in the winter. Scroll below for specific directions.
Be sure to check with the Washington State Department of Transportation on highway conditions before traveling at any time of the year.
Directions From Seattle: Four Scenic Route Options
- I-90 East to Cle Elum
- Hwy 970 East to Hwy 97 North
- Hwy 2 East (& 97 North) to Wenatchee
- Continue on Hwy 97 North to Pateros
- Hwy 153 North to Twisp
- Hwy 20 West to Winthrop
- Hwy 2 East over Stevens Pass to Wenatchee
- Hwy 97 North to Pateros
- Hwy 153 North to Twisp
- Hwy 20 West to Winthrop
- I-5 North to Arlington
- Hwy 530 through Darrington to Hwy 20
- Hwy 20 East to Winthrop *CLOSED IN WINTER!
- I5 North to Burlington
- Hwy 20 east to Winthrop *CLOSED IN WINTER!
Directions From Spokane:
- Hwy 2 West to Wilbur
- Hwy 174 West (Grand Coulee & Chief Joseph Dams) to Bridgeport
- Hwy 17 North to Hwy 97 South to Pateros
- Hwy 153 North to Twisp
- Hwy 20 West to Winthrop
PLEASE NOTE: During the winter months (usually mid-November through mid-April), Highway 20 through the North Cascades closes to vehicle traffic due to high snowfall and avalanche conditions. This mountain highway is also prone to road closures anytime during the year. It is always a good idea to call 1-800-695 ROAD, 511, or visit the Washington Department of Transportation website for current Washington State Mountain Passes conditions before traveling to Winthrop.
Car Charging Stations
In line with our community’s commitment to sustainability, The Methow Valley has a variety of electric charging stations available at the following locations:
- In Mazama at the Mazama Country Inn
- In Winthrop at East 20 Pizza, the Winthrop Library, and at the Pine Near RV Park
- In Twisp at the Twisp River Suites and TwispWorks Campus
Shuttles & Transportation
Twisp & The Methow Valley
Twisp is the arts and culture center of the Methow Valley and is the smallest designated Creative District in the state. Browse local art galleries, jewelry shops, makers studios and other creative businesses. Stop by the Visitor Information Center in the historic Twisp High School at the Methow Valley Communit Center.
North Cascade National Park
Are you looking to encounter the alpine wilderness, dense evergreen forests and epic mountain adventures? Whatever your interest, we want to help you plan an enjoyable, safe, and memorable visit to the North Cascades. Explore jagged peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers. Take in the beauty cascading waterfalls and deep valleys. Help steward the ecological heart of the Cascades. More info
Hart’s Pass & Mazama
Hart’s Pass is the highest road in Washington State. The road was built in 1893 into gold and silver mines. Today the road is used to access the Pacific Crest Trail and many other high alpine trails.
Mazama is the “town” at the base of the North Cascades National Park. It is a popular recreation area best known for its rock climbing and simple, wholesome amenities.
Scenic Cascade Loop
There’s nothing like hitting the open road: cranking up the tunes, feeling the wind in your hair, and taking a big breath of fresh air. The best road trip in the state is on the Cascade Loop! The route takes you from the salty sea air surrounding the Puget Sound, to the flowering fruit trees of Leavenworth, Wenatchee & Lake Chelan, through acres of farmland in the Skagit Valley, and miles upon miles of lush evergreen forest along the Stevens Pass Greenway, the Methow Valley and North Cascades National Park.
Okanogan Country
Okanogan County in North-Central Washington State has the best family vacations! From the Northern Okanogan Region to the Methow Valley, across the Columbia River Basin, and into the Heart of the Okanogan, Okanogan Country is one of the best places to visit in Washington State. Experience a Washington State getaway with fresh wholesome food, blue skies, and starry nights – a vacation that will keep you coming back for more!
