20 Best Things To Do on Higway 2 – Seattle to Leavenworth Drive

If you’re planning a road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth, Washington, you’re in for one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. Highway 2—also known as the Stevens Pass Greenway—is a ~90-mile stretch packed with family-friendly hikes, easy-access waterfalls, and riverside picnic spots perfect for a weekend getaway.

We’ve explored this route many times on day trips from Seattle, and it’s become one of our favorite spring-to-fall escapes. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, looking for a quick hike with kids, or just want to cool off by the Skykomish River, this guide covers 20 of the best stops along Highway 2.

If you’d rather sit back and enjoy the scenery without driving, consider joining a Seattle to Leavenworth day tour — it’s a stress-free way to experience this drive.

Grab your snacks, pack a picnic blanket, and get ready to discover waterfalls, hidden viewpoints, and small-town eats that make the Stevens Pass Scenic Byway a destination all its own.

Map of Things To Do on Highway 2

Highway 2 Roadtrip Stops

In this list, you will find 20 things to do / road trip stops / activities on Highway 2, from Seattle upto Leavenworth.

Attractions have been grouped from west to east by towns for ease of trip planning.

Things to do In Monroe, WA

Driving from Seattle, you will most likely enter Highway 2 near a town called Monroe located ~30 miles northeast of Seattle. It is also the town where the Skykomish and Snoqualmie rivers converge and continue further as Snohomish river.

Upon entering Monroe, you will sense a typical bustle of a small city/town. Clusters of strip malls, big box grocery stores, gas stations and the known set of fast food / chain restaurants. Here are two things to do near Monroe, WA.

1. Skykomish River Park

Skykomish river park is a local park located by Skykomish river in Monroe, WA. It has sports courts, nice playground, flat walking path, large grassy field and clean restrooms. There is a dog park towards the back and access to the river. The riverfront is not that exciting but a nice addition.

We once stopped here on our drive back from Highway 2 to Seattle, when our kiddo was still bursting with energy even after a day full of activities. So we thought some park time would help get their wiggles out while us adults take a restroom break and just rest it out for a while.

Things to do In Sultan / Gold Bar, WA

About 7 miles east of Monroe is the town of Sultan and another 7 miles east is the town of Goldbar. Just visiting the attractions around Sultan/Gold Bar makes for a nice day trip from Seattle. Here are the popular attractions near Sultan / Goldbar:

2. Wallace Falls hike and State Park

Wallace Falls trail is a 5 mile RT hike to a gorgeous three tiered waterfall situated in Wallace Falls State Park. The trail will lead you to the middle falls and has views of upper and lower falls. The proximity to the Wallace river will make your time even more pleasant.

Wallace Falls State Park is a popular day hike as well as camping destination for Seattle area families. You will need a Discover Pass here.

3. Big Eddy

Big Eddy is a public area with access to Skykomish river located near the town of Goldbar, WA. It is a kid-friendly swimming hole which we have visited on a hot summer day. The turquoise blue water of the calmly flowing river is perfect for families to cool down.

On a longer road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth or beyond, this is a great leg stretcher stop any time of the year. The access from Highway 2 is quick and easy with ample parking. You will need Discover Pass

4. Osprey Park

Osprey Park is an 85-acre park with forested trails, sports courts, playground, well maintained restrooms, picnic tables and access to Sultan river. You can grab some baked goods from the nearby Sultan bakery and head to the park for a meal break while the kids get their play time for the day.

It’s a great place for families to take a pit stop on a long drive. We find it easy to head to a local park after a hike. It helps get kids’ last bit of energy out while us parents wind down.

5. Restaurants near Sultan

Sultan Bakery is a must-stop for an assortment of bakery items. Buba’s Roadhouse (bar and grill), Vick’s and Zeke’s drive-in for burgers and Good Brewing Sultan are some of the options in this area. There is a Thai and a pizza place too in the vicinity.

Things to do in Index, WA

Index,WA is ~8 miles east of Gold Bar. It is a small riverside town on Highway 2 with lots of outdoor activities. Here are some things to do near Index, WA:

6. Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls Trail

Lake Serene hike and Bridal Veil Falls hike are two popular hikes near Index,WA that start from the Lake Serene trailhead. The trail to Lake Serene is ~7.5 miles RT with ~2000ft elevation gain. After an initial easy path, expect steady ascent through the hike. The views of the beautiful lake and Mount Index in the backdrop are stunning.

For a shorter hike that maybe more manageable for a family, the 4 miles RT hike with ~1000ft elevation gain to Bridal Veil falls would be perfect. You will find lots of stairways to climb as you go through the hike. But enjoying the cool spray from the waterfalls at the end of the hike will make all the hard work worth it.

7. Heybrook Ridge Hike

This is a ~3 mile RT hike with ~700 ft elevatio gain near Index, WA. The trail goes through a forest with a mix of level path and gentle switchbacks leading you to a viewpoint of the surrounding mountain peaks. It is a beautiful hike in the area with more development coming its way (possibly get connected to Heybrook Lookout hike).

8. Heybrook Lookout Hike

Heybrook Lookout hike is a 2.6 miles RT / 850 ft elevation gain hike to a lookout tower. At the end of the trail, you will be treated with unparalleled views of some of the Pacific Northwest’s peaks such as Mount Persis, Mount Index and Baring mountain.

You can reserve the cabin on top of the tower to spend a night or two. Heybrook Lookout hike is an easy hike for a day trip from Seattle which we did with our 3 year old. At kid speed, you can estimate spending 2-2.5 hours for this hike.

9. Eagle Falls

Eagle Falls is a ~25ft waterfall / cascade on the Skykomish river. It is located near mile marker 39, between the towns of Halford and Index. It is a gorgeous waterfall that is very easily accessible within a 2-min downhill walk from Highway 2.

The glacial waters of Skykomish river gushing through the granite rocks is a rejuvenating sight. It is our favorite pit stop on Highway 2 drive.

In summers, you will find local kids cliff jumping and rope swinging in the river, which is dangerous to try but thrilling to watch.

10. Restaurants near Index

Espresso Chalet on Highway 2 is a popular stop for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and the most amazing views of Mt.Index and Bridal Veil Falls. North Fork Kitchen near Heybrook Ridge trailhead provides a well-curated menu in a beautiful hotel with amazing views. Both places are nice treats to enjoy after a day of hiking and outdoor activities.

Things to do In Skykomish

Skykomish is a small town located on Highway 2, ~15 miles east of Index, WA. It serves as sort of a last town / stop before heading into Stevens Pass, which is another 15 mile drive east. There is a gas station, a coffee shop and a cafe if you ever find yourself stuck in this part of the world.

[Side personal note: There’s something about the town of Skykomish that lingers in my memory. It was the winter of 2013, our first year in Seattle. On a whim, we set off for Leavenworth, chasing a spontaneous adventure through Stevens Pass — unaware that we’d need chains to make the journey.

I remember pulling into a tiny gas station in Skykomish, our mid-size sedan no match for the snow packed mountain roads ahead. Back then, it felt like we’d landed in the middle of nowhere — the kind of place you stumble upon, not plan for.

We didn’t find chains that day, but what we did find was unexpectedly heartwarming: an Indian man behind the counter, the familiar cadence of “desi” hospitality in the most unlikely of places. We shared a brief exchange that anchored us.

We turned back that day. But not empty-handed. A short walk on the bridge. A breath of icy air. And that surreal, quiet thought: “Who knew I’d find myself here?” That day is forever etched in memory — not for where we didn’t go, but for where we paused.]

Anyways, back to the article…here are some things to do in the town of Skykomish, WA:

11. Great Northern & Cascade Railway

This is a volunteer-run museum that helps share the history of the Great Northern railways. The main draw is the miniature train rides that are offered for free by the volunteers every Saturday, May to October, from 10am to 4pm. Kids will love the train ride! If you are driving through Highway 2 in the summers, then make a point to stop by. 

12. Deception Falls

Deception Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall with an interpretive 0.5 mile trail by Deception creek and Tye river, located at milepost 56 on Highway 2. We did the Deception Falls trail with our 2.5 year old toddler and 70+ year old parents and everyone in our family loved it. We spent upto 2 hours here.

Deception Falls make for a nice family friendly outing on a day trip from Seattle. On a longer road trip, you can just visit the falls (and skip the trail) as they are very easily accessible within a 2-min walk from the parking lot.

13. Iron Goat Trail

While Iron Goat Trail might sound intimidating for its 6 miles length, it is a lovely family friendly trail. There is an ADA accessible path from Martin Creek trailhead that makes for a good leg stretcher if you are on a longer drive. Beautiful scenery with small creeks and lots of railroad history to explore. 

14. Stevens Pass

Driving further east, US 2 traverses Stevens Pass a little over 4,000 ft. If driving in winter, you might need chains to drive through the pass. And honestly—someone like me can’t survive a ski day without a stash of HotHands hand warmers tucked into every pocket. They’ve saved my fingers (and mood) more times than I can count.

Located within 1.5-2 hours from Seattle, Stevens Pass is most popular for its ski resort. It is a popular spot for local families to enjoy winter sports. In summers, you can enjoy mountain biking or stop by for a chairlift ride for scenic views all around.

Stevens Pass to Leavenworth

15. Lake Wenatchee State Park

About 20 minutes off Highway 2 near Coles Corner, Lake Wenatchee State Park is a stunning stop before you reach Leavenworth. This glacier-fed lake is surrounded by the Cascade Mountains and offers postcard-worthy views year-round.

It is one of the most rewarding nature breaks when traveling with kids – with the sandy beach, calm shoreline, and a picnic with mountain scenery. In summer, you’ll find opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. In fall, the forest around the lake lights up with color, making it a photographer’s dream. You will need Discover Pass.

On longer road trips, we always keep a couple of microfiber towels and some beach toys handy—perfect for unplanned stops like this where the kids can play and we can relax by the water.

16. Tumwater Canyon

About 20-25 miles east of Stevens Pass and ~10 miles west of Leavenworth starts the Tumwater canyon carved by the Wenatchee river. You can witness the beautiful river and the mountains as you drive along Highway 2 which passes through the entire length of the canyon. There are many activities such as hiking, rock climbing and even ice-climbing popular in this area.

You may find a pullout along a forest road that forks from Highway 2, to soak in the views of the canyon and the river. Or just drive by and enjoy the beautiful journey.

17. Old Pipeline Bed Trail

Located ~2 miles west of Leavenworth, Old Pipeline Bed Trail is ~ 2 miles RT trail along the Wenatchee river. The path is nice and easy for families with many access points to the river along the way. Great spot to stretch your legs when on a long drive with beautiful views all year round, and especially with fall foliage. Parking area is small with space for ~10-12 cars and there are vault toilets in the parking lot.

18. Restaurants

59er Diner is a cute little diner near Coles Corner, somewhat midway between Stevens Pass and Leavenworth. Expect burgers, fries and milkshakes at this retro style themed restaurant. 

Activities on Highway 2

19. River Rafting

You can enjoy whitewater rafting and scenic river rafting on Skykomish and Wenatchee rivers that flow along Highway 2. There are many companies such as Alpine Adventures, Triad River Tours, Osprey Rafting that organize rafting tours.

20. Rock Climbing

Tumwater Canyon (closer to Leavenworth) and the town of Index (closer to Monroe / Seattle) are popular destinations for rock climbing and bouldering. There are many guided trips, from half-day to multi-day, available for those new to the sport.

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Where To Stay

There are many hotels and vacation rentals on Highway 2 drive – from A-frame cabins, to riverside retreats, to hotels and campgrounds. If you want to stay close to Seattle, then the towns of Goldbar and Index would be great. To stay towards the eastside, try finding something closer to Stevens Pass or Leavenworth.

We loved our stay at the Holiday Inn Express in Wenatchee, just 30 minutes from Leavenworth. Since we usually plan last-minute trips, we often find Leavenworth hotels either booked out or way too pricey. This hotel has been a great alternative for us.

It’s located right by the river and next to a walking trail — perfect for families to stretch their legs after the drive. For us, it’s been the ideal balance of comfort, convenience, and affordability when visiting Leavenworth.

Highway 2 Trip Planning

Highway 2 Day Trips from Seattle

Our favorite way to explore Highway 2 is on day trips from Seattle, mostly during summers. We pick among the best hikes off Highway 2 and combine it with rivertime or some park time. Some of the combinations we have covered include –

• Heybrook Lookout hike followed by river time at Big Eddy by Skykomish river.
• Deception Falls trail with a pit stop at Eagle Falls.
• Wallace Falls hike and then wind down at Osprey Park.
• Bridal Veil Falls and then enjoy the Skykomish river access near the trailhead.
• Heybrook Ridge hike followed by a nice dinner at North Fork Kitchen.

One thing to keep in mind is that Stevens Pass Greenway is a 2-lane highway. So west bound traffic on weekend evenings can get backed up and add to your drive time.

Pit stops on Seattle to Leavenworth Drive

If you are on a scenic drive from Seattle to Leavenworth and looking for easy activities or beautiful vistas or leg stretcher stops, then consider these to break up your drive

• Great Northern Cascade Railay for those with kids
• Eagle Falls and Deception Falls for waterfall views within 5 min walk from Highway 2 parking.
• Big Eddy or Old Pipeline trail to spend a few mins by the beautiful Skykomish and Wenatchee rivers.

Seattle to Leavenworth Drive

• Distance – The distance from Seattle to Leavenworth is ~120 miles via Highway 2.
• Route – There are two routes to drive from Seattle to Leavenworth. One via US Route 2 which is covered in this article. The other one is via I-90 with other roadtrip stops.
• Drive time – If you were to drive non-stop, then it would take ~2 hours to drive from Seattle to Leavenworth, provided there is no unplanned traffic. However, when traveling as a family, it took us ~3-4 hours one-way with all the pit stops for food, restroom breaks, leg stretching at some scenic vistas, etc.

Final Thoughts

We are blessed in PNW to be surrounded by so many sceninc byways and nature soaked destinations.

If you want to explore more scenic byways on a daytrip from Seattle or plan a local weekend getaway, you can consider the following –

• Mountain Loop Highway is a wonderful daytrip from Seattle with many easy hikes and picnic areas by Stillaguamish river.
• Highway 20 or the North Cascades National Park highway is another family favorite which we have visited on many daytrips from Seattle.
• Highway 101 along Hood Canal is another gem with waterfalls, wildlife and many family friendly hikes for a weekend getaway.
• Chuckanut Drive is a state scenic byway where you will find beaches, hikes and Washington state’s first state park.