The Cascade Loop Scenic Byway spans the east and west sides of Washington State's Cascade Mountain Range, and photo opportunities along the route are varied and spectacular, covering all interests for professional photographers and snap-happy travelers alike.
Header Photo: short-earred owl in the Skagit Valley Photo of Bald Eagles during migration in Skagit Valley Pete Freund Photog
Spring brings blossoms and babies, and every region of the Loop has ample viewing opportunities from the tulip fields of the Skagit Valley to the orchard blossoms along the Wenatchee and Columbia rivers. Wildlife abounds in nearly every meadow and stream throughout the Loop, and a careful eye can spot fawns, ducklings and occasional bear cubs sharing the natural areas along the highways.
Photo of Black Bear on a streambed near the Icicle River Pete Freund Photog
The birth of Orcas calves in the Puget Sound are always exciting and a challenge to photograph.
Snowy mountain peaks with brilliant blue skies can produce spectacular scenic photos.
Fall colors at Cascade Pass, in the North Cascades National Forest Andy Porter Photography
Hundreds of trails within the Cascade Loop can get you a short distance off the beaten path to find scenery well worth the effort. High mountain lakes and streams offer spectacular shots any time of the year, but in fall the colors are breathtaking, and you don't have to leave the car to have great views. Stevens Pass (Highway 2) and Tumwater Canyon near Leavenworth are favorite drives in October to see Mother Nature's touch as the foliage turns brilliant yellow, gold and red.
Jolanda Lake in the Tumwater Canyon Pete Freund Photography
Hundreds of trails within the Cascade Loop can get you a short distance off the beaten path to find scenery well worth the effort. High mountain lakes and streams offer spectacular shots any time of the year, but in fall the colors are breathtaking, and you don't have to leave the car to have great views. Stevens Pass (Highway 2) and Tumwater Canyon near Leavenworth are favorite drives in October to see Mother Nature's touch as the foliage turns brilliant yellow, gold and red.
Chiwaukum Creek, Stevens Pass Greenway Pete Freund Photography
The quiet serenity of winter offers an entirely different perspective for photographing scenery on the Loop. Crisp sunshine sparkling on fresh snow, and gently falling flakes offer opportunities to experiment with lighting techniques. Frozen waterfalls can be fascinating subjects, as are the elk and deer, who may have full antler racks until as late as April.
Lake Patterson at Sunset in Vignette Pete Freund Photog
The Cascade Loop offers spectacular photo opportunities any time of year, and their Facebook page is a great place to get ideas of great photo spots!
