The 6 Most Terrifying Drives You Can Possibly Take In Washington
By Sherri Adams|Published May 18, 2023
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Sherri Adams
Author
Sherri Adams is a writer, photographer, and travel enthusiast from the Pacific Northwest. She has always been passionate about writing and the opportunities for connection through the written word. When she’s not writing, you can often find her at the seashore with her toes in the sand and her nose in a book.
There’s nothing quite like hopping in the car for a drive and the feel of the open road laid out before you. Washington is replete with road trip destinations and scenic byways to get out and explore the Evergreen State. Of course, some roads are more difficult to navigate than others. While driving through some of our state’s most beautiful scenery can be relaxing, it’s essential to keep safety in mind. Here, in no particular order, are some of the most winding, hilly, and downright terrifying roads in Washington.
Obstruction Point Road is a 7.6-mile stretch of unpaved back-country that runs from Hurricane Ridge to the Obstruction Point trailhead. Narrow and steep, this well-graded road has some drop-offs and can be slick after heavy rain. Additionally, dry, hot weather can make for dusty roads and poor visibility. This is no beginner road. It narrows to one lane in places with frequent blind corners. Obstruction Point Road boasts spectacular views but should only be attempted by experienced drivers.
Hart's Pass is the highest point in Washington accessible by car. Initially built in 1893 to access gold and silver mines, Hart's Pass is the perfect juxtaposition of both scary and beautiful. This mostly unpaved, 20-mile journey will take you through a landscape of rocky hillsides, majestic canyons, and wildflower meadows. That said, the passengers might be the only ones to take in the view. With 1,000-foot drop-offs and hairpin turns, the driver must always have eyes on the road.
Nestled in the heart of the North Cascades, State Route 20 can be a beautiful scenic drive when the road conditions are good. The route runs through Washington Pass, with an elevation of 5,000 feet, and is subject to heavy snow and avalanches, making for highly treacherous driving conditions. Thus, the pass is closed from November through May each year.
Chuckanut Drive is a 24-mile cliff-hugging road that twists and turns along the picturesque Chuckanut Mountains between Burlington and Bellingham. Spectacular water views greet you on your journey, and the winding roads could tempt you to pick up the pace. For your safety and that of others, we strongly suggest you keep to the posted speed limit. This is also a popular route for bicyclists so please be a courteous driver and share the road.
Forest Road 99, also known as the road to Mount St. Helens, provides access (weather permitting) to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The 16-mile winding road leads to the heart of the blast zone. Generally open from June through October, rainy weather can make the curvy roads slick and challenging to navigate. Take your time and be aware of other drivers.
We take a lot of heat in Western Washington for being unable to drive in snowy conditions. Perhaps some of the ribbing is well-deserved. However, if you've ever tried to maneuver downtown Seattle's hills after heavy snow (yes, we do get heavy snow from time to time), you know what a difficult task that can be. Often our snowfall melts, then freezes over, causing all kinds of mayhem. Streets close and kids of all ages delight in sledding down the city's deserted streets. East Coasters may laugh, but you'll understand once you've experienced a snowy winter in Seattle.
Although Washington has some of the most beautiful destinations imaginable, getting there can be a little tricky. Take it slow and enjoy the ride.
Have you driven on any of these Washington roads? Which ones proved to be the most difficult to navigate? Let us know in the comments.
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