This year has been a time warp for most Washingtonians, with many of us wondering how time has passed so quickly while simultaneously thinking it’s somehow still March. But the fact is, late summer and early fall tend to offer the ideal conditions for a road trip. Some of our most scenic highways close down after the first real snowfall, so it’s best to hop in the car as soon as possible if it’s something you’re interested in.

We highly recommend heading north and checking out the iconic Mount Baker Scenic Byway. It’s a pleasant drive full of diverse scenery that will make you fall in love with Washington all over again.

The Mount Baker Scenic Byway stretches from the Bellingham area to Artist Point along State Route 542.
Google Maps
At just 58 miles in length, this drive can easily be done in a day, even if you have to travel a bit to reach it.
Believe it or not, this is one of the most scenic drives in the entire country, especially around Picture Lake at Mount Shuksan.
Skwiki / TripAdvisor
And this just happens to be a great time of year to do it.
You'll cruise through small logging communities, alongside old-growth forest groves, and even past a waterfall or two.
Skwiki / TripAdvisor
It's easy to see why this drive is so iconic.

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Allow plenty of time for this drive, because you'll want to make a lot of stops along the way.
Skwik / TripAdvisor
From eagle watching along the North Fork of the Nooksack River to checking out the Glacier Public Service Center, there are plenty of places to explore.
Make sure to check out Nooksack Falls, which is located a few miles past Glacier.
Roy Luck / Flickr
Nooksack Falls is located just off Highway 542 about 15 miles east of Maple Falls, and it's enchanting.
Eventually, you'll reach Artist Point, which tends to close in mid-October due to weather conditions.
Skwik / TripAdvisor
However, if you can time your visit right, you'll be treating yourself to some seriously breathtaking fall foliage.
Ready to enjoy this stunning scenic byway?
SmallWonders / TripAdvisor
Come spend some time in the mountains before winter weather arrives.

Have you ever seen this part of the state?

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