The North End Tour

FULL ROUTE MAP: Full Route

THE NORTH END TOUR - Section 1

THE NORTH END TOUR - Section 2

Departure Time:  08:00

Car Checklist:

• A full tank of fuel and that’s about all!

Dan’s Notes:

I've divided the maps of this drive into two sections so I highly recommend you stop and take a look at the map ahead of time so the roads are somewhat familiar. This comfortable day drive will take you over to the quiet town of La Conner, up the famous Chuckanut Drive into Fairhaven, around Lake Whatcom, down the twisty fun of Highway 9, and out the back roads of Arlington, Granite Falls, and Snohomish. Though not the quickest drive due to traffic at first, you’ll have a great time exploring as you drive and I’ve planned a few great stops to keep things tasty and interesting. And don't worry, the roads get really interesting (and twisty) in section 2! 

The Drive:

Redmond to Silvana via Pioneer Highway (Begin Section 1)

This is one of my favorite drives and has been since I was a teenager skipping school. You’ll start by taking an easy drive up north via I-5 to exit 208, the Arlington/Silvana exit. Head west toward Silvana and you’ll find yourself twisting through farm country on the old Pioneer Highway. The smells can be a bit much, but the road is in good condition and makes for a good warm up run.

Silvana to La Conner

From there you’ll go through Stanwood and into Skagit county across the Tulip Fields in La Conner. You’ll have plenty of food options to choose from, including some on the water. This is a great place to walk around and enjoy all the little shops the town has to offer.

La Conner to Bayview State Park

Next stop is a little park most people forget about it called Bayview State Park - the entrance is on the RIGHT side of the road and then drops under the road to get to the park. It’s pay to park if you want to picnic, so keep that in mind. Also watch our for speed bumps! This is not a low car friendly park but my Corvette had no trouble at stock height.

Bayview to Fairhaven

Next you’ll head up Chuckanut! Yes it’s a silly name, yes it’s fun. However… it’s crowded. I’ve never been up Chuckanut without getting stuck behind some idiot doing 10 under and blocking traffic. Still, you’ll be happy to see beautiful views and lots of places to pull off and see the ocean. I’ve seen whales several times from the overlook spots, so take your time! You’ll end your drive in downtown Fairhaven, where I recommend Rocket Donuts and Acme Ice Cream!

Fairhaven to Woods Coffee in Boulevard Park

It’s just a quick little drive across town to Boulevard park where you’ll get some good coffee and find a HUGE pier to walk out and explore. Chrysalis Inn and Spa is great for a romantic stay or dinner if you’re so inclined.

Boulevard Park to Lake Whatcom/Wickersham (Begin Section 2)

Take it easy on this little section until you get past Geneva or you might find yourself with a big ticket! Still, the road from Sudden Valley to Wickersham is a short little riot of a drive, and then you’ll find yourself on Highway 9 south.

Wickersham to Trails End

Stay on 9 South and you’ll be enjoying the fun that is driving around Big Lake and the tight corners of 9. This road can get a little busy on the weekend, but you should easily find some space to have some “spirited” moments. Enjoy a great dinner at the end of the day at Trails End Taphouse in Snohomish!

Section 1:

Section 2:

Full Route:

The Local 2.0

The Highbridge Road

The Local - Highbridge, Ben Howard Road, and Sultan Basin Road

2020 Update - Highbridge road is now under heavy construction. Slow down and expect construction. It’s still a fun road, but it’s not what it used to be.

Departure Time: 

The best time to drive these roads is just after sunrise to beat traffic and then stop and have breakfast at the Sultan Bakery. Traffic on these roads is increasing, but not usually too have, still, it might take you a couple of runs to find the road to yourself. 

Car Checklist: 

• Good tires

• Brakes in excellent condition including high temp brake fluid - Don't overlook this! I can and have boiled the brakes on many cars and motorcycles on this road.

• An action camera would be ideal for this drive.

Dan's Notes:

These are extremely popular sections of road in Snohomish County for enthusiasts of all kinds, so I have some warnings: 

• You can easily drive these roads quickly, but not crazy, and have a great time. Drive safe and not above your limit. THESE ARE ROADS, NOT RACE TRACKS.

• The turns are VERY sharp and the roads have some quick dips that can easily unsettle tight suspension. You should take a few easy runs up and down the roads to get to know them before you make a more spirited attempt.

• There are multiple elevation changes through corners on all of these roads. Threshold and trail braking is something you should understand and know how to do if you want to enjoy this road quickly and safely.

• Do NOT cross into the oncoming lane. These roads are heavily used by motorcycles and bicycles.

• Be mindful of the driveways on these roads. Most are not blind, but don’t be an idiot and go “balls out” and kill someone or yourself.

• This is best as a 2-way trip. Start by going down the road to breakfast at Maltby Cafe and end by coming back up and going to Trails End in Snohomish.

The Drive: 

Starting in Redmond with a full tank, head out 202 and take a left on Northeast Ames Lake Road. This fun run will take you out to Carnation and past the Carnation farm stand where you can stop for a photo op, but watch out for turkeys (no, really, watch out for the turkeys).

From there, head out to Carnation and then back up and over to the Snoqualmie Valley Road. You can get a good feel for the road by going up it first, which is easier on the brakes, and check for construction, bicycle traffic, and debris on the road. You'll want to slow down to safely drive by Bob's Corn and Pumpkin Farm. There is often a Sheriff directing traffic here on the weekends in the fall so be sure to slow down for safety and your wallets sake. 

From there you can enjoy the blast down Highbridge and try to avoid cooking your brakes. Again, take it easy if you're new to this road and slow down again when you're coming to the corn maze and the underpass, a popular fishing spot for locals.  

After finishing the most fun parts of Highbridge you can cool your brakes and take a left onto Crescent Road. Watch for farmer activity but this road is mostly low traffic and has some fun but flat turns. You'll briefly merge onto 203 toward Monroe, but then take your next right onto Ben Howard road. This picturesque road passes by a few farms and follows the river. You'll have a chance to drive this one at a slightly faster pace than High Bridge, but be wary going by the RV Park, which often has foot and bicycle traffic and the occasional cop. Beyond that it's a quick drive into Sultan for a delicious breakfast or coffee at the Sultan Bakery! 

Since you’re already in Sultan, you may as well head up the Sultan Basin Road, but don’t go straight there! Take the detour around on Kellogg Lake Road for a much better drive with far less traffic. Still, be careful of bicycle, hiking, and camping activities on the Sultan Basin Road as well as some occasional debris. This is a remote mountain road. You’ll have to turn around at the end where the blacktop ends, but it’s still worth the drive.

Head back the same way to experience High Bridge in a totally different way doing the Hill Climb. You can turn right onto Connelly road and take the back way into Snohomish for more fun, but take it easy here. While it looks tempting, this road has a lot of blind driveways, no real passing zones, and should be done in moderation. Best to take it easy and cool your car off while you drive to Trails End for some lunch.