5. Chelan to Conconully
CHELAN TO CONCONULLY – 163 MILES
The route ascends north from Lake Chelan past the Echo Valley Ski Area toward Cooper Mountain, a 5,867-foot summit with stunning views. The route then ridgecrest of the Methow Mountains before descending toward Lake Chelan again. This stretch is filled with epic views of the lake and eventually reaches the remote South Navarre Campground. After cresting the same mountain range again, the route gradually descends into the Methow River valley. Just before reaching the river and Highway 153, the route turns west on more dirt roads and finally descends Poorman Creek Road into the town of Twisp on Highway 20. The next stretch has a wide variety of roads, from wide dirt and narrow pavement to unmaintained 2-track and deep silt roads. Eventually, you reach Highway 20 and meander into the scenic Loup Loup area. Look for the massive China Wall, which is in the forest just east of the road. The final descent is a steep, loose one on Ruby Grade, and a bit more pavement leads you to the small town of Conconully. Be sure to fuel up your motorcycle in Twisp, as the fuel pumps in Conconully are not working currently.
5. Chelan to Conconully
CHELAN TO CONCONULLY – 163 MILES
The route ascends north from Lake Chelan past the Echo Valley Ski Area toward Cooper Mountain, a 5,867-foot summit with stunning views. The route then ridgecrest of the Methow Mountains before descending toward Lake Chelan again. This stretch is filled with epic views of the lake and eventually reaches the remote South Navarre Campground. After cresting the same mountain range again, the route gradually descends into the Methow River valley. Just before reaching the river and Highway 153, the route turns west on more dirt roads and finally descends Poorman Creek Road into the town of Twisp on Highway 20. The next stretch has a wide variety of roads, from wide dirt and narrow pavement to unmaintained 2-track and deep silt roads. Eventually, you reach Highway 20 and meander into the scenic Loup Loup area. Look for the massive China Wall, which is in the forest just east of the road. The final descent is a steep, loose one on Ruby Grade, and a bit more pavement leads you to the small town of Conconully. Be sure to fuel up your motorcycle in Twisp, as the fuel pumps in Conconully are not working currently.
Arlington Mine Site
WABDR POI
Blackpine Lake CG
Carlton - Food, Gas, Lodging
Carlton – Food, Gas, Camping Tiny Carlton marks one of the last locations for riders to make a brief stop on this part of the route. This small community has long served riders with a one-stop shop for non-ethanol fuel and a general store to stock up on any last-minute needs and supplies on the road. As the Carlton General Store is currently closed and up for sale, for now riders can simply continue the ten short miles up Highway 153 to the full-service town of Twisp. Here visitors are sure to find a longer stop in store, plus everything else needed to continue on the remainder of the WABDR. Visit Website »
China Wall of Loup Loup
China Wall of Loup Loup It may take some time to find, but a trip to the China Wall of Loup Loup is a must for its history and its uniqueness. These tall granite stone walls were actually part of Loup Loup, a thriving mining town in the late 1800s. Now deserted, the old town once served as a bustling area with hotels, saloons and more. The old wall, though, is more of a mystery. Found along the side of Ruby Hill, the ten walls measure up to 80 feet long and 27-feet tall. While much of the town’s history is no longer around, the old wall still stands as a puzzling reminder of its past. Visit Website »
Conconully - Food, Gas, Lodging, Camping
WABDR POI
Cooper Mtn 5867'
WABDR POI
Foggy Dew CG
Leader Lake
Leader Lake A short side trip off the main route, make time to head to Leader Lake and Campground. This popular fishing hole is also a good spot to cool off in the water after a long ride during the warm summer days. The year-round spot has room to camp on both sides of the lake but be sure to take along a Discover Pass to stay for the night. It’s best known, though, for its fishing, especially for rainbow trout in the summer and winter. It’s not uncommon, however, to spot people fishing and visiting during all months of the year. Visit Website »
Rock Creek CG
Ruby Townsite Marker
WABDR POI
South Navarre CG
Twisp - Food & Gas
Twisp – Food, Gas, Lodging From food and shopping to arts and adventure, riders can make time for a side trip to the town of Twisp. This full-service town offers everything riders need on the WABDR. If you visit, stroll through the charming downtown and sample some of the bakeries, cafes and brewpubs of this area. It’s also the place to stock up on groceries and supplies, fuel up, relax in the park or browse through local art galleries. Book a stay in one of the town’s motels or B&Bs, or head to a nearby campground to get some needed rest on this part of the journey. Visit Website »
Winthrop - Food, Gas, Lodging
Winthrop – Food, Gas, Lodging Step back in time to the Wild West with a side trip to Winthrop. The small town is a favorite of tourists thanks to its old west inspired buildings and easy outdoor recreation. Bordered by North Cascades National Park to the west, the town is a popular spot for cross-country skiing, river rafting and more. Grab a bite to eat or play some pool at Washington’s oldest legal saloon or check out any one of the other food and lodging options in town. From authentic Cowboy Dinners to an Old West museum, there’s plenty to see and explore in this tiny town. Visit Website »
WA5 - Chelan to Conconully
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