Mountain Loop Highway is in northwest Washington about 35 miles north of Seattle. The byway follows FSR 20 between Granite Falls and Darrington, a distance of 55 miles. From Granite Falls to Barlow Pass, the byway is a two-lane paved road. From Barlow Pass to the confluence of Sauk and Whitechuck rivers, a distance of 14 miles, the road is primarily a single-lane gravel road. The rest of the byway into Darrington is a two-lane paved road. The roads are suitable for all types of vehicles. Mountain Loop Highway is open year-round from Granite Falls to Silverton; the remaining portion is not maintained in winter.
Mountain Loop Highway travels through the heart of Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The byway first travels across rural countryside dotted with farmland before climbing into dense forests. Scenic turnouts along the route provide views of the surrounding wilderness. Flowing alongside the byway from Granite Falls to Barlow Pass is South Fork of the Stillaguamish River. Once beyond the pass, South Fork of the Sauk River accompanies you until it reaches its parent river near Bedal Campground. From here on out its the Sauk River you’ll see flowing beside you.
Opportunities for outdoor recreation are abundant. Several trails can be accessed from the byway. Many lead to the seclusion found in Boulder River Wilderness. Other trails take you to scenic viewpoints of the surrounding mountains. Numerous public campgrounds invite the byway traveler to stay awhile. Verlot Campground has 26 campsites among trees near the Stillaguamish River. Gold Basin Campground has 94 sites; Turlo has 19. All three campgrounds have drinking water and comfort stations but no hookups. At Boardman Creek Campground, you’ll find 18 sites along the river. There’s good fishing for trout here. Nearby Red Bridge Campground has 16 sites. All the campgrounds are open May through September.