Washington State Highways

Washington State Route 169

2012-01-08T12:10:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, January 7, 2012, I drove Washington State Route 169 from Enumclaw to Renton, with a brief stop at my parents' to help take down their Christmas tree...

RCW 47.17.340
State route No. 169

A state highway to be known as state route number 169 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 164 at Enumclaw, thence northwesterly by way of Summit to a junction with state route number 900 in the vicinity of Renton.

Enumclaw, Enumclaw, glorious Enumclaw. The town on the plateau that feels like a valley. SR 169 begins here at an intersection with SR 164. Have a walk around town, buy some bread from the bakery.

We depart Enumclaw, due north through the farmland. We pass a cluster of mansions with great views of Mt. Rainier, then dive down to the Green River Gorge. Across a very high bridge and up the hill on the other side, then we're quickly at ever-growing Black Diamond. Enumclaw Black Diamond Road turns into Maple Valley Black Diamond Road and soon we're here at the city of Maple Valley. This is Four Corners and a junction with SR 516.

We then drive through the city of Maple Valley, then down the hill into Maple Valley. ("What?" you ask, and I point to the drafters of King County's urban growth boundary.) We cross under SR 18 without a junction and head down the Cedar River on Renton Maple Valley Road. A mere half hour before sunset, we arrive in Renton at I-405.

Underneath the interstate, we quickly approach the end of SR 169, this junction with SR 900. Welcome to Renton!

For all the times I've driven on this highway since my youth, there were still several sections that were unfamiliar. From the exurbs to the suburbs, hurrah!

Washington State Route 168

2012-01-08T12:02:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, January 7, 2012, I wanted to drive Washington State Route 168, but it wasn't built yet. What a shame, really, because it sounds like such a nice drive!

RCW 47.17.335
State route No. 168:

A state highway to be known as state route number 168 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 410 in the vicinity of the junction of the Greenwater and White rivers, thence easterly to a junction with state route number 410 in the vicinity north of Cliffdell.

SR 168 was codified in 1970, but the state hasn't even thought about building it, from what I can tell. It was meant to be a shortcut over Naches Pass (or a tunnel under the pass), so commercial vehicles could use Highway 410, which goes through Mount Rainier National Park. It would be a good alternate to I-90, I'd think. Instead of building SR 168, we're in the midst of widening I-90 over the mountains. Too many eggs in one basket?

Washington State Route 167

2012-01-08T09:50:00.000-08:00

On January 7, 2012, we drove the length of Washington State Route 167 from Tacoma to Renton, mostly the Valley Freeway...

RCW 47.17.330
State route No. 167:

A state highway to be known as state route number 167 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity of Tacoma, thence easterly by way of the vicinity of Puyallup and Sumner, thence northerly by way of the vicinity of Auburn and Kent to a junction with state route number 900 in the vicinity of Renton.

East of downtown Tacoma, over by the Puyallup River, SR 167 begins in this mess of construction beneath I-5. WSDOT is in the process of widening I-5 over the river. ...Even though we'll be going north on SR 167, we're facing south here as we cross under east-west I-5. Just so you know.

We circle past the cemetary and the casino and begin the long straightaway called River Road, adjacent to the south side of the Puyallup River. This used to be part of Highway 410. I'm not quite sure why it still isn't. We're headed ESE, but officially north on SR 167. When we get to Puyallup, we turn north across the river on Meridian and quickly come to this junction with SR 161. The two highways come from north and south on Meridian Ave and join together east on a freeway.

Now we're rolling! A mile after the freeway starts, SR 161 exits southward. This is also a junction with SR 512, since those two highways are one and the same through downtown Puyallup.

Another mile later, in Sumner, we come to the junction with the truncated SR 410. Time to turn finally turn north!

SR 167 leaves the Puyallup River and heads up the White River north to Auburn. Turn back six score years and you'd be going up the Stuck River to Slaughter, but the town was renamed in 1893 and the White River was redirected in 1906 from flowing north to Seattle to flowing south to Tacoma. So here we are, in Auburn, at the junction with SR 18. Covington, North Bend, Spokane!

So the old White River valley is now the Green River valley. Welcome to Kent, née Titusville. SR 516 here will take you into town and also up the hill to Des Moines. (Pronounce the final S!)

We speed along northward to Renton. Wait, what's this? Speed limit 45? Isn't this a freeway? Junction with I-405. Seattle or Bellevue? We choose neither and go straight.

The freeway ends. Welcome to Renton. We cross Grady Way, the railroad tracks, and the old location of the Black River (which was the outlet of Lake Washington till 1916). We then arrive at the junction with SR 900, Sunset Boulevard, the old Sunset Highway from Seattle to Spokane. Our drive is over, right?

Not quite. A block later, we come to the end of SR 167, at an intersection with the westbound lanes of SR 900.

So there you are: Washington State Route 167. An old familiar freeway to me. Maybe someday, WSDOT will scrape together some funds to finish the freeway from Tacoma to Puyallup...

Washington State Route 166

2011-12-27T10:14:00.000-08:00

On Monday, December 26, 2011, we drove the short length of Washington State Route 166, to Port Orchard.

RCW 47.17.328
State route No. 166:

A state highway to be known as state route number 166 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 16 in the vicinity west of Port Orchard, thence northeasterly to the eastern Port Orchard city limits as they exist on June 10, 2010.

Down on the shores of Sinclair Inlet, a bit east of Gorst along SR 16, Highway 166 begins.

The highway gradually slows down as we wind along the water, passing many docks and marinas. Welcome to Port Orchard! See their classic, old-fashioned city hall. A block from the water is the old downtown, decked out for the holidays. This happens to be the halfway point of SR 166, and so a photo is taken.

Just past Blackjack Creek, Highway 166 leaves Sinclair Inlet and heads up the hill. We spin off a roundabout heading due east. After a string of fast-food restaurants, grocery stores, and cut-rate auto parts, we reach the "End 166" sign. 800' or so later, we reach the end of the highway, at the eastern city limit of Port Orchard. The 800' was added last legislative session because the city had previously expanded and expected the state to maintain the road, but WSDOT was only maintaining to the old city limit, and Kitsap County, who had been maintaining the 800' beforehand, wasn't going to maintain a road within the city limits. Apparently that section of road got very beat up over a few years. It still has more potholes than the sections on either side.

For a highway that exists on the books only because Port Orchard was not willing to take responsibility for the landslide-prone road when the state moved SR 160 from this route to another route further south, twenty years ago, it's a rather nice drive. Especially the landslide-prone section along the water.

Washington State Route 165

2011-12-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 10, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 165, from the Mountain to town. Thanks to an inversion layer the past few days, much of the snow has melted...

RCW 47.17.325
State route No. 165:

A state highway to be known as state route number 165 is established as follows:

Beginning at the northwest entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 410 at Buckley.

So here we are at the boundary of Mount Rainier National Park at the Mowich Lake entrance, where SR 165 begins. It's a dirt road. It's the only state highway in Washington that's still gravel. We should feel thankful it's the only one! The national park closed the gate a month ago, but that's most of a mile up the hill behind us here. It's time to crank up the Christmas music and hit the road -- but watch out for potholes, ice sheets, deep snow, and oncoming traffic!

The clouds roll up the hillside, fog wrapping the trees. After ten miles or so, the pavement begins. A mile after that, we meet the Carbon River Road, which goes to the real northwest entrance of the national park, whereupon we get a yellow line down the middle of the road. Fancy! Cross the one-lane Fairfax Bridge and continue down the valley. Zip by Carbonado, slow down for old-railroad-town Wilkeson, and be surprised by the community of Burnett. Up a little hill and you're at the junction pictured above, where SR 165 meets SR 162. Familiar? Turn right to stay on 165.

After a bend, we're on the Buckley Straight, paralleling the old railroad route into Buckley. A mile and a bit later, we turn left off the straight, cross the Foothills Trail (old railroad grade), and are quickly at the junction with SR 410. Highway 165 is at an end. This road seems very busy compared to where we were, just a half hour ago...

Next time there's clear weather, I suggest you head up Highway 165 for some lovely views of the Mountain. If you don't have a high-clearance vehicle or don't want to clean the bottom of your car with snow and ice, you might want to wait six months or so and let it melt out. I have a feeling it will get deeper before then, though.

Washington State Route 164

2011-12-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 10, 2011, we took advantage of the unseasonably dry weather and drove the length of Washington SR 164, also known as the Auburn-Enumclaw Road.

RCW 47.17.320
State route No. 164:

A state highway to be known as state route number 164 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 18 in the vicinity of Auburn, thence southeasterly to a junction with state route number 410 at Enumclaw.

So here SR 164 begins in Obbin, under the railroad tracks, at a junction with SR 18.

Highway 164 leaves Auburn and heads up the hill southeast of town, a narrow ridge between the Green River and White River valleys. The ridge is so flat, however, that it feels like you're still on a valley bottom. Through this stretch, we pop in and out of the Muckleshoot Indian Reservation. Casino! White River Ampitheater! Closed-up fireworks stands! After a few miles, the fields take over from the trees and we break out into the wide prairie surrounding Enumclaw. Cows! Sheep! And then we enter town and arrive at this junction with SR 169.

Enumclaw is a nice town, but it smells a bit country. At the eastern edge of the city, SR 164 ends at a junction with SR 410.

Fifteen miles goes pretty quick, even on a two-lane road through a rural corner of the most populous county in the state.

Washington State Route 163

2011-11-21T11:18:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, November 20, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 163 through Tacoma and across the sea.

RCW 47.17.317
State route No. 163:

A state highway to be known as state route number 163 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 16 in Tacoma, thence northerly to the Point Defiance ferry terminal; also

From the state ferry terminal at Point Defiance via the state ferry system northerly to the state ferry terminal at Tahlequah.

In the West End of Tacoma, SR 163 begins at an interchange with SR 16. Welcome to Pearl Street. Highway 16 is directly above us when Chunlin took this photo, by the way, but if you hurry, you can still turn left and head for the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.

Gradually downhill, we head due north. After about a mile and a half, we're at the halfway point of our drive.

Down the hill we go, still on Pearl Street. For five blocks (not that you'd notice), Highway 163 is in the town of Ruston instead of Tacoma. With the Pt Defiance Zoo and park on our left and a go-kart track on the right, we pay our ferry fee and park the car. The dock is in sight, as is the MV Rhododendron, across the water.

The Rhododendron ferry docks on our side and disgorges a load of traffic. We then descend the final incline and board the ferry, far to the right on a very narrow aisle. While I'm busy taking photos of Mt Rainier across the Tacoma Yacht Club, we depart. Above is the photo northward. Across Dalco Passage, Vashon Island awaits.

A short ride later, we arrive at Tahlequah, at the southern tip of Vashon Island. SR 163 is at an end. Tahlequah is, of course, named after the principle grain of the Cherokee in Tennessee, or maybe it meant "temple mound" ... no one seems to know. "Tellico"/"Tahlequah" was a common placename for the Cherokee, such that Great Tellico was their major center in Tennessee and Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was the first capital of the Cherokee Nation in the Indian Territory. Why this tiny community on Puget Sound is named as such, I can't quite say.

With Highway 163 completed, we are now free to roam the island as we so desire. Traveling from the urban to the rural takes just a short ferry ride...

Washington State Route 162

2011-11-21T10:39:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, November 20, 2011, we drove the length of Washington State Route 162 through the valleys of east Pierce County.

RCW 47.17.315
State route No. 162:

A state highway to be known as state route number 162 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 410 at Sumner, thence southerly to Orting, thence northeasterly to a junction with state route number 165 in the vicinity south of Buckley.

At the south end of Sumner, SR 162 starts at an interchange with the short freeway section of SR 410.

Heading south, we cross the Puyallup River and head into farmland. Gradually turning more southeast, we continue up the Puyallup River Valley to the rapidly expanding town of Orting at the confluence of the Carbon and Puyallup rivers. Mt Rainier looms beautifully on the horizon. Volcano evacuation route signs abound. This valley is not a place you want to be when a lahar comes rolling down the hill. Just southeast of Orting, we reach the halfway point of Highway 162 in terms of travel time. Mt Rainier is still in view, but not for long.

We leave the Puyallup River behind and follow the Carbon River east. After a couple miles, we leave the Carbon River, as well, and head up the narrow, farmland valley of South Prairie Creek. The valley expands as we pass through the tiny town of South Prairie. Just after town, SR 162 heads up the hill on the north side of the valley. Shortly after arriving at the flats atop the hill, we reach the end of the highway at this junction with SR 165.

Highway 162 is a peaceful drive through a valley that doesn't seem much different than it might have been 50 or 100 years ago -- except the paralleling railroad is now a bicyle trail. It's certainly the long way from Sumner to Buckley, ever since 410 was built, and (except for Orting) it avoids all the hustle and bustle atop the hill.

Washington State Route 161

2011-10-17T12:25:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, October 16, 2011, I drove the length of Washington State Route 161, up the meridian... the meridan in the middle of Range 4 East of the Willamette Meridian, that is.

RCW 47.17.310
State route No. 161:

A state highway to be known as state route number 161 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 7 in the vicinity of La Grande, thence northeasterly via Eatonville to Puyallup, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 18.

That portion of state route 161 within King county shall be designated Enchanted Parkway.

In the forest just north of La Grande along SR 7, with my car's odometer exactly at 140000, we began Highway 161.

The highway heads northeast for a couple miles to Eatonville, curves west across the Ohop Valley, and then a mile later, is heading due north upon the aforementioned meridian. After a short curvy section to visit Clear Lake and cross Tanwax Creek, we're back on track. Clear Lake should have a nice view of Mt Rainier, but the clouds obscured it for us. About ten miles further along the meridian, we enter the South Hill community. We're on Meridian Avenue, stopping at every red light. Four miles later, SR 161 turns west to quickly meet SR 512. Here, SR 161 joins SR 512 on a rare state-route coinciding.

We cruise down the hill to Puyallup on the freeway. After crossing the Puyallup River, we come to this junction with SR 167. SR 512 ends here. SR 410 is mentioned on the sign, but doesn't officially start till another mile east. SR 161 northbound joins SR 167 southbound, heading west (naturally).

A mile later, the freeway ends. SR 161 and SR 167 part ways. SR 167 turns south, then northwest toward Tacoma. SR 161 turns north, magically back on Meridan Avenue.

We leave the meridian briefly to climb up the hill to Edgewood. At first, we weren't sure which city we were in. We didn't see any "Welcome to Edgewood" signs at the city limits, but we figured it out anyway. After a bit, we passed the town of Milton and the old state route 514, without really noticing either. It all blends together so well. SR 161 bends west a bit, leaving the meridian. We enter King County, where SR 161 becomes Enchanted Parkway, enter Federal Way, cross I-5 without access, and come to a slew of stop lights, the above portrait being that of the junction with SR 18. Highway 161 is at an end, exactly a mile west of most of the route and less than a quarter mile west of where it began.

Forests, farmlands, suburban retail. Rural road, expressway, city arterial. Highway 161 has it all...

Washington State Route 160

2011-10-09T11:25:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, October 8, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 160 over hill, dale, and sea.

RCW 47.17.305
State route No. 160:

A state highway to be known as state route number 160 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 16 in the vicinity south of Port Orchard, thence easterly on Sedgwick Road to the Washington state ferry dock at Point Southworth; also

From the state ferry terminal at Point Southworth via the state ferry system easterly to the state ferry terminal at Vashon Heights; also

From the state ferry terminal at Vashon Heights easterly via the state ferry system to the state ferry terminal at Fauntleroy.

So here we begin, in south Kitsap County, at a junction with almost-freeway SR 16. The sign points ahead to Port Orchard and a ferry. One, we did not see.

The legal description specifies Sedgwick Road, and that's where we are. SR 160 used to be further north through the heart of Port Orchard, but that was really too slow and curvy a road to get to the ferry dock efficiently. But then again, 15 mph going up a hill behind a logging truck isn't all too speedy, either. This photo is at the halfway point of the road, just past the Long Lake community and north of the eponymous body of water.

We continue due east through forests, fields, hills, and valleys for a couple miles till we curve down to Southworth and the Sound. The road portion of SR 160 is at an end. Now we get a ride!

The Vashon-bound vehicles board the ferry first, circling around inside the empty ferry to face backwards on the starboard side. Then we Fauntleroy-bound passengers drive aboard and fill up the port side. The center of the ferry is almost empty, reserved for the cars boarding at Vashon. Once all are aboard, we shove off. Blake Island is ahead. Shortly after I took this picture, we reversed engines and executed a two-point turn. (Not a three-point turn, mind you, because this boat has two fronts! Starboard becomes port. Fore is aft. Oh, the madness!)

The sun glints off Puget Sound. The sea breeze wafts against my face. What a day to be out on the water! The MV Tillikum arrives at Vashon just before us, from the other direction. We slowly pull in beside it at the next slip. Cars get off, cars get on. The ferry fills up. Many more people boarding from Vashon Island than Southworth. But then again, you don't need a boat to get from Southworth to Seattle. A peninsula is not an island. This dock, by the way, is where SR 160 would intersect with SR 339 (the ferry going to downtown Seattle), if that ferry was actually a state-funded automobile ferry instead of the county-funded passenger ferry "water taxi" it currently is. How can it be called a state highway when it's financed by King County? Sounds like the equivalent of a county road to me.

After a long while, we leave Vashon Island. No turnaround this time. Chug across Puget Sound. Clouds, sun, sea. It never rains in Seattle.

Seattle approaches. Quiet Fauntleroy is about to get busy. SR 160 comes to an end. You must proceed on city streets from here.

A great fall day for a drive and a boat ride!

Washington State Route 155

2011-09-27T12:19:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, September 24, 2011, we drove the length of State Route 155, up the Grand Coulee to its eponymous garganutan dam and then through the Okanogan highlands. Coulee City, Grand Coulee, and Coulee Dam; Electric City, Elmer City, and Omak!

RCW 47.17.300
State route No. 155:

A state highway to be known as state route number 155 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity north of Coulee City, thence northeasterly to the boundary of the federal reservation at the Grand Coulee dam; also

Beginning at the boundary of the federal reservation at the Grand Coulee dam, thence northwesterly by the most feasible route by way of Nespelem and Disautel to a junction with state route number 97 at Omak; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 155 at Omak, thence northwesterly crossing the Okanogan river to a junction with state route number 215 at Omak.

Just north of Coulee City and just east of Banks Lake, SR 155 begins at a junction with US 2. To continue east on US 2, you have to turn right. We, on the other hand, continue straight ahead.

Banks Lake is an odd reservoir, with a dam on both ends. It nearly fills the full width of the Grand Coulee, leaving just a little space for the highway. So this section is quite scenic, but everything must end. We arrive at Electric City, then the city of Grand Coulee and a junction with SR 174.

At the other end of the city of Grand Coulee, SR 155 ends (but they don't tell you!). It enters the "federal reservation" which is the area around the dam.

The road goes down the hill past the Grand Coulee Dam and the visitors center. We enter the city of Coulee Dam and Douglas County and suddenly this is SR 155 yet again. Do you see where the pavement changes?

The highway crosses the Columbia River just below the Grand Coulee Dam. The river is also Rufus Woods Lake here, by the way, already backed up behind the Chief Joseph Dam far downstream. They didn't waste an inch of potential energy. We leave the city of Coulee Dam, cruise through Elmer City, and head into the hills, saying goodbye to the Columbia. After Nespelem, Highway 155 turns more westward and enters the forest. Up narrow valleys we climb. In Coyote Canyon, towering scree slopes of boulders pinch the highway from both sides. But then we crest Disautel Pass and head down Omak Creek to the city by the same name. Back to civilization. Back to highway oddities, where SR 155 has a junction with itself...

We take a sharp left, now going due south on "north" SR 155. After a few blocks, we come to a junction with US 97 and SR 20, which are one and the same. We crossed underneath it/them just a couple blocks before the junction with SR 155 spur. (Did I fail to mention that?)

But SR 155 isn't done yet. Here we are again! Did the shadows move at all? SR 155 spur continues straight where SR 155 turns left. Still in Omak.

A few blocks later, we cross the Okanogan River to the heart of Omak. SR 215! That quickly, SR 155 is done.

Highway 155 seem like two very different roads. One is through a huge canyon beside a giant lake. The other crosses the Colville Indian Reservation through fields and forests. A giant chunk of engineering history tie them together.

Washington State Route 153

2011-09-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 24, 2011, I drove the length of State Route 153 in north central Washington, up the Methow Valley.

RCW 47.17.295
State route No. 153:

A state highway to be known as state route number 153 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 97 in the vicinity of Pateros, thence northerly and westerly by the most feasible route to a junction with state route number 20 in the vicinity south of Twisp.

Just across the Methow River from Pateros and the delicious Sweet River Bakery, SR 153 leaves US 97 and the mighty Columbia River behind.

The first mile of the Methow River is part of Lake Pateros, backed up behind Wells Dam seven miles downstream on the Columbia. We then start uphill, following the winding canyon. We cross the river a couple times, the valley opens up a bit, and we roll through the town of Methow. We cross the river a few more times and arrive here, at the halfway point of Highway 153.

The highway continues up the Methow Valley, crossing the river several more times, passing through the hamlet of Carlton (post office, general store, restaurant, what more do you need?), and heads north towards Twisp. A couple miles downstream from that town, SR 153 meets SR 20 and thus its northern terminus.

A lovely valley of sunny farms. A lovely road of curves and bends.

Washington State Route 150

2011-09-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 24, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 150 along the shores of Lake Chelan and down to the banks of the Columbia River.

RCW 47.17.285
State route No. 150:

A state highway to be known as state route number 150 is established as follows:

Beginning at Manson, thence southeasterly to the north of Lake Chelan to a junction with state route number 97-alternate at Chelan.

Also beginning at a junction with state route number 97-alternate at Chelan southerly to a junction with state route number 97 in the vicinity of Chelan Station.

So here we begin, on the eastern outskirts of the town of Manson, with apple orchards scattered all around.

Highway 150 then proceeds eastward along the north shore of Lake Chelan, twisting and turning along the water's edge. Oh, how nice it would be to live in one of those houses! The lake is 55 miles long, but we only can see a small portion of it. After a few miles, we enter the city of Chelan. The city had a day of powerboat racing scheduled, so the place was hopping. In town, SR 150 makes a turn south. At the next block, it intersects US Alt 97. Or is that US 97 Alt? Turn left to continue east.

A mile eastward, SR 150 branches away from US Alt 97 and resumes its path alone onto what was SR 151 until 1987.

Highway 150 starts downhill, passing many fruit-packing warehouses. The hillside gets steeper and steeper as we drop down to the Columbia. This part used to be the northern end of SR 151, until US Highway 97 was completed for the few miles north of here. A little confusing, perhaps, but it made sense 25 years ago. After a switchback, we cross the railroad tracks and arrive at the junction with US 97. Our highway is at an end.

This route is a pleasant drive along the lakeshore and then a scenic drop into the massive canyon housing the Columbia River. I think Chunlin wants to move to this part of the state, as soon as we're able...

Washington State Route 142

2011-09-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, September 4, 2011, I drove the length of Washington State Route 142 up the Klickitat River, past the town of Klickitat, to the seat of Klickitat County. Hooray for Klickitat!

RCW 47.17.280
State route No. 142:

A state highway to be known as state route number 142 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 14 in the vicinity of Lyle, thence northeasterly by way of Klickitat to a junction with state route number 97 in the vicinity of Goldendale.

Just west of Lyle at the mouth of the Klickitat River into the Columbia, SR 142 joins SR 14.

We then proceed up the canyon, bending this way and that with every twist of the river. The water level seems still fairly high for this time of year, and people are taking advantage of it. The river is chock full of rafters and innertubers, kayakers etc. playing in the water. Soon after the town of Klickitat, we reach the halfway point of Highway 142, about 17.5 miles in.

Soon thereafter, Highway 142 leaves the Klickitat River and heads up the hill. There's a 3.5-mile oddity along this stretch, where the roadway is so narrow that the DOT couldn't fit two full lanes. There's no shoulders and no yellow stripe down the middle. Thankfully WSDOT installed a guardrail a couple years ago. I'm sure this was a harrowing section previously! But then the road pops out atop the plateau and we zig-zag through the flat farms, trending eastward to Goldendale. Out the other side of this "Sportsman's Paradise," we arrive at the end of SR 142, at the junction with US 97.

Why is it that I enjoy roads that twist and turn through canyons and hills, but find similar twists and turns on flat ground exceedingly annoying?

Washington State Route 141

2011-09-06T12:09:00.001-07:00

On Saturday and Sunday, September 3-4, 2011, I drove the length of Washington State Route 141 from the river to the mountains...

RCW 47.17.275
State route No. 141:

A state highway to be known as state route number 141 is established as follows:

Beginning at a wye junction with state route number 14, the west branch in the vicinity east of Underwood and the east branch in the vicinity of White Salmon, thence northerly to the boundary of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

The little oddity of the "beginning" of the official routing is solved by the WSDOT labeling the western segment along the White Salmon River as "Alt 141" and the eastern segment through the city of White Salmon as the main branch. Thus here is the first junction of SR 14 and SR 141, labeled as the alternate. Note the numerous cars and trucks parked alongside the road. The Columbia River is behind me in this photo. It and the White Salmon River were quite busy with fisherman and boaters that day.

A couple miles later up the hill, we reached the intersection of SR 141 with itself. Thus ends Alt 141.

Back down the hill by SR 14 and the Columbia River, the main route of SR 141 begins. We're in the town of Bingen, just a block east of Killer Burgers, home of the Peanut-Butter/Bacon/Pickle Burger. Oddly tasty, but not as good as the Classic.

After driving through White Salmon, we find ourselves once again the junction with Alt 141. Curiously, the only sign announcing this junction is a yellow-diamond intersection warning sign.

SR 141 then proceeds northward through hills and farms, past towns such as BZ Corner that bustle with whitewater rafting tourism this time of year. After a few glorious views of Mt. Adams, SR 141 arrives at the town of Trout Lake, where we spent the night. The highway then bends southwestward and winds uphill through the forest for a few miles before reaching its end at the county line and the edge of the national forest. Forest Service Road 24 will handle your road needs from here on out.

Highway 141 is a pleasant drive through the forests and fields of western Klickitat County. 'Twas abuzz with activity along its length on a summer holiday weekend, but is probably exceedingly quiet and peaceful other times of the year.

Washington State Route 131

2011-09-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 3, 2011, I drove the very short but sceninc Washington State Route 131.

RCW 47.17.262
State route No. 131:

A state highway to be known as state route number 131 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Gifford Pinchot national forest boundary south of Randle, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 12 in Randle.

Beginning at the northern end of the lengthy Forest Service Road 25 that will take you to Spirit Lake and Mount St. Helens, Highway 131 is about to leave the forest in more ways than one.

The forest ends and the highway cruises across the farmland of the Cowlitz River's Big Bottom. A mile later, we're at the halfway point of SR 131, which happens to be at the intersection with Forest Service Road 23, which will take you past Mount Adams to Trout Lake. We so happened to spend the night in Trout Lake, but we didn't take Road 23! Be careful at this intersection because you don't have the right-of-way...

Another mile later, we've crossed the Cowlitz River, entered the town of Randle, and come to the end of SR 131 at US Highway 12.

Plenty of wide-open views of the surrounding hills across the farmland. Two quick miles.

Washington State Route 129

2011-07-12T12:29:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, July 9, 2011, we drove the twisty-turvy length of Washington State Route 129 in the extreme southeast corner of the evergreen state.

RCW 47.17.260
State route No. 129:

A state highway to be known as state route number 129 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Washington-Oregon boundary line in Asotin county, thence northerly by the most feasible route by way of Asotin to a junction with state route number 12 at Clarkston.

Halfway down the hill into the Grand Ronde River canyon, we cross the state line and begin SR 129. Goodbye, Oregon; hello, Washington. Watch out for falling rocks on the road! The speed limit is 50, but you'd be lucky to average 30, for all the sharp curves.

What a difference a few miles makes! SR 129 crosses the Grand Ronde River and climbs at a steady grade up the other side of the canyon, generally following Rattlesnake Creek far below. The road hugs tight to the hillside, wrapping around every ridge and gully. Motorcyclists seem to like this stretch. After a long few miles, we enter a forest, the road straightens out, and we emerge atop the hill in unending farmland. Just north of Anatone, this is the halfway point on the route.

High on a hill above Asotin, we spy the Snake River far below. Thus we begin our winding descent. Which direction are we facing? Who knows. After passing through town, we follow northward the Snake River, replete with jetskiers and boat-loungers. 'Tis a summer weekend, after all. We enter Clarkston, hang a right on Diagonal Street, and just before the Interstate Bridge, we reach our junction with US 12. Highway 129 is at an end.

For those who love to drive curvy roads, this is one for you! Quite a bit like Highway 1 in California but with fewer cars and less ocean... Your focus is necessary!

Washington State Route 128

2011-07-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

On Monday, July 4, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 128 across the Snake to Idaho!

RCW 47.17.255
State route No. 128:

A state highway to be known as state route number 128 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 12 in Clarkston, thence northeasterly and easterly by way of the Red Wolf crossing to the Idaho state line.

Despite the photographed sign only mentioning US 12 and SR 193, this intersection is the beginning of Highway 128. Once upon a time, this was the eastern end of SR 128 instead of the western end. The route used to wind through the hills, roughly parallel to Highway 12 from Pomeroy to Clarkston. No longer.

We cruise onto the elegant bridge, signed Red Wolf Crossing, and peer either way at the mighty Snake River. Facing the cliff and the stop sign, we arrive at the end of the bridge and the intersection with SR 193. Before the bridge was built, SR 193 continued unabated along the north side of the river. Nowadays, we turn right and stay on SR 128.

Speeding up to 55 mph, we race toward the morning sun. A short mile-and-a-half later, we've reached Idaho. Washington Highway 128 becomes Idaho Highway 128. How nice of our neighbors to number it thusly!

Being one of only three bridges across the Snake River in the Lewiston-Clarkston area (with no bridges for fifty miles north of town and none for over a hundred miles southward), Highway 128 gets a lot of traffic for such a short route. Nice views, too.

Washington State Route 127

2011-07-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, July 3, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 127 ... down to the Snake and across the Palouse.

RCW 47.17.250
State route No. 127:

A state highway to be known as state route number 127 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 12 in the vicinity of Dodge, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 26 in the vicinity of Dusty.

If you're not paying attention while driving US Highway 12 eastward, you might just end up heading north on SR 127 without realizing it. Here near a minimal rest area, US 12 exits to the right. Highway 127 begins straight ahead.

We curve up over Dodge Hill, down New York Gulch, up again, down down down again, and we're flying over the Snake River. Watch out for pedestrians on the bridge! The Central Ferry Park is closed. How sad. Climbing the hill north of the river, we reach the halfway point on SR 127, pictured above.

Up up up we go, till we're atop the hills. The wheat whips like ocean waves in the wind. Descending slightly, we cruise down Alkali Flat Creek's valley toward the town of Dusty. Just before the trees of town, SR 127 reaches its end, at this intersection with SR 26. Which way to turn? Seattle or Spokane? UW or WSU?

A peaceful drive through the countryside. Green and golden hills of grain. Giant river below.

Washington State Route 125

2011-07-11T17:37:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, July 3, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 125 from Oregon to Walla Walla and beyond!

RCW 47.17.240
State route No. 125:

A state highway to be known as state route number 125 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Washington-Oregon boundary line south of Walla Walla, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 12 at Walla Walla; also

From a junction with state route number 12 at Walla Walla, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 124 at Prescott.

Here in Oregon, north of Milton-Freewater, we see the southern end of Highway 125. Oregon thanks you; welcome to Washington!

SR 125 cruises as a five-lane highway north toward College Place and northeast to Walla Walla. In town, the highway turns into a wide city arterial. Then after the intersection with Rose Street, it's suddenly only two lanes. We cross Mill Creek on an old, narrow bridge and enter a residential neighborhood. We're still on the highway, right? Right. After a couple blocks of houses, we hang a left. We cross under the railroad and arrive at a junction with SR 125. Wait. We're on that road. Actually, the signs say "to US 12" straight and "north 125" right. The section straight ahead is part of SR 125, also, however.

A half mile later, we find a shiny new roundabout! We curve rightward and find another, double(!) roundabout. This is SR 125's interchange with US 12. Ain't it a beaut? This place was under construction last time I was here.

SR 125 promptly doubles back on itself, if you compare the legal code carefully against reality. I got confused by the dumbbell-shaped roundabout and accidently circled the interchange a second time. But once I got out at the right spot, it was a half mile back to the intersection of SR 125 with itself. Time to turn left and head north.

Even by the time we pass the state penitentiary, the city is far behind us. We enter a rollercoaster of a rural road, zig-zagging up and down the narrow bends. At Valley Grove, we join the railroad we crossed under so long ago. Things mellow out. Before too long, we cross the Touchet River and arrive here, at the junction with SR 124. Highway 125 is at an end.

A very curious road, for such a simple line on the map.

Washington State Route 124

2011-07-11T12:51:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, July 3, 2011, we drove the length of Washington State Route 124, through the farmlands of southeastern Washington.

RCW 47.17.235
State route No. 124:

A state highway to be known as state route number 124 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 12 in the vicinity of Burbank, thence northeasterly by the most feasible route to a point in the vicinity of Eureka, thence easterly by the most feasible route to a junction with state route number 125 in the vicinity of Prescott, thence easterly to a junction with state route number 12 in the vicinity northeast of Waitsburg.

That portion of state route number 124 lying between the junction with state route number 12 and the county road to Ice Harbor Dam to be known as "Ice Harbor Drive".

Just across the Snake River from Pasco, SR 124 has its western junction with US 12. WSDOT is currently replacing this stoplight with an interchange, but for now, this is what we have.

SR 124 zips across the farmlands for many miles, then dips into the canyon known as the Touchet Valley. We are cruising for Clarkston, avoiding Walla Walla, etc. Just before the town of Prescott, we find the junction with SR 125. Did you want to go to Walla Walla, after all?

Ten miles further up the valley, SR 124 enters the city of Waitsburg. Here at this stop sign, the route meets its end. Continuing straight is US 12. See that park on the left? Doesn't that look like a nice place for a break? It is.

Flying through the fields, SR 124 goes pretty quick...

Washington State Route 123

2011-07-11T12:30:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, July 2, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 123. Mountains, here we come!

RCW 47.17.230
State route No. 123:

A state highway to be known as state route number 123 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 12 in the vicinity west of White Pass, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 410 in the vicinity west of Chinook Pass.

Under a cliff northeast of Packwood, Highway 123 starts here at a junction with US 12. We are, as one would expect for the southern terminus of the highway, facing southeast. SR 123 dips out of sight and quickly turns north to parallel Highway 12.

Through the forest above Ohanapecosh River, we head north. Curve curve curve, wend wend wend. We enter Mount Rainier National Park through a wooden gateway and continue up the valley. North of Ohanapecosh Campground, we reach the halfway point for this route. Still deep in the forest with nary but a glimpse of the mountain.

The forest thins out. The hillside steepens. Views emerge to our left. Distant hills and sky and Mount Rainier looming close. Tunnel. Viewpoints. Snow! Slower and slower with the tourists, we arrive at Cayuse Pass, the end of Highway 123. Here it meets SR 410, which is on its own way up Chinook Pass to the east. We have climbed to the headwaters of the Cowlitz drainage, which flows to the Columbia, and stare at the White River basin, which flows to Tacoma.

Quite a nice drive through the park, but one must really continue upward to fully appreciate the surroundings. Upward and onward!

Washington State Route 122

2011-07-11T12:16:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 2, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 122 along the shores of green Mayfield Lake.

RCW 47.17.227
State route No. 122:

A state highway to be known as state route number 122 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 12 near Mayfield dam, thence northeasterly and southerly by way of Mayfield to a junction with state route number 12 in Mossyrock.

In the tiny community of Silver Creek, our highway begins. This is the western junction of SR 122 with US 12. Doesn't the road look enticing?

After crossing the rolling fields of Silver Creek, SR 122 comes to a cliff. Look! Mayfield Lake lays below us, glittering in the morning sun. We descend the hill and approach the water. A few boats dot the lake, people enjoying the warm Saturday morning. In Ike Kinswa State Park, we cross an arm of the lake and begin winding around the opposing hill. That's where this photo was taken, within the forest, halfway along the route.

Tight between the lake and hill, we emerge from the state park. Through fields and neighborhoods, we cross the lake again and climb away. Soon we're up on the flats again and entering Mossyrock. We return to US 12. Our short journey is over.

A pleasant drive along a lovely lake. It's a state route to serve the state park, but it's one worth visiting.

Washington State Route 121

2011-07-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 2, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 121 through fields and forests.

RCW 47.17.225
State route No. 121:

A state highway to be known as state route number 121 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity of Maytown, thence easterly, northerly, and westerly by way of Millersylvania state park to a junction with state route number 5 south of Tumwater.

SR 121 begins here, at a lovely new interchange with I-5. North on 121 here is, of course, east.

After proceeding slowly through Maytown, Highway 121 hangs a left and turns northward. The state route was laid over existing local roads, so it still functions that way and not as an individual highway. Shortly after turning north, we enter Millersylvania State Park, the highway's raison d'être. The thick forest is a noticable difference from the surrounding private land.

We leave the forest and continue north through fields for a couple more miles. The route then turns left again, heading west back to the freeway. Four miles north of where we left I-5, we're back again. Our drive of SR 121 is thus complete.

SR 121 used to run from US 12 at Rochester northeastward to SR 121's current southern end. Twenty years ago, the state moved it north to service the state park. And that's about all it does.

Washington State Route 119

2011-06-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 26, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 119 from Hood Canal to somewhere in the vague area near Lake Cushman.

RCW 47.17.223
State route No. 119:

A state highway to be known as state route number 119 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 near Hoodsport, thence northwesterly to the Mount Rose development intersection.

In Hoodsport, right beside the teriyaki-and-burgers place, SR 119 begins. We say "sayonara" to US 101 and head for the hills.

Left and right and up and down, SR 119 is certainly an entertaining road to drive. Unfortunately, I've caught only the barest glimpse of the lake so far! Here we are, half way to the end of the paved road.

When you get to the stop sign, turn left to stay on Highway 119. The other way is Forest Road 24. Oddly enough, when you get to the end of SR 119, the gravel straight ahead is also Forest Road 24. Hmmm... Well. Ah. Where's Lake Cushman?

For a highway that leads toward the great wilderness of the Olympic Mountains and travels past a huge lake with all sorts of recreation, SR 119 is actually quite ... utilitarian.

Washington State Route 117

2011-06-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 26, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 117 from its beginning in western Port Angeles to its terminus in western Port Angeles. Let's go truckin'!

RCW 47.17.221
State route No. 117:

A state highway to be known as state route number 117 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in Port Angeles, thence northerly to the port of Port Angeles at Marine Drive.

Just west of Tumwater Creek along US Highway 101 on the western outskirts of Port Angeles, there sits an unassuming half-interchange and overpass. That overpass is the southern end of SR 117. If you're headed east on 101 to get here, don't be fooled by the "US 101 Truck Route" sign. It's actually 117. WSDOT just wants to make sure trucks go this way...

SR 117 follows Tumwater Creek down its canyon, tumbling quickly toward the sea. A few businesses alongside the road, but not much else. At the halfway point on the highway, we spy a city street spanning the canyon, far above. No sign, no contact...

The canyon flattens out. A few more businesses, and suddenly a stoplight ahead. We've reached the end of SR 117, here at Marine Drive. This is at the heart of the industrial port of Port Angeles. Huge piles of lumber abound. The only possible rationale for SR 117 to be a state highway is to guide the truckers away from the quaint city center. The city surely doesn’t want the tourists to know what *really* supports the city.

Well, that was fun. Hurricane Ridge, anybody?

Washington State Route 116

2011-06-27T07:51:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 25, 2011, I drove the length of Washington State Route 116 -- off the mainland and onto the islands.

RCW 47.17.219
State route No. 116:

A state highway to be known as state route number 116 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 19 in the vicinity of Irondale, thence easterly and northerly to Fort Flagler state park.

In the Chimacum Valley on the Quimper Peninsula, our glorious Highway 116 begins. We say goodbye to SR 19 and head east toward Hadlock.

After a left turn to stay on the state highway, we fly high on a bridge over Portage Canal onto Indian Island. Indian Island is not too friendly a place. For the entire width of the island, the north side of the highway is guarded by a concertina-wired fence. The Navy says, "Stay out." Instead, look out over Oak Bay to the south. Much nicer. After a short causeway beside Isthmus Beach, we’re welcomed to Marrowstone Island. The highway turns north (but the signs say "east," of course). People live here. This is the halfway point on SR 116.

See the mudflats of Mystery Bay. See the Nordland general store. See the farms and houses. See the gate to Fort Flagler State Park. We’re at the end of Highway 116. I think it's time to find a place for the night.

SR 116: short but sweet.

Washington State Route 115

2011-04-03T19:17:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, April 3, 2011, we drove the length of Washington State Route 115 ... all two miles of it.

RCW 47.17.217
State route No. 115

A state highway to be known as state route number 115 is established as follows:

Beginning at Ocean Shores thence in an easterly and northerly direction by the most feasible route to a junction with state route number 109 in the vicinity south of Ocean City.

After driving most of a mile along the beach, I turned inland and found myself here, the southern end of SR 115. Most of the traffic is from the right, which is the broad boulevard entrance to the city of Ocean Shores. Know your tsunami evacuation route! How far can you get in fifteen minutes? Will there be a traffic jam? Should you instead run to the top floor of the nearby three-story hotel? Luckily, we didn't have to experience any of that in our short visit, but it's always in the back of my mind.

We soon turn northward, as we are still on a narrow peninsula. After a mile, this is the halfway point of the highway. Very scenic.

After another mile, we have passed the Quinault Tribe casino and reached the end of SR 115. This is the junction with SR 109. Left to "Ocean Beaches" and right to "Hoquiam." We just came from the beaches, so we head for Hoquiam ... and beyond!

Next time you're in the area, go drive off the end of SR 115 onto the beach, park your car before the sand turns wet, and walk to the edge of the ocean. Stand there for a while. Watch the waves crashing and churning. Watch the seagulls soar. Watch the kids and dogs bounding along the sand. Watch the kites fly high. Listen to the wind. But watch out for the tide coming in...

Washington State Route 113

2011-04-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 2, 2011, we drove Washington State Route 113, half of the Korean War Veterans' Memorial Highway, from just north of Beaver to a bit south of Clallam Bay.

RCW 47.17.216
State route No. 113:

A state highway to be known as state route number 113 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity of Sappho, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 112 in the vicinity of the Pysht River.

Here we are in the Soleduck Valley at US 101, about to set off on our journey north on SR 113. Lake Pleasant is off to the left. Lake Crescent is far off to the right.

This has only been known as State Route 113 since 1991, by the way. Before that, it was known as Burnt Mountain Road. We leave the Soleduck Valley and climb gently alongside Beaver Creek, past Beaver Falls and Beaver Lake before reaching the halfway point of the highway. There are no junctions in the middle of the route, so we took this shot to show you what it looks like. It looks like forested hills. Just a little bit ahead is Burnt Mountain.

We circle around Burnt Mountain and drop down into the Pysht River drainage. Very shortly we're at the end of SR 113. If you continue straight, you'd be on SR 112. If you turned right, you'd be on SR 112. Either way will get you to the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

And thus ends our short-but-pleasant drive through the hills of the northwestern Olympic Peninsula. If you go, don't be confused by the road sign that says you're driving SR 112 instead of SR 113 -- or the road sign that says "Pysht Hwy Old Sappho-" instead of "Old Sappho-Pysht Hwy." Just stop at Beaver Falls and enjoy the skunk cabbage of Beaver Lake.

Washington State Route 112

2011-02-21T10:17:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, February 20, 2011, I drove the length of Washington State Route 112, the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway.

RCW 47.17.215
State route No. 112:

A state highway to be known as state route number 112 is established as follows:

Beginning at the easterly boundary of the Makah Indian Reservation, thence easterly by way of Clallam Bay and Pysht to a junction with state route number 101 in or near Port Angeles.

We began our easterly drive all the way out at Cape Flattery, just to get a running start at this highway. A couple miles outside of Neah Bay, we reached the edge of the Makah Indian Reservation and thus the beginning of State Route 112. A lovely day for a drive.

The highway hugs the coastline for the first stretch. Across the water, Canada's snow-capped mountains blanket the horizon. Chunlin enjoyed the view while I focused on driving. The highway has about 100 curves before we reached the towns of Sekiu and Clallam Bay -- I counted. We stopped for lunch at Clallam Bay and said goodbye to the strait. Highway 112 soon turns south and heads inland up the Clallam River and into the Pysht River drainage. At clearcuts, we spy the Olympic Mountains ahead. Soon we reach the junction with SR 113. We must turn left to stay on SR 112. Just so you know, SR 113 and the first half of SR 112 are the Korean War Veterans' Memorial Highway whereas the eastern half of SR 112 is the Vietnam War Veterans' Memorial Highway.

As we twisted and turned through the forested hills, Chunlin compared Highway 112 to Highway 20, and not in a favorable way. Not enough views. But we did return to the water's edge after a few miles and I spied Mt. Baker in the distance. Being able to see really big things from really far away is cool, I so declared. Before long, however, the road leaves the coast and continues east, inland. Gradually civilization starts up. Houses, farms, "school bus stop ahead" signs. We pause in Joyce to buy gasoline at the post office & general store. Not long thereafter, we cross the Elwha River and reach US 101 and the end of our drive.

Highway 112 is a curvy, quiet, scenic highway. The portions along the water more than make up for the viewless sections in the trees. So much so that Chunlin mentioned wanting to buy a vacation home along the water near Clallam Bay. We spotted a waterfront house for sale, but didn't see the price...

Washington State Route 110

2011-02-21T09:13:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, February 19, 2011, I drove Washington State Route 110, from Forks out toward the coast and toward the coast again!

RCW 47.17.212
State route No. 110:

A state highway to be known as state route number 110 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity north of Forks, thence westerly to the Olympic national park boundary in the vicinity of La Push; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 110 near the Quillayute river, thence westerly to the Olympic national park boundary in the vicinity of Moro.

Late on a cold, sunny Saturday afternoon, we headed out from US 101 near Forks, going west to the ocean. Unusual for an even-number Washington highway, Highway 110 mileposts go from east to west instead of west to east. Forks had 5" of snow the day before, but the roads were clear and dry when we set out.

Over the hills and through the woods, Highway 110 follows the Soleduck, Calawah, and Bogachiel Rivers as they all flow together. Shortly before the Soleduck and Bogachiel join to form the Quillayute River, we reach the junction with Mora Road, SR 110 spur (which isn't signed as such). It's just past the restaurant, on the right. Note that the correct spelling is "Mora," not "Moro," as the legislative code spells it.

We continue on the La Push branch through the timber farms and cross the Bogachiel River. Two miles from the Pacific Ocean, the highway ends. We reach the edge of Olympic National Park and thus the end of SR 110. To reach La Push and the ocean, you must continue ahead a mile through the dense forest of the park and another mile through the city of La Push, which is the Quileute Indian Reservation. Nice beaches out there, but very few rooms to rent for the night.

After watching the waves for a while, we headed back to the Mora Road junction to drive SR 110 spur.

The state put mileposts on Mora Road, but no other indication that this is a state highway. We cross the Soleduck River and continue west along the north bank of the Quillayute. A couple miles later, we reach the boundary of Olympic National Park again. SR 110 spur is at an end. We continued along the slushy road to Rialto Beach and watched those waves for a bit. Nice rocks off the coast. Sun's going down. Time to go find a motel...

At the US 101 and La Push ends of SR 110, signs have been erected declaring this highway the Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial Highway. The odd thing is that the resolution from last May describes the memorial highway as being "between the junction of state route number 101 and the junction of state route number 110 by and through the Quileute Indian Reservation in the community of La Push." Not only does SR 110 not go through the indian reservation or La Push, it stops a mile short, thanks to the national park, so it's not really "by," either. The DOT had to put the La Push sign at the national park boundary.

Well, I thought it was odd, at least.

Washington State Route 109

2010-09-07T12:39:00.001-07:00

On Sunday and Monday, September 5-6, 2010, I drove the length of Washington State Route 109, from Hoquiam to Taholah and back again -- or at least the portion that's constructed. Sun, rain, and fun fun fun.

RCW 47.17.200
State route No. 109:

A state highway to be known as state route number 109 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in Hoquiam, thence northwesterly by way of Ocean City, Copalis, Pacific Beach, and Moclips to a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity of Queets; also a bypass beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity of the north city limits of Hoquiam, thence southerly to a junction with state route number 109 in the vicinity of the west city limits of Hoquiam.

On a sunny Sunday afternoon, our drive begins on the west bank of the Hoquiam River. Note the construction/detour signs. The southbound bridge for US 101 is currently closed due to deterioration of the underwater piers, so the normally northbound bridge over the Hoquiam River is serving double duty, with one lane each direction. For us, traffic wasn't bad at all, but then again, it was a Sunday afternoon.

At the west end of town, SR 109 has a junction with itself: SR 109 Spur, the bypass of Hoquiam for all the hordes of traffic between Ocean Shores and points north that don't want to take the much shorter county-road routes. Naturally, WSDOT signs the spur as if were US 101.

After winding around the North Bay of Grays Harbor, we arrive at the turn-off to Ocean Shores: SR 115. Highway 109 turns north along the coast here.

With glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and the bright sun through the trees, we pass through all the small resort towns of Ocean City, Copalis Beach, Pacific Beach, and Moclips. The stretch between Copalis and Pacific Beach is wonderfully curvy and also home to a nice beach hike from Roosevelt Beach south to Copalis Rock and Copalis Airport, which is nothing more than a wide strip of hard-packed sand with a windsock. After Moclips, SR 109 enters the Quinault Indian Reservation and there are no more resorts. Tourists are not welcome. At Taholah, the seat of Quinault tribal government, the state highway ends at the near end of a bridge over the wide and scenic Quinault River.

State Route 109 is supposed to continue up the coast to reconnect to US 101 near Queets and the south end of the coastal portion of Olympic National Park. This would be a prime route for tourists in the area, but for some reason, the tribe blocked the road from being finished. As I said, tourists are not welcome. Taholah itself would be a great location for a resort casino on the beach, at the mouth of the river. So much for visitors to do! So many tourist dollars to reap! Instead, Taholah has a poverty rate three times higher than nearby Moclips. There has been a real failure of leadership in the Quinault tribe. Depressing, really.

The next day, the rain arrived. We returned to Hoquiam for the short bypass, SR 109 Spur. Beginning at US 101, southwestward we head.

A couple miles of empty road with nary a building in sight, the bypass ends at its parent route, SR 109.

Only now is our drive of Highway 109 complete. Enough has been said.

Washington State Route 108

2010-09-07T12:23:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, September 5, 2010, we drove the length of Washington State Route 108, from a small town to a big casino.

RCW 47.17.195
State route No. 108:

A state highway to be known as state route number 108 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 8 in the vicinity west of McCleary, thence northeasterly to a junction with state route number 101 south of Shelton.

At the western end of McCleary, SR 108 begins at a junction with the almost-a-freeway SR 8. Left turn across a 60-mph divided highway. That's safe.

Highway 108 quickly joins the old route of US 410 from when it used to come this far west, and heads east into McCleary. After a couple slow miles through town, first east then north leaving old 410, we take another right turn and are presented by a wide-open highway. I wonder if the original design was for this highway to continue past McCleary back to the junction where we started, but the city stopped its construction to generate traffic in town. Or maybe not. In any case, a few miles east of town, we're halfway along the highway that has no junctions, and so a photo is taken.

After more miles of timber farms and more-traditional farms, SR 108 reaches its end at US 101. Immediately to our right is the massive Little Creek Casino, courtesy of the Squaxin Island tribe. We discussed visiting but ultimately didn't.

A quiet stretch of highway over hill and dale, a shortcut from Aberdeen to Shelton without visiting Olympia and not much more.

Washington State Route 107

2010-09-07T00:16:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, September 5, 2010, I drove the short length of Washington Highway 107, which is not much more than a bypass of Aberdeen, a shortcut from Olympia to southward along the coast.

RCW 47.17.190
State route No. 107:

A state highway to be known as state route number 107 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 north of Artic, thence northeasterly to a junction with state route number 12 at Montesano.

So here we are at the junction of SR 107 and US 101. We have both the sun and the wind at our backs. Let's go for a drive.

After several miles of forest and hills, Highway 107 dips down toward the Chehalis River and the town of Melbourne. 'Round about in here is the halfway point of the highway.

The speed limit drops, we cross the Chehalis River on a narrow bridge, the speed limit drops again as we enter Montesano, and we come to the junction with US 12 and the end of Highway 107.

We stop at the nearby Chevron for the second time in a half hour and then we're gone...

Washington State Route 106

2010-08-16T12:37:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, August 15, 2010, I drove Washington State Route 106 along scenic Hood Canal.

RCW 47.17.185
State route No. 106:

A state highway to be known as state route number 106 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 near the mouth of the Skokomish river, thence northeasterly along the southeast shore of Hood Canal to a junction with state route number 3 in the vicinity of Belfair.

In the Skokomish Indian Reservation in the Skokomish River valley, just south of the southern tip of Hood Canal, SR 106 begins at a junction with US 101.

After passing the casino and some closed fireworks stands, SR 106 enters the community of Union, which continues unabated for the next ten miles. With gorgeous views of the water and the Olympics beyond, it's no wonder that this southern fishhook section of Hood Canal is packed with houses side-by-side as if it were a Seattle neighborhood. Since SR 106 does not have any junctions along its length, this photo is from the approximate halfway point, just west of Twanoh State Park (which was crowded, I tell you what!).

The houses continue all the way to the end of the inlet, which is just before the end of SR 106 at this junction with SR 3. Almost to Belfair, our journey is over.

If we could afford it, I certainly wouldn't mind owning a vacation home along this highway, especially on the water side, toward the south end with a really great view of the mountains. Yeah, that'd be nice.

Washington State Route 105

2010-08-16T12:05:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, August 15, 2010, I drove the length of Washington State Route 105, from Raymond to Aberdeen, with a spur to Westport. Sunny cloudy sunny...

RCW 47.17.180
State route No. 105:

A state highway to be known as state route number 105 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 at Raymond, thence westerly by way of Tokeland and North Cove to the shore of Grays Harbor north of Westport; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 105 in the vicinity south of Westport, thence northeasterly to a junction with state route number 101 at Aberdeen.

While a heat wave swept over the state, we headed for the coast. At the north end of Raymond, SR 105 starts at a junction with US 101. Over the hump and down into the Riverdale neighborhood, we quickly left the city behind and followed the Willapa River downstream to the giant mudflats of Willapa Bay. The road hugs the coast, turning inland to cross river mouths and sloughs. Soon the clouds began, a heavy marine layer sitting low on the hills. At Tokeland, we rounded a head and turned northward with the Pacific Ocean in full splendor to our left.

After a while paralleling the beaches, we reach SR 105's junction with itself, or rather its spur. Instead of the usual "Attraction -- next left" signs, the signs all emphasize the need to continue "straight" in a half mile to see the sights. Since straight ahead is, in fact, where the legal code describes the route going first, we continued straight at this junction and entered Westport.

The highway continues through the residential section of town (with a stoplight!) and proceeds to the marina at Westhaven Cove, which I'm sure is what most visitors would consider to be all there is of Westport. State Route 105 ends at this intersection with Westhaven Drive. Curiously, the pavement markings say you have to turn one way or the other, but there were cars down at the end of the pier straight ahead. I guess they just don't want random people driving down there, though.

Back at SR 105's junction with itself, the second leg of the route (per the code if not WSDOT's nomeclature) begins. It's time to head east. Let's see if we can leave this cool gray weather behind us.

That's better! The highway crosses South Bay and tools along Grays Harbor all the way to Aberdeen. On the south side of town, SR 105 meets its end at another junction with US 101. Continue straight to go north on 101 to Aberdeen and Hoquiam. To go south on 101 back to Raymond, hang a right.

'Twas our first time on SR 105 and to Westport. It's a rather peaceful stretch of coast and a good twenty degrees cooler than Seattle in the height of summer! Washington's ocean beaches are not "exciting" like you might find elsewhere, but "relaxing." And that's the way we like it.

Washington State Route 104

2010-08-01T20:52:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 1, 2010, I drove the length of Washington State Route 104, from somewhere south of Uncas, east across the Hood Canal Bridge and the Kingston ferry, all the way to the great city of Lake Forest Park.

RCW 47.17.175
State route No. 104:

A state highway to be known as state route number 104 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity south of Discovery Bay, thence southeasterly to the vicinity of Shine on Hood Canal, thence crossing Hood Canal to a junction with state route number 3 in the vicinity of Port Gamble; also

From that junction with state route number 3 in the vicinity of Port Gamble, thence to Port Gamble, thence southerly and easterly to the state ferry terminal at Kingston; also

From the state ferry terminal at Kingston via the state ferry system easterly to the state ferry terminal at Edmonds; also

From the state ferry terminal at Edmonds, thence southeasterly to a junction with state route number 99 in the vicinity of the Snohomish-King county line; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 99 in the vicinity of the Snohomish-King county line, thence southeasterly to a junction with state route number 522 in the vicinity of Lake Forest Park.

In a small valley south of Discovery Bay, SR 104 begins at an interchange with US 101. Let's go up that hill!

Over the hill into the next valley, we pass by the barn home of the Olympic Music Festival. Over the next hill we find a junction with SR 19.

Soon we see Hood Canal, and then the Hood Canal Bridge stretches ahead of us. It's the longest floating bridge in the world that's across water with tidal fluctuations. Also it's the world's third-longest floating bridge of any kind, behind a couple others in the Seattle area. This marvel of a bridge carries us to the Kitsap Peninsula and a junction with SR 3. Do you want to go to Bremerton? Take a right. The WSDOT radio and signs suggested we'd save time by going to the Bainbridge Island ferry. Only a one-hour wait there, while a three-hour wait ahead in Kingston... We stay on 104 and take a left.

Through the quaint city of Port Gamble and south along Port Gamble Bay, we proceed to a junction with SR 307. Once again, we must take a left to stay on 104.

Despite the signs and radio saying there was a three-hour wait, we soon discovered that our wait would be less than an hour -- if our ferry was on-time. The previous ferry was on-time, but not ours. So sad. Walk around Kingston; enjoy the strangely orange sunlight. Since it turned out to be over an hour from the 307 junction to when we got to the end of the road, here's a halfway photo. Sitting in line.

The Walla Walla arrives, reguritates a load of cars and pedestrians, then lets us on. Time for a ride.

Once loaded and fifteen minutes late, we sail. Welcome to Puget Sound. Enjoy the seagulls!

Shortly thereafter, Edmonds. Drivers should now return to your cars.

Off the dock and back on solid ground, we find an unsigned junction with SR 524. In case you didn't know, stay straight to get on that route to Lynnwood.

Up the winding hill till we arrive at SR 99. From all the trees, you'd never know how many businesses are along that road.

Past Lake Ballinger (zig two lanes to the right and zag two lanes to the left), we quickly get to I-5.

Down the hill into Lake Forest Park, slow down, slow down, till we're almost at Lake Washington. It is here, at a junction with SR 522, that 104 ends. Almost back to home sweet home.

SR 104 is an odd mix of beautiful bays and clearcut forests. Quaint towns, pleasant boat ride, unique bridge.

Washington State Route 103

2010-07-18T20:03:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, July 18, 2010, I drove the length of Washington State Route 103, north along the Long Beach Peninsula from Seaview to Leadbetter Point State Park. A cool, gray morning with a heavy mist in the air. Typical around these parts.

RCW 47.17.170
State route No. 103:

A state highway to be known as state route number 103 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 at Seaview, thence northerly by way of Long Beach to Leadbetter Point state park.

At a point where US 101 turns eastward, SR 103 begins, heading north into Long Beach. The first section is the town of Seaview, actually, but it all sort of flows together. This weekend was the SandSations sandcastle festival in Long Beach, but it ended the day before. Plenty of folks in town still, though. Pity I didn't look at their calendar and get us here a day earlier.

Halfway north along the peninsula, halfway north along SR 103. No junctions on this highway, so here's a lovely spot between Klipsan Beach and Ocean Park. With so much water on each side of such a narrow peninsula, you'd think you'd be able to see something besides forest occasionally.

The highway zigs over to the eastern shore, whereupon we catch a brief glimpse of Willapa Bay in Nahcotta. In Oysterville, the highway zags back to the center of the peninsula then north again into Leadbetter Point State Park, whereupon SR 103 ends in the forest.

A pleasant drive in a pleasant corner of the state, if you don't mind driving in straight lines quite a bit.

Washington State Route 102

2010-04-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, April 25, 2010, I drove the short length of Washington State Route 102 . . . all 2.8 miles of it.

RCW 47.17.168
State route No. 102:

A state highway to be known as state route number 102 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Washington Corrections Center, thence northeasterly to a junction of state route number 101 north of Shelton.

Before award of any construction contract for improvements to state route number 102 under either program A or program C, the department of transportation shall secure a portion of the construction cost from Mason county.

At the western entrance to the Washington Corrections Center near Shelton, our highway begins. No parking allowed. Look to your right as we pass this row of trees and watch the prisoners milling about in the yard. Be glad you're on the this side of the razor wire.

1.4 miles later, the road starts curving to the right. This is the halfway point of the highway.

Shortly after passing the State Patrol Academy and the north entrance to the local airport, SR 102 ends at US 101.

Well, that was fun.

Washington State Route 101

2010-04-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

On Saturday and Sunday, March 6-7, and Saturday, April 24, 2010, we drove the length of US Route 101 in Washington State, from the Columbia River all the way around the Olympic Peninsula to Olympia, and back to the beginning again!

RCW 47.17.165
State route No. 101:

A state highway to be known as state route number 101 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Oregon boundary on the interstate bridge at Point Ellis, thence northwesterly by way of Ilwaco to a junction with state route number 4 in the vicinity of a location known as Johnson's Landing in Pacific county; also

From that junction with state route number 4 in the vicinity of a location known as Johnson's Landing, in Pacific county, thence northerly by way of South Bend to a junction with state route number 6 at Raymond; also

From that junction with state route number 6 at Raymond, thence northerly by way of Cosmopolis to a junction with state route number 12 at Aberdeen; also

From that junction with state route number 12 at Aberdeen, thence westerly to Hoquiam, thence northwesterly by way of Lake Quinault to Forks, thence easterly by way of Port Angeles to the vicinity of Discovery Bay, thence southerly by way of Shelton to a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity west of Olympia; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity east of Ilwaco, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity northeast of Ilwaco.

On the way across the Columbia River from Astoria, Oregon, we enter Washington. Our journey begins, and what a sunny late-winter day!

At the north end of the Astoria-Megler Bridge, US 101 has its first junction, which is with SR 401. Note that the sign for SR 401 mentions Raymond -- which is on 101. Why would the main route north to Raymond not be on US 101? Oh, I guess I shouldn't bother asking that question. This highway loops twelve ways to Sunday. It loops fractally.

US 101 turns west and heads down the Columbia, which is a wide bay at this point, almost to the open ocean. The road is separated from the water by only a narrow rock dike, so you get plenty of views. After the town of Chinook, we arrive at US 101's first junction with US 101 Alternate, which we once again are informed that if we're serious about heading north, we should turn off US 101. At least this time, it's on to a subset of itself.

Over a little hill and we're in Ilwaco. My, this looks familiar. It's the junction with SR 100.

US 101 turns north, proceeds a few miles, and intersects SR 103, which proceeds straight north at this junction, heading through Long Beach and up the North Beach Peninsula. To stay on 101, you must turn right and head west.

Shortly thereafter, US 101 intersect US 101 Alternate again. Seven miles on the main route, one mile on the alternate route. ... I guess Ilwaco and Long Beach had good lobbying efforts when 101's route was chosen.

After hugging the shoreline of Willapa Bay, past mudflats and wildlife areas, and crossing the wide but short Naselle River, US 101 has a junction with SR 4, where we last visited almost two years ago. Not much has changed around these parts. Take a left to stay on 101, by the way.

US 101 rejoins Willapa Bay, crossing three Naselle Rivers and a Palix, among others. Lots of farms, forests, and views of deeply carved mud in the bay. US 101 briefly turns southeast before South Bend, where it bends further north. And then, at the south end of Raymond, US 101 intersects SR 6.

At the north end of town, we reach the southern junction with SR 105. Based upon 101's route south of here, I'm rather surprised that 105's coast-hugging route isn't actually 101 -- and the shortcut straight northward is 105. But for once, the quick route is 101.

After winding through the hills and forests (nicely signed with the various dates of harvests and replantings), US 101 passes through the town of Artic [sic] and intersects SR 107. SR 107 is the route home, as far as I'm concerned, so the stretch forward from here was new to me.

In the southern third of Aberdeen, US 101 is rejoined by SR 105. We're facing southwest at the moment. . .

101 hangs a right, flies over the Chehalis River, and arrives at the junction with US 12. Thanks to the one-way streets, you take a right here to get on 12, but must wait a block before turning left to stay on 101.

East and westbound US 101 cross the Hoquiam River on separate bridges almost a half mile apart, but rejoin each other quickly to be together at the junction with SR 109. Ocean Shores, anyone?

At the north end of town, it's SR 109 Spur, another chance to head for Ocean Shores.

Up the Hoquiam River, past Humptulips and various signs pointing toward "ocean beaches," into Olympic National Forest then Quinault Indian Reservation, past Quinault Lake, west toward the coast again, and it's been almost an hour and we haven't had a junction yet. Thus here's a photo at the halfway point between 109 Spur and SR 110, a few miles east of Queets.

Just across the Queets River, we spy the Pacific Ocean through the trees. Beach after beach after beach, with a lovely lodge at Kalaloch that has great views of the sunset. The next day, after you awake, a thick mist has blanketed the forest, and yet no rain. Miles up the coast, US 101 turns inland along the Hoh River, then down the Bogachiel River to Forks and the junction with SR 110.

North through the forests, we're the furthest from the sea of the whole US 101 route -- at least north of the California redwoods, that is -- till we turn east at Lake Pleasant and arrive at SR 113. Shortly thereafter, the "North 101" signs are replaced by "East 101."

Past large, deep, and scenic Lake Cresent, past scenic and smaller Lake Sutherland (separated from Lake Crescent by a landslide brought forth by the Storm King God), and across the Elwha River to SR 112.

A few miles later, we're on the outskirts of Port Angeles. A big sign points for US 101 Truck Route; a little sign points for SR 117. They're one and the same, SR 117 heading for the port of Port Angeles. US 101 turns northeast a few blocks later. Two blocks from the harbor, US 101 reaches its northermost point, but we still have over a hundred miles of highway left to drive. 101 takes a right turn and heads a bit south of east.

Many miles later, past dry Sequim and Sequim Bay, around the Miller Peninsula and south along Discovery Bay, the signs still say "East 101." Oh look, it's SR 20. Would you like to go to Port Townsend, Whidbey Island, or the North Casacades? Oh wait. Those mountain passes are still closed.

Three miles south, US 101 intersects SR 104 and the signs finally say "South 101." Wait a minute. Wasn't I going north? Oh well. Did you want to cross the Hood Canal Bridge? You should turn on 104.

Many miles roll by. We traverse forests and small towns. We oft view Hood Canal, which is not a canal, nor does it function as one. It's just a really long inlet with no real good harbor at the back end. Quite scenic and sunny, though. So when we get to the town of Hoodsport and see the junction with SR 119, we're sad because our trip along Hood Canal is almost at an end.

And there, after the large mudflats that mark the southern bend of Hood Canal, US 101 intersects SR 106, which will take you Kitsap-ward.

SR 102, shortly thereafter, won't take you far. I can't wait to come back soon and see the Washington Corrections Center!

Near Shelton, US 101 speeds up into a two-lane, undivided freeway. At the far end of the bypass around town, US 101 intersects SR 3, which actually goes north into town on the old Olympic Highway, from before the bypass was built.

A few miles later, US 101 hits SR 108. If you take that highway, it'll lead you to SR 8 and US 12 and places like Aberdeen and Raymond and Long Beach which we've seen before on this trip.

Speaking of SR 8, here it is! You can't get on it from this direction, though, unless you get off at the next exit a mile south and double back. When viewing this interchange from above, you'd think that SR 8 and the southern portion of US 101 were the same highway and the northern portion of 101 (from which the photo is taken) is the secondary route. But I guess that's no less strange than what US 101 does back around Ilwaco and Long Beach, so why complain?

Past The Evergreen State College and West Olympia, signs for US 101 disappear, to be replaced by repetitious signs for I-5, north and south. Chunlin was disappointed with how anticlimatic US 101 ended, with nary an "End" sign to be found.

But the fun's not over! It's time to go back and drive US 101 Alternate, which is part of State Route 101 per the code.

So here we are (a month and a half later) a few miles east of Ilwaco, at the start of US 101 Alternate: its southern junction with US 101 proper. A nice sunny day. . . at least right here and now.

A mile later, US 101 Alternate reaches its end, at another junction with US 101. Left ("south") on US 101 will take you west to Long Beach. A right turn will take you to the rest of the world. Which way do you think we went?

And that is the end of Washington State Route 101!

Washington State Route 100

2010-03-07T21:11:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, March 6, 2010, I drove Washington State Route 100, around in circles down near Ilwaco and the southwesternmost point in Washington. Triple digits, hooray!

RCW 47.17.163
State route No. 100:

A state highway to be known as state route number 100 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in Ilwaco, thence westerly and southerly to Fort Canby state park; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 100 in Ilwaco, thence southerly to Fort Canby state park.

At the heart of the old town of Ilwaco, US 101 turns north and we go straight. SR 100 begins thusly.

A block later, we find the first junction of SR 100 with itself. I got a bit freaked out by that detour sign. I hadn't seen any road work for this road on WSDOT's website, but here was a sign saying that I shouldn't proceed straight; I wouldn't be able to get to Fort Canby. I wouldn't be able to drive SR 100; I'd have to come back another time! But it turned out to be some construction of a viewpoint, but the workers were home for the weekend. Up and down and left and right; this is not a high-speed highway.

And then SR 100 turns south and intersects itself again. WSDOT signs it as Loop 100 with a spur, but the code describes 100 as two routes going the same direction. Thus I continued south on the spur instead of following the loop.

400' later, more or less, we arrive at the old boundary of Fort Canby State Park, and thus the end of SR 100. The park was expanded northward a while back -- and renamed Cape Disappointment State Park -- so we'd been in the state park for most of this little trip, but here's the end of the state highway officially. Even still, we drove all the way to the end of the pavement, down by the lighthouse.

And suddenly we're back in Ilwaco on 2nd Avenue, heading south again over and around hills, with views out to the Columbia River and Oregon beyond.

And once again at the southern of SR 100's two intersection with itself, we have thus completed our drive of SR 100.

A fun little road in the corner of our state; always a nice place to drive. Take a walk out on the jetty, next time you're there.

Washington State Route 99

2009-12-31T18:14:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, December 31, 2009, we drove the length of State Route 99 from near Tacoma to Everett. The current route is but a shadow of Washington's original US 99 that journeyed from Oregon to British Columbia.

RCW 47.17.160
State route No. 99:

A state highway to be known as state route number 99 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 18 in the vicinity of Federal Way, thence northerly by way of Midway, to a junction with state route 518 in Tukwila; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 599 in the vicinity of Tukwila, thence northerly by way of Seattle, Edmonds, and Lynnwood to a junction with state route number 5 in Everett: PROVIDED, That until state route number 509 is constructed and opened to traffic on an anticipated ultimate alignment from a junction with state route number 705 in Tacoma via the Port of Tacoma industrial area to a junction with state route number 18 in the vicinity of Federal Way that portion of state route number 99 between state route number 5 at Fife and state route number 18 in the vicinity of Federal Way shall remain on the state highway system.

In the legal description above, Highway 99 is supposed to start in Federal Way, but the clause at the bottom tacks on the section from Fife to Highway 18. Since it doesn't say where compared to the other sections this final-clause section goes in the highway system, I let Chunlin convince me that it goes at the very beginning and not the end. Otherwise we'd've driven from Seattle to Federal Way to Everett to Fife to Federal Way to Seattle. So here we are at the overpass over I-5 in Fife, the current start of 99 in Washington.

After a hundred yards or so, SR 99 arrives at the route of the old Pacific Highway, which it joins, heading parallel to I-5 east and then north through a surprisingly rural area. Up the hill we go to Federal Way and the junction with SR 18, the future start of 99 (likely long into the future, if ever). The name of Federal Way, of course, refers to US Route 99, which was completed through this area in the 1920s, whereas Federal Way School District -- the first use of the name -- was created in 1929. I guess they couldn't think up anything more descriptive?

At the north end of Federal Way, SR 99 has the first of two junctions with SR 509. 509 is broken into two segments with a five mile gap between them; this is the north end of the southern segment. It'll take you to Dash Point State Park and back to Tacoma, if you'd like.

Continuing north along the old Pacific Highway, we walk the line between Des Moines and Kent till we come to Kent-Des Moines Road, also known as SR 516. I guess these cities used to be farther apart. . . Notice the sign pointing to I-5. Since 99 is never more than a couple miles west of I-5, we got a sign directing us to the interstate for every on-ramp, it seemed.

The sky fills with airplanes as we pass Sea-Tac Airport, driving through the city of SeaTac. Yes, they spell them differently. At the north end of the airport, SR 99 has a junction with SR 518, which is a freeway linking I-5 to the airport -- and Burien! Note the fancy new lightrail station in the background right. There's no parking lot, so you have to walk or take a bus to get to the train. Wonderful, hm? I'll stick to my car. It takes me where I want to go, wherever I want to go.

Oddly enough, there is next a gap in SR 99, although no signs tell you such. The street that once was the highway is now merely Tukwila International Boulevard. Down by the Duwamish River, there's suddenly a little sign for North 99 pointing at a ramp to the right, which leads you up to merge with SR 599. Highway 599 ends and 99 begins anew. Since 599 and 99 now link end-to-end and there's no parallel sections, I'd suggest making the 599 freeway part of 99. I don't think anyone would mourn the loss of 599 and it sure would make more sense than having a freeway change number at a seemingly unremarkable overpass.

It felt good to drive a freeway after all the stoplights of Pacific Highway South. But even this stretch of freeway ended soon. In the South Park neighborhood in south Seattle, 99 hits a stoplight, whereupon you must take a left to continue on 99. This is the second junction with SR 509 (which is a freeway at this point), marking the northern end of the northern segment of that route. Once again, the freeway changes number abruptly, this time from 509 to 99.

Highway 99 then manages to find its way along the full length of Seattle without another junction. We cross the Duwamish on the First Avenue South drawbridge, where the freeway ends, but after a mile of industrial arterial street, the freeway restarts as the Alaskan Way Viaduct. We fly past downtown and the waterfront with glorious views (except for the low clouds and constant rain) along the structure that the state has already started replacing. They're going to build a new viaduct for the half south of downtown and a tunnel under the central business district, emerging at the same location as 99's existing Battery Street Tunnel. After said tunnel, we continue along increasingly familiar Aurora Avenue till we reach the junction with SR 523, better known to me as 145th Street and the northern boundary of Seattle.

At the King/Snohomish county line (or just north of it), SR 99 has a junction with SR 104. The proper junction with 104 is in the distance in this photo; the sign in front is pointing at a shortcut to eastbound 104.

Traffic is bad. Even on an almost-holiday, Highway 99 is stop-and-go between the asynchronous stoplights. We finally reach the junction with SR 524 in Lynnwood.

We leave Lynnwood, but it's hard to tell. Eventually we're at the junction with SR 525, which is a freeway at this point, connecting southeast back to I-5 and I-405. Northwestward, 525 heads for the Mukilteo ferry and Whidbey Island, as you can see on the sign.

At the southern fringe of Everett, SR 99 leaves the old Pacific Highway (here called Evergreen Way) and cuts over toward I-5 on Everett Mall Way (previously called Broadway). Just past the mall, SR 99 flies over I-5 and merges going northbound. Trying to get to southbound I-5 would have led me to a junction with SR 526, but that also leaves SR 99 before the very end of the route. I must drive to the very end!

It turned out to be a bad day for a drive, weather-wise and traffic-wise, but when a little rain is all I have to complain about in the heart of winter, it's not that bad. Which reminds me of Joe Walsh's "Life's Been Good" song I heard on the radio in the car 'round about Lynnwood (or was it Des Moines?): "I can't complain but sometimes I still do. Life's been good to me so far." Yup. Life's been good to me so far. (Although none of the rest of the lyrics apply to me.) I'm free to drive this crazy scheme and I have a wife who joins me on the drives, takes photos for me, and still loves me. Hooray!

Washington State Route 97-alternate

2009-12-02T11:28:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, November 29, 2009, we drove the length of US Route Alternate 97, or US Alt 97, or US 97 Alt, or Washington State Route 97-alternate, from the Wenatchee area to the Chelan area, up the west side of the Columbia River.

RCW 47.17.157
State route No. 97-alternate:

A state highway to be known as state route number 97-alternate is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity of Olds, thence northerly by way of Entiat to a junction with state route number 97 in the vicinity east of Chelan.

Here we are at the north end of Wenatchee, where US Alt 97 departs from US 2 (cosigned US 97). Those highways cross the Columbia, but we won't.

Between the cliffs and the river, our route wends. After Entiat, we find a junction with SR 971. It will take you north to Lake Chelan. . .

US Alt 97 then leaves the Columbia, heading up Knapp Coulee between the tail end of the Chelan Mountains and Chelan Butte to arrive at Lake Chelan and the other end of SR 971. The signs for 971 say "south" at this point, but you'd be heading west-northwest for almost half your journey.

We wind along the shore of Lake Chelan until we reach the city of Chelan. Don't take Woodin Avenue like you'd normally do, since that's not the highway -- although that would save you some backtracking if you wanted to go the the lakefront. In the center of town, US Alt 97 has a junction with SR 150, which will take you up the north shore of the lake. Take a right to stay on Alt 97, but go straight and take the next left to go on 150. Some of the signs for Alt 97 actually spell out "Alternate 97" in this area.

On the east edge of town, SR 150 departs US Alt 97. 150 heads southeastward down the old route of SR 151 to meet US 97 near the Beebe Bridge. We will head northeastward.

Five minutes later, we reach the end of US Alt 97 (or US 97 Alt, as the signs say around these parts) at a junction with the main route of US 97. It's now time to go back up the hill to Chelan and call it a day.

A scenic route, for sure, with towering cliffs, a couple huge lakes, and the occasional bighorn sheep to avoid. This will be our last trip to eastern Washington for the highways in quite a little while. We'll be missing it.

Washington State Route 97

2009-12-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

On Friday and Saturday, November 27-28, 2009, we drove the entirety of US Route 97 in the state of Washington, including the sections that aren't part of the state route in the code.

RCW 47.17.155
State route No. 97:

A state highway to be known as state route number 97 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Washington-Oregon boundary on the interstate bridge across the Columbia river at Biggs Rapids, thence in a northerly direction to the junction with state route number 14 in the vicinity of Maryhill, thence in a northerly direction by way of Goldendale, thence northeasterly by way of Satus Pass to a junction with state route number 22 at Toppenish, thence northwesterly south of the Yakima river to a junction with state route number 82 at Union Gap; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 90 in the vicinity of Ellensburg, thence northeasterly by way of Swauk Pass to a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity of Peshastin; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity north of Orondo, thence northerly by way of the vicinities of Chelan, Pateros, Brewster, Okanogan, and Oroville to the international boundary line.

US 97 enters Washington on a bridge over the Columbia River. Roll on, Columbia!

We then proceed up the hill past the town of Maryhill, under the gaze of Sam Hill's mansion, with views of Sam Hill's Stonehenge memorial and a forest of wind turbines, to a junction with SR 14. We must take a left to continue on Highway 97.

We continue climbing a half mile or so to another junction with SR 14, whereupon we must turn right to stay on US 97.

Up we continue, past the spinning wind turbines, to the plateau which surrounds Goldendale. US 97 skirts the east side of town, meeting SR 142 at the north end.

The route then climbs over the Simcoe Mountains at Satus Pass. Traces of snow dot the landscape near the top. Down Satus Creek and over Toppenish Ridge, we enter the fertile Lower Yakima Valley and arrive at a junction with SR 22 at Toppenish. Take a left to stay on US 97, by the way.

Past Wapato to Union Gap (the city near the identically named gorge through Ahtanum Ridge), US 97 merges with Interstate 82. This is officially the start of a gap in the highway, although the signage continues along the rest of I-82.

At Ellensburg, the signed route for US 97 joins I-90 briefly, but at the west end of town, Highway 97 starts off on its own once again, saying goodbye to the interstate.

Shortly, after a few zigs on local streets, US 97 starts down a long straightaway. After a mile, however, you must turn right to stay on 97. Going straight will put you on SR 10, the remnant of the once mighty US 10 that tore across the state from Seattle to Spokane and points beyond.

US 97 then goes northwest through the hills to a junction with SR 970 at Virden. This section originally was Highway 131, while Highway 97 used to continue with US 10 to Teanaway and hang a sharp right onto what is now Highway 970. When this shortcut was improved enough to meet federal highway standards, it got the US 97 number. Take a right to stay on US 97.

Highway 97 then proceeds north over an arm of the Cascades, the Wenatchee Mountains, crossing at what was once Swauk Pass, but is now called Blewett Pass, because they relocated the highway from the original Blewett Pass over to Swauk Pass, but they didn't want to confuse anybody with the new name, so they renamed both. The original Blewett Pass is now Old Blewett Pass. I'm sure you're not confused. ... Plenty of snow along the roadsides, but the pavement was bare and wet. I slowed down for the first downhill corner, however, just in case. The highway then proceeds down Peshastin Creek to a junction with US 2, which looks a lot different then when we drove that highway just twenty-one months ago. There's an interchange now!

On the other side of Wenatchee and the Columbia River, US 97 departs from US 2 and heads north up the river. For once, we don't have to turn at the junction; just keep driving straight.

Twenty miles or so up the Columbia, just after crossing the Beebe Bridge over the mighty river, US 97 intersects SR 150, which will lead you up to Chelan. That's the route you'd have to take northward back when this stretch of road was SR 151 and US Alt 97 was US 97, because the following section of highway hadn't yet been constructed. But it has now, so it's all good.

A short way later, US 97 meets up with US Alt 97, which is here called US 97 Alt. It will take you up to Chelan. US 97 is now US 97.

Up along the wide and scenic Columbia River to Pateros and the Methow River, we find a junction with SR 153. Shortly before the junction, there was a sign stating that SR 20 was closed for the winter past Winthrop. Good to know, because that's the direction SR 153 goes.

After another stretch of Columbia River/Lake Pateros, we arrive at Brewster and the junction with SR 173.

US 97 then curves around, crosses the Okanogan River, and arrives at a junction with SR 17. This is your last chance to continue upstream on the Columbia. We'll be following the Okanogan from here on out, otherwise.

Thirteen or so miles later, there's a little sign saying "Malott" with an arrow to the left. That sign marks the junction with SR 213. As of yet, the state highway merely crosses the Okanogan River to the town of Malott, but some day, yes, some day, it will continue up the west bank of said river all the way to a junction with SR 20. Alas, not yet. So they haven't bothered putting Washington's head on the sign yet.

Eight miles later, we're near the city of Okanogan and have arrived at the junction with SR 20. Once again, a temporary sign warns unsuspecting travelers of the closure of the North Cascades Highway past Winthrop. It's a good thing we're not going that direction. For the next thirty miles, SR 20 joins US 97, so all of this might look kinda familiar, but we're going to pretend there's no SR 20 for a while, okay?

Oh look. That stoplight's new! Here's the junction with SR 155, which goes into Omak and dives under US 97 to head for Grand Coulee. I guess I was wrong about SR 17 being your last chance to follow the Columbia. . .

Up the hill to the McDonald's and Walmart and the junction with SR 215. This time I knew it was coming, even though they didn't provide adequate signage. Southbound travelers do receive ample notification of the junction, I however noticed. I guess WSDOT wasn't really expecting anyone to want to doubleback to downtown Omak.

Up the Okanogan valley to Tonasket we go, where SR 20 takes a leave for points east. I notice that ever since Wenatchee, US 97 has been going straight at every junction. Much different than the south half of the state. Curious.

And whoa! We're at Canada. I hope you have your passport -- and a good reason for wanting to visit their fine country. "I'm driving every highway in Washington State in numerical order." "I haven't heard that one before." But once again, they let us in. How nice.

And so our two-day trek through the rugged heartland of Washington has drawn to a close. There's now nothing to do but turn around and drive half of it all over again. . .

Washington State Route 96

2009-11-16T12:11:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, November 14, 2009, we drove the unfortunate length of Washington State Route 96, from south Everett to the Snohomish valley.

RCW 47.17.153
State route No. 96:

A state highway to be known as state route number 96 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity south of Everett, thence easterly to a junction with state route number 9 in the vicinity of Ree's Corner.

SR 96 was added to the state highway system in the early 1990s because population growth dictated that southern Snohomish County needed an east-west connecter that wasn't just a winding two-lane road. So here it is at I-5, a wide urban arterial highway. So far, so good.

Shortly thereafter, Highway 96 meets the Bothell-Everett Highway, SR 527, which once was part of the Pacific Highway, the main north-south route through the area back in the early 1900s. Highway 96 is still a wide arterial.

Two miles after SR 527, however, SR 96 abandons the four-lane road and takes a left on Seattle Hill Road, a narrow zig-zagging road down the hill, then a right on another old two-lane road till it ends at SR 9, above, where Highway 9 is currently being widened.

Since the whole point of designating Highway 96 was to alleviate east-west traffic problems on narrow, two-lane roads, leaving Highway 96 as a narrow, two-lane road is completely pointless and defeats the purpose. About ten years ago, Snohomish County took matters into their own hands and built a four-lane highway from the Seattle Hill junction down to Highway 9, completing it in 2003. This is now, hopefully, the route that most people take up and down the hill, but the signs still direct any unsuspecting motorists (and truckdrivers?), who might think that the state highway is the quickest and safest route through the area, along a dangerous little road.

The Seattle Hill section of road has recently had landslide problems, so I doubt the county wants it back. I also doubt the county wants to give up the lovely new highway they built. WSDOT, for its part, has other things to worry about, and since the route they now maintain meets the legislative wording, if not the initial intent, that's okay, right? Problem solved.

Washington State Route 92

2009-11-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, November 14, 2009, we drove short State Route 92, from Lake Stevens to Granite Falls. We drove it a month earlier to go for a dayhike, but that was out of order. . .

RCW 47.17.145
State route No. 92:

A state highway to be known as state route number 92 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 9 northeast of Everett, thence northeasterly by the most feasible route to Granite Falls.

East of Everett, in the middle of Snohomish County, we begin SR 92 at a junction with SR 9, on the outskirts of the city of Lake Stevens.

The highway hurries along the north edge of Lake Stevens, through forests then fields, bending northeast. The photo above is around the halfway point on the route, at milepost 4, since it has but one junction.

A block after the "End 92" sign, we find the true end of the highway, at the intersection with Granite Avenue in the middle of Granite Falls. If you continue forth and hang a left, you begin the Mountain Loop Highway, a county road that leads to Monte Cristo and such environs of splendid hiking.

The snow level is now too low to go hiking, alas, but I'm sure I'll be up this highway again next year.

Washington State Route 90

2009-11-02T12:28:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, October 31, 2009, we drove the length of Interstate 90 in Washington, from Seattle, through the rain-drenched Cascades, across the plains of the Columbia Basin, to Spokane and the Idaho state line.

RCW 47.17.140
State route No. 90 — American Veterans Memorial Highway — Washington green highway:

A state highway to be known as state route number 90, and designated as the American Veterans Memorial Highway as well as a Washington green highway, is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5, thence, via the west approach to the Lake Washington bridge in Seattle, in an easterly direction by way of Mercer Island, North Bend, Snoqualmie pass, Ellensburg, Vantage, Moses Lake, Ritzville, Sprague and Spokane to the Washington-Idaho boundary line.

Just south of Safeco Field and downtown Seattle, I-90 begins at a junction with the almost imperceptible SR 519.

A curve or two later, I-90 has its grand junction with I-5. In the distance, you can spy the Amazon headquarters on the northern point of Beacon Hill.

We then curve around Beacon Hill and dive into the Mt Baker tunnel (which does not go under Mt Baker, by the way, but under the Mt Baker neighborhood, which has views of Mt Baker), then pop out on the Lake Washington floating bridge, then dive into another tunnel on Mercer Island, then some trenches and more tunnels, then a bridge over the lake's East Channel, then into Bellevue, whereupon we see the junction with I-405 (or as we locals simply call it, "405"). The stretch of I-90 from the Mt Baker tunnel across Mercer Island was the most expensive length of road in the country . . . until Boston's Big Dig at the other end of this interstate.

Up and over Eastgate's hill and down near Lake Sammamish, we have a junction with SR 900 at the west end of Issaquah. SR 900 follows the old highway's route around the south end of Lake Washington, from before the floating bridge was opened in 1940. Do you see the towering clouds? I wonder if it's raining ahead.

Yup. It's raining. Up the Issaquah Creek canyon to Preston, along the Raging River's drainage, we climb to a junction with SR 18.

The freeway drops back down to the Snoqualmie River valley and North Bend, where we intersect SR 202, a remmant of another old route eastward from Seattle, this time around the north end of Lake Washington. . . . This would be a rotten day to climb Mt Si.

After we leave North Bend, the freeway starts climbing in earnest, heading up the South Fork Snoqualmie River to Snoqualmie Pass. And here we are at the pass, which is also the western junction with SR 906, even though the signs don't mark it as such. SR 906 will take you along the route of old US 10 past the ski areas.

Heading downhill now, the rain starts easing off. Welcome to the rain shadow! Also, welcome to Hyak and the eastern end of SR 906.

A few minutes later, the clouds are gone. We've zigged the length of Lake Keechelus and followed the Yakima River past Easton to the far end of Cle Elum, where we find a junction with SR 970, which once was US 97, US 10, and the Sunset Highway. The sign also mentions Highway 903, which starts a hundred yards north of I-90, taking you back to Cle Elum and points north. Highway 970, for its part, goes almost due east.

After going up and over Indian John Hill and Elk Heights, I-90 descends to the Thorp Prairie (Hi, Granddad!) and back to the Yakima River. Before arriving at Ellensburg, we have a northward junction with US 97, which will take you to Wenatchee if you missed the 970 cutoff.

The length of Ellensburg, US 97 is co-signed with I-90, but when we reach I-82, US 97 follows it south. . . or is that east?

We thus leave the Yakima River and gradually climb up the east end of Kittitas Valley, then suddenly drop drop drop to the Columbia River at Vantage. At the far end of the bridge, just before you hit the cliffs, there's a junction with SR 26. Notice the sign for Pullman, which is 150 miles away past the far end of Highway 26. I guess that's what happens when you have a state school in your town.

I-90 climbs up out of the Columbia's canyon and onto the plateau. Near George, there's a junction with SR 281.

A couple miles later, we find a junction with a spur of SR 281. SR 283 has a junction with that spur shortly north of I-90. Since eastbound travellers probably won't be doubling back to Highway 281, Highway 283 gets the sign. Going westbound, however, both exits are labeled Highway 281.

At Moses Lake, we find one of the rare Business routes, which aren't official state highways, but local roads. Although in this case, it's also SR 171.

At the east end of Moses Lake, I-90 has a junction with SR 17, which is also the Business route 90.

Crossing the farmlands of the Columbia Basin, there was this odd fog, which was probably dust, actually. 'Twas a very windy day, after all. It was quite apparent at this junction with SR 21.

At Ritzville, US 395 joins from the southwest, knocking I-90 northeast. There's actually no direct exit from eastbound I-90 to southbound 395, so here's the onramp junction.

Very shortly thereafter, we find a junction with SR 261.

The terrain starts getting rougher, with tiny buttes and cliffs dotting the landscape. The farms are gone. We travel the length of Sprague Lake and come to the junction with SR 23.

At the Spokane County line, the trees begin. Soon we come to the junction with SR 904. It will take you to Cheney along the highway's old route.

Several miles later, SR 902 branches off in the opposite direction, although it's still signed for Cheney.

Another few miles later, we find the eastern end of SR 904, which will also take you to Cheney. I guess when your town has a state college. . .

A short while later, the eastern end of SR 902. We're almost to Spokane!

We pass Spokane International Airport and start down the hill to Spokane. Near the top is a junction with US 2, which will take you to the airport and Everett if you wish. This one's westbound only for US 2. We now have I-90, US 2, and US 395 all together, but there's never a three-number sign like I-82 has in Yakima.

Almost to the bottom of the hill, down by the bridge over Hangman Creek, I-90 finds the north end of US 195. Colfax, Pullman, Lewiston, points south!

In the heart of Spokane, US 2 leaves I-90, heading north ("east") to Newport. It takes the signage for US 395 with it, leaving I-90 all alone.

Several blocks later, I-90 has a major interchange with SR 290, which will take you over the Spokane River on a freeway bridge and promptly hit stop lights near Gonzaga. It was supposed to be the start of the North Spokane Corridor freeway, but that got moved eastward a mile and doesn't have a junction with I-90 yet. Lovely sweeping offramps here, though.

Out in the valley -- the City of Spokane Valley -- I-90 has a junction with SR 27, the slow road to Pullman.

Ten miles later, just near the bridge over the Spokane River, I-90 crosses into Idaho. Welcome to the Gem State, where sales tax is only 6%!

And there you have it, the totality of Interstate 90 in Washington, from milepost 2 to milepost 299. It's so nice to get out of town for a while.

Washington State Route 82

2009-09-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 26, 2009, we drove the length of Interstate 82 in Washington, worse known as State Route 82. Desert wilderness, big rivers, and plenty of vineyards and cornfields -- with nary a stoplight to be found!

RCW 47.17.135
State route No. 82 — Washington green highway:

A state highway to be known as state route number 82, and designated as a Washington green highway, is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 90 in the vicinity of Ellensburg, thence southerly and easterly by way of Yakima, Union Gap, Sunnyside, Prosser, Kiona, and Goose Gap west of Richland, thence southeasterly near Kennewick and southwesterly by way of the vicinity of Plymouth to a crossing of the Columbia river at the Washington-Oregon boundary line.

In the heart of the Kittitas Valley, I-82 departs from I-90, heading south ("east") for Yakima. Up and over I-90 we go.

After a couple miles, slightly closer to Manastash Ridge, we find the junction with SR 281, which will take you through the Yakima Canyon on the old highway which once was US 97, following the railroad tracks. Nowadays, the signs for US 97 take you on I-82 over the ridges, without so many twists and turns as the canyon.

After those ridges and past the Army's live-fire training center (a huge swath of shrub steppe rugged wilderness), we descend back to the Yakima River at the city of Selah. Here we find the other end of SR 821.

At the south end of Selah, just after you cross under the railroad tracks while going through the river's cut in Yakima Ridge, you come to the junction with SR 823.

Shortly thereafter, just after a bridge over the Yakima River, I-82 meets US 12. I hope they like each other, since they share a roadway for many miles.

As we fly past Yakima, I-82 has a junction with SR 24. This is all so familiar.

Just before going through Union Gap, US 97 departs I-82 for the other side of the river. Squeezed through the quarter-mile-wide gap between Ahtanum Ridge and Rattlesnake Hills are two freeways, a local road, two railroads, an irrigation ditch, and a rather large river. A bit crowded, if you ask me.

Out onto the expansive Lower Yakima Valley we escape, finally heading more east than south. Soon, we're at the western junction with SR 22. Would you like to go to Toppenish? The Yakama Nation RV Park only charges $15 for tent camping -- and they have a big screen tv and free coffee!

Wake up, Chunlin! It's the junction with SR 223!

A few more miles down the valley, the junction with SR 241. The nearest city is Sunnyside, but it's not signed here, since the previous two exits would've worked better for going there. I find it odd that Vernita Bridge is signed, since you'd have a hard time finding Vernita on any map. I would have expected WSDOT to list Vantage instead.

But I guess they really want you to go to Mabton. We are now at the eastern junction with SR 22, about to go up the side of the Horse Heaven Hills.

I-82 returns to the Yakima River near Benton City, at the junction with SR 224, which in turn has a junction with SR 225 about fifty feet north of the freeway. This would be a good place to stop for a while, if you'd like to go wine tasting at the small yet distinctive vinticultural region of Red Mountain. Find a place where you can sit in the shade and enjoy the view and the warm breeze, too.

I hope you didn't sample too much wine, because we're back on the freeway and at the junction with I-182. We also say goodbye to US 12 at this point. We're at the Tri-Cities, by the way -- although I-82 just skirts the edge of town through farmland, etc.

Up in the hills west of Kennewick, I-82 is joined by US 395. Loop back around here to head north into town. This is the point where I-82 gives up on going eastward and heads due south instead.

A mile later, we have the unsigned junction with SR 397, which officially got extended to here only two months ago. The "intertie" road joining I-82 to SR 397 down by the Columbia River was completed last year as a county road, then the state legislature ammended Highway 397 to include the new road, as of July 26, 2009.

After heading southwest for a while, we descend to the Columbia River. Oregon is in sight! Oh look, it's SR 14. It will take you to Vancouver -- but not Portland!

They slow us down to 55 mph as we approach the Columbia bridge, then up we go! Around about the high point on the bridge is the state line, right down the middle of the deepest channel of the river. Welcome to Oregon. It feels like a different country. . .

It's nice to drive a freeway for a change -- no stopping and always a passing lane. Also: is it always sunny in southeastern Washington, or is that just a coincidence?

Washington State Route 41

2009-09-08T16:52:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, September 6, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Highway 41 . . . and then the length of Idaho Route 41! Do you see the little red dot on the right side of the map? That's the Washington portion.

RCW 47.17.133
State route No. 41:

A state highway to be known as state route number 41 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 in Newport, thence southerly along the Washington-Idaho boundary line to Fourth Street in Newport.

Here we are in Newport, at the junction with US 2, with the Idaho state line mere feet to my left, about to set off on our grand journey of Washington Highway 41. It is, however, never signed as a Washington highway. It's only labeled Idaho 41, for the vast majority of this route is within the Gem State, stretching down to I-90 near Coeur d'Alene.

Three blocks later, we're at the halfway point of the Washington portion of Highway 41. We are, by the way, heading south. Since most odd-numbered highways in Washington are described (and mileposted) from south to north, this route is an anomaly. It would make no sense to describe this highway from south to north, however, since the northbound lane is actually in Idaho, not Washington!

At 4th Street, SR 41 curves eastward, fully entering Idaho. I suppose you could continue straight onto State Avenue, but that wouldn't be the highway.

Welcome to Idaho!

Washington State Route 35

2009-09-08T16:48:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, September 6, 2009, Washington State Route 35 did not yet exist.

RCW 47.17.132
State route No. 35:

A state highway to be known as state route number 35 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Washington-Oregon boundary line thence northerly to a junction with state route number 14 in the vicinity of White Salmon.

Do you see the little red dot on the map, just south of the fishhook in the middle? That's where SR 35 would be, as an extention of Oregon Route 35 across the Columbia River. But WSDOT hasn't built it yet, thus I couldn't drive it. So sad.

Washington State Route 31

2009-09-08T16:24:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, September 6, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Highway 31, down the Pend Oreille River (pronounced "Pahn-der-ray," FYI) to Canada. I am saddened that my highway travels will not take me this way again.

RCW 47.17.130
State route No. 31:

A state highway to be known as state route number 31 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 20 at Tiger, thence northerly by way of Metaline Falls to the international boundary.

At the tiny town of Tiger, we visited the visitor center/museum/gift shop, where we signed the guest book, bought an extremely inexpensive piece of artwork, and chatted with the locals. I wandered away briefly to stand in the middle of SR 20 to snap this photo of the start of SR 31. Highway 20 took over a significant chunk of Highway 31 back in 1973, so that's why you'd have to take a left here to stay on 20.

Since that was the only junction for Highway 31, I now present to you a photo of the midway point of the highway. This is between the quaint cities of Metaline and Metaline Falls, slightly closer to the former. Notice the emergency vehicle coming toward us. It was following a police SUV and a fire department SUV, each spaced about thirty seconds apart. We never found out what the trouble back south was.

Another thirteen miles of curvy mountainside driving later, Canada! I hung a u-turn just after the yellow gate (the border) and avoided the Canadian customs. The American custom officers were slightly confused by my unusual answers, but friendly nonetheless.

North Pend Oreille County deserves more of my time than what I gave it this weekend. I'll have to manufacture some reason to visit again. . .

Washington State Route 28

2009-09-08T14:20:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, September 5, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Highway 28, across the lovely farmlands of the northern Columbia basin.

RCW 47.17.120
State route No. 28:

A state highway to be known as state route number 28 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity east of Wenatchee, thence southeasterly to a junction with state route number 281 at Quincy; also

From that junction with state route number 281 at Quincy, thence easterly by way of Ephrata and Odessa to a junction with state route number 2 at Davenport.

So here we begin, just north of East Wenatchee, at the east end of the bridge for US 2. Milepost zero for Highway 28 is actually four miles ahead, since the old Sunset Highway crossing of the Columbia River was in town, until this shortcut bridge was built. Therefore, the first four miles of SR 28 are part of the Sunset Highway. But no matter how many times I mention the sun, it still was raining when I was driving on Saturday.

Four miles later, we come to the junction with SR 285, which is the old route for US 2. To stay on SR 28 and not cross the bridge to Wenatchee, one must exit. You go under the bridge and keep driving straight. Despite the rain, lovely scenery.

After heading downstream, Highway 28 eventually climbs out of the gorge and onto the plateau. Once there amongst the farm fields, we head due east to Quincy, where we find a junction with SR 281. At least it's drying out here. Or maybe the rain just hasn't gotten here yet.

Several miles later, SR 28 meets SR 283. We get a stop sign, but neither SR 28 westbound nor SR 283 northbound do. Most curiously (for me) is that the sign points to Ellensburg, which is sixty miles or so behind us. That's the direction SR 283 goes, so I guess it makes since, but it meets I-90 in George, same as SR 281 previously, so I wonder why they're signed differently.

Another town, another junction. This time it's Ephrata and SR 282. WSDOT really would prefer us to use I-90, don't you think? It's only ten to twenty miles away from Highway 28, running mostly parallel, but straighter. . .

Just south of Soap Lake, SR 28 intersects SR 17. Like our journey back in January, we visited the park on the south end of the lake. The parking lot was much easier to drive without the layer of solid, rutted ice on it. Although I didn't test the water in January, it was quite warm (and the bottom quite pleasantly muddy) this time around.

Back on the road, we race past more farm and range lands until we reach the city of Odessa. Here, SR 28 intersects lonely SR 21. Speaking of lonely, why was almost no one at the city park on a holiday weekend afternoon? Did all the Odessans head out of town?

After leaving Odessa, Highway 28 enters the Coal Creek Coulee with the Burlington Northern railroad, winds its way along for a while, then climbs back up to the flat ridge until it arrives at Harrington, which is where we have a junction with SR 23. Since we stopped at the park in Odessa, we didn't visit Harrington's park this time (as we had done on our two previous visits to town this summer). The end of 28 was in sight!

And here we are at the end, the junction with US 2 in Davenport. Once again at the Sunset Highway, and it's almost bright enough out to pretend it's sunny!

A peaceful drive through numerous charming cities, SR 28 was fun to drive. It also marks the last of the 20s -- but milestones of that sort will come fast and furious for the next few "decades."

Washington State Route 27

2009-08-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

On Saturday and Sunday, August 22-23, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Route 27, meandering through the farms and hills of extreme eastern Washington, from Pullman to Spokane. Plus, we got to see a parade!

RCW 47.17.115
State route No. 27:

A state highway to be known as state route number 27 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 195 in the vicinity of Pullman, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 271 in the vicinity of Oakesdale; also

From a junction with state route number 271 at Oakesdale, thence northerly by way of Tekoa, Latah, Fairfield, and Rockford to a junction with state route number 290 in the vicinity of Millwood.

Two miles south of milepost zero in downtown Pullman, SR 27 begins where US 195 takes a left turn to avoid the city.

As we arrive in the heart of Pullman, we meet the eastward junction with SR 270, which will take you past WSU to Moscow and the University of Idaho. But wait, what are those traffic cones ahead?

A couple blocks later, SR 270 departs SR 27, heading westward. The road ahead is blocked. A parade seems to have taken over the road. . . It's the National Lentil Festival Parade! Hurrah! We therefore hunted for a parking spot and spent an hour and a half in Pullman, watching the parade, walking around, shopping yard sales, etc. Eventually, though, the small-town junior misses and the classic tractors and the WSU football team and the WSU marching band and the gymnasts and Sponge Bob Square Pants and the bagpipers and all the rest cleared out of the road and we were able to proceed northward on Highway 27.

Several miles up the old Inland Empire Highway, now the Palouse Scenic Byway, through the rolling farmland of The Palouse, we arrive at the city of Palouse. Therein, a junction with SR 272 that will take you eastward to Idaho.

A few turns through town later, we arrive at the westward departure of SR 272. . . . The photos in the towns always make this region look more wooded than it actually is. You can tell when you're approaching a populated area because you can spot the trees ahead.

After passing through Oakesdale, you must take a right turn to stay on SR 27. Otherwise, you'll continue straight on SR 271 (which is the original route of the Inland Empire Highway). Throughout the length of Highway 27, the signs continually direct you west to US 195 or east to US 95, because if you're actually trying to get somewhere in a hurry, those are the two roads to take. Highway 27 just zigs back and forth all over the countryside.

In the town of Tekoa, Highway 27 intersects SR 274, such that you must take a left turn to stay on 27. The highway enters town zig-zagging generally northeast, but leaves town heading west. With all the turns, it felt like we'd gone in a full loop and we'd no doubt intersect the highway we'd already driven!

After passing through a stretch south of Fairfield that the new AAA map shows as a dirt road (The AAA map from a few years ago shows it paved, though!), we arrive at Rockford and a junction with SR 278, which Google Maps doesn't show as a highway and doesn't even say "278" at all unless you zoom way in on Rockford. This is odd, because the combination of 27 and 278 (and Idaho 58) are the fastest way to get from Spokane to points south on US 95.

Highway 27 finally finds some hills with trees, then descends into the Spokane River's valley and the city of Spokane Valley, although the mileage signs way back south still refer to the town by its old (unincorporated) name of Opportunity. 27 suddenly changes from a rural two-lane to an four-plus-lane urban arterial. And then, just a bit later than you expect it, you arrive at I-90. (A reminder: always make sure your camera is on before you try to take photographs.)

Highway 27 loses most of its signage after I-90 and becomes known as Pines Road. Hey, look over there! I did an interior renovation project in that building! And then, finally, unassumingly, unsigned, we arrive at the end of Highway 27. Its final junction: SR 290, better known to the locals as Trent Avenue.

And so there it is, Highway 27. Not the fast route through the region, certainly, but a fun drive, with all its twists and turns and gentle hills. Or, as Chunlin put it, "This road is crazy."

Washington State Route 26

2009-08-23T21:30:00.000-07:00

On Friday and Saturday, August 21-22, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Route 26, straight across the heart of the Columbia Basin.

RCW 47.17.110
State route No. 26:

A state highway to be known as state route number 26 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 90 in the vicinity of the east end of the Vantage bridge, thence southerly, parallel to the east bank of the Columbia river for a distance of approximately two and one-half miles, thence southeasterly to the vicinity of Othello, thence easterly to a junction with state route number 395, thence easterly by way of the vicinity of Washtucna and Dusty to a junction with state route number 195 in the vicinity of Colfax.

As the sun is heading down, we begin our journey on SR 26, crossing under I-90.

Quite before 2.5 miles is up, we arrive at the junction with SR 243 and begin up the hill to the farmlands of the Columbia Basin. Why do you think the legislature was so specific in the mileage, and why doesn't the road take that route? I guess this northerly canyon was more appealing for the highway.

Since the sun has sunk below the horizon, I must stop the car to take a proper photograph at the junction with SR 262. We then turned north (um... east) on Highway 262 and spent the night at Potholes State Park. Soon after the sun woke us up the next morning, we continued east on Highway 26.

Miles of farms later, with the sun in our eyes, we arrive at Othello and the junction with SR 24.

And soon thereafter, SR 17.

Out in the middle of nowhere, SR 26 crosses US 395. The signs tempt us with big cities, but we press forward.

Passing miles of farms, we drive straight east till we reach SR 21, then we keep driving straight east.

Eventually, though, we cross the flatlands and reach a land of congregated coulees which force the road down into valleys, till we reach Washtucna and the junction with SR 260 and SR 261. South, north, west, east, west. . . it's only a four-way intersection.

And right about where the sign welcomes you to Whitman County, the land around you does certainly appear to be The Palouse. Gently rolling hills, farmed with the help of technology: a non-tipping tractor. At the tiny town of Dusty, we find this junction with SR 127, as well as the Dusty Country Store, which you must visit. Very friendly folks. And the architecture!

Before we know it, we're at Colfax and US 195, which is also the end of Highway 26. Left to Spokane, right to Pullman.

A fast straight road for most its length. It's no wonder WSU students take it to school. Classes start tomorrow!

Washington State Route 25

2009-07-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

On Friday and Saturday, July 24-25, 2009, we drove the length of scenic Washington State Route 25, which spends much of its life following Roosevelt Lake, a.k.a. the Columbia River.

RCW 47.17.105
State route No. 25:

A state highway to be known as state route number 25 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 at Davenport, thence northerly by the most feasible route to a junction with state route number 395 in the vicinity of Kettle Falls, thence northeasterly by the most feasible route to international boundary line.

On Friday afternoon, we left the city of Davenport and US 2, heading north towards some nasty looking thunderstorms. The windshield didn't break, but the rain sure gave it its all. We spent the night at the Spokane Tribe's casino/RV park at the confluence of the Columbia and Spokane Rivers.

The next morning was quite a bit calmer, weather-wise. Highway 25 continues northward through forests and fields, occasionally giving glimpes of Roosevelt Lake below. Between the towns of Fruitland and Hunters is the halfway point between the two nearest highway junctions -- nearly two hours apart.

The highway sticks to the river/lake for many miles north of Hunters. The valley is very scenic. You should go there. Before you know it, you're at the city of Kettle Falls and the junction with US 395 and SR 20, which are concurrent at this point. Note, however, the complete absence of signage for SR 20. I guess you just have to know.

Highway 25 continues north along the lake/river, crossing under and over the railroad tracks heading upstream. After the lovely town of Northport (pedestrians!), we cross the river (which is less than a quarter-mile wide here -- finally) and head up Sheep Creek's valley (up up up more than you'd guess) until arriving at the Frontier/Paterson border crossing. Welcome to Canada!

If you like Franklin Delano Roosevelt Lake, Highway 25 is the road for you. The valley is very scenic and lovely. The locals are friendly. The slot machines are friendly, too. It took nearly a half hour to lose our $2.

Washington State Route 24

2009-07-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

On Friday, July 24, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Route 24, from Yakima to Othello, crossing the fastest-flowing stretch of the Columbia River in Washington . . . by bridge, thankfully.

RCW 47.17.100
State route No. 24:

A state highway to be known as state route number 24 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 82 at Yakima, thence easterly and northerly via Cold Creek and Vernita to a junction with state route number 26 in the vicinity of Othello.

Highway 24 begins at I-82 at the eastern edge of Yakima. Note the small sign that says "24 Begins."

We then proceed gradually uphill through the farmlands of Moxee Valley. At a certain point, the valley narrows and we start back down in the Black Rock Valley. Don't get too attached, however, for we're just about to leave that valley when we come to the junction with SR 241, which will take you quite a ways south to Sunnyside.

After crossing Yakima Ridge and Cold Creek, we arrive at a stop sign at the junction with SR 240. The old state highway used to go straight here, eastward all the way to a ferry crossing on the Columbia River at the small town of Hanford. You might recognize that town's name, for that's the name the federal government gave to the huge swath of land they confiscated and gated so they could build that wonderful nuclear bomb. Hey, at least they succeeded, which is pretty remarkable for the government. . . In any case, note the gate straight ahead with the guard station. Don't go that way. Turn left.

So, having turned north, Highway 24 winds down to the Columbia River at a place called Vernita, where there once was a ferry, but now has a bridge. Thanks to the feds taking over this stretch of the river and the land around it, there are no dams here. Thus, the river flows the old-fashioned way, which is swiftly and in a fairly narrow channel -- only a 1/4 mile wide instead of the 1.5-mile wide river/lake that we're used to seeing. Just across the Vernita Bridge we hit SR 243, which you'll find if you keep driving straight. You must turn right to stay on Highway 24.

After a quiet drive through the Wahluke Wildlife Area (the northern reaches of the federal government's Hanford land grab), with straight stretches up to 18 miles in length, we enter the farmlands of the Columbia Plateau and arrive at the end of Highway 24, at its junction with SR 26 in Othello. Actually, there's a sign under Highway 26 that says "24 Ends," but 24 is supposed to end with a junction with SR 26, and that's not one. The real end, if you ask me, is up that side road to the right where you get the stop sign and the two roads actually touch each other. I drove it both ways, just to be on the safe side.

And so our drive of Highway 24 is at an end. Another lonely highway. But at least it's one of the few two-lane highways in Washington to have a rest area -- at Vernita.

Washington State Route 23

2009-07-05T21:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday and Sunday, July 4-5, 2009, we drove Washington State Route 23 from the quiet town of Steptoe to the the quiet town of Harrington.

RCW 47.17.095
State route No. 23:

A state highway to be known as state route number 23 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 195 in the vicinity north of Colfax, thence northwesterly to a junction with state route number 90 at Sprague; also

From that junction with state route number 90 at Sprague, thence northwesterly to a junction with state route number 28 at Harrington.

We started driving so late in the afternoon that the sun was all the way around to the northeast. Or so you might think if you didn't know that "north" on SR 23 is actually quite a bit west in reality. The lovely bit of concrete crossing this photo is US 195. And off we drive into the rolling hills and channeled scablands of eastern Washington.

Google Maps had told me that the first 43 miles of Highway 23 would take me over an hour to drive, so I was all set to take a "halfway" photo. But then I discovered the highway is 55 mph for most of the way, so it would only take 45 minutes or so to get through the scenic landscape to the freeway. Ergo, no "halfway" photo. We spent the night at Sprague Lake, just before this juntion with I-90. Sprague Lake has a multitude of of fish, which brings the boaters, and a multitude of birds, which makes it sound like you're waking up in a jungle when dawn comes around. There was also a multitude of insects, but the repellent worked, so long as you spread it everywhere.

A few seconds past the freeway on our Sunday morning drive, SR 23 has an intersection with SR 231. It goes thataway.

Past farmlands galore and a couple creek coulees, Highway 23 turns west to Harrington, then north through town to this junction with SR 28, which marks the end of our journey. Harrington was incredibly clement this morning, so we hung out in their park for a while. Curiously enough, no one was around and only a couple cars were in the church parking lot. Perhaps we were too early for worship service.

Highway 23 was as quiet as I expected, with all the sleepy towns and farm fields that I expected to see, but I must say that I wasn't expecting the many mini-mesas around Ewan and elsewhere. Just a reminder of those Missoula floods, I suppose. You gotta watch out for those ice dams. . .

Washington State Route 22

2009-07-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

On Friday and Saturday, July 3-4, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Route 22, down the Lower Yakima Valley. Lots of straight stretches through the farmlands, with a few minor left turns, following the railroad almost the whole way.

RCW 47.17.090
State route No. 22:

A state highway to be known as state route number 22 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 82, thence southerly to a junction of state route number 97 in the vicinity of Toppenish; also

From a junction with state route number 97 at Toppenish, thence southeasterly by way of Mabton to a junction with state route number 82 at Prosser.

Heading due south on an overpass over I-82, we begin our journey east on Highway 22. We're going to Toppenish, but that's only a couple miles from here.

Once you cross the Yakima River, you're on the Yakama Indian Reservation. SR 22 then winds through Toppenish. On the south side of town, we come across this odd junction with US 97. The two highways don't actually cross, but instead sort of bounce off each other. East is east and south is south, but north is west and west is north. We stopped for the night at an RV park nearby that is quite wonderful, so long as the wind isn't blowing from the direction of the beef-fat rendering vats a half mile away.

The next morning, off we drove eastward. This road, which follows the railroad that (from what I can tell) goes past both my granddad's farm in Kittitas County and my parents' house in southeast King County, has been a state highway since 1937, when it was Secondary State Highway 3A from Union Gap to Prosser. For some reason, in the 1960s, they changed the north-south stretch through Toppenish from US 97 to SR 22 and the (mostly) east-west stretch from Union Gap to Toppenish to US 97. I think it was because they didn't want big trucks trundling through the turns of downtown Toppenish, but who can tell? . . . In any case, you can get back to the interstate quick if you take SR 223.

On the outskirts of Mabton, we come across the south end of SR 241, which will take you due north to Sunnyside -- not that they bother to mention it on the signs. This junction also marks the eastern end of the Yakama Indian Reservation -- not that they bother to mention it on the signs.

A few more straight stretches and gentle left turns later, Highway 22 turns away from the railroad on the western edge of the city of Prosser, whereupon the highway hugs the hills south of town. Just as the road is curving back north to the river, we find the junction with SR 221, which will take you to Paterson, way down south on the Columbia.

After a right turn to get back on to the old highway (US 12 before the freeway was built, and US 410 before that), SR 22 comes to its end at an overpass above I-82, same as it began.

Highway 22 is a very quiet road, but I guess that's to be expected when it parallels an interstate. The straight stretches aren't very challenging to drive, but at least you can see for miles without any trees!

Washington State Route 21

2009-06-01T12:11:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, May 30, 2009, we drove the length of Washington State Route 21 through the wilds of eastern Washington, flat farmlands and farm-filled forests.

RCW 47.17.085
State route No. 21:

A state highway to be known as state route number 21 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 260 in Kahlotus, thence northerly by the most feasible route, crossing state route number 26, and continuing northerly to a junction with state route number 395 in the vicinity of Lind; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 395 in the vicinity of Lind, thence northerly by the most feasible route by way of Odessa to a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity west of Wilbur; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 2 at Wilbur, thence northerly by the most feasible route to a junction with state route number 20 at Republic; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 20 east of Republic, thence northeasterly by the most feasible route to the east of Curlew lake by way of Curlew to the international boundary line in the vicinity of Danville.

Near the Snake River, in the unassuming town of Kahlotus (which means "hole in the ground" in the native tongue), Highway 21 begins at a junction with SR 260. The road then promptly starts climbing out of the hole and up onto the Columbia Plateau.

In the middle of empty farmlands, SR 21 intersects SR 26. There's not a city for many miles in any direction. Try not to hit the birds basking on the pavement.

We continue through the gloriously huge farms of the Columbia Plateau, eventually arriving at a junction with US 395. Highway 21 then jogs west a bit, finding the small city of Lind, and then turns due north once more.

Before too long, Highway 21 intersects I-90 -- once again, in the middle of nowhere, with nary a gas station or convenience store in sight.

After many more miles of green and golden fields, we arrive in Odessa and have a stop sign at SR 28. The restaurant known as Chief's will make you a good sandwich for a good price, even if the cheese isn't fully melted and the bun isn't toasted. . . On the maps, SR 21 overlaps SR 28 for a block, but it now goes straight north through the heart of Odessa, then does its zig-zag on the north side of town.

The farms of Lincoln County keep rolling past, and then we arrive at Wilbur and US 2.

SR 21 has a short gap as it gets further west of town, then leaves US 2, heading north.

A few hundred yards later, you must take a right turn to stay on SR 21. Otherwise, you're on SR 174, heading for the Grand Coulee Dam.

North through the fields once more, then up a short hill, around a bend, and . . . SR 21 drops off the face of the earth, plunging and weaving down a canyon to the Columbia River, glistening tantalizingly blue in the distance ahead of us. Closer and closer we drive, down onto the flats and past some bright green farms, until the road suddenly ends with this sign. It is now time to wait for the little ferry boat to arrive. Don't fret; it's only ten minutes away on the other side of Lake Roosevelt.

The ferry arrives, cars and motorcycles drive off, and -- after a moment -- the ferry operator waves us down the ramp as if he expected me to start driving without his signal. A pickup truck gets on behind us, then we're sailing; cars are already waiting at the north side of the lake. I would say that the ferry is free, but everybody in the state has to pay for it through taxes, whether they use it or not; I should clarify, however, that no additional toll is required for the trip.

Ten minutes later, we arrive at the north side of the lake/river. It's time to get back in the car!

After some time, we pass through the town of Keller, for which the ferry is named, and enter the forested north. Forty minutes from the ferry dock, which is about halfway to the next junction, I stop for a photo. Thirty miles from anything, out in the middle of the Colville Indian Reservation, heading up the Sanpoil River.

Another forty minutes or so later up the Sanpoil River valley, SR 21 hits SR 20 in Republic. We've been here very recently, it seems. We stopped for dinner this time, though, at a restaurant named Tamarack that a woman down the street described as Mexican even though the Mexicaniest item on their menu is a taco pizza. We ate a chicken-artichoke pizza for dinner and breakfast the next day (in Canada!).

A couple miles east of Republic, SR 21 starts up again from SR 20, still heading north up the Sanpoil River valley. A few miles later, unbeknownst to us at the time, we start heading down. At a place called Torboy, the Sanpoil River flows down into the north-south valley from the east, whereupon the main river turns south while a small portion turns north -- or so it seems on the maps and aerial photos -- and flows into Curlew Lake, then Curlew Creek, then Kettle River, which takes us north through the most-populated stretch of SR 21 all the way to . . .

The Canadian border! Open 8 a.m. till midnight, every day. Manned by one guard, carefully screening the southerners. He almost didn't let us in -- I think it was because we were from Seattle. Can't trust those Seattlites!

And thus I've finished another state highway -- probably the loneliest road so far. Not much to do but keep driving and driving and driving. . .

Washington State Route 20 north

2009-05-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17, 2009, we drove SR 20 north, which is signed Spur 20 or 20 Spur, depending on the sign, and then isn't signed at all for most of its length because it's on the ferry system. To the glorious San Juans, we go!

RCW 47.17.081
State route No. 20 north:

A state highway to be known as state route number 20 north is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 20 in the vicinity southeast of Anacortes, thence northwesterly to the state ferry terminal at Anacortes; also

From the state ferry terminal at Anacortes via the state ferry system to the state ferry terminals at Lopez Island, Shaw Island, Orcas Island, and Friday Harbor.

State Route 20 north starts on Fidalgo Island at a junction with SR 20. The driving portion is quite short, so don't blink.

A few minutes later, we're in the middle of Anacortes (named for a woman named Anna Curtis). We're also halfway between the junction and the ferry terminal.

And here's the dock! Time to wait. . . and wait. . . But at least it's a nice place to wait.

A little while later, the boat shows up and we get on. Approximately halfway between when we started waiting at the dock and when we're going to arrive at Lopez Island, we're still in Ship Harbor just a few feet from the Anacortes Dock. But that's the way it goes. The San Juans lie off to the left. Um. . . port. Anchors away!

Here comes Lopez. Only foot traffic can disembark for this sailing. Lopez is a good place for bike riding.

The ferry then steams away from the dock, turns 90°, shifts to the opposite end's engine, and starts moving the other direction. And that turn took about half the time to get to Shaw Island. Shaw's dock is just around that point to the left. . . um. . . port.

Only 200 or so people live on Shaw Island, and there's not much in the way of activities for visitors, but it has ferry service! I guess it's because it has a better harbor for a dock than other islands like Decatur and Blakely.

After another three-point turn, we're sailing across Harney Channel straight for Orcas Island.

Good ol' Orcas! We drove off the boat here because there wasn't a daytime route that stopped at all the islands. Plus, camping at Moran State Park was cheaper than anywhere on San Juan Island. $22 for lakefront property!

Sunday morning, we board another ferry. Surprisingly, instead of weaving through Wasp Passage north of Shaw Island, the ferry goes to the east of Shaw. They must've planned it, though, because we stayed on schedule. Halfway to Friday Harbor, we're cruising down Upright Channel with Lopez off the port and Shaw off the starboard.

And here we are at the end of the line: Friday Harbor, the heart of the San Juans. The state highway doesn't include one foot of roadway on any of the islands, so there aren't any "SR 20 Spur" signs anywhere, but we know the truth, don't we?

Quite a scenic route, and I didn't put much mileage on my car, either! We had to pay fares, though. . . The San Juans are peaceful and relaxing. I'll have to get back on this "highway" sometime again in the not-too-distant future.

Washington State Route 20

2009-05-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, February 15, and Saturday and Sunday, May 2-3, 2009, we drove Washington State Route 20, the longest state highway in Washington (436 miles!). It's also the first one in my travels with a ferry ride as part of it.

RCW 47.17.080
State route No. 20:

A state highway to be known as state route number 20 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 in the vicinity of Discovery Bay, thence northeasterly via the most feasible route to Port Townsend; also

From the state ferry terminal at Port Townsend via the state ferry system northeasterly to the state ferry terminal at Keystone; also

From the Keystone ferry dock on Whidbey Island, thence northeasterly by the most feasible route by way of Deception Pass, Burlington, Sedro Woolley, Concrete, Newhalem, Winthrop, Twisp, Okanogan, Tonasket, Republic, Kettle Falls, Colville, and Tiger; thence southerly and southeasterly to a junction with state route number 2 at Newport.

At the south end of Discovery Bay, just about where US 101 gives up on its northward journey and turns around and starts heading south for a change, Highway 20 begins. Follow that red truck.

The road cruises up the Quimper Peninusla. Suddenly, just after passing the Jefferson County International Airport, the highway makes a quick right turn to a stoplight. Turn left to stay on 20. Turn right for SR 19.

Soon thereafter, Highway 20 arrives in Port Townsend, a lovely old town. We probably should've visited and seen the sights. Instead, since I was worried about catching the small ferry and perhaps being forced to wait an hour and a half or longer till the next one or the one after that, I headed for the dock. Even though we arrived at 11:05 and the next ferry was at 11:15, and the boat only carries 50 automobiles, we had no trouble getting on the boat. About ten cars got on behind us. I think some had to wait behind.

'Twas a lovely day for a sailing. This was about at the halfway point across Admiralty Inlet. Or at least it was about halfway from when we entered the Port Townsend Ferry Terminal to when we were scheduled to leave the Keystone Ferry Terminal. Do you see Mt Baker?

And there's the Keystone Ferry Terminal. Impressive, eh? It's just beside Fort Casey State Park. Hence, the wilderness.

Highway 20 takes off east from Fort Casey, but soon runs into the main Whidbey Island highway, which for its northern half is SR 20, but for its southern half is SR 525. We turn northwest, also known as "east."

The highway weaves its way north on Whidbey, going off-course from "east" by up to 200° by my measurement, just west ("east") of Coupeville. We didn't stop in Coupeville, but we did head out to Fort Ebey State Park for a walk on the beach, and then we stopped in Oak Harbor for lunch. Wendy's was incredibly more crowded than Dairy Queen. Cheaper, too. Correlation? On we drove, past the Naval Air Station and Deception Pass, until we came with the poorly signed (unsigned?) junction with SR 20 North, pictured above. They're doing construction in the area, so maybe that's why the signs were missing. Either that, or I just wasn't paying attention.

Over the Swinomish Channel, we're back on the mainland. Farmlands and a speedy highway. Just past Fredonia, we find the junction with SR 536, the cutoff to Mt Vernon. And then the highway collapses back to a two-lane road. They say they'll have it expanded to I-5 by the end of this year.

Speaking of I-5, here we are! At this point, we turned south on the old US 99 just for kicks and headed home, hoping it wouldn't be too long before the mountain pass opened and we could continue our drive of Highway 20.

Several months later, we're on the road again. Hooray! After zigging through Burlington and a brief rural stretch, Highway 20 arrives at SR 9, southward points only, at the western edge of Sedro-Woolley.

At the other end of Sedro-Woolley, we find the junction with northward-heading SR 9. Oddly enough, I posted a terribly similar photo from the Highway 9 trip. . .

Up the Skagit River valley we head, as the mountains grow taller and the valley shrinks narrower, until we wind our way to the junction with SR 530. Last chance back to civilization!

Since the distance between the SR 530 junction and the SR 153 junction was so great, I divided the segment into thirds. Here we are at the one-third point, having just crossed Thunder Arm of Lake Diablo and heading up to that wonderful viewpoint that you must stop at, every time you go there. Instead of its normal glacial green, Diablo Lake was ordinary blue. I guess the glaciers were still frozen under all the winter's snow and the lake was filled with typical snowmelt.

Over the passes which till recently had been closed for the winter (and which still had avalanche chutes piled high with snow and debris), we pass the two-thirds point between junctions, a ways west of Mazama.

Through the scenic Methow valley we head, with a stop at the quaint village of Winthrop, to the junction with SR 153 outside of Twisp. You have to take a hard left past that red hill to stay on Highway 20. The more-travelled route down the river valley is taken by SR 153, but that turns south soon.

Over Loup Loup Pass to Okanogan we head, on a seemingly seldom-used stretch of roadway. At the south end of Okanogan, you have to turn right to stay on Hwy 20 (even though it's not mentioned on the sign). Going straight will put you on SR 215.

After crossing the Okanogan River, SR 20 junctions with US 97. Thus begins their coincidence, if you turn left. US 97 takes over the mileposts because it's more important.

A few minutes later, we arrive at Omak, where there's a junction with SR 155. We're heading north on US 97 and east on SR 20, so it's quite obvious that to head south on SR 155, one should turn left. Or wait a minute. . . Wouldn't that be west or north? Oh, 155 loops through town and heads south. That makes sense, then.

Up a hill and without warning, we arrive at the north end of SR 215. It's a good thing the light was red, or we would have missed this photo. As it was, Chunlin gave me five or six to choose from. This one had a good combination of the street signs and the surrounding scenery. Not too narrow, not too wide. Um. . . yeah.

Up the Okanogan River to the glorious city of Tonasket, where one must take a right turn to stay on SR 20. The main route, heading straight, is US 97. Canada is less than a half hour up thataway.

Into the mountains once more we venture, up over Wauconda Pass and through narrow valleys that don't provide much scenic viewing. Shortly after the city of Republic, "Junction! Quick!" I say and Chunlin scrambles with the camera. Veer right to head south on SR 21. Veer left to stay on SR 20.

A few miles later, the northward junction with SR 21. Highway 21 gets to stay in the north-south Sanpoil River valley, while we get to head up into the mountains once more.

Through some more mountains that were quite entertaining for me to drive, but were rather boring for Chunlin to passenger, we cross Sherman Pass (5575' -- more than 100' higher than Washington Pass) and drop down down down to the Columbia River (1300'), whereupon we reach a junction with US 395. Canada's a half-hour thataway, once again.

After merging with US 395 southward, we cross the Columbia River and back up the other side to come to SR 25. Canada's an hour to the left.

Shortly thereafter, we arrived in Colville, whereupon we drove around in circles looking for a hotel because it was rather late. Whilst circling, I snapped this photo of the junction where SR 20 departs US 395. Chunlin took a photo Sunday morning, too, but there were cars blocking the beautiful pavement. Hmmm. . . Sunday morning has more traffic than Saturday night. I guess you can tell what kind of town Colville is!

We left Colville upon a much different road than we arrived on. Unlike our previous windy roads that hugged the hillsides, this segment of SR 20 over the Selkirk Mountains rarely forced us to dip below 60 mph -- I believe this was the last segment of SR 20 constructed. A very nice road with not many cars. Well, it was early Sunday morning, so perhaps it gets more traffic than we saw. . . Zig-zag down some switchbacks that force us to slow to 25 mph (I'm sorry. What did I say earlier?) and we arrive in the Pend Oreille River valley at a junction with SR 31.

Lots of people make a big deal about the Pend Oreille River flowing northward, like it's unheard of that a river can flow north. Rivers flow down, and down is not always "down" on the map! In any case, the Pend Oreille is a mighty and scenic river. I believe Chunlin liked this part better than most of the tree-lined trip. Getting near the end of our highway, we arrive at the junction with SR 211. Oddly, the quarter-mile warning sign said "Newport" and "Spokane" even though you must stay on SR 20 to go to Newport. . . . Which we did.

Back into the forest, I'm counting down the miles till Highway 20 is finished. With less than a mile to go, I'm starting to get concerned because I don't see any signs of the city of Newport. Surely there are some outlying neighborhoods? Then, wham. We exit the trees less than a block before the junction with US 2. Take a right to go "west" to Spokane. Keep straight to go east into Idaho. We went straight, but stopped at the McDonald's a hundred yards shy of the border. Second breakfast, yay!

With that ginormous road under my belt, I'm itching to get going again. I probably shouldn't be looking two years into the future, but I just can't help myself! So many highways, so little time.

Washington State Route 19

2009-02-15T18:15:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, February 15, 2009, we drove the length of Highway 19, which is a rather short road for such a low number. It starts over in Jefferson County south of Port Townsend and ends over in Jefferson County south of Port Townsend.

RCW 47.17.077
State route No. 19:

A state highway to be known as state route number 19 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 104, thence northerly to a junction with state route number 20 near Old Fort Townsend state park.

Today was a good day for a drive. Just about as far east as you can get on the Olympic Peninsula, near the Hood Canal Floating Bridge, we depart SR 104, heading north.

After a dozen or so miles heading down the Chimacum Valley ("Look, sheep!"), we arrive at the junction with SR 116, which is the way to Marrowstone Island and Fort Flagler. I hear it's a nice place for a bike ride.

Five minutes later, after passing Jefferson County International Airport (too small for jets, but I guess you can get to Canada), we're at the junction with SR 20. Our drive is at an end, or at least it is on Highway 19.

Washington State Route 18

2009-01-17T19:15:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, January 17, 2009, we drove the length of Highway 18, from Federal Way to Snoqualmie (more or less). It's nice to drive the road I drove as a teenager (sorry, Mom!) and see all the changes WSDOT has made since then.

RCW 47.17.075
State route No. 18:

A state highway to be known as state route number 18 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 99 in the vicinity of northeast Tacoma, thence northeasterly by way of Auburn to a junction with state route number 90 west of North Bend.

At a busy intersection in Federal Way, Highway 18 begins. SR 99 is the federal highway that the city is named after, you know.

A hundred yards later, Highway 18 has a junction with SR 161. Looks about the same.

And another hundred yards or so later, 18 gets going and has a proper junction with I-5.

Down a steep, windy hill, we arrive at the bottom of the Green River/White River valley, aka Auburn. Here we find SR 167, the aptly named Valley Freeway.

A short way across town, the junction with SR 164. Heading to Enumclaw?

Up the Green River, hang a left at Soos Creek, up over a little hill just past Green River Community College (The old stop light is long gone. . .), and we get a glorious view of the junction of Highway 18 and Kent-Kangley Road, aka SR 516. Here we stopped for a brief visit to my parents. Home sweet home.

A bit late, we left my parents and continued northeast. The freeway section of Highway 18 ends seven miles short of I-90, but we managed to make it through the fog and over Tiger Mountain in time to get to I-90 just after sunset. Hence the pink sky.

And so old, familiar Highway 18 is at an end.

Washington State Route 17

2009-01-11T20:56:00.000-08:00

On Saturday and Sunday, January 10-11, 2009, we drove the length of Highway 17, from a bit north of Pasco to a bit north of Bridgeport, via the Coulee Corridor.

RCW 47.17.070
State route No. 17:

A state highway to be known as state route number 17 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 395 in the vicinity of Mesa, thence northwesterly by way of the vicinity of Moses Lake, and Soap Lake, to a junction with state route number 2 west of Coulee City; also

From a junction with state route number 2 in the vicinity west of Coulee City, thence northerly by way of the vicinity of Leahy, crossing the Columbia river in the vicinity of Bridgeport, thence northwesterly to a junction with state route number 97 east of Brewster.

Saturday evening, we started out near the town of Mesa at junction of SR 17 and US 395. It's getting dark, but here we go!

Seven miles up the road, onto the grand flatness that is the Columbia Plateau, we find the junction with SR 260.

It's getting dark as we arrive at Othello and SR 26, so we stop for the night. Casa Mexicana has tasty food.

The next morning, we continue north past fields and . . . fields. And then, SR 170.

Down SR 262, twelve miles or so, is Potholes Reservoir. Someday, I'll go there. Too cold today.

Ten minutes later, we return to civilization: I-90!

We're at Moses Lake, but SR 17 swings wide right. SR 171 will take you back into town, if you want. SR 171 is also supposed to go 25 miles east to Odessa, but that part hasn't been built yet.

And then it got foggy. Remember to be careful when you get to this junction, or else you'll take SR 282 to Ephrata instead of continuing to Soap Lake on 17. Very difficult, trust me.

The fog lifted slightly by the time we arrived at SR 28, just before Soap Lake. "Stop: Look again: Side traffic does not stop." Soap Lake itself is rather nice. Frozen, though.

Up the Lower Grand Coulee, past Blue Lake (which should be called White Lake during the winter), past Dry Falls (quite nice in any season), Highway 17 hits a tee at US 2. We've been here before, just last year. There was snow on the ground then, too. Hmm. I guess it's always like this.

A bit to the west, SR 17 restarts, leaving US 2 behind.

We've left the Grand Coulee behind, too, back to the fields and fog. SR 172 will take you to Mansfield, which is really out in the fields.

Oh, look! Hills! Take a right and you can head over to Grand Coulee Dam on SR 174. But the short way would have been to keep going north-northeast back at Coulee City. . .

Highway 17 is almost over. Chagrin. We're down to the Columbia River at Bridgeport. Here's SR 173, which will take you down the left bank.

But we cross the mighty Columbia and head down the right bank a few miles till Highway 17 finally is finished at US 97.

Our snowy trip is at an end (well, except for making our way home, that is). Coulees and ice-covered lakes are scenic, I do declare. The fog hurt my eyes, though.

Washington State Route 16

2008-11-23T18:59:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, November 23, 2008, we drove the length of Highway 16, from Tacoma to Gorst. The best part was the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, but there's no photo of that on this page. You'll have to look at my other trip report for those.

RCW 47.17.065
State route No. 16:

A state highway to be known as state route number 16 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 at Tacoma, thence northwesterly by way of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to a junction with state route number 3 in the vicinity of Gorst.

We approached the end of SR 16 from the south, so I could cross under I-5. And away we go!

In west Tacoma, the junction with SR 163, which is one of the land-and-water highways, taking you to the south end of Vashon Island. . . . Why did they capitalize the "TH" in "6th"?

After crossing the Narrows Bridge and flying past Gig Harbor, Highway 16 swerves around the town of Purdy. Take SR 302 if you want to actually go there.

A few minutes later, we're at SR 160, the exit for Port Orchard. Actually, SR 160 heads to the north end of Vashon Island and on to Seattle, so that's another land-and-water highway. For what it's worth, Vashon Island is only served by state highways at the north and south ends, with no actual land highway between. A bit odd, if you ask me.

Shortly, the road goes down the hill toward the body of water called Sinclair Inlet. Before I knew it, we had passed the junction with SR 166. It didn't have an exit! How was I to know? Well, I guess my map-reading skills weren't up to snuff today. So we snapped this shot on the way back.

And then we come to Gorst and SR 3. We wound up driving north on 3 for a few miles, trying to find a place to turn around. Nice views of the water and mountains, so not really a problem. I exited on SR 304, and then had to go another mile before I could U-turn. I guess the road designers really want you to keep going to Bremerton.

But we didn't go there. Ha.

A rather anticlimatic drive, actually.

Washington State Route 14

2008-11-16T16:42:00.001-08:00

On Saturday and Sunday, November 15-16, 2008, we drove the length of Highway 14. Up the Columbia River, from I-5 in Vancouver to I-82 near the Tri-Cities. Very scenic.

RCW 47.17.060
State route No. 14:

A state highway to be known as state route number 14 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 at Vancouver, thence easterly by way of Stevenson to a junction with state route number 97 in the vicinity of Maryhill; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 97 in the vicinity of Maryhill, thence easterly along the north bank of the Columbia river to a junction with state route number 82 in the vicinity of Plymouth.

After driving in circles for a little while, I finally found the beginning of Highway 14 in Vancouver. I should've looked at the city map the morning we left. In any case, the onramp is the road curving off to the left. The bridge in the background is I-5 crossing the Columbia River. We saw a lot of the Columbia this trip.

After a few miles of freeway, we come to I-205, Portland's outer half-loop interstate. Last chance for Seattle!

SR 14 skirts the cities of Camas and Washougal while the old highway goes straight through town. In between the two cities is the junction with SR 500.

And then it's over an hour to the next state route junction. This photo is at the halfway point between SR 500 and SR 141-Alt, just north of the Bonneville Dam. I feel I should know why the federal government named the Bonneville Power Administration after this location, instead of something like the "Grand Coulee Power Administration," but I don't.

As we cross the White Salmon River, we have a sign for SR 141-alternate, a short branch of SR 141 that joins up with the main route a few miles up that river. Note the cliffs and railroad. Lots of both of those in the Columbia Gorge.

A few miles later, in Bingen, is the southern end of SR 141, the main route. If you look at the map, the alternate route makes more sense -- it's more efficient -- but I guess someone decided the main route should connect the cities of White Salmon and Bingen. Great idea.

Do you want to go to Wahkiacus? SR 142 is the road for you.

The Columbia River gets a bit too curvy, so SR 14 takes a shortcut due east. In the middle of that peninsula, we come across US 197, the route to The Dalles. But we don't want to go to Oregon. At least, not yet. Wait. What's that about a detour?

In the vicinity of the town of Maryhill, SR 14 ends temporarily at US 97. Not that you can tell, though. Actually, 14 keeps going a hundred yards more (Do you see the "stop sign ahead" sign?), but there's this weird triangle thing going on here. I drove all three sides, just because.

A half mile later, SR 14 starts back up, letting US 97 head south to Oregon (except that the bridge was closed! Which means that we couldn't cross to Oregon for the nearest hotel). On Saturday, we drove past this junction to get to Stonehenge (Thank you, Sam Hill.), but this photo is from Sunday morning, after a night up 97 in Goldendale.

It's a long way to the next junction (There's even a sign warning of no gas station for 80+ miles.), so here's a photo just west of the town of Roosevelt, halfway between the nearest state routes.

And then it got so foggy, I had to slow down to 55. But it lifted enough so Chunlin could take this photo of the junction with SR 221.

Still in the fog (Can you see the hill in the background? No?), we come to the end of our journey: I-82.

Where to now?

Washington State Route 12

2008-08-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

On Saturday and Sunday, August 9-10, 2008, we drove the length of Washington State Route 12 (also known as U.S. 12) all the way from Aberdeen to the Idaho border. 400-some miles, but we did it in less than a tank of gas. Take that, ExxonMobil!

RCW 47.17.055
State route No. 12:

A state highway to be known as state route number 12 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 101 at Aberdeen, thence easterly by way of Montesano and Elma to a junction with state route number 8 in the vicinity of Elma; also

From that junction with state route number 8 in the vicinity of Elma, thence southeasterly to a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity north of Centralia; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity south of Chehalis, thence easterly by way of Morton and White Pass to a junction with state route number 410 northwest of Yakima; also

From that junction with state route number 410 northwest of Yakima, thence southeasterly to a junction with state route number 82 at Yakima; also

Beginning at a junction with state route number 182 near Pasco, thence southeasterly by the most feasible route by way of Wallula to Walla Walla, thence northerly by way of Dayton to a junction with state route number 127 at Dodge; also

From that junction with state route number 127 in the vicinity of Dodge, thence easterly by the most feasible route by way of Pomeroy and Clarkston to the Washington-Idaho boundary line.

And so it begins, in the heart of Aberdeen ("Come as you are."), US 101 turns right to go over the Chehalis River, and heading straight puts you at mile zero of US 12.

Ten miles later, we're back at Montesano, where we had spent the night. We'll be back here in a couple weeks, since SR 107 is the shortcut from Seattle south to Long Beach.

Before too long, we reach the junction with SR 8. This is where you have to exit to stay on US 12. Once upon a time, US 410 went straight here. . .

After a pleasant drive through a section of the state I haven't seen before (Oakville, Rochester, etc.), we hit I-5, thus beginning the first discontinuation of State Route 12. If you follow the signs, however, US 12 rolls on southward. As did we.

In the vicinity south of Chehalis, State Route 12 starts up anew, leaving I-5 behind.

Almost completely unsigned, SR 122 really sneaks up on you. It will take you to Ike Kinswa State Park.

It's a good thing I knew these junctions were coming, because the other end of SR 122 was also barely signed. Just a little Washington head with the route number and "JCT" underneath, about a quarter-mile before the turn.

We arrived in Morton, at the junction with SR 7, intent on obtaining some chicken gizzards. Unfortunately, there was a parade going on, part of the Morton Loggers Jubilee, and the Chevron's cooks were having a hard time keeping up with chicken strips and jo-jos, much less something weird like gizzards. Alas. Chunlin vowed to never stop there again.

In Randle, a junction with a road to Mt. St. Helens, which is briefly SR 131 before turning into a Forest Service road.

I woke Chunlin up from a nap and she took this photo three seconds later. I'm married to Quick-Draw Chunlin, I am. This is the junction with SR 123, high up in the Cascades. Thataway to Paradise and Sunrise.

After a mosquito-heavy dayhike at White Pass, we headed down the eastern slope of the Cascades. Douglas Fir quickly give way to Ponderosa Pine, which soon disappear, leaving us with grass and rocks. Just upriver from Naches, we reach SR 410, having to take a right turn to stay on US 12. As you can see, going straight wouldn't get us very far. From here to Idaho, our route will follow (more or less) what used to be US 410.

Down at the north end of Yakima, State Route 12 gets absorbed by Interstate 82. US 12 is cosigned with the interstate (along with US 97 for part) all the way to the Tri-Cities, but there's an hour-long gap in SR 12 per the code, so I didn't bother to get back on at the same exit in Yakima when we stopped for dinner. I'll do 82 in a couple years, don't you fear.

The next morning, we hit the road again. SR 12 starts up again at a "junction" with I-182 near Pasco. I-182 is supposed to end at a junction with US 395, which should mean that SR 12 starts at that same junction. For some reason, though, the I-182 "end" sign is a half-mile further down the road. Quick-Draw Chunlin proved her skills once again. And thus we're back on 12.

South of Pasco, across the Snake River, we come to the western end of SR 124. It's a shortcut to Clarkston and Idaho, skipping Walla Walla.

A few miles later, be sure to take a left, or else you'll be taking US 730 into Oregon. And you wouldn't want that, would you?

At the edge of Walla Walla, we come to the junction with SR 125. The DOT is rebuilding US 12 from this point back to the SR 124 junction, so this junction was only marked with a temporary orange sign. In a year or two, there'll be offramps and roundabouts and all that fun stuff. Note the pile of dirt on the left, where the new US 12 will be.

After turning north to avoid the Blue Mountains (which we never really saw), we arrive in Waitsburg and the eastern end of SR 124. Take a left to head back to the Tri-Cities, take a right to stay on US 12. Go straight if you want to visit the city park.

Welcome to the Palouse! A few miles west on SR 261 is the town of Starbuck. We didn't go check for coffee shops.

At the junction with SR 127, there is a public toilet. Take a right to stay on US 12.

After finally returning to the Snake River, we spy a large bridge in the distance. Lo and behold, that's SR 128 heading northward. Not that you can see the bridge in this photo, but it's there, just out of frame. Trust me.

At 6th Street in downtown Clarkston, there's a sign for SR 129 south, but don't let that fool you. It's just a DOT-created spur. The real SR 129 is on Diagonal Street, hitting our route near 2nd Street.

In the middle of this blue bridge crossing the Snake River is the border with Idaho. Oddly enough, the "Welcome to Idaho" sign sits firmly on Washington soil. Also strange, the last sign for SR 12 in Washington, on the bridge, uses the Washington head instead of the US-route shield -- the only such signage I spied along the route.

And so, after two days and 400+ miles, our drive of Washington State Route 12 is at an end. What have we learned? Well. . . Aberdeen is much wetter than Clarkston.

Washington State Route 11

2008-07-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, July 27, 2008, we drove the length of Washington State Route 11, from Burlington to Bellingham. It used to be Highway 99, back before 1931 (when the route now used by I-5 was completed). Highway 11 is a very quick 21 miles, but it has plenty of curves with cliffs on both sides.

RCW 47.17.050
State route No. 11:

A state highway to be known as state route number 11 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 5 in the vicinity of Burlington, thence northerly by way of Blanchard to a junction with state route number 5 at Bellingham.

I had wanted to drive SR 11 a couple weeks ago, but some idiot ran his oversized load into the overpass of SR 11 over I-5. Thus, not being able to drive even the first 100' of the highway, I had to postpone. It's open to traffic now, just as long as your vehicle weighs less than 40 tons.

Here's the halfway point on SR 11, more or less. The highway doesn't intersect any state routes other than I-5 at the ends. As you can see, cliffs and curves.

After a brief stop in the old town of Fairhaven (long ago incorporated into Bellingham), SR 11 ends back at I-5.

Good drive! Now go take a hike.

Washington State Route 10

2008-06-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 15, 2008, we drove the length of Washington State Route 10, from somewhere between Cle Elum and Thorp all the way to somewhere between Thorp and Ellensburg. And then we drove back to Thorp, but that's a different story.

RCW 47.17.045
State route No. 10:

A state highway to be known as state route number 10 is established as follows:

Beginning at a junction with state route number 970 at Teanaway junction thence easterly to a junction with state route number 97 west of Ellensburg.

Once upon a time, US 97 came to a T at US 10 at this spot. 10 used to go east-west through here, while 97 went northward. Now, SR 970 is continuous on a curve to the west and north, while 10 gets the T. Is that fair?

SR 10 doesn't have any junctions in its length, so I stopped halfway for a shot. This is in the Yakima River canyon below Thorp Prairie, just east of Swauk Creek. Two railroads weave through the canyon down below, with the river. It's a scenic stretch of highway, for sure.

And just a few miles later, we hit the new junction with US 97, on the western outskirts of Ellensburg. The canyon is over and we're out on the Kittitas plains.

All that's left of US 10 in Washington State was that short but sweet 16 miles, down the "quiet side" of the river.