Is it safe to drive from Seattle to Leavenworth in December?
We have always driven our car to Leavenworth in the winter and to date have not had any issues. However, since you’ll be driving through a mountain pass it’s necessary to check road conditions and the mountain pass report and have good winter tires. At times you may even need to carry chains.
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What pass is between Seattle and Leavenworth?

Stevens Pass
Stevens Pass – US 2.
Is Leavenworth a day trip from Seattle?
Seattle is about 2.5 hours from Leavenworth. You could easily combine Seattle and Leavenworth as a weekend (or longer) getaway.
Do you need tire chains in Leavenworth?

1) you are legally required to have chains in your vehicle, AWD or not and 2) sometimes chains are required even with AWD.
Is it difficult to drive to Leavenworth?
By Car. Leavenworth is easily accessible from the west coast via US Highway 2, and the drive through the Cascades has been voted as one of the most scenic drives in the States. The highway is well maintained with frequent pull-outs and rest stops to soak in the scenery or grab a bite.
Do you need AWD for Leavenworth?
Leavenworth, Washington is easy enough to reach by car, but pay attention to road conditions in Winter to be sure the passes are open and carry the advised traction devices or ride in an ubiquitous Subaru or other AWD vehicle.
Are chains required on White Pass?
A Guide to Current White Pass Conditions. Be Prepared! Beginning November 1, all trucks must carry chains over mountain passes. All vehicles must carry chains inside Mount Rainier National Park.
How do you get around Leavenworth?
Leavenworth Transportation Options
- Amtrak.
- Leavenworth Shuttle.
- Link Public Transit Route 22.
- Northwestern Trailways.
- Pangborn Memorial Airport: Fly Wenatchee.
How many days do I need in Leavenworth?
How Many Days Should you Spend in Leavenworth? If you’re considering a trip to Leavenworth, this charming community is a great place to spend your weekend. If you plan to do most of your exploring in town, I recommend staying at least two to three nights.
Is Leavenworth WA worth visiting?
Leavenworth, WA is the cutest little town that is worth a visit year-round. Winter for the Christmas Lighting Festival and winter sports like a day at the Leavenworth Ski Hill. Spring to see all the trails bloom with flowers. Summer for warm-weather festivities and the fall for Oktoberfest!
Is it hard to drive to Leavenworth?
By Car. Leavenworth is easily accessible from the west coast via US Highway 2, and the drive through the Cascades has been voted as one of the most scenic drives in the States.
Is it worth going to Leavenworth WA?
Leavenworth is a prime spot on the Great Washington State Birding Trail. Fishing, camping, mountain biking, golfing, and climbing are other outdoor activities you can enjoy during the summer in Leavenworth.
What is the best time to visit Leavenworth WA?
Peak season: June through August
The Leavenworth Summer Theater is the largest theater between Seattle and Spokane—you’ll want to catch a show. The warm weather is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor trails and parks, and you can even participate in Rockfest if you love rock climbing!
Is Highway 12 open to White Pass?
US Hwy 12 / U.S. Route 12 (US 12) is an east–west United States highway, running from Aberdeen, Washington to Detroit, Michigan, for almost 2,500 miles. The White Pass Scenic Byway is 124 miles from I-5 on the west to Naches on the east side. White Pass is open year round.
How Long Will White Pass be closed?
Opening and Closing Dates White PassClosed
Season | Opening | Closing |
---|---|---|
22/23 | Dec 17 2022 (estimated) | Apr 30 2023 (estimated) |
21/22 | Dec 16 2021 | Apr 17 2022 |
20/21 | Nov 27 2020 | Apr 25 2021 |
19/20 | Dec 07 2019 (estimated) | Mar 16 2020 * |
Do you need a car in Leavenworth WA?
If you plan to stay in the town, it’s easy to get around without a car. However, if you plan on going on hikes or doing other Leavenworth activities that aren’t right in town, it’d be best to have a car for your Leavenworth trip.
What is the best time of year to visit Leavenworth Washington?
The best time to visit Leavenworth is April-May
In summer, the average maximum temperature is around 30℃ (87℉), but temperatures can sometimes reach as high as 33℃ (91℉) on the hottest days of the year. The weather at night in the winter can get down to temperatures as low as -9℃ (16℉).
Why is Leavenworth WA so famous?
1. Leavenworth is THE Bavarian village in Washington. Leavenworth has an unforgettable European-style atmosphere that is accentuated by German celebrations and festivals such as Maifest, the Autumn Leaf Festival, and of course Oktoberfest.
How many days should you spend in Leavenworth?
If you plan to do most of your exploring in town, I recommend staying at least two to three nights. I would recommend adding an extra day or two to your trip if you are visiting and want to spend your days trekking some of the magnificent mountains that surround Leavenworth.
Is White Pass open for travel?
White Pass is open daily (snow conditions permitting including all holidays) from 8:00 am until 4 pm.
How many days should I stay in Leavenworth?
What’s the conditions on White Pass?
White Pass Weather
Base | Summit | |
---|---|---|
Today Sunny | 46/71 F° | 41/66 F° |
Tomorrow Fair | 45/73 F° | 40/68 F° |
Wednesday Fair | 49/72 F° | 44/67 F° |
Thursday Sunny | 47/70 F° | 42/65 F° |