Three County Corridor
Take a picturesque road trip through the Okanogan, Douglas, and Chelan Counties of North Central Washington along Route 97.
Traveling south from the Canadian border along Route 97 for just 4 mi (6.5 km) will take you to the city of Oroville. An agricultural hub with orchards and vineyards, Oroville offers an appealing contrast to the rugged backdrop of the north portion of Okanogan County. From there, a scenic 40 mi (64 km) drive along the Okanogan River will bring you to the town of Omak, home of the famous Omak Stampede.
Continuing south on Route 97, the city of Okanogan is less than 5 mi (8 km) from Omak, and is the perfect place to stretch your legs on a self-guided walking tour featuring the murals of Frank Matsura, a renowned 19th-century Japanese pioneer photographer.
From there, follow Route 97 33 mi (53 km) to the waterside town of Pateros situated at the confluence of the Methow and Columbia Rivers. Enjoy the stunning views of the river, cliffs, and vineyards as you drive another 19 miles (30.5 km) south toward one of the most popular freshwater lakes in Washington - Lake Chelan. Matched with dry, sun-filled summers and a burgeoning wine industry, this glistening glacier-fed lake and surrounding city is definitely worth a road trip stop.
The beauty doesn’t cease as you continue south 19 mi (30.5 km) to the city of Entiat, where the Entiat River converges with the Columbia River. Further down the highway lies the urban center of Wenatchee. It’s the largest city in Chelan County and surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Not to be Missed
The Similkameen River Trail
is part of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail offering an easy-walking experience featuring dramatic views above and alongside the Similkameen River.
The Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center
features regional and Indigenous history, as well as a model train replica of the historic Stevens Pass rail line.
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
plays host to over 4 million acres of diverse landscape with incredible recreation opportunities in all four seasons.
Key Annual Events
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival (Wenatchee, April)
Apple Pie Jamboree (Pateros, July)
Okanogan County Fair (Okanogan, September)
Communities
Regional Information
