I'm thinking about crossing into Washington State the first week of Sept and riding the Cascade Loop with some friends. I was wondering if anyone knows how the ferries work for the island portion of the ride. In British Columbia motorcycles get loaded first so you never have to wait for the ferry or need a reservation. Is that the same in WA? Also are there bridges between some of the islands or are there ferries between all of them. Last question, how much time should we allow for this portion of the trip? Is it better to just stay on the mainland.

Thanks!

 

Blaster,
WA ferries do load bikes first. Are you taking a ferry to Anacortes and then east over Hwy 20? Not sure of your time frame but I would stay on the mainland if you are riding the loop in one day. It's about 500 miles without your time from BC.
RR

 

reefrider...Thanks. I think we will make it a two day ride, staying a night in Leavenworth. We would cross at the Osoyoos / Oriville crossing so that should start us off on the eastern part of the loop.

 

Eat some bratwurst for me in Leavenworth. That place is awesome. The ride west from there is like a mini version of the Alps. Enjoy. I'll be visiting Victoria this week. Looking forward to it.

 

Ferry at Annacortes will load bikes first, girl at the booth said bikes dont get a cut to the front of the line but..............I make my own cuts, just weave through the line and cut in before the booth - all those cars wont get on anyway. Depending where you want to go figure on adding at least a half day if you look at very little and get back on...better take a full day if you wanna see anything.