Story and Photos by Shelly Stevens | Tri-County Economic Development District

Crisp mornings, golden hillsides, and the scent of pine in the air...fall is one of the best times to explore Northeast Washington! This three-day loop is all about winding roads, quiet moments by the water, and soaking in the changing leaves at a relaxed pace. Starting and ending in Spokane, the drive takes you through forested mountain passes, alongside rivers and lakes, and into a few welcoming small towns. 

Leave Spokane heading north on Hwy 395, watching as farmland gives way to forested hills. In Chewelah, pause for breakfast at Monica’s Buttermilk Kitchen on Main St. This is the go-to breakfast spot for locals. Before hitting the road again, stop by The Yale Press for a coffee to go. It’s one block west and across the street from Monica’s, right next to the abstract flower mural. This charming coffee house will get you fueled and inspired for the day ahead. 

From Chewelah, head east on Flowery Trail Road, for a scenic climb through the mountains. Keep an eye out for larch trees—also called tamaracks—whose needles turn brilliant gold before dropping. On the descent toward the Pend Oreille Valley, the views open up to reveal sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. It’s a quiet, curving road with minimal traffic—perfect for an unhurried leaf-peeping cruise. 

Once you reach Hwy 20, turn north toward Cusick. This tiny town is home to the Cusick Wetland Educational Trail, a short trail that’s worth the stop. It’s an easy way to stretch your legs and enjoy peaceful views of the Pend Oreille River, framed in fall color. 

Continue north to Sullivan Lake, where the hillsides light up in fall color this time of year. Whether you stay in your car or get out for a quick walk, it’s a spectacular area in autumn. Continue north on Sullivan Lake Rd until you come to the junction with Hwy 31. Hang a right here and enjoy the drive up to the Peewee Falls Scenic Overlook, where you can look west across the north-flowing Pend Oreille River to the falls, cascading more than 200 feet. Beyond Peewee Falls you’ll see Hooknose Mountain, hulking in the distance. 

Head back south and wrap up the day in Metaline Falls, a quiet community surrounded by glacially created canyons. The downtown area is small but historic, with a handful of places to stay and friendly faces to welcome you for the night. 

Start the morning with breakfast at The Farmhouse Café, a down-home spot that feels like a local tradition. Afterward, take a very short drive to Portage Park, a new riverside area with walking paths, and viewing platforms where you can experience the Pend Oreille River up close. 

Head south on Hwy 31, stopping at the Sweet Creek Falls Rest Area for a quick walk to- you guessed it - Sweet Creek Falls. It's a short trail, but the sound of the water and the color in the trees makes it worth every step. 

Look for Hwy 20 and make a right at the intersection to head west, you'll pass the Tiger Store Historical Center (open seasonally). This next stretch is a stunner - mile after mile of golden light filtering through thick stands of fir, pine, and larch. If the restaurant at Beaver Lodge on Lake Gillette is open, it’s a great lunch stop right on the water. 

By late afternoon, roll into Colville, a regional hub with historic buildings, independent shops, and a small-town feel. Main Street is a great place for a stroll, and there are plenty of restaurants and brewpubs to choose from for dinner. After a quiet night, you’ll be ready for one more day of autumn adventure. 

Start the day with a short drive north on Hwy 395 to Kettle Falls, where you’ll find a satisfying breakfast at Little Gallea Restaurant. Then head west on Hwy 20 - the Sherman Pass Scenic Byway. 

This high-mountain route is the crown jewel of fall driving in Northeast Washington. Along the way, stop at the Log Flume Interpretive Site to learn about the area’s logging past, and Camp Growden, a historic Civilian Conservation Corps site that makes for a great picnic or photo stop. 

To start heading back to Spokane, take Hwy 21 south through the Sanpoil Valley, a serene stretch that follows meadows and the Sanpoil River. The final bit of adventure? Crossing the Columbia River on the Keller Ferry, a free and scenic ride that always feels like a little bonus at the end of the journey.

• Aim for mid- to late October for peak color. 
• Check road and weather conditions, especially at higher elevations. 
• Wear layers, bring a thermos, and your camera - this one’s for the books.