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US97 runs north to south from the Canadian border along the Okanogan River through a valley between parts of the Okanogan National Forest. The Okanogan River joins the Columbia River near Brewster.
The Columbia River and the highway turn to the west at Brewster and then south towards Wenatchee. The river continues south to form part of the state line between Washington and Oregon.
A short distance north of Wenatchee, US97 merges with US2 and runs east to west before resuming its southbound track to Ellensburg where US97 merges with I-90, then with I-82. South of Yakima US97 separates to run through the southern section of central Washington, passing through Goldendale before reaching the Columbia River and Oregon.
There are a number of long stretches of highway with limited services so motorists should ensure that they have a good supply of fuel and other items they may find essential.
Fortunately, there are several towns along the route offering good selections lodgings and restaurants. In some cases during the peak travel season in summer, the supply of rooms may be limited so reservations are highly recommended.
The National Park Service has several properties in the state of Washington, one of which is the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area at the northern end of Lake Chelan. This exceptionally beautiful area can be reached by ferry from Chelan, located on US97ALT.
The U.S. Forest Service has two national forests under its jurisdiction near the northern sections of US97 in Washington state. Parts of the Okanogan National Forest are on either side of the highway and the Okanogan River, south of the Canadian border. The Wenatchee National Forest is to the west of a long stretch of US97 and I-82 and extends from Lake Chelan south to Yakima. Both of these forests offer a large selection of camping facilities and other outdoor activities.
The Bureau of Land Management has a wide range of recreational opportunities and other attractions in central and eastern Washington that will add many pleasures to a visit to this area.
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is another provider of locations for enjoying a visit to the state with an excellent section of campgrounds and recreational facilities. Several state parks are located in the north-central and south-central areas of the state and are adjacent to, or just a short but worthwhile drive from, US97 and US97ALT. Links are provided to these parks at appropriate points on the highway logs for these two routes.
Washington's State Historical Society is one of the best sources for learning something of the state's history. The web site lists a number of museums and events of historical interest that many visitors will find of value when they visit the state.
Visitors to the state traveling by road are advised to check the Washington Department of Transportation web site for road conditions, especially during the late fall, winter and early spring seasons. This web site will also give information on road problems caused by construction or other factors.
Weather conditions can play an important role for travelers and the will find the National Weather Service (Western Region) web site one of the best sources for current weather in Washington as well as forecasts.