Road Trip: The Best Route from Bothell to Bonney Lake

Looking for a fun weekend road trip? How about a scenic drive from Bothell to Bonney Lake, two charming towns in Washington state? Whether you’re planning to visit old friends or see some new sights, here are some tips on how to make the most of your trip, including the different routes you can take and the estimated travel time for each one.

Option 1: I-5 south to Hwy 18 east

If you prefer to stick to the main highways, this route is the quickest one, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to cover the 66-mile distance between Bothell and Bonney Lake. From Bothell, head south on I-405 until you reach I-5, then follow the signs for Tacoma. Take Exit 142A for Auburn, then follow Hwy 18 east until you reach Bonney Lake.

Along the way, you’ll pass through cities like Renton and Kent, where you can grab a meal or do some shopping. If you have some extra time, consider stopping by the Museum of Flight, the largest private air and space museum in the world, located in Tukwila.

Option 2: Scenic Lakeside Drive

If you’re looking for a more picturesque route, this 74-mile drive will take you past beautiful lakes and forests, adding an extra 30 minutes or so to your total travel time. From Bothell, head south on I-405 until you reach Exit 5 for WA-900/SE Maple Valley Rd. Follow WA-169 south until you reach Enumclaw, then head east on WA-410 until you reach Bonney Lake.

Along the way, you can stop to take a walk by the tranquil Lake Wilderness, located in Maple Valley, or visit the historic Naches Tavern, which dates back to the 1800s and still offers delicious food and drinks to travelers passing through. If you’re a fan of hiking, consider a detour to Mt. Rainier National Park, which features scenic trails and stunning views of the mountain.

Option 3: The Cascade Range

For a more adventurous route, take the Cascade Range drive, which will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Washington. This drive takes about 2 hours to cover the 92-mile distance between Bothell and Bonney Lake, but it’s well worth the extra time. From Bothell, head east on Hwy 522 until you reach US-2, then follow it east until you reach Stevens Pass. Continue on US-2 until you reach Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-style village where you can grab a bite to eat and do some shopping. From Leavenworth, head south on US-97 until you reach I-90, then follow it west until you reach Bonney Lake.

Along the way, you’ll see breathtaking views of the Cascades, including the rugged peaks of the Stuart Range and the lush forests of the Wenatchee National Forest. If you’re a wine lover, consider stopping by some of the wineries in the Yakima Valley, which features over 80 wineries and vineyards.

Overall, there are many scenic routes to take when traveling between Bothell and Bonney Lake. Whether you prefer the fastest route or a more adventurous one, you’re sure to find something interesting to see and do along the way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!