You can make Seattle to Friday Harbor in about 3 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 85 miles on I-5, WA-20 and the Anacortes ferry, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable where the wildlife is.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Seattle
Aim to clear Seattle before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 54 miles to Mount Vernon.
The headline stop on this route is Lime Kiln Point orca watch. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon sits about 54 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, Anacortes ferry through the islands is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
Anacortes, the last stretch
Anacortes sits about 68 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Rolling into Friday Harbor
The final 18 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Roche Harbor; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen Lime Kiln Point orca watch, Anacortes ferry through the islands and Roche Harbor, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. Friday Harbor, WA is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along I-5, WA-20 and the Anacortes ferry before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
