Seattle to Leavenworth in winter
Getting from Seattle or SeaTac to Leavenworth in winter: the US 2 route over Stevens Pass, traction tire and chain rules, the Village of Lights, pass closures and private transfers.
How do I get from Seattle to Leavenworth in winter?
Leavenworth is about 120 miles from Seattle over Stevens Pass on US 2, usually about 2.5 hours, and often 3 to 4 hours in snow. WSDOT can require traction tires or chains on the pass, and closures for crashes or avalanche control happen. Leavenworth's Village of Lights runs November 27 to December 24, 2026, and those weekends bring heavy traffic. A private transfer lets you skip the winter driving; trips are quoted for your date and group.
Seattle to Leavenworth: the route
What the trip looks like.
US 2 over Stevens Pass
From Everett or Monroe, US 2 climbs through Skykomish over Stevens Pass and down Tumwater Canyon into Leavenworth.
Distance
About 120 miles from downtown Seattle and about 135 from SEA.
Normal time
About 2.5 hours in good conditions.
Winter time
Often 3 to 4 hours with snow, chain-up areas and holiday traffic.
Alternative route
If Stevens Pass closes, I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass and US 97 over Blewett Pass is the usual detour, adding time.
Stevens Pass ski area
The ski area sits at the summit, about two-thirds of the way.
Winter rules on Stevens Pass
Check the WSDOT pass report before you go.
Traction tires
WSDOT can require approved traction tires on the pass during storms.
Chains
At higher restriction levels, chains are required, and closures are possible.
Closures
Crashes, spinouts and avalanche control can close US 2 for hours.
Night driving
Ice is more likely after dark. Many travelers plan daylight crossings.
Holiday weekends
Village of Lights weekends bring heavy traffic and full parking in town.
Our vehicles
Winter tires or all-wheel drive on vehicles assigned to pass trips: to confirm.
Planning a winter Leavenworth trip
Small choices that make a big difference.
Go midweek
January and February bring snow and lights with far fewer crowds.
Leave early
Morning departures give daylight on the pass and time for delays.
Pack for weather
Boots, layers and waterproof outerwear. Side streets can be icy.
Flying in
From SEA, add about 15 miles and plan around your landing time.
Groups
One Passenger Van keeps a group together; long trips are quoted for the distance.
Booking a private transfer to Leavenworth
How winter mountain trips work with us.
Quoted individually
Leavenworth is beyond our standard service area. Trips are quoted for your date, group and luggage.
Pass conditions
If WSDOT closes the pass or conditions are unsafe, we contact you to delay, reroute via Blewett Pass or reschedule.
Cancellation
Specialty trips can be cancelled free up to 7 days before.
Skis and luggage
Tell us about skis, boards and bags so the right vehicle is sent.
Return trip
Book the return together, or ask about a day trip with the same driver.
Call us
(206) 788-8851, 24/7.
Seattle to Leavenworth in Winter questions
More answers on the full FAQ, or call us any time.
(206) 788-8851How long is the drive from Seattle to Leavenworth in winter?
Usually about 2.5 hours in good conditions, and often 3 to 4 hours with snow, chain requirements or holiday traffic.
Do I need chains to drive to Leavenworth?
WSDOT can require traction tires or chains on Stevens Pass during storms. Check the WSDOT pass report before you go.
When is the Leavenworth Village of Lights in 2026?
November 27 to December 24, 2026. Late November and early December weekends are the busiest.
What if Stevens Pass is closed?
The usual detour is I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass and US 97 over Blewett Pass, which adds time.
Can you drive us from SeaTac to Leavenworth?
Yes, on request. Trips are quoted for your date, group and luggage. Call (206) 788-8851.
Is it better not to drive yourself in winter?
If you are not used to mountain snow driving, a private transfer removes the chains, ice and parking from your trip.
More from Seattle Airport Taxi
Ask about a Leavenworth transfer
Call (206) 788-8851 with your date, group and luggage.