The White Pass Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive—but the real reason to visit is everything you can do along the way. From end to end, the byway offers world-class recreation in every season. It’s a gateway to Volcano Country home to Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams, while also rewarding those who linger with unforgettable experiences beyond the overlooks.
Fish the Cowlitz. Hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Boat Riffe and Mayfield Lakes. Ski White Pass. Stay overnight in cozy mountain lodges, cabins, and lodgings tucked along the route. Take short drives off the byway to explore trailheads, viewpoints, and lakes worth exploring. Climb, camp, paddle, snowshoe, or slow down and unwind—then come back again. There’s truly nowhere else like it in Washington State.
Activities…
Discover the numerous majestic alpine lakes that create this unique and beautiful landscape. Towering Mount Adams and the Gifford Pinchot National Forest provide the backdrop for this scenic drive offering opportunities for fabulous hiking and great fishing along the way.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Mount St. Helens blast zone and experience the stark contrast between the lush old-growth forest and the blown-down forest. To experience the many beautiful and fascinating hikes in the area, a recreation pass may be required for parking.
Offering many of the Byway’s most spectacular attributes, tour the Nisqually area, explore Mount Rainier National Park and discover the Big Bottom Valley. Drive amongst old-growth forests, walk through meadows of wildflowers and witness the area’s animal inhabitants. Tour friendly mountain communities and discover the interesting area history. A wonderful opportunity to get to know the west end of the White Pass Scenic Byway.
There is a lot to do all year round. Discover activities along the byway.
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