White Pass Scenic Byway

Adventure Awaits!

One of Washington’s great travel experiences…

Explore small communities, river valleys, foothills, and alpine county including Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens.

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.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Things to do

There is a lot to do all year round. Discover activities along the byway.

Places to stay

From camping to motels and vacation rentals, we've got you covered!

Plan ahead

Get the lay of the land. Find maps, current conditions and the latest news.

ROAD TRIPS

The Byway of course is a tremendous tour in itself. But not far off the Byway lie some of the state’s most beloved volcanoes, wild backcountry, historic locales, lakes, waterfalls…for starters.

East Side Loop

Explore the east end of the White Pass Scenic Byway and discover the dramatic and rugged beauty of this wilderness area. Spend time touring spectacular Mount Rainier National Park. Witness unique geologic formations and awe-inspiring views on the Chinook Scenic Byway. See alpine lakes, watch elk herds in the hundreds and view historic dams.

Length
113 miles
Time to Allow
3 hours (allow extra time for stops)

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High Lakes Loop

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.

Length
79 miles
Time to Allow
4 hours

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Mt. St. Helen’s Windy Ridge Loop

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.

Length
74 miles
Time to Allow
4 Hours (allow extra time for stops)

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Winter

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