Start your journey in Chehalis and follow the White Pass Scenic Byway through lakes, forests, and charming small towns. Enjoy stops at Mayfield and Riffe Lakes, a relaxing lunch in Morton, and an easy nature walk before arriving in Packwood. Day two brings alpine views, Mount Rainier highlights, and a scenic return filled with unforgettable viewpoints and peaceful stops.
The White Pass Scenic Byway is open year-round. This drive is usually snow-free from the end of May through October. Forest road closures take place off the Byway each winter. Highway 123 Cayuse Pass closes seasonally.
There’s something special about a road trip along the White Pass Scenic Byway. Around every bend, the landscape shifts. You’ll enjoy a diverse range of experiences and sights, from historic downtowns and quiet lakes to towering forests, alpine passes, and volcanic peaks.
This two-day journey along US-12 is less about rushing to a destination and more about discovering the beauty, small towns, and hidden stops along the way.
Start in Chehalis
Begin your journey in downtown Chehalis with coffee, breakfast, and a stroll through one of Washington’s classic historic downtowns before taking I-5 south to Exit 68 and heading east on the White Pass Scenic Byway / US Highway 12.
See Rural Farmlands and Scenic River Valleys
The western end of the Byway winds through rolling farmland, rural communities, and scenic river valleys with rare views of Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams all visible from portions of the roadway. Stops along the route include Lewis and Clark State Park, home to old-growth forests and the historic Jackson Courthouse.
History Buffs: The Jackson Courthouse, built in 1850, is recognized as the oldest standing courthouse in Washington State and is known as the site of early proceedings that helped establish Washington Territory.
Explore the Lakes District
One of the most memorable stretches of the Byway comes as the road curves near Mayfield Lake, where water surrounds the highway on both sides, against a backdrop of forested hills. Spend time exploring Mayfield and Riffe Lakes, popular for camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. Stop in the small town of Mossyrock for a taste of local small-town charm.
Hydroelectricity & Hatcheries: The lakes and rivers throughout this stretch of the byway are shaped by hydroelectric dams along the Cowlitz River. Visit the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery & Visitor Center, which helps sustain the area’s rich fishing and wildlife traditions.
Discover the Mountain Community of Packwood
By late afternoon, arrive in Packwood, an authentic mountain town nestled between Mount Rainier and the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Spend the evening browsing local shops, relaxing at a cabin or lodge, enjoying dinner after an afternoon on the road, and soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere. As the sun drops behind the trees, Packwood feels like the perfect Pacific Northwest mountain escape.
Wake Up in the Mountains
Start the morning surrounded by crisp mountain air and towering forests before grabbing a coffee and continuing deeper into the Cascades.
Know Before You Go: Visit the Packwood Visitor Center for the latest on road openings, trail conditions, and what to expect before venturing out.
Explore the Mount Rainier Area
Depending on the season (roads typically open late May), venture toward Ohanapecosh and the southern entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, where old-growth forests, rushing rivers, waterfall viewpoints, moss-covered trails, and peaceful forest scenery create one of the most unforgettable areas of the byway.
Ohanapecosh in 2026: The park entrance to this quieter side of Mount Rainier National Park will remain open for the regular season, but areas including the campground, visitor center, and popular Grove of the Patriarchs trail will be closed. Don’t let that hold you back – as beautiful sights abound on the scenic Stevens Canyon Road in the park.
Climb Toward White Pass
Continue east on US-12 as the highway climbs into alpine scenery filled with ridgelines, mountain viewpoints, and sweeping Cascade views. During summer and early fall, this stretch of the byway comes alive with wildflowers, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, mountain lakes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Don’t Miss: Just eight miles past the Byway’s intersection with Cayuse Pass/Highway 123, be sure to stop at the Mount Rainier viewpoint, before reaching the summit of White Pass. It’s a favorite spot for impressive views of Mount Rainier on full display.
Reach White Pass
At the summit, pause to take in cool mountain air and panoramic Cascade views before continuing east or beginning the scenic return journey. During the winter, this is a hub of activity at White Pass Ski Area, however it is closed during the off-seasons.
Searching for Services: The Kracker Barrel store at the summit is open year-round and serves as an area basecamp for PCT hikers and offers a deli, grocery, and gas.
Whether visited during summer wildflower season, colorful autumn weekends, or snow-covered winter months, the White Pass Scenic Byway offers a journey through some of Washington’s most memorable and scenic landscapes.
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• Revisit a lake for kayaking or relaxing
• Quick roadside photo stops
• Pack a couple chairs and relax by a river or lakeside
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• Plan for flexibility! There are many scenic pull-offs worth spontaneous stops.
• Check road and weather conditions, especially near higher elevations during spring.
• Bring layers! The weather can shift quickly in the mountains.
Questions or Comments? Drop us a note we’d love to hear from you.
