Fishing

Calling all anglers — take your pick — this Byway is loaded with boundless opportunities for some of the Northwest’s best fishing. From fly fishing for rainbows to reeling in that 40-pound salmon, anglers seeking to lure their limit are sure to hook their catch in these prized fishing waters. Visit Mayfield or Riffe Lake for a day on the water, or troll the Cowlitz River, a year-round fisher’s paradise and home to the best steelhead fishing in the state. Both the Barrier Dam and Blue Creek boat fishing access areas have river fishing sites developed for wheelchair-bound users. Beautiful lakes and rivers dot the Byway — with so many options, a great day on the water is nothing less than a guarantee.

Farmers Markets

Local farmers, growers, artisans, and musicians share their harvests and talents at farmers’ markets in both Morton and Packwood each spring and summer. Find farm-fresh, seasonal fruit and veggies. Browse beautiful wares and artwork created by local artisans. Connect with these rural communities and enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled afternoon at the market.

Camping

The crackling of the campfire, starry night skies, the peace and quiet of the great outdoors… Camping may be the most relaxing way to experience the Byway’s wonder, beauty and adventure. Whether you seek the solitude and simplicity of tent camping or are looking for the perfect place to park the family RV, the White Pass Scenic Byway offers a true wilderness experience. Over thirty-five high-quality campgrounds are located along the byway. With so many choices, you may find yourself next to a picturesque lake, along a bubbling river, or nestled amongst the tall trees. Get back to nature, lose yourself in the mountains’ majesty and enjoy nature at its best.

Biking

It’s about the exhilaration of the descent, racing down mountainsides, around alpine lakes, across lazy streams and through the deep forest. For the daring and determined, mountain biking affords active […]

Bird Watching

Dozens of areas along the Byway offer birders, naturalists, or the casual observer, grand opportunities to explore and seek out countless varieties of birds. Numerous locations along the Byway such as Swofford Pond, the Kosmos Unit of the Cowlitz Wildlife Area, Woods Creek , and Packwood Lake have earned the prestigious designation of being represented on Audubon’s Great Washington State Birding Trail. Grab your binoculars, a camera, and a bit of patience — it’s all you need to enjoy a day with your feathered friends.

Boating

The Byway’s plentiful lakes, rivers and ponds provide boat enthusiasts picturesque places to explore some of the state’s greatest waterways. Lakes Mayfield, Riffe, and Scanewa, and the Cowlitz River are just a few popular spots for boating. On the water is arguably the most relaxing way to spend a beautiful day outdoors. Whether you spend it in a power boat or a row boat, be sure to take time to explore the Byway’s beauty from the water. After a day of boating fun, it’s easy to remember why it’s called the “Great Outdoors”. Call 1-888-502-8690 to check availability of boat launches on Mayfield and Riffe Lakes.