Traveling through a series of distinct ecosystems in its 124 miles, weather varies dramatically from west to east along the Byway. On the west end, on the Salkum Plateau and Lakes District,, the climate is relatively mild. Ascending the Cascade Mountain range in Morton, into Packwood and Randle, and finally at the summit of White Pass, winters become pronounced. The White Pass Ski Area receives an annual snowfall total of 380 inches. Traveling east of White Pass, into Rimrock, Naches and Eastern Washington, the seasons become more pronounced with cold winters, hot summers and sparse rainfall.