No matter what part of Washington you call home, the fact is, you’re probably tired of it at the moment (and it’s OK to admit that). At the very least, you’re likely craving a change of scenery. As our beautiful state opens back up for adventures, it’s only natural to want to get out and go somewhere. We highly recommend taking a drive down the White Pass Scenic Byway this summer and checking out some of its breathtaking scenery.
The White Pass Scenic Byway is a gateway to world class recreation and gorgeous views.
John Ewing / Google In the winter, the White Pass Ski Area is perpetually packed, but this route offers so much more.
The byway is about 120 miles long, spanning from Mary’s Corner (a spot between Chehalis and Toledo) to Naches on Highway 12.
John Ewing / Google Along the way, you’ll go over the 4,500-foot White Pass
This beautiful drive has it all: coniferous forests, mountain views, meadows of wildflowers, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.
White Pass Scenic Byway / Google Many of the lakes are popular for fishing and boating.
But you don’t have to go hiking, fishing, skiing, or boating to enjoy this byway.
John Ewing / Google All you need is a full tank of gas (although snacks would be helpful).
This stunning landscape can be seen from the many different turnouts and overlooks along the way.
John Ewing / Google We highly encourage you to pull over a time or two and take them in. This is definitely not a drive you’ll want to do too quickly.
Keep an eye out for wildlife on this drive – it’s considered a top byway for wildlife viewing.
John Ewing / Google The highway’s adjacent lands provide provide a range of wild habitats. You might see Rocky Mountain elk, black bears, Bald Eagles, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots.
The White Pass Scenic Byway is a recreational paradise in the shadow of Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams.
Washington State Dept of Transportation / Flickr If you’ve never explored it, make this the year you make the drive.
Have you checked out the White Pass Scenic Byway lately? If you go, make sure you stop and stretch your legs in Naches.
John Ewing / Google
In the winter, the White Pass Ski Area is perpetually packed, but this route offers so much more.
Along the way, you’ll go over the 4,500-foot White Pass
White Pass Scenic Byway / Google
Many of the lakes are popular for fishing and boating.
All you need is a full tank of gas (although snacks would be helpful).
We highly encourage you to pull over a time or two and take them in. This is definitely not a drive you’ll want to do too quickly.
The highway’s adjacent lands provide provide a range of wild habitats. You might see Rocky Mountain elk, black bears, Bald Eagles, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots.
Washington State Dept of Transportation / Flickr
If you’ve never explored it, make this the year you make the drive.
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Address: White Pass, Washington 98937, USA
