Outstanding
scenic vistas, recreational opportunities and rural community life
are scattered throughout the White Pass Scenic Byway. The following
“mile by mile” list of the major points of interest
highlight the journey as it begins at exit 68 on the I-5 Corridor
halfway between Seattle and Portland in Washington State. As you
travel from west to east, you will access premier wilderness areas
of the state, as well as charming and unique communities providing
cultural, recreational and historical experiences.
Milepost |
Point of Interest
|
Description |
69 |
Lewis
and Clark State Park |
With facilities built by the Civilian Conservation
Corps, Lewis and Clark State Park preserves a large tract of
lowland old growth forest. Eight miles of hiking trails in the
park include an interpretive loop through the heart of old growth
forests. The park offers horse trails and a popular campground
as well. The park also manages the nearby John R. Jackson Courthouse.
Built in 1845, it is the first pioneer house west of the Cascades
and north of the Columbia River. Tours are available by appointment. |
73 |
Cowlitz
Trout Hatchery |
Something fishy is going on here... The Cowlitz Trout Hatchery
produces and releases over 1.5 million fish each year. This
hatchery is the main contributor of steelhead trout to the Cowlitz
River ranked as the state's top steelhead river. Mossyrock Fish
Hatchery at 249 Fish Hatchery Road on Mayfield Lake is another
trout raising facility. |
75.5
|
Salkum
Timberland Library & Visitor Information
|
In operation at this location since 1993, the Salkum Library
serves as one of two "mini-libraries" in Lewis County
serving rural areas. In addition to library resources, it also
provides visitors with information about the area. Free wireless
Internet access is also available during regular open hours.
A friendly wayside picnic area is provided for travelers in
the area. |
78 |
Cowlitz
Salmon Hatchery |
Once the largest salmon hatchery in the world, it is still
busy producing nearly 13 million salmon every year. Returning
salmon are collected; their eggs harvested, and then kept in
a series of pens until they are strong enough for release on
their journey to the Pacific. The Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery will
be closed to the public until 2010 while it is being renovated
to improve the environment for raising fish. |
80.3 |
Ike
Kinswa State Park
|
Endless family fun is available at Ike Kinswa State Park,
situated along the shores of Mayfield Lake. Enjoy camping in
private, forested sites, explore the many hiking trails, and
discover the boating, fishing and swimming opportunities at
this popular place for outdoor recreation. |
80.8 |
Mayfield
Lake and Dam |
Formed by Tacoma Power's Mayfield Dam on the Cowlitz River,
13 mile-long Mayfield Lake is the setting for camping, fishing
and a multitude of recreational opportunities, with multiple
parks lining its shores. |
83.6 |
Mayfield
Lake Park |
People seeking that classic trip to the lake will fall in
love with Mayfield Lake Park. Featuring a day-use area, boat
launches, campgrounds, playground, picnic and swimming areas
and more -- this is the place to be for fun at the lake. |
85.3 |
DeGoede's
Bulb Farm |
Tiptoe through the tulips… Every spring the DeGoede
tulip fields erupt with color -- a major attraction for visitors
traveling along the byway. DeGoede’s also offers a fantastic,
manicured, year-round display garden along with classes and
other visitor activities. Stunning displays of brilliant red
poinsettias make this a must-see at holiday time. |
87 |
Mossyrock
Park |
There is no shortage of activities for those seeking outdoor
fun at Mossyrock Park. Pack a picnic and experience the fantastic
and calming lake views. Or take a dip in the swimming area,
launch the boat, or let the kids run off energy at the playground.
Overnight RV camping makes this a popular destination. |
87 |
Swofford
Pond |
Seek out the osprey nests and watch bald eagles fly. Look
for common loons and western grebes. In early spring watch for
the mating dance, when birds walk on water. Swofford Pond is
a quiet birder's paradise. River otters, muskrat, and beavers
also make their homes here. Deer and elk frequent the fields
surrounding the pond. Popular with anglers, Swofford Pond has
both bank fishing and is accessible to small boats with electric
motors only. |
87.9 |
Cowlitz River |
The Cowlitz River attracts anglers from all over the west
coast. Including salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout fisheries,
the Cowlitz has year-round fishing opportunities. Visitors enjoy
the spectacular fishing as well as the beautiful setting of
the river, with abundant wildlife, healthy forests, and majestic
peaks rising above the river. Don't miss fishing near Barrier
Dam -- a favorite fishing hole among locals. |
90 |
Riffe
Lake and Mossyrock Dam |
Formed by the Tacoma Power's Mossyrock Dam, the tallest
dam in Washington State, Riffe Lake winds for over 20 miles
through forested hillsides. With Mossyrock Park on the west
end of the lake, and Taidnapam Park on the east end, the lake
is well-equipped with recreational facilities for fun on the
water. On the highway at the west end of Riffe Lake, the North
Shore Fishing Access offers a close-up view of the dam. Nearby,
the Riffe Lake Overlook provides beautiful views of Riffe
Lake. |
94 |
Hopkins Hill Viewpoint |
A short drive to an elevated viewpoint provides a view straight
into Mount St. Helens’ blast crater. Popular with travelers,
this viewpoint is one of the best places to keep in touch with
current volcanic activity and see Mount St. Helens from a distance. |
97.5 |
Morton
Depot |
Recently relocated, Morton’s historic depot is being
developed into a visitor center, museum, and hub for revitalized
excursion train service. The historic 1910 building is architecturally
distinguished, and anchors the community’s revitalized
downtown. |
97.5 |
Cowlitz River Valley Historical Museum |
Referred to as the "Old Settlers Museum," the Cowlitz
River Valley Historical Museum is located in Morton at the former
home of Gust Backstrom, a Swedish immigrant. The museum showcases
old logging and mining equipment and is located in Gust Backstrom
Park. Admission is free. Call for hours of operation. |
97.5 |
Roxy
Theater |
Find the charming Roxy Theater in Morton, a small town nestled
in the beautiful Cascade Mountain Foothills. This newly renovated
1930's theatre continues to captivate audiences through song,
dance and dialogue. A wide array of professional productions
feature action, romance, laughter -- and are sure to please. |
97.5 |
Mt. Rainier National
Park Access via Highway 7 |
Travel 30 miles through scenic forestlands to the Nisqually
Entrance of Mt. Rainier National Park leading to historic Longmire
and Paradise. |
97.5 |
Mount
Rainier Scenic Railroad Steam Train |
Ride the rails through the beautiful forested foothills on
the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad. Breathe in that fresh mountain
air, enjoy the majestic Mt. Rainier views and keep your eyes
peeled -- herds of Roosevelt Elk are often seen grazing in meadows
along the route. |
97.5 |
Mineral
Lake |
With majestic Mt. Rainier as its backdrop, 277-acre Mineral
Lake offers rest, relaxation, and world-class trout fishing.
People flock from all over to sink their line in these fish-filled
waters. Others prefer swimming, boating and taking in the unbeatable
Mt. Rainier views. |
103 |
Taidnapam
Park |
Take a day to play - Taidnapam Park offers all the things
that make camping fun. A beautiful natural setting, the lake
itself, and a few comforts of home. Or just relax for the afternoon
watching for bald eagles and osprey overhead. Be on the lookout
for native plants such as Oregon grape, salal, red flowering
current and sword fern. The wheelchair-accessible fishing bridge
is a unique location for youngsters to catch their first fish. |
104.8
|
Glenoma Area
|
From Glenoma, access the popular recreation areas of Glenoma
Park, Champion Haul Road, Kosmos Flats, Dog Mountain, Taidnapam
Park and 108 Bridge. |
111 |
Lake Scanewa
and Cowlitz Falls Dam |
A favorite place for anglers and families, Lake Scanewa, created
by Lewis County PUD’s Cowlitz Falls Dam, is well stocked
with rainbow trout. With two parks along its shores -- one campground
and one day-use park -- plenty of recreational opportunities
exist. |
114 |
Mt. Adams Viewpoint |
Turning the corner into Randle, stately Mount Adams makes
its appearance, rising high above the nearer foothills. This
is the most impressive view of Mount Adams along the byway,
the easternmost of the region’s three volcanoes. Access
Mt. Adams Wilderness Area in Randle. |
115 |
Woods Creek Watchable Wildlife Area |
For a great opportunity to learn about the area's wildlife
and their habitats, explore the Woods Creek Trail. Meandering
through five different habitats, it is an excellent hike for
children, and presents many opportunities for bird watching
and plant identification. Bring along a plant identification
book and study all the different varieties of vegetation along
the path. |
115 |
Gifford
Pinchot National Forest |
Encompassing over 1.3 million acres, the Gifford Pinchot National
Forest was one of the first of its kind. Hiking, camping, wildlife
watching, mountain biking, and more, attract thousands of visitors
each year to the byway. From easy family hikes to challenging
backcountry bike riding, there are dozens of access options
along the byway. |
115 |
Mt.
St. Helens and Windy Ridge Access |
Visitors to Windy Ridge find themselves right in the middle
of St. Helen's historic blast zone. Enjoy fascinating views
of pumice plains, Spirit Lake, and the volcano itself rising
only four miles away. |
| 115-138 |
Cowlitz Valley Elk Habitat |
The “Big Bottom Valley” is at its best here—a
wide river plain with the Cowlitz River winding through rich
farmland and riparian areas. Fields in this area are often
filled with elk, quietly grazing in the bottomland fields.
Be watchful of any elk on the road, especially in the dawn
and dusk hours. |
116.1
|
Cowlitz
Valley Ranger Station
|
To learn more about the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, stop
in at the ranger station and chat with a local forest ranger
about the area. Also available are book sales, a gift shop,
forest permits, updates on road and trail conditions, as well
as campground information. |
126 |
Bevin Lake Rest Area |
Stop and take a break! Bevin Lake Rest Area offers picnic
sites as well as restroom facilities. |
128.3 |
Goat
Rocks Wilderness |
Named after the goats that inhabit the area, the rocky terrain
of the Goat Rocks Wilderness is actually part of an ancient
volcano, eroded over time. Today this area offers hiking, wildlife
watching, camping, and rock climbing for the outdoor enthusiast.
Access this area on Johnson Creek Road (FS 21). |
131
|
White
Pass Country Historical Museum
|
Capturing and preserving the history of the Upper Cowlitz
Valley from Kosmos to White Pass, the White Pass Country Historical
Society offers educational programs, interpretive discussions
as well as exhibits and displays featuring the fascinating area
history. Find the museum in the Packwood Elementary School.
Summer Hours: Saturdays Noon – 5 p.m.; Sundays 1-3 p.m. |
131.1 |
Hotel
Packwood |
Maintaining its historic, old-time charm, the 1912 Hotel Packwood,
furnished with antiques, offers a look back at life in the early
1900's. Sit back and relax in the cozy lobby featuring a brick
fireplace and historic piano. |
131.4 |
Skate
Creek Road (FS 52) |
Meandering along picturesque Skate Creek to the mountain
community of Ashford, this scenic drive winds through forests
blanketed in rich green mosses and a multitude of waterfalls,
both big and small. This paved, but primitive road continues
to be a well-kept secret offering beauty and serenity for
those ready to explore. |
131.8
|
Destination
Packwood
|
Stop in for friendly hospitality and information on the Packwood
area and beyond. Find brochures, maps and fliers detailing local
and regional recreational
activities and events. Find information about the neighboring
Gifford Pinchot National Forest provided by the local Cowlitz
Valley Ranger Station. |
138 |
La
Wis Wis Campground |
A great place to get back to nature. This well-developed campground
offers wooded campsites, day-use facilities, short nature hikes,
and more. Situated at the confluence of the Ohanapecosh and
the Clear Fork of the Cowlitz River, La Wis Wis lends itself
to fishing or just letting the water go by. And don't miss the
giants -- giant trees that is! This area is nicely situated
in a beautiful forest setting. It is closed during the winter. |
138.5 |
Mt.
Rainier National Park Stevens Canyon Entrance |
The Stevens Canyon Entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park offers
access to the popular Ohanapecosh Campground and Visitor Center.
On your way to the mountain, wander among the towering giants
and witness trees thousands of years old at the Grove of the
Patriarchs. Explore Box Canyon from this popular road into the
park. |
141 |
Palisades Viewpoint |
This newly-renovated safety rest area and viewpoint offers
views of dramatic volcanic palisades rock formations, forming
the backdrop of a steep valley. A unique sight to behold --
and one that should not be missed. |
147.5 |
Goat Rocks Viewpoint |
What a view! This stop offers magnificent views of Mt. Rainier
and the Goat Rocks. Named after the goats inhabiting the area,
the Goat Rocks are part of an ancient volcano which once stood
over 12,000 feet high. After thousands of years of erosion,
today the range's highest point is slightly over 8,000 feet. |
151 |
White
Pass Ski Area |
A major winter ski destination, White Pass also offers some
hiking in the summer, and a pleasant stop along the roadway
in a high mountain environment. The driest powder in the Washington
Cascades, White Pass has a 6,000 foot summit and a 1,500 foot
vertical drop. It averages over 300 inches of snow each year.
|
151.5 |
Pacific Crest
Trail |
Stretching from Canada to Mexico, this trail runs along Washington's
Cascade Mountains cutting through multiple mountain passes,
as well as running through Mt. Rainier National Park, the North
Cascades National Park and also passing many alpine lakes along
its way. Enjoy an afternoon exploring part of this spectacular
trail system, or gear up for days on the trail experiencing
some of the county's most dramatic scenery. |
151.5 |
Leech Lake |
Covering 41 acres, Leech Lake is a high-elevation, fly-fishing-only
lake that is quite popular with anglers fishing brook trout
during the summer months. A boat launch is located on its shores.
Use of motors is prohibited. |
153.2 |
Dog
Lake |
Sitting at 3,400 feet elevation, Dog Lake offers an abundance
of outdoor recreation. From camping and wilderness hiking to
boating and fishing for native rainbow trout, this area is ready
for the outdoor enthusiast. |
158.6 |
Clear
Lake and Falls |
Located right next to Rimrock Lake, smaller Clear Lake is
another popular fishing destination and is also a good watchable
wildlife location. Like Rimrock, Clear Lake is a good place
to view bald eagles, osprey, and elk. |
160.2 |
Rimrock Dam and Lake |
The highest elevation large-lake along the byway, Rimrock
Lake offers recreation, camping, and fantastic views of the
surrounding foothills. Anglers enjoy time spent fishing for
rainbow trout and kokanee. |
164.6 |
Tieton
Dam Heritage Marker |
A popular roadside view, see Tieton Dam, built in 1901 forming
Rimrock Lake, a popular place for water play. |
183.5 |
Tieton River Rock Climbing |
Besides its scenic value, the dramatic volcanic geology of
the Tieton River is one of Washington State’s better rock
climbing destinations. Climbers come from throughout Oregon
and Washington to test themselves on over 300 different routes. |
183.5 |
Oak
Creek Wildlife Area - Elk Feeding Station |
One of the best locations for watching elk in the entire United
States, Oak Creek is truly a sight to behold. In winter, elk
congregate at the Oak Creek feeding station in herds by the
hundreds. Visitors see the elk up close as they jostle for position
at the hay drop stations. Other wildlife viewing includes bighorn
sheep, woodpeckers, raptors, and a variety of songbirds. |
| |
Oak
Creek Big Horn Sheep Feeding Station |
Although Bighorn Sheep are not as numerous as the Rocky Mountain
Elk fed at the main location for the Oak Creek Wildlife Area,
they can be seen throughout the year from a small feeding station
set at the base of a dramatic cliff on Mount Clemans. From Highway
12, drive north on Old Naches Highway less than a mile, and
you’ll see a large parking area on your left (unpaved)
where you can park and view the sheep in the feeding area or
on the mountainside. |
189-193 |
Naches Fruit Stands |
Apples, peaches, cherries, green beans, cabbage, cucumbers,
onions, garlic, potatoes, zucchini, sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers,
watermelons, cantaloupes, apricots, nectarines, pears - for
starters. A trip along the byway is not complete without a stop
at one of Naches' plentiful produce stands to sample the flavor
of the Yakima Valley. |
189-193 |
Naches Orchards
|
The fertile lands of the Yakima Valley have made our state
famous for its world class fruits and veggies. Naches orchards
grow a wide array of produce from apples and cherries to pears
and grapes, and much, much more. |
Enjoy the diverse landscape transitions from agricultural land,
to the lakes region and into the high alpine country of the Cascade
Mountains before leveling off into the graceful steppe, arid climate
of Eastern Washington. Enjoy a taste of the variety along the White
Pass Scenic Byway.
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