The Perfect 2-Day White Pass Scenic Byway Road Trip

Story and Photos courtesy of White Pass Scenic Byway

Just a little over two hours from Seattle, the White Pass Scenic Byway invites travelers to trade city streets for soaring peaks, rushing rivers, and mountain views around almost every bend in the road. Following US HWY-12 for 120 miles across the southern Cascade Range, this unforgettable drive connects the landscapes of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, revealing waterfalls, alpine lakes, historic landmarks, and welcoming mountain communities along the way.

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.

Begin your journey on the western end of the Byway, winding 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. 

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.

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.

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 Ohanapecosh entrance to Mount Rainier National Park will remain open, though the campground, visitor center, and Grove of the Patriarchs Trail will be closed. Don't miss the stunning scenery and viewpoints along Stevens Canyon Road, where plenty of natural beauty still awaits.

Continue east on US-12 as the highway climbs into alpine scenery filled with ridge lines, 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.

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. 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. 

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.

With every season comes a new reason to explore the White Pass Scenic Byway, where winding roads lead to waterfalls, alpine passes, volcanic peaks, and timeless Pacific Northwest beauty.