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.

Audubon Washington: The Great Washington State Birding Trail
The Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Washington Birder - Lewis County
Washington Birder - Yakima County

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 alternatives for discovering the Byway's pristine natural beauty. Explore Bethel Ridge for a less challenging, yet scenic ride, or for a truly strenuous trek, opt for High Rock Lookout near Packwood. With trails available for the cautious beginner to the accomplished thrill-seeker, countless options for outdoor adventure are waiting to be explored.

Mountain Biking in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest

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.

Boat Launches in Lewis County

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.

Camping at the Lewis County PUD park
Camping in Tacoma Power Parks
Camping in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Camping in the Naches Ranger District

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.

Fishing on the Cowlitz River
Fishing in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Fishing in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Golfing

For the devoted golfer, there are opportunities to swing the clubs along the Byway in the most natural of settings. Choose from the 9-hole courses available at the Ironwood Green Golf Course in Glenoma, the Maple Grove Golf facility in Randle, or spend the afternoon at the Cascade Peaks Premier RV and Golf Resort, near Randle. Enjoy teeing off in the shadow of the majestic mountains amongst the rolling green hills for an unbeatable day on the course.
Hang Gliding

Floating through the air with the greatest of ease… Watch the skies come alive with the colors of soaring hang gliders launching off Dog Mountain near Morton. The gliders use a private launching area, but it's a free show to witness their flight. Watch these flying enthusiasts as they attempt to defy gravity gracefully dipping and soaring across the sky and over the forest far below.

Hatcheries

Tacoma Power operates two large fish hatcheries on the Cowlitz River, the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery and the Cowlitz Trout Hatchery. The Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery is currently closed to the public as a larger visitor center is constructed and the environment for raising fish is improved. The new visitor center and interactive exhibits plan to open in 2010. During construction, group tours may occasionally be possible by prearrangement by calling Tacoma Power’s Cowlitz River Project office at (360) 985-2222. The public may still access the river at both hatcheries and can get a feeling for the size of the hatcheries as they pass by the facilities.

Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery
Cowlitz Trout Hatchery
Fisheries programs on the Cowlitz River

Hiking

Discover the true beauty of this natural playground with a trek along one of the area's beautiful pathways. Hike along crystal lakes and streams, through acres of wildflowers and witness countless viewpoints. Traverse trails through dense forests, towering peaks and rugged mountains. Surrounding the Byway are the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, as well as the William O. Douglas, Tatoosh, and Goat Rocks Wilderness Areas. With year-round opportunities for wilderness adventure, pick a path and spend the day exploring the hidden gems of this unspoiled wilderness.

Hiking Trails in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Hiking Trails in the Naches Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Horseback Riding

For those who prefer to enjoy the great outdoors on horseback, several horse camps and countless trails are located along the Byway. Spend the day trotting the trails taking in breathtaking views of rich mountain forests, alpine meadows and bubbling streams. Treat yourself to a leisurely tour on Divide Trail for fabulous views of Adams Glacier or enjoy fantastic vistas on the High Lakes Trail, a historic trail once used by Yakama Indians for berry picking. See the sights the cowboy way, on the back of a horse -- and ride away from it all.

Horse Riding and Camps in the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests
Horse Camps in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Off-Road Vehicles

Get off-road and start exploring! The byway provides excellent opportunities for off-road riding. From high-mountain trails to dry open spaces there are many places to drive in the dirt. Divide Ridge near Naches is popular with four-wheel drive enthusiasts and offers trails both scenic and challenging. The Gifford Pinchot National Forest with over 200 miles of trails has some of the best trails in Washington State. A great place to ride with some spectacular views and a variety of terrain from easy to difficult.

Riding Areas Along the Byway
Riding Areas in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Picking & Gathering

Kevin ClemansNature offers traditional gatherers limited opportunities for mushroom picking and huckleberry picking within or near the forested areas along White Pass Scenic Byway. The best areas for huckleberry picking are at higher elevations in the Cowlitz and Trout Lake Districts. Mushrooms may be harvested anywhere in the National Forests unless otherwise restricted, but note that harvesting mushrooms in the Wilderness Areas is prohibited. Use a reputable forest guide to help you determine which mushrooms are edible. Don’t remove more mushrooms or berries than you need; but always remember to leave some to share with many wildlife creatures that use them for food.

Field guides can be purchased at the Northwest Interpretive Association
Huckleberry picking in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Mushroom Picking in the Naches Ranger District

River Rafting & Kayaking

Energizing the body and recharging the soul, a river
rafting or kayaking adventure along one of the Byway's waterways is an unforgettable and "moving" experience. Home to some of the fastest whitewater in the state, journey past rugged basalt cliffs and beautiful tree-lined shores. Get introduced to the rivers of the Byway, the Tieton and Tilton, Cowlitz and Cispus. Join the many people who have come to know and love rafting these raging rivers.

American Whitewater

Rock Climbing

Take three parts exhilaration, two parts trust and one part fear. Add a dash of patience, a teaspoon of soreness, and garnish with a love of heights -- the recipe for rock climbing. The Byway's Tieton River Canyon offers numerous routes up its craggy sides. Adventurous souls can spend the day exploring its many cracks and faces while taking in the splendid vistas and that arid Eastern Washington air. A great way to stay in shape, experience the thrill of the challenge, and discover stunning vistas from quiet and remote vantage points.

Water Skiing

The cool breeze on your face. The excitement of the water rushing beneath your feet. Your friends and family cheering you on. Waterskiing is a high speed sport and the glassy surfaces of the area's many beautiful lakes attract water skiers from all over. Spend the day on the water at beautiful Rimrock Lake or nearby Clear Lake. Be ready for a day of fun and full-speed-ahead excitement on the lake.

Wildlife Watching

Bugling elk, daring mountain goats, acrobatic eagles, and swiftly moving salmon are just a few of the area residents that can be spotted along the Byway. Visit Oak Creek Feeding Station to see elk herds numbering in the hundreds. Head to Woods Creek Watchable Wildlife Trail, the Cowlitz Wildlife Area’s Kosmos, and Swofford Pond - home to numerous varieties of waterfowl and songbirds. The diverse lands along the Byway encompass several different habitats. From fertile valleys to alpine woodlands to pine forests, keep your eyes peeled for a wide array of wildlife.

Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Oak Creek Feeding Station
Woods Creek Watchable Wildlife Trail

Wind Surfing

Catch some waves in a whole new way. Windsurfing is an exciting way for water enthusiasts to experience the Byway's beautiful lakes. Riffe and Rimrock Lakes are popular locations for this sport. If you're new to the sport, with a little instruction you'll be sailing in no time. If this sport isn't your cup of tea, take time to watch others as they move their colorful kites across the water. A beautiful sight to see.

Winter Snow Sports

Alpine Skiing

The mountains of the Byway's White Pass area offer premier skiing and the driest powder in the Cascades. Averaging over 300 inches of snowfall a year, ski enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels will enjoy relaxed slopes and steep runs. An acclaimed family-friendly ski resort, it also serves as a training ground for Olympic medalists. Hit the hills and find excellent snow conditions on the slopes November through May -- it's a must ski!

White Pass Ski Resort

Cross Country Skiing

A world apart from the race of alpine skiers and snowboarders, spend the day weaving through peaceful forests and meadows on cross-country skis. The White Pass area offers an intricate web of groomed cross-country trails at the resort, as well as scenic logging roads and open slopes. The peace and quiet of the Byway's ski trails offer breathtaking vistas as well as classic forested snow scenes. Experience the magic and beauty of the season gliding along through the wilderness.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
White Pass Ski Resort

Snowboarding

Known as one of the top mountains to ride in the Northwest, snowboarding White Pass is a must-do for boarders. From its half pipe and natural quarter-pipes, drops and chutes, these runs will challenge the most experienced boarder. But no worries if you're new to the sport -- there are plenty of areas just the place for beginning boarders looking to find their snow legs. Abundant snowfall, unspoiled beauty and a fun-filled, friendly atmosphere make this place a snow-lover's paradise.

White Pass Ski Resort

Snowmobiling

Those with a love of the snow and a need for speed -- climb aboard a snowmobile and experience the Byway's beckoning backcountry. Miles and miles of groomed trails are ready and waiting for this enthusiastic group of recreationists to hit the trails.

Washington State Snowmobile Sno-Parks
Snowmobile Usage in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Map of Snowmobiling Trails

Snowshoeing

Each winter, summer hiking trails transform to a winter hiker's wonderland. Extensive trail systems around White Pass and the Skate Creek area offer snowshoers countless opportunities to explore the peace and solitude of quiet forests draped with fresh blankets of snow.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
White Pass Ski Resort