What: One of 26 designated state scenic byways. Earned the designation on Feb. 20, 2008.
Where: U.S. 12 from Mary’s Corner, 3 miles east of Interstate 5 at Exit 68, to the intersection of U.S. 12 and state Route 410 in Naches.
Length: 124 miles.
Time to drive it: Allow 2:15 just to drive this stretch, allowing more times for stops.
Wildlife viewing: Supporters say the White Pass Scenic Byway is the state’s best roadway for wildlife watching because of the diverse habitat zones that the road crosses. Among places worth stopping are the Cowlitz Wildlife Area’s Swofford Pond and Kosmos units, Woods Creek Watchable Wildlife Area and Oak Creek Wildlife Area feeding stations.
Other highlights: The roadway serves as the gateway for recreation in the South Cascades. The byway can connect visitors with Mount Rainier National Park, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Special event: Time your trip to coincide with the Packwood Labor Day Flea Market, Sept. 2-5. You can pick up some deals and a snack, then hit the road. For details, go to www.destination packwood.com
Information: Learn more at whitepassbyway.com.
