White Pass Scenic Byway

This sign at the Riffe Lake Overlook on U.S. 12 (White Pass Scenic Byway) talks about the history of the area, the communities which once thrived here, and the settlers.

Riffle Lake rests amidst the expansive forest of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Mist obscures the Cowlitz River far below the White Pine Scenic Byway (US 12).

The start of autumn touches the trees surrounding the hills and mountains of Riffle Lake in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

A basket full of huckleberries sits among freshly picked flowers.

The sparkling Tieton River flows alongside the White Pass Scenic Byway as fall colors burst onto the scene.

Columnar volcanic rock formations, known as “palisades,” are bathed in sunlight, seen from the Palisades Viewpoint along the White Pass Scenic Byway.

A cross-country skier glides through the alpenglow near White Pass, the setting sun reflecting in the glimmering snow.

Rising out of old growth forest, a sea of deep green, the rugged peaks of the Goat Rocks watch over the serene landscape.

A lone fisherman sits on the the peaceful and quiet Leech Lake, located near the top of the pass along the White Pass Scenic Byway.

Green forest surrounds Lake Mayfield, which the White Pass Scenic Byway crosses on an elevated causeway.

A rustic trail marker shows passing travelers where the Pacific Crest Trail crosses the White Pass Scenic Byway, near the summit of White Pass.