2022 92 Miles of Gorgeous All-American Road - Visit Rainier
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2022 C H I N O O K SCE N I C B Y W A Y 92 Miles of Gorgeous All-American Road
VISIT R AINIER | 2 Table of contents 6 Days/5 Nights/Optional Night 6.......................................................................... 4 Touring the Byway.................................................................................................................. 5 Enumclaw......................................................................................................................................... 6 Pinnacle Peak Park.................................................................................................................. 7 Thunder Dome Car Museum........................................................................................ 7 Mud Mountain Dam Park................................................................................................. 8 Mason Jar Farm.......................................................................................................................... 8 Charlie’s............................................................................................................................................. 9 The Kettle........................................................................................................................................ 9 Griffin & Wells Cafe................................................................................................................ 9 Federation Forest State Park.................................................................................... 10 Greenwater................................................................................................................................. 11 Naches Tavern.......................................................................................................................... 11 Wapiti Outdoors..................................................................................................................... 12 Skookum Falls Viewpoint.............................................................................................. 12 Skookum Falls........................................................................................................................... 13 Snoquera Falls.......................................................................................................................... 13 Goat Falls...................................................................................................................................... 14 Sun Top Lookout.................................................................................................................... 14 Mount Rainier National Park...................................................................................... 15 Chinook Pass............................................................................................................................. 19 Tipsoo Lake................................................................................................................................ 20 Naches Peak Loop Trail................................................................................................... 20 Bumping Lake........................................................................................................................... 20 Whistlin’ Jack Lodge........................................................................................................... 21 Cliffdell............................................................................................................................................ 22 Gold Creek Station............................................................................................................... 22 Naches............................................................................................................................................. 22 Naches Heights Vineyard............................................................................................. 23 Visit Rainier thanks the National Travel Center for development of the material on which this itinerary is based.
VISIT R AINIER | 3
VISIT R AINIER | 4 6 Days/5 Nights/Optional Night 6 Gateway City: Enumclaw, Washington From the bountiful plateau and old-growth forests of Enumclaw to the fertile Naches Valley, the Chinook Scenic Byway All-American Road, one of Washington state’s premier driving routes, follows a path carved by rushing rivers and winds past sparkling alpine lakes, towering glacial peaks, and lush wildflower meadows. Majestic Mount Rainier, rising to 14,410 feet, is your constant companion as you traverse the volcanic ridges and glacier-carved valleys. The dramatic mountain, still an active volcano built by numerous eruptions over 500,000 years, most recently blew its top 2,200 years ago. Look closer as you travel, and the landscape reveals the story of its origin. The region was covered with swamps, ancient seas, flowing lava, explosive ash, and thick sheets of ice. Over the millenniums, mountains rose and eroded away, only to be built up again by the next volcanic explosion. Yet, the 92-mile journey is more than geology. You can savor juicy red apples from a farm stand overflowing with local produce. Listen to the rumble of a waterfall as it tumbles down a rocky canyon. And take a deep breath of crisp mountain air as you carefully pack a snowball in the middle of a beautiful summer day. As you stand in awe at picture-perfect glimpses of Mount Rainier poking its nose through the clouds, discover charming valley communities which retain the intrepid spirit of the area’s earliest homesteaders. At over five thousand feet, the summit at Chinook Pass delivers heart-stopping scenery and an astonishing panorama of views. Take your time enjoying what some consider Washington state’s most scenic road – a must-see if you live in or visiting the Evergreen State. Natural beauty and thrilling landscapes await along the Chinook Scenic Byway! Travel Tip: the best time of year for this itinerary is Memorial Day weekend through the first week of October.
VISIT R AINIER | 5
Touring the Byway
Your journey begins in Enumclaw, a city on a plateau rich with agriculture and surrounded
by forests and pristine mountain lakes. Learn of the area’s logging industry, marvel at the
Thunder Dome Car Museum’s impressive collection of classic cars, and get acclimated
to the outdoors at Pinnacle Peak Park and Mud Mountain Dam Park. Spend the night
enjoying an authentic farm stay.
On Day Two, you’ll begin your drive on the Chinook
Scenic Byway All American Road as you explore
Federation Forest State Park’s old-growth forest and
Greenwater, an eclectic town in the middle of the
wilderness. Then, grab your hiking shoes for adventures
at Crystal Mountain, the largest ski resort in Washington
and home to the only gondola in the state! Ride the
scenic gondola up, or hit the trails, to meet Mount
Rainier face to face at the summit. Top off the day with a
delicious meal at Washington’s highest elevation restaurant.
You’re in for a real treat on Day Three! Even though it takes you off the Byway, you won’t
want to miss one of the most spectacular National Parks in America. Mount Rainier
National Park offers over 235,000 acres of valleys, waterfalls, and epic views. Informational
exhibits, picnic areas, and day hike trails are available at three different park visitor
centers. First stop, the Sunrise Visitor Center at the White River entrance. From there,
you’ll get back on WA-410 and travel south on WA-123 to the Stevens Canyon entrance
and the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center. Further on, you’ll discover Box Canyon.
Make sure your camera’s batteries are charged on Day Four, because you’ll drive over
Chinook Pass, the Byway’s highest point at 5,430 feet, before snapping a photo of Tipsoo
Lake, a picturesque alpine lake a must-see, especially during the summer wildflower
season. Keep the views going on the Naches Peak Loop Trail and cool off with a dip in
Bumping Lake before spending the evening at an all-season resort on the banks of the
scenic Naches River.
Day Five takes you past Oak Creek Wildlife Area. Notice the change in landscape as you
drive towards Naches, the official end of the Byway. This is also the gateway to Yakima
Valley orchards and vineyards. From there, we wish you a safe passage if you’re
continuing your journey on another Washington Scenic Byway, or a safe and pleasant
journey home.
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Day One:
Enumclaw
The word Enumclaw is derived from a Salish word meaning “place of
evil spirits” in reference to Enumclaw Mountain, occasionally roiled with
powerful windstorms from the east. After the city was homesteaded by
Frank and Mary Stevenson in 1879, the Northern Pacific Railroad routed the
transcontinental mainline right through the site in 1885. The Stevensons
filed a plat and built a hotel, starting the bustling historic town center.
Historic downtown Enumclaw has a thriving food and beverage scene with
shops, multiple restaurants, cafes, breweries, wineries, and tasting rooms.
Outdoor dining is abundant in the summer.
Photo Opportunity by the Logging Legacy Memorial, an impressive
bronze sculpture featuring a logger guiding a team of oxen. The sculpture
was designed by local artist Dan Snider to honor the 8,000 individuals who
have died in Washington State’s logging industry. Exhibit info describes
the area’s timber heritage. The impressive sculpture is 15 feet high and 40
feet long, and weighs over 12,000 pounds. Located at 1700 First Street,
Enumclaw, WA 98022.
Travel Tip: across the street from the statue is the Pie Goddess. The Pie Goddess sells slices of
legendary pie to-go.
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Pinnacle Peak Park
This 375-acre park surrounds
Pinnacle Peak, a volcanic
cone that rises directly out of
the surrounding Enumclaw
farmlands. Four miles of trails
run throughout the park. Take
the Cal Magnusson trail, a
steep one-mile forested trail
that climbs 1,000 feet to the
top of the 1,800-foot cone. The
new Mount Peak Lookout Tower is open for spectacular views of the north
side of Mount Rainier and the White River Valley.
Located at 26838 SE 481st Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, (206)477-4527.
Thunder Dome Car Museum
Thunder Dome, the
area’s premium car
museum, is a car
lover’s dream. A
rotating collection of
classic, vintage, and
imported cars is on
view, including a 1921
Model T Firetruck,
a 1964 Falcon
Sprint, the Boss 429
Mustang, and race
legend Sam Auxier Jr.’s Ford racing rig. A throwback “drive-in” bar offers
light refreshments.
1920 Garrett Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, (360)802-8964, Sat 10AM-5PM,
Sun 10AM-4PM.
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Mud Mountain Dam Park
Built to protect the lower White and Puyallup River Valleys from flooding
caused by heavy rains and melting snow, when Mud Mountain Dam was
completed in 1948, it was the highest rock and earth-filled dam in the
world. It works by holding back water in the reservoir and slowly releasing
it back into the river. The area surrounding the dam is now a popular
park for picnicking, views of the dam, and hiking and biking in a scenic
woodland setting.
30525 SE Mud Mountain Road, Enumclaw, WA 98022, (360)825-3211
M-F 9AM-4PM.
D E S T I N AT I O N D I S T I N C T I V E ACCO M M O DAT I O N S
Mason Jar Farm Escape the city and
hustled life while you nestle yourself among the
foothills of the Cascades. On clear days views of
majestic Mount Rainier are visible from the farm.
40228 278th Way SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022,
(360)625-8071
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D E S T I N AT I O N D I S T I N C T I V E D I N I N G
For breakfast try Charlie’s Café or the Kettle. These cozy, laid-back diners
serve up American homestyle classics and surprisingly large breakfasts.
Charlie’s 1335 Roosevelt Ave E, Enumclaw, WA 98022 (360)825-5191
The Kettle 1666 Garrett Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022, (360)825-7033
Griffin & Wells Cafe
1239 Griffin Avenue,
Enumclaw, WA 98022,
(360)226-3084
A small neighborhood
café serving standard
American bistro fare. Try
the homemade buttermilk
ice cream for dessert.
Other local favorites also popular with visitors include: The Mint, Rainier
Bar & Grill, Pursuit Distilling, Headworks Brewery, Cole Street Brewery,
Lenny’s Cellars, Bordeaux Wine Bar, Roaring Underground Speakeasy, Fill’s
Growler’s, Plateau Wine Bar
M O R E A R E A I N FO R M AT I O N
Enumclaw Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center (360)825-7666 located
at 1421 Cole St, Enumclaw, WA 98022
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 10 Day T wo: Federation Forest State Park In 1928, the Washington Chapter of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs became concerned about the rapid pace of deforestation around the country and raised money to purchase the initial land for this park from a lumber company. The Federation Forest State Park now encompasses 574 acres of old-growth forest of Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, Sitka Spruce, and Western Red Cedar trees that provide excellent hiking, birdwatching, and fishing opportunities. There are nearly 12 miles of easy to moderate trails, picnic facilities, and an interpretive center surrounded by a native plant garden. 49201 WA-410, Enumclaw, WA 98022, (360)902-8844 Daily 8AM-Dusk, $10/vehicle.
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 11
Greenwater
A charming community with an eclectic personality located in a densely
forested wilderness, Greenwater was a stop on the historic Naches Trail
used by 19th century settlers. The area is now known for its access to
exceptional outdoor recreation activities as well as the perfect place along
the Chinook Scenic Byway to stop and stretch your legs.
D E S T I N AT I O N D I S T I N C T I V E D I N I N G
Naches Tavern A family-friendly
restaurant with indoor and outdoor
dining. Serves a wide variety of lunch
and dinner entrees. 58411 WA-410,
Enumclaw, WA 98022, (360)663-2267V I S I T R A I N I E R | 12
D I S T I N C T I V E R E TA I L
Wapiti Outdoors is a family-owned store with souvenirs and a small
cafe serving coffee, breakfast burritos, pizza, ice cream, milkshakes and
assorted snacks. 58414 WA-410 E, Enumclaw, WA 98022 (360) 663-2268
Skookum Falls Viewpoint
Photo Opportunity at the
highway pullout along the Chinook
Scenic Byway. On a clear day this
viewpoint offers a stunning view of
the 250-foot Skookum Falls, named
for a Chinook word meaning “evil
spirit.” Located approximately 27.1
miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410.V I S I T R A I N I E R | 13
S C E N I C DAY H I K E S
The Chinook Scenic Byway provides excellent access to some of the White
River Valley’s best day hikes. You probably won’t have time for all of them,
but here are four suggested hikes that may appeal to a variety of interests
and abilities:
Traveler Tip: each of the following four hikes requires a Northwest Forest Pass.
Skookum Falls
An easy 4.2-mile roundtrip hike on a mostly flat trail follows the White River
upstream to reach the base of Skookum Falls. The trail may be wet in the
springtime; this is also a popular trail for mountain bikers and people with
dogs. Trailhead is located approximately 25.5 miles east of Enumclaw on
WA-410 and FS-7315 (Huckleberry Creek Road).
Snoquera Falls
A moderate 4.2-mile loop
through lush, forested trail
to Snoquera Falls, a striking
fantail cascade that plunges
down a sheer rock wall.
Trailhead is located
approximately 28.5 miles
east of Enumclaw on
WA-410, look for the
Camp Sheppard Boy
Scout Camp Trailhead.
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest PassV I S I T R A I N I E R | 14 Goat Falls An easy 1.0-mile roundtrip hike that parallels Goat Creek as it leads to Goat Falls, a 10-foot waterfall surrounded by mossy boulders. Trailhead is located approximately 31.7 miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410 and FS-7174 (Coal Pass Road). Parking Pass/Entry Fee Northwest Forest Pass Sun Top Lookout A short but steep 1-mile round trip hike that leads to a fire lookout on top of Suntop Mountain used during World War II in the U.S. Army Aircraft Warning System. At an elevation of 5,270 feet, on a clear day, the views extend for miles. Trailhead is located approximately 25.5 miles east of Enumclaw on WA-410 and 6.2 miles south on FS-7315. Travel Tip: hikers, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight when parking at trailheads.
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 15 Day Three: Travel Tip: after you leave Greenwater consider a side trip off the byway to experience Crystal Mountain Resort. The resort is home to the scenic Mt. Rainier gondola and the Summit House, Washington State’s highest elevation restaurant. On a clear day, scenic gondola rides provide visitors with incredible views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Additional activities include guided trail rides by Chinook Outfitters, guided hikes, disc golf, dining, and shopping. Mount Rainier National Park Peeking out from Washington’s iconic landscape is Mount Rainier, the highest point in the Cascade Range, as well as an active volcano, and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. The mountain and its surrounding areas were designated a National Park in 1899, now allowing visitors to safely explore over 235,000 acres of valleys, waterfalls, subalpine wildflower meadows, and ancient forest. Travel Tip: peak visitation at the White River/Sunrise entrance occurs July-August between the hours of 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. To beat the crowds plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the day.
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 16 First stop, the Sunrise Visitor Center at the White River entrance. With an elevation of 6,400 feet, Sunrise is the highest point in the park that can be reached by vehicle. The Visitor Center features exhibits, interpretive programs, a picnic area, and access to subalpine lake hikes, as well as breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and Emmons Glacier and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Sunrise is famous for sweeping vistas, dramatic scenery, and incredible glacier views. This section of Mount Rainier National Park is open seasonally typically from early July through early to mid-October. The Sunrise Day Lodge offers grab and go snacks, beverages, and souvenirs.
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 17 From there, you’ll get back on WA-410 and travel south on WA-123 to the Stevens Canyon entrance and the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, located in the southeast corner of the park, featuring exhibits, a bookshop, and access to the beautiful Ohanapecosh River and a hike to Silver Falls. Further on, you’ll discover Box Canyon. Travel Tip: Stevens Canyon Road is open seasonally typically from Memorial Day weekend through early October. Stevens Canyon Road is the main thoroughfare connecting Sunrise to Paradise. To check road status visit https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/road-status.htm On the west side, Stevens Canyon Road is OPEN from Paradise Road wye to Snow & Bench Lake Trailhead, with access to Reflection Lake. On the east side, Stevens Canyon Road is OPEN from SR123 to the Grove of the Patriarchs Trailhead. Note that the Grove remains closed due to damage from flooding. The Grove of the Patriarchs parking lot and restrooms are open, along with access to the Eastside and Silver Falls Trails. The middle portion of Stevens Canyon Road remains CLOSED to all use, including bicycling. Estimated opening date to be determined. Once the road opens for the season, Stevens Canyon Road will be closed Mon-Thurs due to construction; open with 30 minute delays Fri-Sun. NOTE: We anticipate visitors will be able to access Box Canyon during the proposed construction period. Please continue to monitor park communications for the latest updates. NOTE: Tunnel height limit 12' 6".
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 18 A R E A I N FO R M AT I O N Mount Rainier National Park (360)569-2211 Travel Tip: Print out your map or bring a GPS. Don’t rely on your phone to have signal.
V I S I T R A I N I E R | 19 Day Four: Chinook Pass This morning as you get back on WA-410, the road reaches its highest peak at the crest of the Cascade Range, a point known as Chinook Pass. The summit, located above the tree line, offers unparalleled and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The Pass is also a trailhead to the Pacific Crest Trail, a long-distance trail that runs the entire length of the United States. Restrooms, information, and parking areas are available. At the summit you’ll notice a bridge that spans across the road. This is where foot and horse traffic for the Pacific Crest Trail cross. Here you have traveled along the scenic byway to an elevation of 5,432 ft.
VISIT R AINIER | 20 Tipsoo Lake This picturesque alpine lake in the middle of the Cascade Mountains is at an elevation of 5,298 feet above sea level. Tipsoo Lake delivers a picture- perfect view of Mount Rainier reflected in the lake’s still waters. In one of the most photographed landscapes in the United States, there’s a flat trail for a relaxing stroll around the lake. Restrooms and picnic tables are also available. Located approximately 0.6 miles south of Chinook Pass on WA-410. Naches Peak Loop Trail Experience lush valleys, alpine lakes, grassy meadows, and fresh mountain air on this moderate 3.5- mile trail with memorable views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Wildlife sightings are common, including marmots, elk, and deer. Walking in a clockwise direction keeps Mount Rainier in view for much of the hike. Follow signs for the trail from Chinook Pass. Bumping Lake This reservoir and lake are a popular recreational stop along the Chinook Scenic Byway, with hiking and mountain biking trails, swimming, fishing, boat launches, and camping facilities in a picturesque mountain setting. Located approximately 13.2 miles south on NF-1800 (Bumping River Road) and WA-410.
VISIT R AINIER | 21 D E S T I N AT I O N D I S T I N C T I V E ACCO M M O DAT I O N S Whistlin’ Jack Lodge An all-season resort located on the banks of the scenic Naches River with lodging options that include RV sites, cottages, and a lodge, restaurant, bar, convenience store, and gas station. 20800 WA-410, Naches, WA 98937, (509)658-2433
VISIT R AINIER | 22
Day Five:
Cliffdell
This quiet community surrounded by the Wenatchee National Forest was
originally named Spring Flats, but renamed in 1920 to honor Cliff and Della
Schott, friends of homesteader Russell Davison who helped develop the
town. Cliffdell was also the site of an 1855 army camp.
D E S T I N AT I O N D I S T I N C T I V E D I N I N G
Gold Creek Station A comfortable restaurant and saloon with
breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including world famous fish and chips. 18431
WA-410, Naches, WA 98937, (509)658-2583
Naches
This tiny town,
the official end
point of the
Chinook Scenic
Byway, was settled
in 1853 when
members of the
Longmire wagon
train decided the
region’s warm, dry
climate was more
attractive than the
rainy coast of the
Pacific Northwest.
Today, Naches enjoys a reputation as a gateway to both the wild forests of
the Cascades and the Yakima Valley wineries and fruit orchards.VISIT R AINIER | 23 Wilridge Vineyard, Winery and Distillery This biodynamic vineyard and winery sits atop the Cowiche Creek Canyon. Surrounded by vineyards a picturesque farmhouse serves as the tasting room and venue for several live music events scheduled throughout the summer season. Open Friday and Saturday from Noon to 6:00 PM. Open Sunday from Noon to 5:00 PM. Located at 250 Ehler Rd Yakima, WA 98908 (206)325-3051. M O R E A R E A I N FO For information on area lodging, dining, and attractions in Yakima please visit the Yakima Valley Visitor Center or contact our friends at Visit Yakima at visityakima.com.
VISIT R AINIER | 24 Let’s connect. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for stories and travel tips. Be sure to share your own adventures by tagging us in your posts using #VisitRainier.
VISIT R AINIER | 25
TO SEATTLE
Chinook
169
164
North
Enumclaw
Scenic
410
FEDERATION FOREST
Byway
STATE PARK
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e
hi
Ri
Greenwater
t
ver
MOUNT RAINIER
NATIONAL PARK
MOUNT
RAINIER
WHITE RIVER
ENTRANCE
CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN
RESORT
Legend
410
AREA OF
DETAIL
VISITOR CENTER
LODGING
DINING
CAMPING
FUEL
CAYUSE PASS HIKING
GONDOLA
TIPSOO RESTROOMS
LAKE
12
Naches
12
AREA OF Seattle 82
DETAIL
Yakima
WASHINGTON
Portland
OREGON
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