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Skate Creek Road, South Cascades, Washington
Photo: U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region

Drives Washington Mount Rainier and the South Cascades

Skate Creek Road

South Cascades, Washington · Ashford → Packwood

Sweeping21 mi45 min1,100 ft climbHigh point ≈ 2,600 ftOne way
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The drive

Skate Creek Road, Forest Road 52, links Ashford and Packwood in about 23 miles through the Gifford Pinchot National Forest along Skate Creek and the Cowlitz River. It is a shortcut between the Nisqually side of Mount Rainier and the Stevens Canyon side, and it is mostly sweeping with two twistier stretches.

The road is paved but has had little maintenance for several years, so expect potholes, frost heaves and slumped sections. Summer and fall are the best seasons.

The drive is 21.1 miles and takes about 45 minutes.

Along the way

  1. Ashford
  2. Packwood
Elevation
1,100 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 2,600 ft
AshfordPackwood
Curves
Mostly gentle, with two twisty stretches
AshfordPackwood
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • The Forest Service gates the road when snow gets too deep, often from late fall into spring.
  • Watch for potholes, frost heaves and slumps, and keep your speed down.
  • Traffic is medium to heavy, busiest in summer.

Gated when snow covers it, usually from about November or December into April. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Questions about this drive

How long does Skate Creek Road take?

Ashford to Packwood on Skate Creek Road is 21.1 miles and takes about 45 minutes.

Is Skate Creek Road paved?

Yes, but it has had little maintenance for years, with potholes and slumps.

Is Skate Creek Road open in winter?

The Forest Service often gates it when snow is deep, so it is usually closed from late fall into spring.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Skate Creek Road, from Ashford to Packwood