Drives Washington Mount Rainier and the South Cascades
White Pass: US 12
US 12, White Pass · Packwood → Naches
The drive
US 12 over White Pass is a low-stress crossing of the South Cascades. This drive runs east from Packwood, climbing for the first stretch through wet forest past the Palisades to the 4,500-foot pass, where the ski area sits beside the road.
East of the summit the trees thin and the country dries out. The highway runs along Rimrock Lake, then follows the Tieton River down a canyon between basalt cliffs, with pine in place of the western fir. It ends near the Highway 410 junction by Naches, 54.7 miles from Packwood.
The road is Leisurely: long, easy bends, built for steady driving, with a 1 hr 10 min running time. Highway 410 over Chinook Pass meets it at the east end.
Along the way
- Packwood
- White Pass
- Rimrock Lake
- Naches (Highway 410 junction)
Good to know
- The pass is open all year and plowed, but winter storms bring chain or traction requirements and occasional closures.
- Highway 410 over Chinook Pass meets US 12 at the east end of this drive.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check WSDOT: White Pass conditions.
Questions about this drive
How long does US 12 over White Pass take?
US 12 from Packwood to the Highway 410 junction near Naches is 54.7 miles and takes about 1 hr 10 min.
Is White Pass open in winter?
Yes, US 12 over White Pass is kept open all year, but chains or traction tires can be required in winter and storms occasionally close it for a day.
Is US 12 over White Pass twisty?
No. The drive is rated Leisurely, with easy bends for most of its length.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.