In search of autumn awesomeness?
Take a road trip along a scenic byway. Fall road trips, a popular autumn pastime, rank in popularity among the debut of PSL, wine crush, and corn mazes. Scenic drives are definitely above setting back clocks! As you travel miles along the byway challenge yourself to find new ways to describe “yellow”. Butter, bumblebee, lemon, Dijon, honey, butterscotch… Want a pumpkin-spiced latte for the road? Stop in Enumclaw or Greenwater before heading toward Mt. Rainier. The best thing about fall color drives in the Rainier region is the mountain itself.
The region has two major roadways around the Park both designated National Scenic Byways.
The Chinook Pass Scenic Byway (Hwy 410) runs east to west on the north side of the Park, between Enumclaw and Naches. Chinook Pass traverses the White River on its west end and the American River on its east side. The White Pass Scenic Byway (Hwy 12) runs east to west on the southern side of the Park, connecting Lewis and Yakima counties. The Chinook Pass route in the fall is not as crowded as in the summer months. In Autumn, hillsides bejeweled in chartreuse and grass green transform into a copper-colored canvas. Consider a quick stop at Silver Springs campground to watch spawning Coho salmon. Silver Springs creek ends at a hillside within the campground. The chance to see salmon reach their final spawning destination, as far as they could be from the ocean? Awe-inspiring.
Stop at Tipsoo Lake at the top of Chinook Pass
Tipsoo Lake offers iconic views of Mount Rainier, plus a nice level hike around the lake. Huckleberry bushes turn crimson and orange, while a bear grass backdrop offsets the scene with a creamy hue. The drive continues to the intersection of Hwy 410 and Hwy 12, where visitors can turn right to head west on the White Pass Scenic Byway. Keep an eye out for larch in addition to the maple so prevalent on the west side of the pass. Their brilliant needles offer a complimentary contrast.
At the intersection of Hwy 12 and Hwy 123, Cayuse Pass, turn right to follow 123 back into the Park towards Hwy 410. The Silver Falls Trail offers waterfall views and the canary and blonde-colored leaves of maples and vine maples in the forest.
Fall color around Mt. Rainier is best enjoyed in September and October
The fall season has fewer crowds, and snow hasn’t yet fallen, so most thoroughfares remain open. Skate Creek Road between Packwood and Ashford offers a host of autumn hues and miles of twisty pavement, pleasing for both driving enthusiasts and color chasers.
Tipsoo Lake Scenery, Fall Season