Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Recreational Activities

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Mather Memorial Parkway - State Route 410

Enumclaw to Naches (75 Miles) - No trip to the state of Washington is complete without a good look at Mount Rainier, and this drive, on a clear day, offers one of the finest. In fact, a short side trip will take you right up the side of the mountain for an even closer view. Remember that this road is closed in winter beyond Crystal Mountain Boulevard.

Created in 1931, the Mather Memorial Parkway is a classic Cascades drive between the lush vegetation of the west side and the sunny, dry east slopes. It passes basalt cliffs, winds along two major rivers, slips into shady forests and crosses two mountain passes. The heart of the route is through the eastern edge of Mt. Rainier National Park.

On this drive, you should allow time to be distracted. Stop at The Dalles Campground to walk the nature trails and view very large old-growth timber. Drive up to the Crystal Mountain Ski Area and ride the lift for a bird's eye view of Mt. Rainier. On a clear day you'll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including outstanding views of Mt. Rainier.

[ Scenic Hikes ] [ Campgrounds & Picnic Areas ] [ Trails in Area ]

POINTS OF INTEREST

1 - FEDERATION FOREST STATE PARK
A riverside stop with an information center, interpretive trail, arboretum, hiking trails, picnic area, and fishing.

2 - SKOOKUM FLATS TRAIL
A pleasant, 8 mile stretch of trail along the White River, open to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

3 - SUNRISE LODGE / VISITOR CENTER
A National Park Service visitor center high on the northeast slope of Mt. Rainier. Information and displays about the park. Good day hiking.

4 - CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN SKI AREA
A year-round resort area with skiing (you can ride the chair lift in summer too), a restaurant, sight-seeing, and mountain biking.

5 - TIPSOO LAKE OVERLOOK / CHINOOK PASS
Just west of the 5430 foot summit of the parkway is this impressive overlook, with restrooms, interpretive signs, picnic sites, and great views.

6 - BUMPING LAKE
A reservoir tucked up in a mountain valley, popular for boating, camping, and fishing. The tiny community of Goose Prairie is on the side road along the way to the lake.

7 - FIFES PEAK VIEWPOINT
Stop here for a great view of this rocky peak that rises above the thick forest canopy.

8 - BOULDER CAVE
If you're willing to walk a half mile, you can visit this interesting cave in the forest near the river. Please tread lightly and mind the rules - heavy use is causing damage there.

USDA Forest Service - Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Last Modified: Friday, 26 October 2007 at 17:09:07 EDT