Hike-in Required
No
ADA accessible
Yes
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Washington Pass Overlook is an obligatory stop on the North Cascades Highway. At 5,500 feet, it is the road's highest point and the dividing line between eastern and western Washington. The pass features restrooms, picnic areas, interpretive signage, and an overlook with incredible mountain views. It's the perfect roadside rest area for drivers crossing the state.

From the parking lot, walk 400 feet along a paved, flat trail to the overlook. At just a quarter mile round trip, anyone can do it. Prepare for awesome views. Once you reach the mile-high rocky outcropping you will be surrounded by North Cascade peaks. The Liberty Bell Group in particular demands the most attention. This family of nearly 8,000-foot spires rises dramatically to the south, inspiring countless photo shoots, posters, and logos bearing its likeness.

700 feet below, a hairpin turn in the North Cascades Highway seemingly slows traffic to a crawl. Check out Kangaroo Ridge to the east, where you're likely to spot golden larch trees in October. Follow the trail around for a short loop up some stairs and back to the parking lot. Or, take the flat route back to your car. Either way, the views will leave you breathless.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

NW Forest Pass

Pros

Easy access to great views.

Cons

Weekend and summer crowds.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Features

Big vistas
Geologically significant
ADA accessible

Location

Comments

08/13/2017
Washington Pass is an amazing stop. Views are not quite as dramatic but still similar to Glacier National Park.
12/29/2015
thoses mountains are womderfull like the heaven
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