Guided Washington Cascades Overland Adventure

NWOL and Next Jump Outfitters present a guided trip to discover the crown jewel of overland routes in western Washington, the Washington Cascades Adventure Route. Spanning 325 miles through the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, this epic adventure showcases four prominent peaks of the high Cascades, including Mt Rainier. With an average technical rating of 2, the route welcomes stock 4x4 or AWD vehicles with all-terrain tires. Traverse dirt forest service roads, meander through old-growth rainforests, and witness enchanting waterfalls and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Uncover cultural landmarks like the Sawtooth Berry Fields, all while relishing the views of Mt Hood, Mt Adams, Mt St Helens, and Mt Rainier. From the awe-inspiring High Rock Lookout to Panther Creek Falls, this unforgettable journey offers an overland experience unlike any other. 

Limit 10 vehicles. Must be a Supporting Member of NWOL to register.  Trip is guided by NWOL and Next Jump Outfitters. 

Route Overview:

Adventure Rating: Epic

Trip Length: 325 miles / 4-8 days

Season: June - October (can vary depending on snowpack at higher elevation trails).

Avg Technical Rating: 2

Peak Technical Rating: 4

Typical Terrain: Dirt forest service roads, some bumpier secondary roads, and some connecting pavement.

Recommended Vehicle: Stock 4x4 or AWD vehicle w/ AT tires. 

Recommended Gear: n/a

Adventure Vans: Sprinter 4x4s should be able to manage the entire route.

Alternative Routes: Yes! See the bottom of route guide for more details. 

Permits: n/a

About the Trip:

Step into the natural wonder of the Washington Cascades Adventure Route, a 325-mile journey through the breathtaking Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Begin your adventure at the Columbia River Gorge (DP1), where Mt Hood graces the southern horizon. As you make your way clockwise around the loop, be enchanted by Mt Adams in the east, the majestic Mt Rainier to the north, and the iconic Mt St Helens to the west.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse landscapes that unfold before you. From serene snow-capped peaks to old-growth rainforests, dozens of rivers, creeks, and waterfalls, and meadows blooming with wildflowers, every moment of this overland expedition will amaze.

Discover the historic Sawtooth Berry Fields (DP7), an area of exclusive use to local Native American tribes for their annual huckleberry harvest tradition. Respect the signs designating their reserved areas as you delve deeper into the route.

Uncover hidden gems like Surprise Lake and picturesque Council Lake (DP12), offering tranquil settings with striking views of Mt Adams. Follow the path to Bishop Falls (DP19), where impressive cascades await upstream, reaching up to 60' high.

The highlight of your journey awaits at High Rock Lookout (DP22), where a rewarding 3-mile hike grants you breathtaking vistas of Mt Rainier and the surrounding mountains.

As you venture westward, enjoy quieter roads and the captivating Burley Mountain Lookout (DP25) with its vantage point overlooking Mt St Helens. Pass through enchanting spots like French Butte, Pinto Rock, Mosquito Meadows, and Elk Pass as you approach the final stretch of the route.

Prepare to be enchanted by Curly Creek Falls (DP28) with its mossy green natural arch and the fascinating Falls Creek Lava Caves (DP29), extending nearly 1.5 miles underground.

For the ultimate finale, visit the awe-inspiring Panther Creek Falls (DP30) before descending back to the Columbia River, concluding this unforgettable overland adventure through the Washington Cascades.