Washington Pass Overlook
(Milepost 162)

This is the highest point of State Route 20, reaching an elevation of 5,477 feet. To say the scenery is awesome would be understating the obvious. Liberty Bell mountain and Early Winters Spires loom overhead as Kangaroo Ridge rises to the east. In the fall the pass is set ablaze with the golden-yellow of Western Larch trees that cluster around the lower reaches. Turn left at the trailhead sign and continue to the parking lot. A short accessible trail leads to a breathtaking view, and vertigo is free of charge!

Kangaroo Ridge to the east is a great place to search for migrating raptors. Birdlife around the parking lot includes Mountain Chickadees, Clark's Nutcrackers, Gray Jays, Red-breasted Nuthatches and Cassin's Finches. Mountain Bluebirds are possible and Violet-green Swallows crowd the skies on summer days. The short loop trail, which is steep in places, can score Yellow-rumped Warblers and Brown Creepers, Red Crossbills and occasionally Pine Grosbeaks.

Contents | Code of Ethics