1963 Map of Washington Pass

About this map

Washington Pass and Rainy Pass serve as the primary gateways through this high-altitude landscape where the borders of Okanogan, Skagit, and Chelan counties converge. The 1963 field data reveals a terrain dominated by the meeting of Mt. Baker National Forest and Okanogan National Forest, defined by a network of footpaths rather than roads. The Cascade Crest Trail winds through the southern portion, while the Rainy Pass (Alternate) Trail and Early Winters Trail provide access to remote basins. Notable alpine features such as Golden Horn, Liberty Bell Mtn, and the Early Winters Spires surround glacially carved waters including Blue Lake and the Snowy Lakes. This map documents the area just prior to major highway development, when travel was dictated by historic passes and mountain ridges like Straight Ridge.