Blewett Pass Historic Mining Loop

The Blewett Pass mining loop takes you through the heart of Washington’s 1880s gold rush country, connecting the ghost towns of Liberty, Ingalls, and Mineral Springs through a network of historic mining roads. You’ll pass authentic mine headframes, stamp mill ruins, and abandoned miners’ cabins tucked into steep-sided valleys below the Wenatchee Mountains. The loop starts near Cle Elum and climbs through the Teanaway drainage before crossing into the Peshastin Creek watershed, following routes that pack trains used to haul ore to the railroad.

Easy to moderate difficulty on well-maintained gravel roads suitable for high-clearance 2WD, though 4WD helps during spring conditions and for some of the steeper mine access spurs. The main route stays open year-round except during heavy snow, with best conditions from May through October. No permits required, but respect private mining claims that are still active in the area. Several dispersed camping spots offer stellar views of Mount Stuart and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. This is living history you can actually touch—don’t just drive past the old diggings.