Bygone Byways Interpretive Trail
Central CascadesBest Year-round
An ADA-accessible interpretive trail through old-growth forest along the historic Great Northern Railway grade.
About This Trail
Bygone Byways follows the route of the Great Northern Railway through old-growth forest along Highway 2 west of Leavenworth. The 1.3-mile trail is ADA-accessible with interpretive signs covering the region's railroad and road-building history. The path crosses a mix of old rail grade and forest trail, with enough elevation change (712 feet) to feel like a walk rather than a stroll.
The trailhead sits in a wide pullout on westbound Highway 2 near milepost 69, accessible only from the westbound lanes. A restroom is available at the parking area. The trail works well as a leg-stretcher on the drive over Stevens Pass, and several trip reports describe stopping here after years of driving past without realizing it existed.
Old-growth trees shade the path, and the interpretive content provides genuine insight into how the railroad and highway carved through this valley. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for families, seniors, and anyone looking for a short, rewarding walk with some history and big trees.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“After our senior hiking group did the White Pine Creek Trail, we stopped at the ByGone ByWays Interpretive Trail.”
Last report: Jun 28, 2025
Scorecard
Most visitors are passing travelers stopping for a break. Weekend summer traffic is modest.
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Getting There
Westbound Highway 2 only, near milepost 69. Wide pullout with restroom. Cannot be accessed from eastbound lanes.
Recent Reports
Stopped here after years of driving past and wish I had did sooner. Beautiful short trail showing road and rail history.
Stopped here for 15-20 minutes to stretch my legs. Followed a figure-eight loop of sorts to cover all of the trail.
A little history lesson from Merritt Lake: The town of Merritt, Washington was named after William Hamilton Merritt III, a mining engineer and promoter of the Nicola, Kamloops and Similkameen railway. The town was originally named Forksdale, but locals rejected that name and adopted Merritt in 1906.
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