Named for Edward Blewett, a Seattle mining promoter of the 1880s,[3] it lies on the route of the historical Yellowstone Trail.

The highway over the pass connects Interstate 90 (I-90) between Seattle and Ellensburg, Washington with US 2 between Monroe and Wenatchee.

It should not be confused with Old Blewett Pass, which is about 5 miles (8.0 km) west of the current summit at the slightly lower elevation of 4,064 feet (1,239 m).

[5] Swauk was renamed to Blewett Pass in the 1960s after the completion of a new highway alignment for US 97, with locals preferring to keep the old name.

One should inquire about conditions with a Wenatchee National Forest office before driving the road upon re-opening in the warmer months.