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The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary

Even though I have lived in Washington for over two years, I cannot get enough of exploring this stunning area. This area is my favorite place in the world, and I can’t wait to show you my version of the perfect Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary. This itinerary is filled with waterfalls, breathtaking mountains, lakes, rivers, food, restaurants, beaches, and more! I hope after exploring this area you love it just as much as I do!

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About this 2 week pacific northwest road trip.

After exploring this area for almost three years, I have come up with the perfect itinerary for you! Below I jotted down the most significant views of each area, and I also have links to blog posts that go into more detail about each site.

I recommend flying into Seattle and then flying out of San Francisco. You also need a rental car, and I suggest renting one from here .

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Map

Below is a map showing the route for 14 days. I have also pinpointed the area on Google Maps. You can download this map for your trip.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary map

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary: 14 days

Day 1-2: north cascades national park.

Accommodation:

The Rolling Huts: They are not located inside the park but near it. It is difficult to find accommodation near North Cascades, so this is a good option. >>>Check It Out Here

My favorite national park in Washington is North Cascades National Park. This place is highly underrated! The bright blue turquoise color of the lake and the mountains in the background make this one of the best viewpoints in the state of Washington. Many people do not visit this national park because the trails are challenging, making it harder for families with small children to see.

I still think it is worth it to stop here even if you are traveling with small children. Some of the more accessible trails include Blue Lake and Thunder Knob, and two of the best viewpoints are Diablo Lake Vista Point (shown in the photo above) and Washington Pass Observation Site.

More strenuous hikes for avid hikers are Maple Pass Loop, Thornton Lakes, Cutthroat Pass, Cascade Pass, and Hidden Lake.

Read My North Cascades National Park Guide: The 7 Best Hikes In North Cascades National Park From A Local

Day 3: Seattle

Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Seattle : The view here is probably some of the best you can find in a hotel in Seattle and it is so close to Pike Place Market, the most popular activity in the city. >>>Check It Out Here

I lived in Seattle for years, and it is still one of my favorite cities in the United States! The food is so good, and I love walking around and exploring this one-of-a-kind place. The mountains in the distance with the Pudget Sound next to it makes Seattle one of the most breathtaking cities I have seen.

Download my Washington Hiking Checklist!

Some of the most popular things to do are to see Pike Place Market, The Needle, The Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, Olympic Sculpture Park, Discovery Park, Golden Gardens Beach, The Seattle Troll, Gas Works Park, or the Seattle Great Wheel. You only need a day or two to explore most popular activities. Seattle is great, but what makes Washington unique is everything outside of the city. The outdoor scene in Washington is probably some of the best in the United States. So make sure you don’t spend most of your road trip in Seattle.

Read More On Washington: The Most Incredible Washington Road Trip Itinerary: 7-14 days

Day 4-5: Olympic National Park

Olympic Lodge: I stayed at the Olympic Lodge for one weekend, and it’s one of the city’s best hotels. It isn’t a five-star hotel, and I feel like the lighting needs some major updating, but it is the best hotel on the Peninsula. Also, the hotel is located close to Hurricane Ridge. >Click Here To Check Pricing

Read More: Where to Stay in Olympic National Park – 10 Best Cabins & Rentals

Olympic National Park is one of the most popular areas in Washington. The reason is because this place is so diverse as it has mountains, lakes, waterfalls, beaches, and rainforests! It has it all! Olympic National Park is an outdoor lovers paradise! Since it has so much to offer, there is so much driving to do, and it is best to explore here for two days minimum.

I recommend lumping the west side of the park for one day and the northern part for another day. The most popular things in the north area include Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, Hurricane Ridge, and Sol Duc Falls.

The western side has beautiful beaches like Ruby Beach, Shi Shi, and Second Beach. Also, the Hall Of Mosses is so green and lush, and it is perfection! You don’t want to miss that.

Read More On Olympic: The 21 Best Hikes In Olympic National Park

Day 6-7: Mount Rainer National Park

Alexander’s Lodge: This cute historic Lodge was built in 1912! It features a restaurant, fireplace, and little outdoor yurts. >Check Prices Here

Mount Rainier is the most well-known mountain in the state of Washington. You can see it from Seattle, even though it is located over 3 hours away! Hiking in the National Park is a must when you visit this state. The best and most popular part is the Paradise area, and I love exploring it! The best things to see there include Skyline Trail, Nisqually Vista Trail, Reflection Lakes, and Comet Falls.

If you head over to the Sunrise area, Fremont lookout and Naches Loop are my favorite trails! Naches Loop is magnificent in the Summer when all the wildflowers are out.

Read More On Mount Rainier: The 16 Absolute Best Mt Rainier Hikes

Day 8: Portland

The Mark Spencer Hotel : An excellent hotel a few minutes away from Powell’s Bookstore and the Japenese Garden. >>>Book Here

Portland is such a fun city to explore for the day! The food here is exceptional, and there are many breweries to try out. Some of the popular things to do here include:

Drinking a beer at Deschutes Brewery
Visiting Powell’s Bookstore
Eat At Voodoo Doughnut for breakfast
Checking out the International Rose Test Garden
Check out the Portland Japanese Garden

Read More About Oregon: The Perfect 10 Day Oregon Road Trip Itinerary

Day 9: Columbia River Gorge

Hood River Hotel: Hood River Hotel is the oldest hotel in Hood River, Oregon, and has been updated with a cute modern style. There is a restaurant on-site, and it is pet friendly. >>>Book Here

Columbia River Gorge is a waterfall lovers paradise. There are so many waterfalls that it is overwhelming to list them all. Every single one of them is so magnificent! Some of the most popular ones include Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Fairy Falls, Multnomah Falls, Horsetail Falls, Ponytail Falls, and Dry Creek Falls.

Waterfalls are not the only thing to see here. The views of the Columbia River Gorge are stunning, especially at the Hood River Waterfront Park. There are also many wineries and fabulous restaurants near Hood River City. I especially loved the Solstice Wood Fire Pizza.

Read More: The Ultimate Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Road Trip

Day 10: Mount Hood

Mount Hood is a beautiful area near the Columbia River Gorge, so it is best to stay at Hood River City for another night. Mount Hood has so many farms and vineyards as well as some incredible hikes! Some of the most popular hikes in the area include Tom Dick and Harry Trail , Trillium Lake Loop , Tamanawas Falls , and Ramona Falls .

Day 11: Bend

Hotel SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bend: We stayed at this hotel, and I loved it. It was clean, close to many restaurants, breweries, and had a nice bar. >>>Book Here

My favorite city in Oregon is, of course, the city of Bend! There is so much to do in this cute city. I have been here many times, but I feel like I did not see enough every time I left. I always left wanting to explore even more. They have many breweries, wineries, and outdoor activities. Some of the popular hikes in the area include South Sister Summit , and Green Lakes Trail . There is also Smith Rock (pictured above), which is located near Bend. Smith Rock is probably my favorite outdoor area at Bend, primarily because you can rock climb.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Smith Rock Hiking Trails

Day 12: Crater Lake

Crater Lake Lodge: One of the few hotels located in the National Park. >>>Book Here

Crater Lake National Park is the only national park located in Oregon. It is breathtaking, and the color of the bright emerald blue water is truly spectacular. I recommend stopping by and taking a look at the lake from one of the many viewpoints. Watchman Overlook, Phantom Ship Overlook, and Cloudcap Overlook have the best viewpoints. You can also hike to the water and swim in it. The only trail with access to the lake is Cleetwood Cove Trail .

Read More: 14 Best Things To Do at Crater Lake National Park

Day 13: Oregon Coast

Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge (Gold Beach): This place is fantastic and nestled in a beautiful forest area. >>>Check It Out Here

My favorite part of the Oregon Coast is the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor located in the southern area. It is so dreamy! The one shown in the picture above is called the Natural Bridges. Be careful in this area as the trail is very sketchy and dangerous. Wear good hiking shoes.

The Oregon Coast is a lot more than Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, and you can spend weeks at the coast. If you want to do more than the scenic corridor, check out my blog post below, where I list out even more activities.

Read More: The Best Things To Do On The Oregon Coast

Day 14: Redwoods National Park

Hotel Holiday Inn Express Redwood National Park, an IHG Hotel : There are no official hotels in the national park, but this one here is quite nice. >>>Book Hotel Here

The last national park on this list is the Redwoods National Park. It is located in California, and I have been here multiple times. Some of the best things to do are hiking Stout Grove, discovering the Lady Johnson Grove, and exploring Fern Canyon. The trees are so big and tall, and the area’s fern seems to go on forever.

Read More Here: Redwood National Park Advice

Other Pacific Northwest Itineraries

Fourteen days is plenty enough to explore the PNW, but you can also do it in 10 or 7 days. Below are my recommendations.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip 7 days

Pacific northwest road trip 10 days, all the best views in the state, 100+ wa hikes.

Embark on Washington’s best trails with our eBook! Inside, find top hikes, expert tips, and stunning views, making every adventure unforgettable. Dive into the beauty of Washington’s outdoors now!

Best Time For A Pacific Northwest Road Trip

After living in Washington for a few years, I know when the best time for this road trip is, and it is the summer months. This includes the months of July, August, and September. Many people ask me about June, but June is usually too early. The best places are generally under snow during this time. November-March is also very rainy and snowy, so I would not recommend this itinerary during this time.

I will warn you that the summer months tend to bring fires, so you might have to adjust this itinerary to avoid fire and smoke.

What To Pack For A PNW Road Trip

Sunscreen: Super important and it is part of the ten essentials! >Buy Sunscreen
Chapstick: This one has SPF so your lips won’t get burned! >Check Out This Chapstick
Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before). >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have the plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
Sunglasses: It can get sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. >>>Love These Snacks Here
Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography. >Buy Sony Camera Here
First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
Day Pack to carry all your things: To carry all your gear, water, and food, you need a good backpack. Osprey is known to have some of the best backpacks in the market. >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
Leggings or Hiking Pants: I always wear leggings while hiking because it is what I feel most comfortable with! >Click For My Favorite Hiking Leggings
Breathable sweat-wicking shirts : Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
Mid Base Layer: It can get chilly in Oregon even in the summer. >Check Out My Sweater Here
Sports Bra: For women. >Check This One Here
Jacket: I always have a jacket in my backpack, even if it is hot. I do it just in case of an emergency. >Buy My Favorite Jacket
Rain Jacket: The worst feeling in the world is being wet and cold while hiking. You can get hypothermia, so always carry a poncho or a rain jacket when you hike Oregon. >Check Out My Rain Jacket Here
Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here

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Final Thoughts On Pacific Northwest Road Trip Ideas

Thanks for reading all about my Pacific Northwest vacation guide. Make sure to check out some of my other PNW blog posts:

25 Cozy Cabins In Washington State
25 Amazing Oregon Waterfalls You Need To See Today
17 Breathtaking Easy Hikes In Washington State
25 Best Waterfalls In Washington State
The 12 Best Washington Fire Lookouts
35 Best Things To Do In Washington State
The Perfect Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary

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Thank you so much for putting this itinerary together. It gives me a lot to look into and research! I do have a question, though. If we added a 1-day fishing trip (for the boys) and an anything other than fishing (for the girls), where would you insert that into the trip? Thanks!

This is the best PNW road trip I’ve seen! We’ve done the Washington half of it a few years ago, now doing Oregon and the Redwoods this upcoming year. This one has everything we want to see – Redwoods, Oregon Coast, Crater Lake, Mt Hood, and Columbia River Gorge. Was wondering if all of this would be doable on one trip, but glad that I’m not the only ambitious one!

Can I please get your opinion about our itinerary? This trip is in late June/early July. Two families traveling in a passenger van we’re renting when we leave Seattle. We’re flying into and out of Seattle. So far we have booked 2 nights in Seattle 2 nights in Ashford 3 nights in Seaside, OR We have 4 more nights not including the night before our flight. We want to stay somewhere somewhat close to SeaTac. Not sure if we should spend 1 or 2 nights in Forks, P.A., should we go to Victoria for 2 nights? We can’t take the van to Canada. We’d have to get passports unless a birth certificate and drivers license is sufficient. Thanks for your help!

I would do Forks. Victoria is in Canada and that Ferry can be a pain.

What time of year did you do this trip? Thinking of going late June/early July and wondering if that’s a good time to go or not. Thanks!

I live here and the best time to do this is July to avoid the snow.

Ultimate Itinerary: The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Posted by Arthur McMahon August 31, 2020 Updated September 01, 2023

The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip is an epic journey that showcases the PNW’s most iconic scenery as well as a number of hidden gems.

This trip has it all. Get ready to embark on a grand tour of the region encompassing all that makes the Pacific Northwest a special place beloved by adventurous people. The coast, the Cascades, the desert, the rainforest, and every town along the way all add to the magic of the PNW. It’s time to see it all for yourself.

Related Read: The 10 Best Scenic Drives in Oregon

The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Traversing the most epic territories within Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, this road trip leaves plenty of room for customization. This is an excellent route broken down into several sections. For each section, you’ll find highlights, interesting side trips, places to stay, plus some place where you can save some time if you’re on a tight schedule.

This epic PNW road trip includes:

54 Hours of driving
14 National Forests
4 National Monuments
4 National Parks

The journey as we put it together starts and ends in Seattle, but the road also passes through other urban areas including Portland, Boise, Bend, and Spokane. You can start this loop from wherever you’d like.

Take a look at the complete route on Google Maps to follow along as you read the guide below. At a comfortable pace, the entire journey will take about two weeks. Make it your own, though, and enjoy the ride.

Related Read: The Ultimate Portland to Seattle Road Trip Itinerary

PNW Road Trip Section by Section

Seattle to Spokane

This first stretch of the Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip starts off in the skyscraper canyons of downtown Seattle. Our chosen route travels northward along the eastern edge of the Puget Sound and then turns east as it winds through the magnificent Northern Cascades.

Once you’re done exploring the evergreen mountains, you’ll drop down to the Columbia Plateau and cross over an early stage of the grand Columbia River at Chief Joseph Dam before arriving at The Lilac City of Spokane.

Related Read: 14 Vanlife Hacks: How to Make Van Living Easier

North Cascade National Park

The rugged mountain landscape and heavy snowfalls of North Cascades National Park severely limit winter exploration of the area, but the roadside views are spectacular throughout the year. The entire park is mostly protected as wilderness. There are wondrous hikes and backpacking trails aplenty for the most intrepid of explorers.

Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Ross Lake is a popular recreation destination in the Northern Cascades. It’s a 23-mile long reservoir that extends beyond the national border into Canada. There are camping and hiking opportunities galore, and the lake is renowned for its stellar fishing. You can also opt to spend some time at the unforgettable floating Ross Lake Resort.

Lake Chelan

Certainly worthy of its own mention, Lake Chelan is the largest lake in the state of Washington and is the 26th deepest lake in the world with a maximum depth of 1486 feet. Visitors can stay at the remote tourist town of Stehekin which can only be accessed by long-distance hikers, such as those that arrive via the Pacific Crest Trail or by boat. The Lady of the Lake passenger ferry is a relaxing and romantic trip that carries travelers across the lake.

Where to Stay

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Spokane to Boise

Incredibly scenic and remote, this section of the Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip starts with a short drive to the beautiful lakeside town of Couer d’Alene. Leaving the city behind, the road turns south and hugs the Salmon River as it threads its way between three different national forests.

Our route loops out to eastern Idaho to include the Sawtooth Mountains and the Craters of the Moon National Monument . Though these are stupendous places worthy of a visit, this part can be easily cut out to save a full day or more of driving by rerouting directly to Boise.

Related Read: 10 Scenic Drives in Washington State That’ll Blow Your Mind

Coeur d’Alene

The waterfront district of Coeur d’Alene is a delightful place to grab a meal or stay the night. The marina, golf course, restaurants, and parks allow for hours or even days of entertainment. Tubbs Hill is a fantastic urban hiking area along the waterfront with easy trails and excellent views of both downtown and the lake.

Take a Hike: Guide to the Best Hikes Near Spokane

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon is an awe-inspiring destination. It is literally a vast ocean of lava rock. Here you can explore 410,000 acres of basalt floodplain filled with lava caves, gigantic cinder crags, and, of course, plenty of extraordinary volcanic craters.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Full of hiking and backpacking trails, the Wallowa Whitman National Forest stands out because of its sky-high granite peaks and the lush diversity of its flora and fauna. It’s an expansive forest that includes the Eagle Cap Wilderness within its borders, a hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest reminiscent of California’s Sierra Nevada.

Wallowa Lake

Taking a detour a Lewiston, Idaho will lead you toward Joseph, Oregon and Wallowa Lake, as well as the primary entrance into the grand Eagle Cap Wilderness. The town of Joseph is named after Chief Joseph, of the Nez Perce Tribe . The area is rich in indigenous history. The lake is gorgeous, and there is a spectacular tramway that can take you straight to the mountain tops.

Save Time: Stay the course due south on Highway 55 and head straight to Boise.

Boise to Bend

This is an arid trek through Eastern Oregon with many geological oddities to see and plenty of pioneering history to explore. The route we chose travels north to Baker City and cuts through John Day. The southern Highway 20 is a quicker route, but the northern passage is much more interesting.

You’re on the historic Oregon Trail now, and there are plenty of points of interest in the early stages of this section for history buffs to discover. Most of the towns on this road have the look and feel of the Old West, and that’s because some of these places haven’t changed much in the last 100 years.

Baker Historic District

Located smack dab in the middle of downtown Baker City, this district is rife with artifacts and properties that date back to the 1800s. The Baker Heritage Museum is a treasure trove of interesting stories to absorb, and the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center lies just 5 miles down the road.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is actually divided into three sections, two of which are on this route. The Sheep Rock Unit features a mesmerizing canyon drive and an awesome fossil museum filled with animals that no longer exist which were discovered in the nearby John Day Fossil Beds. The Painted Hills Unit is another spectacle deserving of a pit stop.

Lake Owyhee State Park

If you’re interested in a remote, lightly-visited state park to spend some time exploring, Lake Owyhee is a gorgeous place to stay. It’s a long lake that fills a deep canyon, the walls of which are vibrant with colorful volcanic rock. Bighorn sheep frequent the area, and there are several varieties of fish to catch in the reservoir.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock is known as the birthplace of rock climbing, but you don’t have to scale the cliff faces here to enjoy their beauty. This is a relatively small park with a 4-mile loop trail that covers most of what there is to see, but it is absolutely stunning. There are often dozens of climbers at a go which can be just as interesting to observe as the lovely scenery.

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Bend to Crescent City

Outdoor lovers could easily spend a week or more in Bend without running out of fun things to do and places to explore. From backpacking around the Three Sisters to skiing to slopes of Mount Bachelor and kayaking the white water of the Deschutes River, the recreation opportunities are truly endless.

Yet there is so much else out there between Bend and the coast that you’ll have to whittle down your options to make the most of your time. Your mind will be blown the first time you see Crater Lake in person, Cave Junction has awesome spelunking tours, and a walk through the Northern California redwood forests can be a life-changing experience.

Crater Lake National Park

Oregon’s crown jewel, Crater Lake ‘s sapphire waters are breathtaking to behold. This is the only national park in all of Oregon. It is a natural wonder that one could see from every possible angle without growing tired of its presence. There are trails and roads all the way around its rim to explore.

Take a Hike: Guide to the Best Hikes in Crater Lake National Park

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

For as much time as you spend looking down at Crater Lake, you’ll be spending an equal amount of time looking up at the mighty redwoods at Jedediah Smith . These behemoths are a world apart from any other type of tree on this road trip, and they are a marvel that can only be truly experienced in person with your own eyes. This park contains 70% of all the old-growth redwood trees remaining in the entire world.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

If you chose to skip over Craters of the Moon, you still have miles upon miles of lava to explore just outside of Bend. This monument features the Newberry Caldera, a large walk-thru lava cave, two lakes, the Deschutes River, and many hiking trails. Here you’ll also find the High Desert Museum which succinctly encapsulates the area’s geological and biological diversity.

Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve

Near the Oregon town of Cave Junction lies the Marble Halls of Oregon. There is a massive marble cave to check out, parts of which are family-friendly, ADA-accessible, well lit, and offer interpretive signage. Cave tours are given by rangers. Within the cave lies the River Styx, the only designated subterranean Wild and Scenic River, which was named after the underground river from Greek mythology.

Save Time: Head northwest from Crater Lake toward Eugene and cut over to the coast at Florence, or head straight up to Portland.

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Crescent City to Portland

The Oregon Coast is special not only for its pacific beauty, but also because all 362-miles of coastline are designated as public land. From the sea up to the existing line of vegetation, all ocean beaches in Oregon are open to the public. This scenic coastal drive is made all the better by the fact that you can pull over at any of the countless waysides to dip your toes in the sand and surf.

And each town along the coast offers its own unique experience to travelers. Coastal towns are welcoming to tourists because tourism is a large part of the coastal economy. There are dunes for off-roading all up and down the coast, lighthouses and state parks aplenty to visit, and numerous charming seaside shops and restaurants to try with excellent seafood fare and cute beach town gifts.

At a glance, most people who see Astoria on a map would assume it’s just another coastal town, but it’s not actually on the pacific coastline. Astoria is a historic port town set on the southern bank of the Columbia River Delta. Nearby Fort Stevens State Park is a popular beachside park and campground, and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park is another historic park worth a visit.

The big city has its appeal too, and it’s a nice change of pace after a long trip up the laid back coast. Portland has its own vibe, and it’s generally a pretty friendly city to explore on foot. If you’ve still got the itch to get outside and hike, though, you’ll want to take a look at our article on the best hikes in and around Portland .

The Beach, Everywhere

No two stretches of beach are the same in Oregon. Some are riddled with dazzling agates to collect, others are home to mini-ecosystems like tidepools and sea caves, while others are loaded with piles of driftwood, broken apart by freshwater streams, or adjacent to lively boardwalks. You’re sure to find something special about each beach you visit along this route.

Shore Acres State Park

Once a lavish estate of a wealthy timber baron, Shore Acres State Park is a beautiful combination of both natural and human-made wonders. Much of the park rests atop tall sandstone cliffs above the raging ocean where waves crash against upturned strata. A large, manicured botanical garden is maintained on the property, and there are multiple magical beach coves to discover.

Take a Mailboat up the Rogue River

This is less of a side trip and more of a thing to do, but you can turn this into an overnight or multi-day excursion. The Wild and Scenic Rogue River is mostly accessible only to hikers, rafters, and these mailboats. You can take a ride over 100 miles long and stay at a remote lodge far upriver from civilization and deep within the Wild Rogue Wilderness.

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Portland to Seattle

It’s all about those snow-capped Cascade peaks, baby! This final stretch of the Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip winds through the region’s tallest mountains. Starting with a scenic drive up the Columbia River Gorge, the road skirts past awe-inspiring Mount Hood and then crosses the river to weave between Washington’s regal giants.

Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier are the climax of this grand tour. But the final leg of the journey sweeps back over to the coast for one last glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and a tranquil ride through the temperate rainforests of Olympic National Park before arriving back at the Seattle Metropolitan Area.

Columbia River Gorge

A scenic drive unlike any other, the Historic Columbia River Highway follows the gorge upriver as the scenery transitions from temperate rainforest to arid grassland. Attractions along this road include dozens of plummeting waterfalls , volcanic geological oddities, and the ever-present looming peaks of Mount Hood and Mount Adams.

Mount Adams and Goat Rocks Wilderness

Driving by Mount Adams, you may not be able to help yourself from finding a trail to hike. There are several popular paths up to sky-high trails on Mount Adams and within the neighboring Goat Rocks Wilderness . Here, on a clear day, you’ll find alpine lakes, wildflowers, goats, marmots, and epic views of the surrounding mountains.

Olympic National Park

Return once again to the coastal beauty and dark rainforests of the Pacific Northwest’s coastline, but crank all of it up to 11 here at the national park. Olympic National Park is a verdant wonderland set just outside of Seattle. It’s wet, wild, and everything is covered in green. Moss and lichen abound, as do the terrific ocean views.

Take a Hike: Guide to the Best Easy Hikes at Olympic National Park

Mount Hood and the Timberline Lodge

You’ll miss much of the majesty of Mount Hood by bypassing it along the Columbia River Gorge. If you have a spare day, we suggest heading up to the mountain from the town of Hood River. The lodge is quite an interesting place, and it provides access to year-round ski slopes as well as the Timberline Trail which circumnavigates Mount Hood.

Take a Hike: Guide to Best Hikes at Mount Hood

Mount Rainier National Park

The pinnacle of the Pacific Northwest’s Cascade Range, Mount Rainier reigns above the region and can be seen from all across Washington and Oregon on a clear day. The national park provides a closer view of this iconic monolith. The mountain is what you make of it. There are miles of trails, suburban tourist attractions, scenic gondola rides, and so much more to discover on this mountain’s slopes.

Take a Hike: Guide to the Best Hikes at Mount Rainier

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Known for its destructive eruption from a few decades past, Mount St. Helens offers a unique experience for adventurous folks who seek to climb or hike around the active volcano. You can experience first hand the remnants of the recent lava flow, the newly formed glacier, and numerous lava caves.

Save Time: Cut out either the mountains or the coast, or both, by heading up I-5 directly to Seattle.

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Seen in: Idaho , Oregon , Road Trips , Washington , West

Posted by Arthur McMahon

Arthur loves to walk. It’s as simple as that. Whether it be in the mountains, on the beach, or along the city streets — he believes walking is the best way to experience the world. Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail was his first backpacking foray, and he hasn’t stopped crushing miles since. Arthur and his wife now regularly travel into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest seeking new trails to hike.

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How to Plan a Perfect North Cascades National Park Itinerary

Washington State is hashtag blessed with three amazing national parks – Mount Rainier , Olympic , and the North Cascades. North Cascades National Park is the least visited of the three, seeing just under a million visitors in an average year, and we think it’s one of the best weekend trips from Seattle for nature lovers.

It’s an amazing park full of alpine lakes, mountain goats, outstanding views around every corner, and is home to some of the best hikes in Washington .

This North Cascades National Park itinerary will give you everything you need to know to fall in love with the North Cascades just like we have over the years, including the best things to do and see, where to stay, the best hikes, and the nitty gritty details you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

When to Visit North Cascades National Park

We’re leading with this section because it’s important information for trip planning purposes!

Peak season for the North Cascades is mid-July through mid-October .

We found out the hard way that the park isn’t really accessible until later in the summer when we booked a mid-June trip, got to Seattle, and realized that all of the best hikes in the North Cascades were still covered in snow. So we rebooked our trip for late August, and it was perfect.

If you don’t care about hiking some of the higher elevation trails in the park, then late spring , starting around Memorial Day, is a pleasant time to be there. Some of the better hikes will be inaccessible, but you’ll be able to drive the scenic Highway 20, check out Diablo Lake, and do some of the lower hikes like the Thunder Knob trail.

Weather will be a bit cooler and wetter than peak summer, but it could also be warm and beautiful – it’s more variable, so you’ll need to be prepared with a good rain jacket and sturdy hiking boots or hiking shoes.

Fall brings excellent color to the North Cascades, though like most places in Washington State, the weather is going to be a little bit more variable starting in late September. Still, the drive is gorgeous, and you’ll see flashes of yellow and orange lighting up the landscape around you.

Winter brings lots of snow and road closures that make it a bad time to visit the North Cascades. Highway 20, the main thoroughfare through the park, closes between Ross Dam and milepost 171 on the other side of Washington Pass in late November most years, and reopens sometime in the late spring (usually May).

That means you’ll be able to make it as far as Diablo Lake in the winter, but won’t be able to go much further than that.

Check road conditions here .

Where to Stay Near North Cascades National Park

Unless you’re camping, you’re going to need to find a place to stay in the small towns either to the west of the park – Marblemount and Concrete – or to the east – Winthrop and Twisp.

We recommend Winthrop because it’s actually closer to most of the attractions in the park, like Washington Pass Overlook, Maple Pass, Blue Lake.

From Winthrop, it’s a 25-30 minute drive to most of those places. From Marblemount, it’s a little over an hour.

Staying inside the Park

The only option for staying inside the park is camping. If you’re not up for camping, head down to the Winthrop section below for recommendations.

The exception is Ross Lake Resort , which is accessible only by water taxi, and is high on our list of unique places to stay in Washington. They have cabins and bunkhouses that are worth a look, but probably aren’t a great place to base yourself if you only have two or three days.

Here is the NPS guide to camping in North Cascades National Park where you’ll find information about the campgrounds and opening status. The information below is for the summer – many become first-come-first-served with limited services and no running water in the winter.

Colonial Creek and Newhalem Campground are the two biggest and most popular campgrounds in the park.

We have stayed at both, for what it’s worth, and liked Colonial Creek better, both for the location, and the fact that the sites offer a little more privacy.

At Newhalem , we were basically on top of the people on either side of us. Both have flush toilets and potable water, and are reservable in advance. You should make your reservation as early as humanly possible.

Goodell Campground is across the road from Newhalem, and is a little smaller with only 19 sites. They have potable water, vault toilets, and are reservable online up to six months in advance.

Gorge Lake is a tiny campground that you can reserve in advance with eight sites, vault toilets, and no potable water. It’s in a pretty good location, near Diablo, but I can’t stress enough how small it is.

Staying East of the Park: Winthrop and Twisp

Staying east of the park, which will give you the best access to some of the top hikes in the North Cascades like Maple Pass and Blue Lake , is our recommendation.

Winthrop is a cool little western themed town with some pretty spectacular places to stay.

Here are some recommendations.

Rolling Huts : YES PLEASE. These gorgeous cabins in Winthrop are our number one recommendation, and it’s not close. Not only are they stunning, they’re also north of Winthrop, closer to the North Cascades. You’ll be about 25-30 minutes away from the trailheads for Maple Pass and Blue Lake, and the Washington Pass overlook.

Other Cool Hotels & Lodges in Winthrop

River Run Inn :
Methow River Lodge & Cabins

Vacation Rentals in Winthrop

Skytop: Breathtaking Views and Easy Walk into Town (1 bedroom / 1 bathroom)
Artemisia: New Zero-Energy View Home—Walk to Town (3 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms)
Alpine Woods Cabin (2 bedrooms / 3 bathrooms)

Staying West of the Park: Marblemount and Concrete

If you want to stay to the west of the park, your best options are Marblemount and Concrete.

Unfortunately, there’s not a whole lot of choices here, and they’re further away from the main attractions in the park. However, they are closer to Seattle, which is a consideration if you have limited time.

We’d choose Marblemount, which is closer to the park.

In Marblemount , the best option is this three bedroom house on VRBO . You could also choose this two bedroom cabin if you need less space (same owners). There’s really not a whole lot of other choices.

A Complete 2 Day North Cascades National Park Itinerary

Here’s exactly how we’d spend a weekend exploring North Cascades National Park. If you have more time, we have some thoughts at the end on what to add with more time.

The first thing you should know is that you don’t actually stop at an entrance when you arrive at North Cascades National park. It’s free! So don’t count the North Cascades towards the three parks you need to visit within 12 months to make your America the Beautiful Pass pay off (the US National Parks pass that allows you to visit any National Park – it costs $80 for 12 months).

The second thing to note is that you could either start this itinerary from Seattle, or you could drive up on Friday evening to give yourself more time on Saturday. Stay in Marblemount / Concrete or at one of the campgrounds inside the park if this is your plan. Then, the next day, you’ll have plenty of time to start at the western edge of the park and make your way all the way through the park along Highway 20.

If you’re heading up on Friday evening, make plans to stay in Concrete (or camp at one of the national park campgrounds) and use your first night to get all the supplies you’ll need for your weekend – food, water, etc. – since there are no grocery stores or dining options between Marblemount and Winthrop, on the other side of the Cascades.

Day 1: Scenic Drive to Winthrop

Start your day early to make it to Highway 20 before the crowds arrive. Spend your first day taking your time on the extraordinarily scenic drive from Marblemount to Winthrop, spending the night in Winthrop at Rolling Huts .

Stop in Newhalem at the Visitors Center to grab maps and talk to the helpful rangers about hiking conditions. Trail of the Cedars is a quick and easy hike that leaves from the campground and has a cool suspension bridge.

Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is the most famous landmark in North Cascades National Park, and for good reason. It’s so blue!

Stop at the overlook for the lake, which is a bright turquoise color thanks to melting glaciers and the resulting silt that runs off into the lake, similar to the lakes in the Canadian Rockies.

Whenever we talk to fellow Washingtonians about our love for the North Cascades, the first thing people usually mention is the water of Diablo Lake.

As you continue along Hwy 20, you’ll come to Ross Lake. Ross Lake is far less impressive than Diablo Lake, but Ross Lake Resort is pretty cool. It’s accessible only by boat, and you can rent canoes or kayaks for the day to head out on the water and explore places you wouldn’t otherwise get to see. With two days, you probably don’t have enough time to make the journey out there worth it, but it’s worth considering. It’s at the top of the “what to do with more time” list below.

Blue Lake Trail

This is one of our favorite hikes in North Cascades National Park, and it’s super accessible for hikers of all experience and fitness levels. It’s technically in the National Forest immediately adjacent to the park, but it’s close enough.

Follow the trail as it climbs steadily through the forest before emerging onto a gorgeous, crystal clear alpine lake full of tiny fishes and backed by the Liberty Bell and several of the other prominent peaks of the surrounding Cascades.

It’s a 4.4 mile hike (round trip) with 1,000 feet of elevation gain, putting it firmly in the “moderate” category. Still, we think it’s doable for families with kids (and we saw plenty of them on the trail).

The parking lot is small, and by about 8am the cars start lining the highway as the parking lot fills up. There’s a vault toilet at the trailhead, and you’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass to park there.

Washington Pass Overlook

Your last stop for the day before descending into Winthrop to check into your accommodations and grab some food is Washington Pass, which marks the high point of Highway 20, perched between Western Washington and Eastern Washington, which is like a whole new world.

Again, it’s technically not inside the park, but it’s a must-see on any trip to the North Cascades. Get out of the car and do the mini loop, where you’ll have exquisite views of the Liberty Bell over the course of a quarter of a mile.

Once you’ve picked your jaw up off the ground, head down into Winthrop for the night.

We highly, highly recommend staying at the Rolling Huts , which are north of the town of Winthrop and will put you in the perfect position for your morning tomorrow. Plus, they’re beautiful, so that’s a plus.

Day 2: The Best Hike in the North Cascades

Most of your second day in the park should be spent on tackling one of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park , and we have strong opinions about exactly which hike you should choose.

Hike the Maple Pass Trail

We think the Maple Pass Trail (7 mile loop, 2,000 feet of elevation gain) is the best bang-for-your-buck hike in the park, and it tops our list of the best hikes in Washington State .

It’s that good.

The trailhead actually has plenty of parking, but it still manages to fill up on summer weekends. Plan on arriving at the trailhead by 9am at the very latest to get a spot and hit the trail before the crowds arrive. The hike actually starts on US Forest Service land, not inside the national park, so you’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass to avoid getting a parking ticket.

We strongly, strongly recommend doing this hike counter-clockwise, which means a steadier climb and a steeper descent. If you have bad knees, consider doing it the other direction, but know that the switchbacks climbing up that direction are absolutely brutal.

The hike starts with a steady uphill climb through the dense forest. At 1.3 miles, there’s an offshoot trail to the left that takes you to the shores of Lake Ann, and you should definitely do it.

Then continue along the trail, climbing above Lake Ann until you’re looking east, with Lake Ann in the foreground and the snowy peaks of the Cascades in the background. Around this point is when you are inside the national park boundaries, although only briefly.

Take a breath and pause at the high point of the pass, which is four miles in and 2,000 feet higher than the trailhead, and take a break to grab a snack and some water before making the descent back down to the trailhead.

Make Your Way Back to Seattle

Depending on your fitness level, the hike is probably going to take you most of the morning and into the afternoon, which won’t leave you with a ton of time to do anything else.

Head back west on Highway 20, stopping at any of the viewpoints you wanted to spend more time on, and make your way back home to Seattle.

What to Add with More Time

Ross lake resort.

Take a water taxi out to the resort, which will cost you $3. Rent a boat (canoes are $45 for the day, kayaks are slightly more expensive) and spend the day exploring out on the water of Ross Lake.

You could also stay the night at the resort, which has cabins and bunkhouses (make sure to reserve in advance!) that can only be accessed by boat in the summer and early fall. There are basically no services out there, so you’ll need to bring all your own cooking equipment and food.

Tackle More Hikes!

There are basically an endless number of hikes to do in and around North Cascades National Park. Here are three more, in addition to the two that are included in the itinerary above.

Cascade Pass / Sahale Arm (12 miles out and back, 4,000 feet of elevation gain) : We STILL haven’t done this hike, even though it’s supposed to be one of the most spectacular hikes in the state, because of the road getting there. It’s passable with normal vehicles (we drive a Honda Odyssey with a custom-built bed platform in the back and clearance is low, at best), but the road is long. We figured out that it would take at least an hour each way, and decided to spend our time elsewhere. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, you’ll be fine, and it’s totally doable with a normal passenger vehicle. This is also a great overnight hike.

Park Butte (7.5 miles out and back, 2,200 feet of elevation gain): This is actually more in the Mt. Baker region than it is North Cascades, but it’s a short drive off of Highway 20 near Baker Lake between Sedro-Woolley and Marblemount. The hike is moderate and you’ll have views of Mt. Baker the whole way through the second half of the hike.

Thunder Knob (3.6 miles out and back, 635 feet of elevation gain): One of the easier hikes in the park, this one is 3.6 miles and leaves from the trailhead across Hwy 20 from Colonial Creek Campground. We did it as an early morning hike, and you get some nice views from the opposite side of Diablo Lake from the usual viewpoint. Good hike for families staying at Colonial Creek.

Getting to North Cascades National Park

Getting to North Cascades National Park from Seattle and elsewhere is fairly straightforward.

From Seattle

Getting to North Cascades National Park from Seattle is simple. Head north on I-5 to Sedro-Woolley (exit 232) and head east on Highway 20 until you’re in the park. It’s a two hour (112 mile) drive without traffic.

You could also cut over on Highway 530, which runs parallel to I-5, but we prefer staying on I-5 for the amenities like gas, food, and grocery stores along the way.

From Elsewhere

If you’re coming from out of state, the best way to visit the North Cascades is to fly into either Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) , the main airport for the Seattle metro area, or the smaller airports in the region – Paine Field (PAE) or Bellingham International Airport (BLI), which have fewer flight options, but are closer to the North Cascades.

Rent a car at the airport and head out to the national park to start your adventure.

Or, make your visit part of a big loop of Washington, seeing all of the national parks, cities, and towns that make Washington State special on our Washington State road trip itinerary .

Headed to North Cascades National Park? You won’t want to miss our guide to hiking in North Cascades National Park to find an amazing trail perfect for your hiking experience and fitness level.

Don’t miss our other guides to Washington State’s Amazing National Parks !

The 11 Best Hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park
A Complete Olympic National Park Itinerary
The Best Hikes in Olympic National Park
The Best Places to Stay in Olympic National Park

MORE TO EXPLORE IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, we’ve got you covered with all sorts of super detailed travel guides to our favorite places in Washington and Oregon.

Seattle : Find the perfect place to stay in Seattle , use our itinerary and complete Seattle city guide to plan your weekend in Seattle (we also have a guide to one day in Seattle for shorter trips), find a new hike near Seattle to tackle, and plan your next day trip or weekend getaway .
Portland : Get a local’s take on what to do in Portland and where to stay in Portland , plan your weekend itinerary (we also have a guide to one day in Portland for shorter trips), find the best hikes in and around Portland , and discover the best day trip and weekend getaway destinations.
Road Trips : Explore the best of the Pacific Northwest on a 14 day Pacific Northwest road trip . Plan an amazing Washington road trip or Oregon road trip with our detailed guides, including a couple of itineraries that you can copy/paste.
The Oregon Coast : Explore the best of the Oregon Coast on a 7 day Oregon Coast road trip . Discover the best hikes on the Oregon Coast , and figure out what to do in Cannon Beach and Astoria .
Hiking in Oregon : Get a local’s take on the best hikes in Oregon , the most spectacular Oregon waterfalls , and dive deeper into each region with our guides to the best hikes at Mt. Hood , in the Columbia River Gorge , and more.
Hiking in Washington : Add to your Washington hiking bucket list with our guide to the best hikes in Washington . Then dive into our regional hiking guides to discover the best hikes near Seattle , hiking at Mount Rainier , in Olympic National Park , in the North Cascades , and at Mount Baker .
Mount Rainier National Park : Plan the perfect trip to Mount Rainier with our guides to the best things to do , the best hikes , and how to plan a perfect day trip to Rainier .
Olympic National Park : Explore the best that Olympic National Park has to offer – the best hikes , a complete itinerary , and exactly where to stay in Olympic National Park .
North Cascades National Park : The least visited of the National Parks in Washington , learn how to plan a perfect itinerary , and figure out the best hikes to add to your list.
Crater Lake National Park : Discover the best that Oregon’s only national park (isn’t that crazy?) has to offer with our guide to planning your Crater Lake itinerary , and our guide to the best hikes in Crater Lake . Plus, a guide to planning an amazing Seattle to Crater Lake road trip .

Matt is one of the two cofounders of this site, along with his wife, Alysha. Matt grew up in Seattle, and lived in San Francisco for just shy of a decade before he and Alysha quit their jobs to travel the world untethered. He loves paying too much for coffee, walking in the woods, and lives for the thrill of discovering something new.

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National Parks , United States , Washington

How to plan an epic day trip from seattle to north cascades national park (2024).

seattle to north cascades national park larches

As the weather gets warmer in Seattle and we get closer to summer, that means one exciting thing to us hikers – North Cascades National Park is open! If you’re thinking about going from Seattle to North Cascades National Park for a visit, you’re in for a treat. Get ready for your jaw to drop at the sight of those sky-high mountains, secret hideaway alpine lakes, and wildflowers popping in every color you can imagine.

Regarding hiking trails, North Cascades National Park is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for nature lovers. I’ve made my way to this park more times than I can count over the years, and I keep finding myself drawn back, especially for the killer hiking. I’m practically a regular, with my last trip being in October 2022 to see the highly sought-after larches.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been hitting trails since you were in diapers, there’s something for you here. And, unlike some other parks, North Cascades is a breeze to drive through (there’s only one road, so it’s hard to get lost!).

I’ve got you covered, whether you’re planning a quick North Cascades day trip or thinking about spending a few days soaking up all the North Cascades vibes. I’ve put together some top tips for getting around the park, the must-see spots, and even a sample itinerary with some of my personal favorites. Let’s get started planning your trip!

This article was first written in 2019 and last updated in May 2023.

This post promotes travel to a national park that is the traditional land of the Sauk Suiattle and Nłeʔkepmx Tmíxʷ (Nlaka’pamux) people. I make a formal land acknowledgment showing my respect and appreciation to the people of these lands. You can learn more about this on Native Land .

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to North Cascades National Park Trip

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your North Cascades National Park day trip.

Is North Cascades National Park Worth Visiting?

Many people tend to take a Mt. Rainier day trip by thinking it’s closer to Seattle than visiting North Cascades National Park. However, a fun fact about Seattle is the difference isn’t that significant, and there are so many reasons North Cascades differs from Mount Rainier. You’ll want to add this to your Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary .

When you take a day trip to North Cascades, you drive through the park with beautiful mountains surrounding you. It’s also much easier to stop off and see some viewpoints and find trailheads than at other national parks in the US.

Some of the most stunning hikes are in this area, with summer and fall time in Seattle being incredibly gorgeous. You’ll love discovering some of the best fall foliage hikes in Washington around here.

Many people wonder how many days in North Cascades National Park they need, but one is enough to see a good majority of it. However, if you plan on doing multiple hikes, I would consider several days in the park.

How Far is Seattle From North Cascades National Park?

Taking a day trip to North Cascades National Park from Seattle only takes two hours to get to the west entrance. You also won’t encounter much traffic once you get north of Seattle, another benefit of visiting this park. However, I recommend planning out your North Cascades itinerary so you see everything you want during that time.

Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so click here to buy your copy!

Can You Drive Through North Cascades National Park?

One of the best parts of going on a North Cascades highway road trip is you can drive through the park, unlike when you take an Olympic National Park day trip . If you were to drive the length of the highway without stopping while visiting North Cascades National Park, it’d take you about 1.5 hours. However, there are many places you’ll want to stop here, so account for that when planning your day.

What is the North Cascades National Park Entrance Fee?

While you often have to pay up to $30 to get into most national parks, you can actually get into this park for free during your North Cascades National Park day trip!

If you choose to extend your trip and go backpacking, that’s at no charge as well. You will need to apply for your backpacking permit ahead of time, however.

Is North Cascades Open Year-Round?

One of the most important things to note when planning your day trip to North Cascades is the main highway into the park closes during the winter months and most of the spring (meaning this is not a place to go for spring hikes around Washington ). The most accurate source to follow is the WSDOT’s website to see when it’s open.

While you can take a North Cascades National Park day trip in the winter, you’ll want to be aware of the closures on Highway 20. Due to serious avalanche danger, the highway tends to close around November and doesn’t reopen until May.

However, you can explore the area west of Diablo Lake and access Winthrop by going on Highway 2 to Leavenworth , north to Chelan , and up to Winthrop during your North Cascades day trip.

If your main reason for visiting is to find the best hikes in North Cascades , I recommend coming in the fall. Vivid red, orange, and yellow leaves will surround you on your hikes, and the weather will be more tolerable. This will also make for one of the most scenic drives in Washington you’ve ever been on, plus it stays light later at night, so you can see when driving from North Cascades National Park to Seattle.

Where to Stay in North Cascades National Park

While you can easily take a North Cascades National Park day drive from Seattle , some people might want to extend their trip and stay a night or two. However, there aren’t many places to stay in the park unless you’re camping. In fact, Ross Lake Resort is the only lodging within the park limits.

I recommend staying in Winthrop on the east side of the park as a base for your trip. Here are a few places to check out:

One of my favorite hotels in Winthrop is Hotel Rio Vista , as it’s on the river, affordable, and downtown. I’ve stayed here multiple times before. (rates start at $99 per night)
Lewisia Lodge River Retreat – This peaceful retreat is located on the Methow Valley Riverfront, and this part of the river is great for those who enjoy fishing. (rates start at $140 per night)
The Modern Condo has an excellent location near town and ski trails. Enjoy some family time apres-ski with the fireplace ablaze for your comfort. (rates start at $184 per night)
Alpine Woods Cabin is a beautiful cabin with ski trail access and sleeps six comfortably. (Rates start at $185 per night)
Charming Cedar Chalet with Hot Tub has two bedrooms, a loft, and an outdoor private hot tub. (rates start at $200 per night)

North Cascades National Park Map

Here’s a map so you can see your stops during your drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

10 Things to Do in North Cascades National Park

The scenic North Cascades Highway, or Highway 20, driving from east to west, or vice versa, is the perfect way to discover the North Cascades National Park. This is also one of the best road trips from Seattle to take.

If you’re spending a weekend in Winthrop (a nearby town that I love!), don’t hesitate to hit the road for a North Cascades day trip.

When you want to explore the park but only have one day, this is the route for you. Check out these must-see stops, hikes, and the best places to see in North Cascades National Park along the way.

1. Stop By the North Cascades Visitor Centre

north cascades national park visitors center

The visitor’s center in Newhalem is a helpful place to start your Seattle to North Cascades National Park road trip through the park. Here you can get a lot of useful information from rangers about the weather conditions.

I always start at the visitor’s center in every U.S. national park to see the trail conditions and confirm my plans with a ranger. They can let you know if there have been recent bear sightings, if the bugs are bad, or if a trail is closed so you can alter your North Cascades National Park itinerary if needed.

You’ll pick up interesting information if you spend some time touring the visitor center. There are five-minute videos about many fascinating topics, ranging from climate change to glaciers.

It’s a fantastic place to get your bearings, check out the topographical map, and see cool exhibitions about Cascade habitats. Here you find out what to see in North Cascades National Park and get excited about your adventure.

Need help planning out your road trip? I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to see exactly how long it’ll take from one point to the next and find new places to add to my itinerary!

2. Walk Up the Sterling Munro Trail

If you want to pack in as many activities and sights as possible on your day trip to North Cascades National Park from Seattle, it makes sense to embark on short hikes rather than full-day treks. This is another very short trail of only 300 feet that provides incredible views.

The trail begins to form on the northwest side of the visitor center in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. On the fully accessible path, you’ll have striking vistas of the rugged mountain range.

Want another adventure in this area? Check out the best things to do in Stehekin .

3. Admire the Lights at Ladder Creek Falls

This is a perfect little pit stop on your North Cascades day trip for a short 0.4-mile round trip to discover the odd mix of quaint falls and a light show. The trailhead begins just a couple of miles out of Newhalem behind the Gorge Powerhouse.

You’ll walk through an exotic garden after crossing a suspension bridge from the parking lot. It is best to visit the falls during or after dusk as the main attraction is the light show. The waterfalls light up with colorful lights that run in 15-minute programs, and music often accompanies them.

If you’re planning on turning around and driving back the same way you came into the park, remember to stop past here on your North Cascades road trip to try to catch the show.

4. Find a Waterfall at the Gorge Overlook

Gorge Lake Dam is the closest lake to Newhalem and provides the option of doing a short hike or simply checking out the bridge and the waterfall during your North Cascades National Park day trip.

The trail is 0.5 miles long and boasts views of the dam and the waterfall. Don’t miss out on stepping onto the bridge that spans the gorge; it’s the perfect photo opportunity. The parking for the trailhead is just off the highway.

5. Admire the Stunning Diablo Lake

While there are some beautiful lakes during Mt. Rainier hikes and hikes in Olympic National Park , a day trip to the North Cascades is incomplete without visiting its most famous lake. Expect striking glacier-blue water and enchanting landscapes no matter what time you come (people will be surprised to find most of these pictures aren’t edited because the water really is that blue!).

The overlook is an easy stop off on the highway in the easterly direction from the North Cascades Visitor Centre. I highly recommend getting out of your car to admire the stunning vistas and snap some pictures of one of the most popular things to do in North Cascades National Park.

You can choose to make it a quick pit stop on your North Cascades day trip or venture down to the lake and hop on a canoe to take in the scenery from the water.

6. Take a Boat Out on Ross Lake

This lake is one of the largest reservoirs in the Pacific Northwest, and there are a ton of fun activities on offer at this enormous lake.

Keen fishermen will enjoy casting out a line in the hopes of catching the native Rainbow Trout. There are many boating options, from motorboats to kayaks, and getting in the water for a paddle is recommended.

The best place to enjoy recreational activities on the lake is from Ross Lake Resort. It is the only lodging option on the lake and provides boat and fishing gear rentals.

Note – you can’t reach the resort by road. You can choose to hike down to the resort or take the Diablo Lake ferry, which runs twice a day. I highly recommend adding this to your Washington bucket list , as it’s an experience you won’t forget!

7. Enjoy a Loop Hike at Maple Pass

This hike is one of the most underrated but best hikes in the North Cascades, and one of the best things to do in the PNW . You can choose to do the 7-mile loop either clockwise or counterclockwise. Either way, there is an elevation gain of around 2000 feet and breathtaking views.

Both routes involve a steep climb that may not be suitable for unfit visitors, but it’s still one of the best places to hike in Washington . However, if you’re ready to get your heart rate up during your North Cascades day trip, you’ll be treated to dramatic scenery and imposing peaks.

The route begins from the Rainy Pass Picnic Area just off Highway 20 and is well-maintained. Maple Pass Loop is absolutely worth the hike, to be surrounded by jaw-dropping views in every direction.

If you come here during a few select weeks in the fall, you’ll be treated to one of the best hikes for larches in Washington .

8. Visit the Family-Friendly Blue Lake

This trail is a great summertime Washington hike to go on during your North Cascades National Park day trip, as you’ll have an opportunity to dive into the icy waters – if you’re brave enough! Blue Lake Trail is also great for hiking with kids.

It is a relatively busy 4.4-mile return trail that takes you through alpine forests and meadows carpeted with wildflowers but is considered an easy hike in Washington . The total elevation gain is around 1000 feet and is suitable for most people, which is why you’ll find many families here on a family-friendly vacation .

As you may guess by its name, the lake is a majestic teal color with picture-perfect mountain reflections. It’s a great spot to have a small picnic and revel in the park’s natural splendor and one of the most scenic things to do in North Cascades National Park.

9. Take Photos at Washington Pass Overlook

Highway 20 has tons of gorgeous overlooks to enjoy during your North Cascades day trip. The only thing you need to do to enjoy them is pull over and stop the car. Washington Pass Overlook includes a 0.25-mile round trip, which is very doable – and very worth it.

The towering granite peaks and granite outcrops surrounded by tall conifers offer a remarkably beautiful view. From here, you can spot some of the park’s famous natural sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Early Winter Spires.

10. Find the Larches

While it’s hard to pick my favorite national park in Washington , North Cascades wins when it comes to having one thing none of the other ones have – the infamous larches. These are the most stunning trees you’ll see in the state, and they’re pretty rare – you’ll only see them for about 2-3 weeks during late September or early October. I’m always up here the second I hear that they’re starting to show.

If you keep an eye on hiking reports online, you may be able to spend your one day in North Cascades National Park taking pictures of the golden yellow larches. This area has some of the best larch hikes in Washington , which include the following hikes:

Cutthroat Lake (3.8 miles RT) or Cutthroat Pass (10 miles)
Blue Lake (4.4 miles RT)
Heather-Maple Pass Loop (7.2 miles RT)

This is one of the most popular times of the year to visit, so you’ll want to head out from Seattle to North Cascades National Park early to get a parking spot. I’ve been known to leave as early as 4 am to get up there and hike by 7 am and head back late to go from North Cascades to Seattle.

One Day in North Cascades National Park Itinerary

hiking with kids north cascades day trip

I organized the stops on this itinerary for your day trip to North Cascades in such a way that you can choose to start at the visitor center and drive east or start in Winthrop and drive west on Highway 20.

This recommended North Cascades National Park itinerary begins at the visitor center, so just do it backward if you begin from Winthrop during your North Cascades day trip.

There is the possibility of a North Cascades highway loop, but this route takes at least two days. From Newhalem to Winthrop, the drive is about 1.5 hours. Of course, the time it takes depends on you, the activities you choose to do, and the hikes you want to explore.

Start your day absorbing all the park information at the North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem. After that, hit the Sterling Munro Trail as the trail begins at the center. You’ll be starting your journey at a high point, with breathtaking views to set the tone for your day.

Your next two stops on your Seattle to North Cascades National Park trip will be Ladder Creek Falls , if you choose to do the trail in the morning, and Gorge Overlook .

The perfect way to enjoy noon is to get involved in some water activities! Head on to Diablo Lake Overlook , and from there, hop on the ferry or take a short hike to the Ross Lake Recreational Center . Here you can go for a paddle or cast a line. This area is a fantastic place to enjoy a pre-packed lunch picnic.

Hopefully, you’re not feeling too exhausted after the picnic and paddle. You have some beautiful hikes coming up. From Ross Lake, you’ll make your way to the Maple Pass Loop to go on one of my favorite hikes.

If you’re not feeling hiked out during your day trip to North Cascades National Park, head onto the Blue Lake Trail . This is a short trail, so it’s worth seeing the lake if Maple Pass Loop didn’t tire you out. Otherwise, make your way straight to the Washington Pass Overlook to enjoy some unique views.

Your stomach might be grumbling by this point, and if so, check out the charming and quaint town of Winthrop. There are plenty of delicious food options and great restaurants to enjoy a meal and recall the day’s stories. I love Old Schoolhouse Brewery in the summer, as you can sit outside on the river and listen to live music.

As you head back on the highway and dusk begins to fall, remember the light show at Ladder Creek Falls (it looks different at night even if you saw it during the day already) and pop by for a look before you head home. If it isn’t too late and you haven’t eaten yet, stop by Birdsview Brewing Company on the west part of Highway 20 for a burger and beer (I always stop here at least one trip a year!)

If you want to extend your trip for another day, I recommend adding more hikes to your itinerary, as it’s the perfect way to see most of the area.

What Else to Know about Visiting North Cascades National Park From Seattle

Is North Cascades a day trip from Seattle?

Yes, while it’s a bit of a long day, I actually tend to do only day trips from Seattle to North Cascades so I can go more often. As I said early, just plan to leave earlier, find somewhere for dinner to fill up, and then enjoy the ride home. Summer is the perfect time to visit since it stays lighter out longer.

How many days do you need for North Cascades National Park?

Similar to the above, you can easily do this trip in just a day. However, I highly recommend spending the night, if possible, to fully enjoy the park. I think 2-3 days in North Cascades is the perfect amount of time to visit.

What is the best time of year to visit North Cascades National Park?

The best time to take a North Cascades National Park day trip from Seattle is in the summer or fall. Temperatures can rise into the 90s in the summer, so you’ll want to dress appropriately and bring a hat and sunscreen .

Is there a Seattle to North Cascades National Park bus?

No, there is no direct bus from Seattle to North Cascades, so it’s best to have your own car or carpool. You can take a Greyhound bus to Mount Vernon or Leavenworth, but you’ll still have to get yourself from there to the park.

There you have it – everything you need to know to plan a trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park! Enjoy your visit, and try to make it a long day to see as much as possible.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

9 thoughts on “ How to Plan an Epic Day Trip From Seattle to North Cascades National Park (2024) ”

This looks like a really nice itinerary!!

Thanks Cheryl! I hope you get a chance to get up there.

Thank you for this itinerary! Very comprehensive and well written.

You are welcome, I hope you enjoy it!

Hello Are the kids on the itinerary kid friendly? I have a 4 and 7 year old. We will be visiting Washington in April.

*trails not kids 😂

Blue Lake is great for kids, as we took our then 2-year-old. Heather Maple Loop is likely too challenging for your kids based on the length and elevation gain. Many of the stops are just off the highway though, which is perfect for letting your kids get out and explore!

Hi Marissa, do you know if there are any groups of people that you can join doing a trip to this park?

Hi Lera, I don’t know of any tours or groups that go up here, but I do know if you’re looking to do hikes there are a few groups to find people to go with (Washington Hikers and Climbers is one).

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Mt Ranier is a perfect road trip from Seattle

20 Best Road Trips From Seattle

Whether you live in Seattle or are simply visiting, the Emerald City is the perfect starting point for epic road trips all around the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Everything from spectacular national parks to quaint beach towns and bustling cities are within easy reach of the city, often via lovely scenic drives.

Now let's get to where you should go! Here are the 20 best road trips from Seattle, ranging from quick drives that take just a few hours to long-haul adventures that can last a week or more.

Day trips from Seattle

1. Portland

Distance from Seattle: 170 miles

Driving time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Where to stay: Hotel Lucia is our favorite place to stay in Portland, but the city is full of great accommodation options. Check out our top hotel picks in Portland, Oregon for a helpful shortlist of our most-loved places.

Sunset over the iconic Portland, Oregon, sign in downtown Portland

If you're in Seattle and you have a day to spare, consider taking a quick road trip to the Pacific Northwest's second city: Portland, Oregon.

Just under three hours south of Seattle , Portland is known for its artsy population, culinary prowess and quirky charm - three fantastic reasons to take a road trip here.

The city's unofficial slogan is 'Keep Portland weird,' so there's obviously no shortage of cool and offbeat activities to do here.

While you're visiting, make sure you hit up Powell's City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world.

Inside the Powell's City of Books in Portland, Oregon

And children will love visiting the Oregon Zoo - the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi River - where they can see lions, penguins, orangutans and elephants.

When hunger pangs set in, grab a bite to eat from one of the dozens of food trucks that populate the streets of Portland, then wash it down with a craft beer from one of the city's many local breweries.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Seattle to Portland, OR

2. Olympic National Park

Distance from Seattle: 110 miles

Driving time: 2 hours

A walker treks through Hoh rain forest in Olympic National Park, Washington

Setting off on a road trip from Seattle and spending a day in Olympic National Park is a little bit like visiting multiple countries all at once.

With its incredible variety of scenery, landscapes, wildlife, and even climate, it's impossible to run out of things to do and see here.

Amazingly, you'll find alpine mountain ranges next to pebbly beaches, as well as one of the largest temperate rain forests in the U.S.

Luckily, the park is just 2 hours by car from Seattle, making it the perfect day trip destination - as long as you leave early in the morning to make the most of your time!

Whether you're into hiking, fishing, skiing, bird-watching, whale-spotting, mountain biking, star-gazing or camping, you can do it all from this very park.

Bring snacks and go for a wander around the park, keeping track of how much wildlife you can see (bald eagles, black bears and mountain goats are just some of the creatures that make their home here).

READ MORE - Road Trip from Seattle to Olympic National Park

3. Westport, Washington

Distance from Seattle: 130 miles

Driving time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Where to stay: The Westport Marina Cottages are a quirky choice

The unassuming coastal town of Westport sits on a peninsula overlooking Grays Harbor, just southwest of Seattle. With its quaint charm and laid-back surfing culture, it makes for a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Seattle.

Plus, it's a haven for seafood-lovers on the hunt for the freshest catch.

Autumn is the perfect time to take a day trip to Westport. The weather may be a bit nippy, but it's peak season for Dungeness crab, a local culinary speciality.

And it's not only crab on the menus here; in fact, more than 150 million pounds of seafood are harvested here every single year including cod and razor clams.

For some family-friendly fun, bring a clam shovel and bucket to go razor-clamming on the beach. You'll need to get your razor-clamming license online first!

Then feast on clam chowder, crab omelettes and crab sandwiches at Blue Buoy Restaurant, a casual eatery that's popular with locals and visitors alike.

4. Mt Rainier

Distance from Seattle: 60 miles

Driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes

The snow-capped tip of Mount Rainier glows in the sunrise at Mt Rainier National Park

Another spectacular national park that's just a stone's throw from Seattle is the stunning Mt Rainier National Park.

This 236,00-acre park, which is centred around the majestic Mount Rainier, is a great destination for hikers and outdoor adventurers, who are drawn to its well-marked walking trails and breathtaking fields of wildflowers.

Mt Rainier National Park is divided into several regions, the most popular one being Paradise, which is open year-round.

Families, couples, and solo travellers alike will love exploring the ins and outs of Mt Rainier Park.

Start your day by embarking on the one-mile-long Nisqually Vista Trail, which offers awesome views of the Nisqually Glacier.

When you're feeling peckish, stop off at the historic Paradise Inn for a hearty lunch with a view.

Finally, go for a scenic walk to Myrtle Falls, a 72-foot-tall waterfall that cascades into a rugged gorge below.

5. Snoqualmie Falls

Distance from Seattle: 30 miles

Driving time: 40 minutes

Snoqualmie Waterfall in the Great Pacific Northwest

Who needs Niagara Falls when you have Snoqualmie Falls?

Just a half hour outside of the city, this enormously powerful waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the state, drawing in more than a million visitors every year.

It's also famous for being featured in the opening of every Twin Peaks episode - so if you're a fan of the TV show, this attraction is a must.

The roaring force of the waterfall is a truly spectacular sight to behold, producing a sound that's somehow deafening and peaceful at the same time.

Make a day of it by bringing along a picnic and having lunch al fresco, feeling the spray of the falls as you eat.

To get some exercise, you can leave your car at the top of the falls (parking is free) and then hike down to the bottom.

Have your meal down below, then brace yourself for the uphill trek back to your car.

You can also spend the afternoon exploring the many intertwining hiking trails in the area.

6. Ellensburg

Where to stay: Best Western Plus is the best choice out of a small number of hotels in Ellensburg

Ellensburg Washington Yakima River Panorama

Not only is Ellensburg home to one of the top 10 rodeos in the whole country, but the entire downtown looks and feels like an old Wild West set.

Step back in time with a wander down the historic streets, which are lined with charming and elegant 19th-century buildings.

The Ellensburg Rodeo, which began in 1923, currently attracts more than 600 contestants who compete for prizes of up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Take a road trip to Ellensburg in late summer to experience this quintessentially American event.

Ellensburg is also the site of Central Washington University, giving the city a vibrant, youthful feel, with plenty of cultural events and activities year-round.

Plus, its scenic location in the Kittitas Valley and protected by the Cascade mountain range is primed for endless photo ops.

7. Leavenworth

Distance from Seattle: 120 miles

Driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Where to stay: Go for the charming Bavarian Lodge with real German style

Christmas lights decorate the Bavarian village of Leavenworth in Washington State

Bet you didn't know there's a Bavarian village right in the heart of Washington state!

Why travel thousands of miles away to Germany when you can visit Leavenworth - nestled in 'the Alps of Washington' - which is just over 100 miles outside of Seattle?

This romantic and delightfully kitschy mountain town was modelled after a traditional Bavarian village, and it has all the fixings to go with it - we're talking pretzel shops, breweries, and a lovely Bavarian Lodge.

There's also a pretty epic Oktoberfest that takes place here every autumn, rivalling the main event back in Munich.

Unsurprisingly, the Christmas spirit here is second to none (A&E named it the Ultimate Holiday Town USA), so winter is another great time to visit.

With old school horse and carriage rides, a museum dedicated to nutcrackers, and a town filled with Tudor revival architecture, there's nowhere more festive to ring in the holiday season.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips from Seattle

8. San Juan Islands

Driving time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Orca whale breaches from the water in San Juan Islands, Washington State

To scope out some incredible wildlife and really get in touch with nature, set your Sat Nav for the San Juan Islands.

This wild archipelago is made up of about 172 islands and reefs, four of which are accessible by passenger ferry from the Washington State ferry terminal in Anacortes, which is about 90 minutes by car from Seattle.

The most popular destinations are San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island, each of which has its own distinct selling points and character.

As you might guess from the name, Orcas is a hot spot for whale watching - and, in particular, for Orca sightings.

In fact, the San Juan Islands is the best place in the world to see Orca whales in their natural wild habitat.

You can also catch a glimpse of humpbacks, minkes and even grey whales, as well as sea lions, porpoises, and harbor seals.

If you're staying for the weekend or longer, there's a huge variety of accommodation options on the islands, from luxury hotels and spacious rental homes to sweet B&Bs and inns.

The more adventurous among you can also opt to go camping or glamping in the great outdoors.

9. Whistler, British Columbia

Distance from Seattle: 220 miles

Driving time: 4 hours

Where to stay: The Four Seasons is luxurious and super relaxing

How convenient that one of the largest ski resorts in all of North America is right in Seattle's backyard!

Whistler, which is just north of Vancouver, is a beautiful ski town with a pedestrian-only village and an irresistible mountain culture.

With all this going for it, it's no surprise that the resort attracts upwards of two million people annually, with summer visitors just as common as those in the winter.

Some of the many activities you can get stuck into include skiing and snowboarding on Whistler Blackcomb in the winter, and mountain biking, zip-lining, hiking and kayaking in the warmer months.

Live it up for the weekend by staying at one of the luxury resorts in Whistler like the Four Seasons or the Westin Whistler Resort & Spa.

If you're a tad strapped for cash, rent an apartment or condo for a couple of nights and put some money aside to spend at one of the many world-class restaurants in town.

10. Columbia River Gorge

Distance from Seattle: 180 miles

Driving time: 3 hours

Where to stay: Enjoy the amazing views from the Columbia Cliff Villas hotel

Orange light illuminates the landscape of Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, at sunset

Designated as a National Scenic Area (the largest one in America), the Columbia River Gorge is undeniably gorge-ous (sorry, had to!) - so unbelievably beautiful, in fact, that it looks more like a painting than a real-life place.

And yet, this stunning 75-mile-long canyon at the foothills of Mount Hood and on the border between Washington and Oregon is very much real, and it's the perfect spot to spend a weekend away from Seattle.

Walk in the footsteps of America's original explorers Lewis and Clark by hiking along the gorge's trails, admiring the views from its many vistas, and gawking at its 70+ waterfalls.

If you're into water sports, you can also make a stop at Hood River - the windsurfing capital of the world.

Not only is the scenery beautiful in Columbia River Gorge, but it's also got an unbeatable culinary reputation, with farm-fresh dining and local wines at its heart.

To get the most out of your weekend, spend the night at one of the cosy hotels on the waterfront, like the lovely Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel.

Some of the suites there have their own kitchens, in case you feel like eating in and enjoying the views.

11. Vancouver

Distance from Seattle: 140 miles

Where to stay: Indulge yourself and stay at the Loden - the most luxurious and simply the best hotel in Vancouver

Hop from one city to another with a trip from Seattle to Vancouver , one of the most vibrant and exciting destinations in Canada.

Thanks to its diverse population, top-notch food scene, incredibly picturesque setting and countless other factors, Vancouver is consistently ranked one of the world's most liveable cities.

If you've got a weekend to spend in Vancouver, you can go shopping on Robson Street, sample the local fare at one of Vancouver's trendy restaurants, take in a show at the Orpheum Theatre, and sip on a cocktail at one of the cool lounges in Yaletown.

Other highlights include hiking the 10-kilometre Seawall around the city and getting lost in the 1,000-acre Stanley Park, which was ranked by TripAdvisor as the #1 public park in the world.

There's also a healthy variety of fascinating museums in the city including the aesthetically stunning Museum of Anthropology, the unique Vancouver Police Museum, and the Museum of Vancouver, which charts the history of the region.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Seattle to Vancouver

12. Whidbey Island

Distance from Seattle: 40 miles

Driving time: 1 hour

Wine connoisseurs and nature lovers alike will delight in Whidbey Island, a picturesque glacier-formed stretch of land in the middle of Puget Sound.

To get there, head to the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal 30 minutes north of Seattle and hop on a boat to the island.

The first stop on your Whidbey Island adventure should be Langley, a charming seaside village filled with little independent shops, cute cafes and an informative whale centre where they'll tell you all about the different species you can spot just off the shore.

You can also sample some local grape varietals at one of the wineries in town - Spoiled Dog is a firm favourite!

For more of the same small seaside town charm, continue onto Coupeville in the north part of the island.

Here you'll find lovely little restaurants serving up fresher-than-fresh seafood like juicy mussels and salty oysters.

And if you happen to be visiting in the summer, be sure to scoop up some local products at the Coupeville Farmers Market, which runs every Saturday from April through October.

13. North Cascades National Park: Diablo Lake & Lake Chelan

Driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes

The beautiful turquoise Diablo Lake in Washington state's North Cascade mountains

The water in Diablo Lake is so intensely turquoise, it almost looks fake.

In reality, the water's eye-catching hue is probably caused by the surrounding glaciers, which grind rocks into a fine powder called glacial flour that settles on the surface, affecting its colour.

However it got that way, there's no denying that the lake makes for a spectacular selfie backdrop, which is just one of many reasons to include Diablo Lake on your road trip from Seattle.

Diablo sits in the upper part of the North Cascades National Park, a massive wilderness of peaks, glaciers and forests, with nothing around but wildlife and a few backpacking trails.

It's one of the highlights on a trip to the park, as is a stop at the nearby snake-shaped Lake Chelan.

While not quite as bright as Diablo, what Lake Chelan lacks in colour it more than makes up for in entertainment, with tons of water sports on offer including jet skiing, kayaking, scuba diving and swimming.

At the southeast tip of the lake is the sweet city of Chelan, home to a handful of charming restaurants and lovely lakeside hotels.

If you're after a slow-paced getaway from Seattle, this is a great shout.

14. Long Beach, Washington

Where to stay: The Best Western Long Beach Inn is the best of the local choices

Kites flying against a blue sky in Long Beach at the Washington State Kite Festival

It may not be 'The World's Longest Beach,' as is proclaimed on an archway leading into the town, but with 28 miles of sand and waves, Long Beach certainly does live up to its name.

This lovely community southwest of Seattle is a classic destination on the Highway 101 route, which runs all along the west coast of the U.S.

It's also the site of the week-long Washington State International Kite Festival, which takes place every August, bringing in tens of thousands of spectators.

If you're planning a road trip in August, it's definitely worth timing your trip to coincide with this jaw-dropping event, which is quite the sight to behold.

Even if you're not into kite-flying, there's plenty to do in Long Beach.

To get seemingly infinite views of the coastline, hike up to Bell's View in Cape Disappointment State Park.

You can also get stuck into the beach lifestyle by strolling along the boardwalk with an ice cream cone at hand.

Another thing that sets Long Beach apart is that the beach itself is actually an official state highway, which means you can drive on it; but do so at your own risk!

If it's your first time driving on a beach, be sure to adhere to the 25mph speed limit, and stay on the wet or damp sand rather than areas where it's completely dry.

Longer trips from Seattle

15. Yellowstone National Park

Distance from Seattle: 740 miles

Driving time: 11 hours 30 minutes

A waterfall cascades from the wooded mountains of Yellowstone National Park

Not only will it take you at least a day and a half to reach Yellowstone from Seattle , but you'll also want to spend a few days seeing all that this 3,500-square-mile park has to offer.

To give you an idea of its sheer size, Yellowstone National Park is 2.2 million acres, which is larger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island combined.

That's why we suggest taking at least a week (if not more) to do a road trip to and around this fantastic example of natural beauty.

On your way from Seattle, stop halfway in Missoula, Montana, to experience the true meaning of mountain living.

This surprisingly artsy town sits in the middle of the Rockies, where moose wander freely and bears can often be spotted in local parks.

While you're there, pop into the Missoula Art Museum to see works from indigenous artists, and grab a drink at Montgomery Distillery, which serves up original cocktails and tasty single-malts.

Once you're in Yellowstone, there are a few highlights that you cannot miss, including walking along the Upper Geyser Basin and watching the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupt.

The otherworldly Mammoth Hot Springs, which sort of resembles a lunar landscape, should also be on your itinerary.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park

16. Walla Walla

Distance from Seattle: 260 miles

Driving time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Where to stay: The new Hampton Inn & Suites Walla Walla is great value and comes with a heated pool and hot tub

A flock of birds flow over a vineyard in Walla Walla, Washington, with the Blue Mountains in the background

Yes, it is ridiculously fun to say, but that's not the only reason to pay a visit to Walla Walla (it was so nice, they named it twice!)

With a rich history, a calendar full of lively cultural events, and more than 100 wineries, this area is like Washington state's very own Napa Valley.

Syrah is the top dog here, but if you're more partial to Merlot or Cabernet you'll find plenty of excellent wine tours and tastings in the area.

Cider and beer drinkers can also get their fill at the numerous breweries and cideries in town.

When you're bored of drinking, head into Walla Walla city to take advantage of the charming shops, attractions and restaurants - like the Wall Walla Farmers Market (open every Saturday morning) and the scenic Pioneer Park.

An added bonus to Walla Walla is that it's the site of Whitman College, which means there's a lively and energetic student population that keeps the city youthful.

If you do take a road trip here and end up staying a while, spend an evening at the locally beloved Gesa Power House Theatre, which hosts top-notch musical, comedy and dramatic performances on a nightly basis.

You can also take in an amateur baseball game at Borleske Stadium (Go Sweets!)

17. Glacier National Park, Montana

Distance from Seattle: 550 miles

Driving time: 9 hours

Where to stay: The Firebrand Hotel is a real hidden gem and is perfectly located

Logan Pass, Glacier National Park, Montana

Roaring rivers, dramatic mountain peaks, the world's only inland cedar rainforest… These are just some of the reasons to go on a road trip from Seattle to the spectacular Glacier National Park in Montana.

Known as the 'Crown of the Continent' due to its prominent position at the tippety top of the States, there really is something regal about this simultaneously pristine and rugged park.

Perhaps the best-known element of Glacier National Park is Going-to-the-Sun Road, a fantastically scenic mountain road that cuts right through the middle, crossing the continental divide through Logan Pass at an elevation of more than 6,500 feet.

Cinema buffs might recognise it from the scene in Forrest Gump when the title character is reminiscing about running across the U.S. and he says: 'Like that mountain lake. It was so clear, Jenny. It looked like there were two skies, one on top of the other.'

On your way to Glacier National Park you can stop in Ellensburg, Coeur d'Alene (see below) or Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake by surface area west of the Mississippi River.

While visiting, keep in mind that Glacier National Park implements a vehicle reservation system from May 26th to September 10th, from 6am to 3pm (at the time of writing). Before visiting, please check online to see whether you might need a reservation.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Seattle to Glacier National Park

18. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Distance from Seattle: 310 miles

Driving time: 5 hours

Where to stay: The Springhill Suites Coeur d'Alene is the perfect choice for exploring the area

Yet another lakeside retreat not far from Seattle is the lovely Coeur d'Alene, pronounced in American as core-duh-lane .

This little city on Lake Coeur is the perfect blend of small town charm and rugged nature, with luxury hotels sitting alongside rustic lodges and cosy campsites.

Whatever time of year you're doing your road trip, Coeur d'Alene will be a fun and happening destination.

In the summer the area is a natural playground, with cycling, golfing, fishing, hiking, wildlife-spotting and paddle-boarding on the lake all popular activities.

And if you visit in the wintertime, you'll be dazzled by the twinkling Christmas lights and decorations that adorn the city (it's one of the biggest holiday displays in the country).

According to legendary broadcaster Barbara Walters, Coeur d'Alene is 'a little slice of Heaven,' and as we all know, Barbara is never wrong.

To blend in with the locals, refer to it as the 'Lake City' or abbreviate it to CDA, its initials.

Make the most of your road trip by stopping in Ellensburg on the way (more on what to do in Ellensburg can be found above!)

A detour to see the scenic Snoqualmie Pass and a walk around the lovely city of Chelan won't add too much extra time either.

19. Mendocino, California

Distance from Seattle: 730 miles

Driving time: 13 hours

Where to stay: Try out glamping with a view at the Mendocino Grove resort

Now this is a proper road trip!

Totalling about 13 hours' driving time (plus a couple more, if you take the coastal route the whole way), a trip from Seattle to Mendocino will take you through some of the prettiest and most scenic spots in the Pacific Northwest.

Most notably, you'll be passing through some incredibly magical redwood forests, home to ancient trees reaching up to 300 feet tall.

The Redwood National and State Parks, which are about 9 hours south of Seattle, are a great place to stop and get out for a walk in nature. Read our detailed guide on the road trip from Seattle to Redwood National Park to learn more!

If you want to venture a little bit inland, take advantage of the wild beauty of Crater Lake National Park, in the southern part of Oregon.

Coos Bay and Newport are just some of the other awesome coastal towns to visit in Oregon on your way south.

Once you reach Mendocino, that's when the real fun begins.

This enchanted coastal hamlet is famous for its impossibly stunning cliff-side trails, sprawling parks, world-class restaurants and alluringly tranquil charm.

For a truly memorable holiday, make yourself at home in one of the luxurious resorts by the sea.

Complete the experience with a visit to one of Mendocino's many spas for a massage or other relaxing treatment.

You could also get into the bohemian California spirit by pitching up at a farm stay, where you'll be treated to fresh milk and produce grown right there on the property.

20. Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Driving time: 12 hours

Where to stay: The Landing Resort and Spa is a luxurious choice in South Lake Tahoe.

Crystal clear still waters and boulder beach of Lake Tahoe in California

Most people decide to fly it, but the journey from Seattle to Lake Tahoe by car is epic and awesome - especially if you love driving.

Sure, it will take you at least 12 hours one-way, but there are so many things to see and do along the way that it will feel like no time at all has passed by the time you reach the lake.

The majestic Mount Hood is en route, about four hours into the drive - the perfect time for a mid-morning hike and picnic lunch.

Another option is to drive south from Seattle for six hours until stopping in Bend, Oregon, for a break.

This underrated city is famous for its craft beer and coffee scene, as well as its stunning scenery (think roaring rivers, serene deserts, and awe-inspiring mountains).

You can get out here to breathe in the fresh mountain air and sip on a coffee, or book a room at one of the peaceful inns in town for the night before driving on the next day.

If you can, though, we suggest driving all the way to Mt Shasta on day 1 (8.5 hours) so that you only have 4 to 5 hours of driving left on day 2. Watching the dawn break on the mountain in the morning will give you all the motivation you need to carry on to Lake Tahoe.

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Pacific Northwest road trip goes through the Mt Rainier National Park

15 Road Trips From Seattle for the Ultimate Escape

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: June 24, 2023

Home >> USA >> 15 Road Trips From Seattle for the Ultimate Escape

With so many fantastic routes and diverse experiences through the Pacific Northwest, road-tripping from Seattle is easy for a little city escape or a big open-road adventure.

I’ve rounded up the best road trips from Seattle to help you plan the ultimate Pacific Northwest road trip adventure.

Whether it’s big cities you crave or you prefer nature escapes, there are so many options out of Seattle.

From some of the best national parks in the US to pristine islands or brewery hopping and shopping in the city, you’re bound to find the road trip you’re looking for.

While some of these destinations make great day trips from Seattle , I give you the rundown on how to expand them into an extended road trip adventure.

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips From Seattle

These are 15 of the best Seattle road trips (some are rated in the best road trips in America ), so you can plan a great adventure from Washington State’s largest city.

Columbia River Gorge

Distance from Seattle: 3 hours Recommended Time: 2+ days

Nestled along the border of Washington and Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful areas to visit near Portland.

Sunrise Over Crown Point at Columbia River Gorge.

It is the perfect road trip destination for outdoor lovers, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, nearly 100 waterfalls, and dozens of amazing overlooks.

Start your trip by visiting Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Then continue driving along the Historic Columbia River Highway to the popular Waterfall Corridor section. Here you’ll find dozens of waterfalls right on the side of the road.

If you want more, the area has some of Oregon’s and Washington’s best hikes where you can discover more stunning cascade ladened trails.

A great viewpoint in the gorge is the Vista House at Crown Point, where you’ll have amazing views of the entire area.

This road trip will start in Portland and end near The Dalles. After you’ve finished, you can return the way you came or head up towards Yakima and loop around.

A road trip around the Columbia River Gorge can be done in one day if you want, but to really experience it all, plan for at least two days.

North Cascades National Park

Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

One of Washington’s three national parks is nestled in the North Cascades mountain range. It’s one of the least visited parks in the country, but it is by no means any less beautiful than others.

View over a bright blue crater lake surrounded by forest.

North Cascades National Park is a remote wilderness area that is home to some of the most scenic hikes in Washington. You’ll find alpine lakes, roaming mountain goats, jagged peaks, and epic vistas around every corner.

Highway 20, which winds right through the park, is the perfect scenic drive to take in the views. Diablo Lake, as is Washington Pass Overlook, is a must-see pull-off on the road.

As for hiking, Maple Pass Loop and Thunder Knob are two of the most popular trails.

The best route for this trip is to head out on Highway 20 and drive it until you reach Mazama. From there, you can turn around or loop down onto Highway 2 back toward Seattle.

Tip : You can combine this road trip with a visit to Lake Chelan. See further on for details about Lake Chelan.

Olympic Peninsula

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour Recommended Time: 5+ days

One of Washington’s most famous national parks is found on the Olympic Peninsula, just a short distance from Seattle.

Views of green meadows, woods and snow capped mountain peaks.

Olympic National Park is incredibly diverse and massive. If you want to see it all, it will take quite a few days to cover, so this could be a great road trip from Seattle if you have a week or more.

The Olympic Peninsula is so diverse it’ll feel like you’re traveling through multiple destinations simultaneously.

Starting near Olympia, Highway 101 is a ring road that loops around the entire national park. As you follow the highway, you’ll come across rugged mountain ranges, miles of ocean coastline, and temperate rainforests.

A few of the best stops to make include the Hoh Rainforest, Ruby and Rialto Beaches, Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc Falls, and Lake Crescent. You can find some of the best hikes in Olympic NP here to help you plan your time.

Bend Oregon

Distance from Seattle: 6 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

One of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon is Bend. It’s the perfect outdoor adventure vacation destination . Situated right at the base of Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters, the city offers visitors endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature, including on some epic Bend hiking trails.

One of the best things to see on your trip is Smith Rock State Park, whose towering rock formations make you feel like you’re in the desert. There are also dozens of caves to explore nearby and popular waterfalls near Bend , like Tumalo, Sahalie, and Koosah Falls.

Mount Bachelor is a hot spot for skiers and snowboarders in winter, and the hiking trails are prime for snowshoeing.

When you’re heading back to Seattle, you could extend the trip slightly and visit Silver Falls State Park near Salem on your way north.

San Juan Islands

Distance from Seattle: 1.5 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

Located just off the coast of Washington in Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands sit between Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and Anacortes, Washington.

A ferry crosses the Puget sound at sunset.

The group of 172 named islands offers a unique escape for visitors. There are a few ways to get to the San Juan Islands, including a ferry, which is best if you hope to bring your car. The ferry port is in Anacortes.

There are many things to do on the San Juan Islands, and the activities differ depending on which island you visit. The most popular are Orcas Island and San Juan Island.

Whether you want to get out and do some hiking or learn about the islands’ history, there’s plenty to do. There are a variety of historic sites to see and dozens of outdoor activities.

One of the best things to do on the San Juan Islands is whale watching, where you’ll have the chance to see orcas and migrating humpbacks in their natural habitat. Although whales are present all year round, the peak season for whale watching is summer – June through September.

If you bring your car, you can ferry hop from island to island for a road trip around the San Juan Islands.

Mount Rainier National Park

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour 45 minutes Recommended Time: 3+ days

Home to the tallest mountain in Washington, Mount Rainier National Park is a must-see and a perfect road trip from Seattle.

Spring wild flowers in the foreground of snow capped Mt Rainier.

Mount Rainier stands at over 14,000 feet tall and is the dominating feature of its namesake park. You can admire views of the mountain from all over the park, including popular areas like Sunrise and Paradise.

A few of the most popular trails include the Wonderland Trail, which is a hike that loops around the entire mountain, Mount Fremont Lookout, the Skyline Trail, and Naches Peak Loop.

If you aren’t a hiker, you can still enjoy Mount Rainier by driving the scenic route, wandering around Tipsoo Lake, and visiting Paradise Inn.

There’s so much to cover around the area that visitors come back time and time again.

For a special road trip, you could pair Mount Rainier with Mount St. Helens, just a few hours south.

Lake Chelan

As one of the largest lakes in Washington, it’s no wonder so many people flock to Lake Chelan for their summer vacations. With opportunities to enjoy water sports or simply relax on the shoreline, this spot is well-loved by locals and tourists.

It’s the third deepest lake in the United States and sprawls for over 50 miles across the North Cascades.

While at Lake Chelan, be sure to check out Lake Chelan State Park, where you’ll find plenty more to see and do. There’s a sandy beach and boat rentals to get out on the water. A waterpark for the kids, wineries for the adults, and plenty of spots to kick back and relax.

Another option is to add Lake Chelan to your North Cascades road trip, as they are in the same area. You could then loop back around and into Seattle.

For a relaxing Seattle road trip, Lake Chelan is a great choice.

Leavenworth

Distance from Seattle: 2 hours 15 minutes Recommended Time: 2+ days

The adorable Bavarian village of Leavenworth is nestled in the North Cascades mountain range along Highway 2. It can be reached two ways – either via Highway 2 or I-90.

For a more diverse road trip, you could make it one big loop and come out one way and back the other.

A boy riding a scooter through the scenic town of Leavenworth.

Winter is the best time to visit Leavenworth when it becomes a magical winter wonderland around the holidays – it’s one of the top places in the US to visit at Christmas . Sparkling lights are everywhere, skiing is open at nearby resorts, and all of the small shops are brimming with perfect gifts.

During the summer, you can embark on the amazing trails nearby – the popular Enchantments and many other great trails are within 30 minutes.

You’ll find lots of people road-tripping to Leavenworth throughout the year, as it’s such a charming town with so much to do.

Portland Oregon

Distance from Seattle: 3 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

Why not take a trip from Washington’s largest city to Oregon’s largest? Portland is located right on the border of the two states, making it a great base to explore further.

If you like to explore cities, Portland has everything you could want in a city, from endless shopping, culture, and a celebrated restaurant scene. But it also has easy access to some of Oregon’s best outdoor recreation locations.

During your trip, wander around Portland, check out things like the Portland Weird sign and Powell’s Books, and don’t forget to grab some Voodoo Donuts.

Tip : You can also knock off two of the best Seattle road trips in one – pair your visit with a trip into the Columbia River Gorge

You might also be interested in driving to Oregon’s tallest mountain, Mount Hood. You’ll find endless hiking, amazing views, and three epic ski resorts.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming

Distance from Seattle: 12.5 hours Recommended Time: 7+ days

If you’re looking for a longer trip to explore outside of Washington, then a road trip to Wyoming’s national parks is a great option.

A gushing river through a gorge in Yellowstone.

Start your drive through Spokane and then down to Missoula before you enter Yellowstone National Park.

As America’s first national park, it’s a must-see. Yellowstone delivers wildlife in spades, from bison to bears and moose. The best place to see wildlife is in Lamar Valley.

Yellowstone also boasts a fabulous array of hiking trails for all abilities. You’ll find seven of the best Yellowstone trails here .

Next, drive down to Grand Teton National Park, which is almost connected to Yellowstone. Grand Teton is known for its jagged peaks and access to amazing hiking trails. A few of the best are Delta Lake, Scwabacher’s Landing, and Taggart Lake.

A stop in Jackson outside of the park is also a good idea to grab some souvenirs and watch the famous Western gunfight reenactment. There is so much to do in Jackson Hole ; you may want to stay a day or two.

After Jackson, you can head back the way you came or loop down into Pocatello and Boise, Idaho, before heading back toward Seattle. You could then also add a stop at Craters of the Moon and the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Distance from Seattle: 6 hours 40 minutes Recommended Time: 4+ days

A unique national park that should be on everyone’s bucket list, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, famous for some of the bluest water you’ll ever see.

Female hiker looking at Phantom Rock Crater Lake

Wandering around the park, admiring the water, makes you feel like you’re on another planet. The water is so otherworldly, it almost seems fake.

If you visit during summer, you can head down the Cleetwood Cove Trail and take a dip in the water, but be warned, it’s very cold year-round.

On your way back to Seattle, you have two options; head up through Eugene and Salem or through Bend.

If you go through Bend, you’ll find lots of great places to stop, like Smith Rock State Park and Mount Hood. Near Salem, you’ll find Silver Falls State Park.

Redwoods National and State Parks, California

Distance from Seattle: 8 hours Recommended Time: 5+ days

Another out-of-state road trip option is Redwoods National and State Parks in California.

Located right on the border of California and Oregon, Redwoods is one of a kind. It’s home to coast redwoods, some of the tallest trees in the world.

This is the only area in the world where you can find these trees, which is what makes them so special. You can drive through the scenic roads and admire the beautiful trees as they tower over you.

Another way to experience these majestic giants is to get out on a hiking trail. Some short trails will lead you through groves of redwoods where you truly experience their size.

A great option to make this trip even better is to head back to Seattle via the Oregon coast on Highway 101 for amazing views the entire way.

Mount St. Helens

Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours Recommended Time: 2+ days

Most well known for its 1980 eruption, Mount St. Helens is another popular destination for tourists in Washington. It’s the most active volcano in Washington, which gives it a unique lure.

Couple trekking around Mount ST. Helen on a grassy outcrop against the white volcanic mountain.

A visit to the Johnston Ridge Observatory offers unobstructed views of the volcano and the chance to learn about the history of the eruption.

There are hiking trails leading down into the blast zone from the observatory, allowing you to get closer to Mount St. Helens and see its real effects on the landscape.

Another great stop near Mount St. Helens is Ape Cave, the third longest lava tube in the United States.

For an extended road trip, loop around and make a stop at Mount Rainier National Park. This route will allow you to check off two of Washington’s most iconic mountains in just one trip.

Oregon Coast

Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours Recommended Time: 7+ days

While this road trip from Seattle doesn’t have a specific destination, it’s one of the most popular road trips in the PNW, and for good reason.

Aerial view of the Oregon coast line with winding coastal road.

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful regions of the Pacific Coastline. You can see almost all of it by following Highway 101 from Astoria to Brookings.

Start in Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the ocean. (this is where the Goonies movie was filmed). Then make your way south, stopping in small coastal towns like Seaside, Cannon Beach, Pacific City, Newport, and Brookings. You’ll likely even find a few hidden gems along the way.

A few notable stops that aren’t cities include the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Cape Kiwanda, and God’s Thumb.

You can return via Highway 101 or make your way through Eugene and Salem for a faster return to Seattle.

Eastern Washington

Distance from Seattle: 4 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

Although often overlooked, Eastern Washington is a veritable gold mine of hidden gems that tourists miss when they explore the Cascades.

White clouds over blue water and brown islands.

One of the best is Palouse Falls, a massive waterfall that seems so out of place in the desert. You can walk right up to it to experience the power as it drops over the cliff.

Another must-see is the Grand Coulee Dam, which features a unique laser lights show every night during the summer. Nearby is Steamboat Rock State Park, which has plenty of hikes to the top of the rock to admire the views.

If you’re a concert-goer, the Gorge Amphitheater hosts some incredible artists throughout the year right along the Columbia River Gorge.

There are many routes to take for this road trip, but all of them are rewarding.

Seattle Road Trip Wrap-Up

The only problem with planning a road trip from Seattle is deciding where to go. With so many unique choices, making that decision can be tough.

Luckily, there’s a type of road trip for everyone and every season, whether you explore the charming towns of the San Juan Islands or witness the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.

Dedicated to bringing you captivating stories, bucket list destinations, and off the beaten track experiences from near and far.

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Inspiration

Middle east, latin america, north america, the cascade loop – washington’s best road trip.

A Washington Cascade Loop road trip is one of the best ways to enjoy the incredible scenery, epic hikes and stunning landscapes that the state of Washington has to offer.

Whether you’re planning a North Cascades road trip or searching for the ultimate Washington road trip, this is my favorite area of the state to explore.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan you’re own Cascade Loop itinerary and road trip from Seattle.

Photos in collaboration with Quin Schrock

The Best Road Trip In Washington

This has been an undeniably difficult year for anyone in the travel industry. International travel from the United States is all but nonexistent. Plans have been canceled. Jobs lost. And for a long time, it felt as if there was no light at the end of the tunnel.

But by the time Quin finished his most recent van build in early September, some of the local adventures that had been lingering on my bucket list for far too long became more feasible. And there was one in particular that I had my eyes on!

The Cascade Loop Washington is a 440-mile scenic byway that winds its way through some of Washington’s most stunning regions. A good old fashioned Washington road trip seemed to be precisely what my wayward soul was crying out for.

The Washington Cascade Loop scenic byway technically covers nine different regions in Washington, but given our propensity toward outdoor adventures, I broke the classic road trip down into what I consider to be the best seven. While I’d never completed the entire Loop before, I’ve spent time in each region the loop covers, so I had a good idea of where I wanted to prioritize my time. With a loose itinerary set, the only thing left to do was hit the road!

Jess sitting on a bed in the open back of a wood-covered van with a view of a lake and mountains

Hanging out in the new van conversion.

The Washington Cascade Loop map, follow the Cascades scenic byway for some of the best places to visit in Washington State

Following the Cascade Loop: The Perfect Cascade Pass Itinerary

1. stevens pass green way.

As late afternoon approached, Quin and I headed north out of Seattle toward Highway 2 and its not-too-distant mountain peaks. The road follows the Skykomish River as it winds its way through the western slopes of the Cascade mountains.

Between stretches of dense evergreen forests, you’ll find a handful of tiny historic mountain towns, including Gold Bar, Index, and Skykomish, to meet all your road trips snacking needs. We stopped at The Espresso Chalet to quench my coffee fix. It’s the areas longest running espresso stand with gourmet coffee & espresso drinks located at Mile Post 36 in Index.

A dark wood A-frame cabin in a clearing surrounded by dark green, towering trees in Washington

Barkley Lake is one of the trails featured in my post about Easy Hikes In Washington That Are Actually Worth It !

A man jumping into a bright turquoise green lake on a sunny day. The lake is surrounded by mountains and evergreens

Quin jumping into the glacial water at Blanca Lake .

The Stevens Pass Greenway, a National Scenic Byway in its own right, serves up plentiful helpings of jaw-dropping views and hiking opportunities. There was no way we were leaving the area without sampling a few! We tackled Minotaur Lake and Lake Serene on this trip. But I’ve named a few more of my favorites below. Hikes in this area are extremely popular, so I’d suggest exploring this section of The Cascade Loop during a weekday if possible.

After a long day on the trails, we drove to Sky Haus for a much needed hot tub. The owner of this quintessential Pacific Northwest A-frame owns two other neighboring homes, all with their own unique cozy charm. All of them can be reserved on Airbnb or through the Tye River Cabin Co. website.

HIKE: The area around Index is full of excellent hiking opportunities. Easy options include Heybrook Lookout and Barkley Lake . For more of a challenge, try hiking to Lake Serene or Melakwa Lake. Minotaur Lake is short but steep, making it a good compromise between the two!

Oh, and if rock climbing is your thing, then Index is your scene!

STAY: Rent one of the Tye River Cabin Co .’s quintessential PNW A-frame cabins.

2. Leavenworth/Cascade Foothills

After saying a final goodbye to our little cabin in the woods, it was time to head further east to the quirky Bavarian town of Leavenworth. Yes, you read that correctly. Turns out, there’s no need to travel to Europe; you can experience a little slice of Germany right here in the Pacific Northwest!

In the 1960s Leavenworth was on the brink of extinction, so the town leaders gathered together and decided a drastic makeover was needed to revive the dying logging town. Inspired by the Alp-like mountains surrounding the town, the city went all-in on the Bavarian theme.

The result is an immersive Bavarian experience complete with seasonal festivities and all the sauerkraut your heart desires. Quin and I embraced the occasion with a stroll down Front Street and then stopped in at one of the many traditional taverns for some dinner.

Golden Larches above Colchuch Lake which is bright blue and surrounded by mountains. A woman hikes up the nearside hill.

The Larches above Colchuch Lake generally turn gold in early October. Wearing: Prana Pillar Legging , Rab Down Jacket , Keen Hiking Boots .

Jess sitting on a rock overlooking a turquoise lake surrounded by rocky mountains

Colchuck Lake. Wearing Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket , Keen Hiking Boots .

It wasn’t Leavenworth’s kitschy Bavarian charm or juicy brats that kept us in the area. We had our hearts set on revisiting one of Washington’s most beautiful wilderness areas – The Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Specifically The Enchantments.

Spending a night under the stars in the alpine paradise requires one of Washington’s most coveted permits. Unable to secure one, we decided to day-hike to Colchuck Lake. The first and most accessible Enchantment Lakes, Colchuck Lake, is arguably also one of the most beautiful.

HIKE: Any hike in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is bound to impress, but it’s pretty hard to beat Colchuck Lake. You won’t be alone at Colchuck, and again it’s best to avoid weekends, but it’s worth it to experience The Enchantments.

Interested in more information about Colchuck Lake? Check out My Favorite Hikes In Washington !

STAY: Post Hotel. I’m going to be completely honest here. . . I’ve never stayed at the Post Hotel. BUT if anyone wants to take me, I’m totally game! Seriously though, everyone – from the lady that cuts my hair, to old high school acquaintances, to former bosses – raves about this adults-only spa resort. That’s right, people I barely know are so excited about their experience at the Post Hotel that they feel duty-bound to tell me about it. So if you feel like a splurge on your Cascade Loop road trip, this might just be the spot!

What we did do is stay in the van.

3. Lake Chelan

Next, we were off to Lake Chelan. Easily the largest natural lake in Washington, Chelan is known for its fun in the sun. Water sports, beach parties, and a burgeoning vineyard scene combine to create a pretty ideal spot for warm-weather recreation just east of the Cascades. And while that may all sound like a fantastic time to many, this particular trip I had something a little more off the beaten path in mind – Stehekin.

Stehekin is a small village located at the far north end of Lake Chelan and only accessible by boat or float-plane. This remote destination, known as the gateway to the North Cascades, had occupied a fairly vivid spot in my imagination for years. Of course, the thing that makes Stehekin so appealing—its remoteness—was also the thing that prevented me from making the trip until now.

We booked round trip tickets on the passenger ferry run by Chelan-based Lady Express for about $68 each. The ferry leaves Chelan at 8:30 am and arrives in Stehekin about 2.5 hours later. Once we arrived, we checked into our private cabin at North Cascades Lodge. The Lodge isn’t fancy, but it has everything you could want!

After dropping off our bags, we decided to take advantage of a break in the piss-poor weather that had been stalking us for days and spent the rest of the afternoon paddle boarding out on the lake. The next day we rented bikes from the sweetest man ever at Discovery Bikes.

We rode up valley to Rainbow Falls and then stopped at the Stehekin Pastry Company to partake in some of their “world-famous” baked goods before catching the ferry back to Chelan at noon. World Famous might be a bit of hyperbole, but some really tasty goodies, none the less.

A woman sunbathing at the end of one of the wooden docks at Lake Chelan on a Washington road trip. The water is calm and surrounded by mountains

Having temporarily checked Stehekin off my bucket list, our departure felt more like an “until next time” than a “goodbye forever.” But only time will tell. If I make it back, I’d like to hoof it via the 26-plus-mile hike into Stehekin from the Cascade River Road trailhead near Cascade Pass in North Cascades National Park. It takes most hikers from two to three days – but I can’t imagine a better ending to a long trek.

HIKE: Rainbow Loop Trail or Hunts Bluff

STAY: North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin

4. Methow Valley

I’m not sure I can speak impartially about the next region on our Cascade Loop adventure. The simple truth is the Methow Valley, particularly Mazama, is one of my favorite places on earth. It doesn’t have the most epic mountains, awe-inspiring alpine lakes, or big views.

But there’s just something about it that keeps calling me back. Plus, all that other stuff. . . the EPIC stuff. . . that’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away! Almost entirely surrounded by National Forest, State Game Range, and Wilderness areas, the upper Methow Valley beckons adventurers of all kinds.

But before I get ahead of myself, let’s talk about Winthrop. Remember my little history lesson about Leavenworth? You know, the town that transformed itself into a thriving Bavarian-themed tourist destination?

Well, in the early 1970s, when State Highway 20 was nearing completion over the North Cascades, the fine people of Winthrop decided to steal a page out of Levenworth’s playbook – albeit with a slightly more WestWorld bent. They even hired the same architect and designer that Levenworth had used a decade earlier to implement their western-themed renovation.

A main street of a small town decorated in Western style with wooden arches and shop signposts that read "Fudge * Taffy"

The end result is an exceedingly charming town that preserves the old west mystique that is still part of the Methow Valley experience. Some of my favorite shops along Winthrop’s quaint main street include the Trails End Book Store, Gathered, and of course, Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe. There are also two friendly, well stocked outdoor stores, and an excellent bike store to supply any of your outdoor recreational needs.

Fifteen miles further up the Cascade Loop, you’ll find the small town of Mazama, home to my all time favorite country store. The store basically is the town of Mazama. Even if you’re not staying in Mazama, make sure to stop by the Mazama Store for some freshly baked bread or one of their amazing pastries. You’re gonna want a snack to enjoy while you take in the views on the next leg of the Cascade Loop!

A grassy valley in Mazama at sunset with mountains in the distance lit by sunset.

HIKE: Early spring brings a litany of wildflowers to the Pipestone Canyon Rim Trail. But not to worry if you decide to forgo a hike on this stretch of the Cascade Loop. The North Cascade National Park is just around the corner! Also, Goat Wall just up the road from the Mazama Store is a major climbing area. Stop by the Goatsbeard for climbing info.

STAY: There are so many unique places to stay in the Methow Valley, I couldn’t pick just one! For an off the grid, rustic experience, check out the Rendezvous Huts. For a more traditional Mountain Lodge complete with swimming pool and spa, the Sun Mountain Lodge is hard to beat. Or book one of renowned architect Tom Kundig’s Rolling Huts. If you want to stay right in Mazama, I’d suggest the Mazama Country Inn, Ranch House, or Freestone Inn.

Pro tip : There is no gas between Mazama and Marblemount 85 miles away. It is a mountain road, so you will burn more fuel than average, so make sure you have an adequate tank. The Mazama Store sells gas (and diesel) at usually the lowest price in the valley (pumps run 24 hours).

5. North Cascades

I could write an entire blog about the North Cascades. Or more accurately, I should write one! But for now, let’s just say that this is my favorite area of Washington.

Winding roads, historic fire lookouts, and layers of jagged peaks are only a few of the reasons this area has become world-renowned for its alpine pursuits. And while there are endless hiking opportunities, you don’t have to hit the trails to enjoy the scenery.

Highway 20 (commonly referred to as The North Cascades Highway or Cascade Loop Highway) slices through this formidable mountain range, bridging the dry arid eastern half of Washington with its evergreen western slope. And along the way, it offers up some of the best roadside views you’re likely to ever come across.

A small figure on a rocky outcrop overlooking a lake surrounded by rocky and green covered mountains in Washington State.

Enjoying Thornton Lakes before heading up to Trappers Peak. Wearing: Keen Hiking Boots , Patagonia Nano-Air Jacket , Patagonia leggings , and Osprey Exos Backpack .

Shortly after departing Mazama, we made our way up Highway 20 to Washington Pass. A short wheelchair-friendly, quarter-mile excursion takes you to an overlook with expansive views of the surrounding mountains dominated by Liberty Bell. You’ll also have a fantastic view of the hairpin turn in Cascade Highway 20 that you just drove.

From Washington Pass, it’s a short drive to either the Heather Maple Loop Pass in the North Cascades or Blue Lake trailheads. If you have the time, Heather Maple Pass Loop (about 7.5 miles) is the preeminent hiking trail (for good reason) in this part of the Cascades.

Otherwise, take the shorter trail to Blue Lake. Both can be very busy on nice weekends. I once spotted a Car2Go (out of Seattle) in the Maple Pass loop parking area. That’s three hours of driving each way in a car that charges by the minute, but indicates the popularity of this hike!

About 45 minutes further west on Highway 20, don’t miss the Diablo Lake Overlook! I’ve driven past this overlook probably 50 times in my life, and it never gets old. Plus, it’s a great place to stop and use the bathroom.

Looking down a steep slope to a circular, blue lake below. Mountain ranges on every side - Maple Pass Loop is one of the best places to visit in Washington State

Blue Lake in the North Cascades is one of my favorite easy hikes in Washington .

HIKE: There are too many options to list just one! Check out my Favorite Hikes in Washington for a few options.

STAY: If you want to stay somewhere along Highway 20, your best option is probably to camp. If you’re not set up for camping, then the best access points to the North Cascades National Park are either Mazama or Marblemount. The best one for you will depend on which side of the mountains you want to prioritize. If the hikes you are interested in are on the eastern slope, than Mazama should be your go-to. If you are more interested in trails on the western slope and around Cascade River Road, then Marblemount is a better option.

Pro Tip : A backcountry permit is required to camp overnight in North Cascades National Park. Call the Wilderness Information Center located in Marblemount at (360) 854-7245 the day of or the day before your trip to obtain a permit.

Highway 20 closes every year once weather conditions in the North Cascades become too treacherous to safely maintain the road. Although it varies every year, the byway generally closes sometime in November and opens in May. So, if you come between these months, you will NOT BE ABLE TO COMPLETE THE CASCADE LOOP ROUTE.

6. Skagit Valley

As you continue westward on Highway 20, the once looming Cascade Mountains will begin to fade in your rearview mirror as the landscape gives way to rolling hills and agricultural land.

The main attraction in this next region of the Loop is The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Beginning in March and continuing through May, the valley is one giant tapestry of blooms.

Unfortunately, this timeline doesn’t work very well with the seasonal closing of Highway 20. And for that reason, Quin and I skipped over the Skagit River Valley region on this trip and headed straight toward Deception Pass, and the final section of our Cascade Loop road trip – Whidbey Scenic Isle Way.

A field of purple, red and pink tulips in bloom.

Pro Tip : If you happen to be in western Washington during spring, the Tullip Festival is stunning and well worth checking out. With tons of local art and cute shops, the little seaside village of La Connor is another worthy addition to any Washington roadtrip through this area. And if you have a few extra days, you can hop on one of the ferries from Anacortes to the San Juan Islands.

7. Whidbey Island

Next to New York’s Long Island, Whidbey Island is the longest in the United States. Although it is 60 miles long, there are areas where it is barely a mile wide. There are a number of charming seaside towns, beautiful parks, and lovely water views with lots of exploring potential by car, foot, or bike.

Deception Pass is Washington’s most-visited state park, and it’s not hard to understand why. Rugged cliffs, secret coves, and emerald trees punctuate the shoreline far below. Stick around to enjoy the sunset, and you won’t regret it! If nothing else, make sure to park your car so you can walk out onto the bridge and snap some photos.

An aerial view of Deception Pass at Whidbey Island, a large body of water with some islands and a rocky, tree covered shore at sunset.

From Deception drive through Oak Harbor and in about 15 minutes you reach the adorable little town of Coupeville. Quin and I stopped at Captain Whidbey Inn for lunch, and if we hadn’t had the van I would have loved to stay there as well. Captain Whidbey harkens back to a simpler time and has an undeniably nostalgic atmosphere. Let’s just say it passes the vibe check. And it’s near my favorite hike on Whidbey – Ebey’s Bluff.

Another one of my favorite places on the island is Fort Casey State Park. Fort Casey is an immaculately preserved military installation that once protected the entrance to Puget Sound. Fly a kite or just lounge around the huge grassy area that used to be the parade grounds.

Climb around the old concrete gun emplacements and catacombs.The views over the Sound and Olympic Mountains are amazing (kinda makes sense). While you’re there, check out the picturesque Admiralty Head Lighthouse. All along the West side of the island, beautiful sunset views can be had.

Continuing south on Highway 525, make sure to stop at Greenbank Farm and pick up one of their delicious homemade pies. My favorite is the marionberry! Grab a fantastic sandwich at the tiny Greenbank Deli. If it’s a Saturday, the Bayview farmers market is next on the agenda. Otherwise, travel straight to the “Village by the Sea,” the delightful town of Langley. Wander the charming streets full of historic buildings, lovely shops, and eateries.

And that’s it! From Langley, it’s a short drive to Clinton where the Washington State Ferries leave every half hour to the mainland and the town of Mukilteo. From there, your only 20 miles north of Seattle on 1-5.

Inside a wooden cabin with log walls, a large window and a cozy style with wooden floors, rustic tables, rugs and a warmly lit lamp next to a blue sofa.

HIKE : Ebey’s Landing is a relatively easy 5 miles loop trail. The trail follows a ridgeline (with amazing water and mountain views) above the water before cutting down to the beach to close the Loop.

STAY : Captain Whidbey Inn on the north end of Whidbey Island or The Inn at Langley on the south end. There are also a number of State Parks for camping.

When To Drive The Cascade Loop?

Plan on completing The Cascade Loop between June and October. While the dates vary with the weather every year, there’s a good possibility that scenic Highway 20 and the North Cascades region will be closed between November and May.As is often the case with out of season road trips, Washington weather can be unpredictable and route or trail opening dates vary each year.

Additionally, due to their elevation, many of the best hiking trails in Washington are covered in snow during these months, making them inaccessible to all but the most experienced alpine climbers. The fall is a gorgeous time with all the colors in the mountains.

How Many Days Does It Take To Do The Cascades Loop?

The amount of time you should plan on spending on the Cascade Loop depends a lot on how many stops you want to take, how long you want to spend in each spot, and how many hikes you plan on doing.

Quin and I completed the Loop in a week. We didn’t feel rushed, but it would have been nice to have time for a few more hikes along Stephens Pass Greenway or in the North Cascades, Washington. By the same token, if you’re more interested in wandering around the little mountain towns and taking in the roadside views, you could probably complete the entire 440 mile Cascade Loop in 3 days.

Undoubtedly one of the best road trips in Washington, the Cascade Loop scenic highway is the best way to see some of the most awe-inspiring sights that Washington has to offer.

Jess sitting on a rock in hiking gear next o a blue lake on a sunny day. The lake is surrounded by mountains, some with trees on and some with a bit of snow.

Hanging out at Blue Lake in the North Cascades. Wearing: Patagonia Fleece Jacket and Danner Hiker Boot .

Please note that this blog post includes affiliate links from Backcountry.com . If you do choose to purchase something, I may earn a small commission – at no additional cost to you . Use JESS15 at checkout to get 15% off your entire first order! (*some exclusions apply). As always, all ideas and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own.

Thank you so much for your support! Happy Adventuring. – jess

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Hi, I’m Jess, an outdoor enthusiast based in Seattle. I grew up exploring the Pacific Northwest, and early on was infected with the travel bug. I tried to suppress my wanderlust in pursuit of a traditional career path, but after a short stint as a lawyer, I left the confines of my office to get back in touch with my roots. Now, I wander the world taking photos, making memories, and sharing my love for travel with others!

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8 Best Road Trips from Seattle

By Allison Williams April 6, 2021 Published in the Spring 2021 issue of Seattle Met

Highway 20 cuts through the heart of the North Cascades. Photograph by Mac Holt.

T he road trip is about the journey, never more so in a time when the faraway remains largely off-limits. Fortunately, Washington’s highways contain miles of scenic grandeur and peculiar history, telling us endless new stories through the windshield. For these routes—the state’s most stunning stretches of blacktop, plus a few detours on dirt—you will know you’ve arrived when you’re still moving and realize you never want to stop.

Jump to Your Route:

Moses Coulee / The Gorge / Palouse / Chuckanut Drive / Olympic Peninsula / North Cascades / Mount Rainier National Park

Beachfront Property

Long beach from seaview to oysterville.

Starting point: 170 miles from Seattle

Freeways have on-ramps, but beaches have access roads. Those in Long Beach, Klipsan Beach, Ocean Park, and Surfside Estates—a 13.5-mile stretch—allow cars all year long, but sections both north and south close April 15 through Labor Day (some open during razor clam season). Closed sections may protect habitat for snowy plover birds.

The best beach drives happen outside of prime kite-flying season in the summer, and with an eye on the tides. Try entering at Cranberry Road and heading north, avoiding the crowds of Long Beach proper, then circling back to town on regular roads for Dylan’s Cottage Bakery’s signature sweets.

Just because one can legally drive on the beach doesn’t mean one should floor it on the beach—a lesson often learned on the flat expanse of the Long Beach Peninsula, where the sand is, technically, a Washington state highway. Much, but not all, of the 28-mile Pacific Ocean frontage allows cars, though drivers must stick to speeds less than 25 miles per hour, with doughnuts and swerves through the surf prohibited.

Turns out that unlike, well, most every other state route and highway, the beach can be cut with streams that create tiny sand canyons, hard to spot when navigating in the dark. That little lip of sand can wreak havoc on the underside of a vehicle (yes, that’s personal experience talking). Particularly since tides partly dictate the rare open razor clam harvests, meaning sometimes the hordes of cars descend onto Long Beach in the middle of the night. Just know that the town of Seaview, on the south end of the peninsula where it links to the mainland, contains an auto parts store. Staff there see undercarriage damage regularly.

The beach highway’s novelty makes up for all its dangers. Several stretches of Washington coastline operate under these rules—Copalis up north even includes an airstrip on the sand—but Long Beach’s length outshines the others.

Long Beach is the state's sandiest road.

Image: cavan images by Jason Neuerburg

Moses Coulee from State Route 28 to Highway 2

Starting point: 173 miles from Seattle

From State Route 28 east of Wenatchee, Palisades Road dives straight into the coulee where it meets the Columbia River. After an unpaved section that crawls up the coulee’s side, arrow-straight country roads form the route before dipping back down into the canyon. Eventually the northward route meets Highway 2, a solid east-west link for travel to Grand Coulee Dam or back to Wenatchee, though a quick detour farther north on Jameson Lake Road continues the sojourn up the undeniably grand Moses Coulee.

Grand Coulee gets all the attention: one of the largest dams in the world, name-checked in a Woody Guthrie song. And while Grand Coulee lives up to its reputation, next-door Moses Coulee is the sleeper showstopper.

The story of Moses Coulee begins in the Missoula Floods of the last ice age, about 14,000 years ago. A gush of water from Montana scoured the landscape, exposing vertical walls of basalt in a wide gorge. The Channeled Scablands name may not roll off the tongue—and might be why the region rarely gets its due—but it’s an evocative and not inaccurate descriptor for the sharp angles and deep grooves of the state’s middle north.

Co ulee namesake Chief Moses (or Quetalican) of the Sinkiuse-Columbia tribe lived a remarkable life—he visited Washington, DC, twice in treaty negotiations and shook President Rutherford B. Hayes’s hand. Though the chief was likely born within the coulee itself, the U.S. forced Moses and his people off their ancestral lands, eventually to the Colville Reservation.

The Nature Conservancy allows hiking access to some of its 30,000-acre Moses Coulee and Beezley Hills Preserves.

Image: courtesy the nature conservancy / don macanlaly

Today small farms dot the perfectly flat coulee floor in the formation’s southern half, a few fruit orchards and tall windbreak trees around the houses. Otherwise, scattered sagebrush fills what feels like a long, thin rock quarry, one that stretches north 40 miles. Sections of the single road are unpaved, the washboard ridges of the hard dirt as even as the basalt pillars that form the coulee edges like ramparts of a medieval castle.

As this meandering, square-edged valley winds northward, mailboxes become fewer, and the final section opens to a nature preserve notable for protecting more than a dozen species of bats, along with the unique shrub-steppe habitat.

State of the Gorge

Highway 14 from camas to maryhill.

Starting point: 176 miles from Seattle

Though Highway 14 is an unbroken tether from one end of the Gorge to the other, it’s halted by stoplights and small towns along the entire route. Cities on the Oregon side dwarf most Washington settlements, but Stevenson, Bingen, and Lyle have restaurants.

Oregon and Washington each boast roads that trace the length of the Columbia River Gorge, two practically parallel lines on either side of the water. While Oregon’s Interstate 84 is faster, our state’s mostly two-lane road takes its time; the Lewis and Clark Highway was named for explorers who took more than a month to traverse this section of their Pacific expedition. The 90 miles from Camas, just east of Vancouver, to Maryhill can be counted in a series of spectacular riverfront state parks.

Beacon Rock State Park

How do we know the Washington side of the Gorge rules? Because the top of our 848-foot Beacon Rock, a volcanic remnant with a mile-long hiking trail, offers a perfect view of…Oregon. Plus, of course, the entire river, dotted with islands, and forests recovering from the brutal 2017 wildfire. Closer are the climbers who scale the rock’s northwest face—likely to the bemusement of the falcons that nest on adjacent crags.

Beacon Rock sits high above the Columbia River Gorge.

Image: shutterstock by hopeless traveler

Spring Creek Hatchery State Park

The fish born here offer little entertainment value, though the state hatchery next door offers free self-guided weekday tours. More thrilling: Windsurfers and kiteboarders perform water-top acrobatics on one of the best windy sites in the world. The park itself is tiny but an ideal spot for tearing into takeout from Everybody’s Brewing, just down the road in White Salmon.

Columbia Hills State Park

When the slopes above the river fill with balsamroot blooms in May, lupine flowers serve as bright purple contrast. The sight rivals any along the Gorge for pure natural beauty. Closer to the river’s edge, Horsethief Butte towers over a small inlet, home to Native American pictographs and petroglyphs.

Maryhill State Park

The charms of the Gorge’s placid eastern park lie mostly in its proximity to the area’s eclectic attractions: Maryhill Art Museum, in a mansion seemingly plucked from the English countryside. A replica of Stonehenge, an incongruous sculpture, lonely on an otherwise empty bluff. Tidy rows of fruit orchards, squeezed into a few flat acres between the Columbia and the rolling hills that rise as bald ripples, far into the horizon.

Forests give way to grasslands at the east end of the Columbia River Gorge.

Image: Mac Holt

Palouse Pretty

Highway 195 and state route 26 from rosalia to palouse falls.

Starting point: 291 miles from Seattle

From Rosalia, Highway 195 goes south to tiny Colfax, home to a modest downtown. State Route 26 then travels west through quiet farmland to Washtucna, where State Routes 260 and 261 make a southern hook to Palouse Falls State Park.

We can explain the deja vu: The undulating grasslands of the Palouse, bright with spring green under a baby blue sky, look just like Microsoft’s most famous desktop backdrop. But on any random mile south of Spokane, the farmland exudes a kind of serenity that no Windows product ever managed. The arched Rosalia bridge complements the rolling farmland, oozing pastoral calm.

The modest Steptoe Butte nearby would barely register if you set it against the peaks of the Cascades, but around here the triangular knoll towers over an otherwise nearly flat landscape. The quartzite underfoot predates the surrounding land by millions of years, a little island of bedrock sticking up among layers of newer sediment.

The Palouse, wedged between wine country and Spokane, can be a forgotten puzzle piece among the state’s more dramatic sections. The region stretches into Idaho, the swath of grassland best known for twin public universities and agricultural production. But placards in Rosalia note a darker history: An 1858 battle between U.S. Colonel Steptoe and united bands of Native Americans led to a brief Indigenous victory of sorts, before the military crushed rebellion against white settlement in the fertile expanse.

The miles southwest of Rosalia evoke classic Americana, the kind of picturesque barns and grain silos most often associated with the bucolic American Midwest. But detour south to the abrupt Palouse River Canyon and natural features assert themselves. For all the churning fury of Palouse Falls, a 200-foot cascade, it’s hard to imagine the river carving so deep a channel. And it didn’t—erosive ice age floods carved a gutter so deep, a river redirected into the shortcut, straight to the Snake River. Around here, nature plays the long game.

The rolling landscape of the Palouse makes for easy riding.

Image: Shutterstock by chanya thirawarapan

Chuckanut Buffet

Chuckanut drive from burlington to bellingham.

Starting point: 66 miles from Seattle

From Burlington, the most scenic route goes west on State Route 20 before heading north at Bayview Edison Road. After a dogleg through Bow turns the arterial briefly into Bow Hill Road, it meets Chuckanut Drive at a crossroads called Edison Station. From there, the drive moves due north.

The road that hugs the Puget Sound coastline south of the Bellingham neighborhood of Fairhaven spans only about 25 miles, but it presents a veritable feast.

Consider the small town of Bow near the route’s southern end, perhaps the best exemplar of bang-for-your-buck virtue—a whole small town of charm packed into a block and a half. Breadfarm Bakery, with its soft chocolate vanilla sandwich cookies and bread made with potatoes grown in the Skagit Valley, is a destination unto itself. Terramar Brewstillery juggles beer, booze, and pizza in one spot, and the Longhorn Saloon offsets the tidy boutiques and art galleries of the surrounding businesses with good old-fashioned fried food and local gossip.

Bald eagles seem to have a taste for this flat farmland too; so many raptors crowd the tree branches that it’s not unusual for a line of parked cars to form along the otherwise unremarkable rural Bayview Edison Road south of Bow. To join, simply pull over and gaze in whatever direction the binocular brigade faces.

A jammy Breadfarm treat.

Image: Olivia Brent

But north, where State Route 11 officially becomes Chuckanut Drive, it abandons the straight lines of a grid to trace the bumpy coast of Samish Bay. Only a few feet of waterfront separate the steep bluffs and the inland hills, though Chuckanut Manor—dishing cioppino and truffle fries on white tablecloths—finds room for multiple outdoor patios.

Tables are less formal at Taylor Shellfish Farms, where harvest facilities and a fresh market share weather-worn buildings between piles of discarded shells. The patio feels untouched by pandemic abridgment: draft beer from a Bellingham brewer and a ring of freshly shucked bivalves on ice, just as salty as the sea air. Eye a grilled dungeness crab over the wood fire pit and you’ll end up ordering your own.

Though the drive offers peekaboo views to the moody Puget Sound waters, a strenuous hike from the roadside earns you a fuller panoramic atop Oyster Dome. From here, the San Juan Islands emerge from the Salish Sea in a series of dark humps in the distance.

Back down at Chuckanut, the road meanders through Larrabee State Park—more hiking trails, more overlooks—before landing in Fairhaven, a funky enclave of bookstores and cafes, student-friendly burrito joints and upscale gelato shops. Though the road trip may be bite-size in length, the biggest risk is leaving overfull.

Chuckanut Drive ends in a charming Bellingham neighborhood.

Image: Shutterstock by darryl brooks

Olympic Fanfare

Highway 101 from port angeles to kalaloch.

Starting point: 82 miles from Seattle

The blissfully simple Highway 101 serves as the central artery for the Olympic Peninsula. Most detours mean an out-and-back trip, though the main route itself offers plenty of scenic pullouts. Port Angeles and Forks are the only towns with multiple services.

No one argues that the Olympic Peninsula stands as one of the few truly unmissable gems of Washington. A better question: What do we mean by the Olympics? The peaks, the beaches, the rain forests, the history—“all of the above” overwhelms, but the mighty 101 delivers an intro to each.

The highway makes a near-complete loop around the square peninsula, like a clock that’s only missing the six. That makes midnight, or the city of Port Angeles, the ideal launchpad. From the onetime gritty lumber town, Olympic National Park options immediately shoot off the highway into the interior. Choose your own adventure: Hurricane Ridge for snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows. The Elwha River for the reclaimed waterway where record-size salmon once spawned (and may again since its dam was removed in 2012). Or Lake Crescent, the state’s second deepest—so much so that the Space Needle could fit upright beneath its surface.

The hits keep coming. Sol Duc Hot Springs, where the hot waters feed man-made swimming pools but nearby falls remain misty, untouched cascades. In Forks, a longer detour follows the Sol Duc River until it meets the flowing Bogachiel and empties into the Pacific. There, Rialto Beach faces iconic sea stacks, partially eroded rock formations pounded by ocean waves.

Back on 101, a different spur south of Forks heads east into the Hoh Rain Forest, a mossy temple of old growth so peaceful that it’s home to the so-called quietest square inch in the country.

Finally, in less than 100 miles, the highway reaches the park’s most accessible ocean beaches. At Kalaloch, the dangling roots of a Sitka spruce, airy where the beachfront has eroded underneath it, draw admirers who call it the Tree of Life.

The ever-changing coastline at Kalaloch Beach.

Image: Shutterstock by Abbie Warnock-Matthews

Northern Composure

State route 20 from marblemount to mazama.

Starting point: 101 miles from Seattle

Marblemount serves as the last bastion of commerce and cell coverage on an eastbound trip; a smattering of restaurants dish comfort food. To the east, the orderly company town of Newhalem, mostly Seattle City Light facilities, gives way to tight road curves above the electric blue of Diablo Lake. Highway 20 barrels east before it descends into the ponderosa pine forest of the Methow Valley, home to the Mazama Store’s beers and baked goods.

The state’s absolute best road—a subjective distinction, to be sure—closes for half the year. WSDOT gates block North Cascades Highway at either end around Thanksgiving as monumental snows stack on the pavement. It remains shuttered through the winter, hibernating like the (very few) grizzly bears that roam the thick wilderness, which stretches in both directions.

Spring comes late to the high elevations; avalanches still release torrents of snow onto the route as crews begin clearing from the ends. The highway usually reopens by mid-May, once it’s deemed safe—and once guardrails busted by nature get repaired. It’s usually still a tunnel of car-high snow berms at the highest passes. Impressively, the 75 miles of single-lane blacktop deliver any month they’re open, even when it’s too chilly to erect a tent at the North Cascades National Park campgrounds scattered along its length.

Yet for all the natural beauty—glaciers and evergreen forests and roadside waterfalls—the drive delivers a lesson in energy policy too. Serpent-shaped Ross Lake is merely the latest incarnation of what was the Skagit River Valley, visited for 10,000 years by local indigenous tribes. Starting in 1919, dams created reservoirs now known as Ross, Diablo, and Gorge lakes to power Seattle City Light’s massive Skagit River Hydroelectric Project. Around 20 percent of Seattle’s power comes from the manipulation of a landscape that looks untamable from the road.

Save for Summer Seasonal closures mean some of the state’s high-elevation roads are off-limits in winter months; check wsdot.wa.gov for current conditions.

Glance north up Ross Lake for Desolation Peak, site of a fire lookout once manned by Jack Kerouac. Countless rugged mountains flash by as the route reaches scenic Washington Pass and rocky pillars called Liberty Bell and the Early Winters Spires; pull off at the signed Washington Pass Overlook, as the hairpin turn requires the driver’s full attention. Exit the car at every stop to take in the view, since nearly every lake, peak, and vista stretches far beyond the limit of a single windshield.

Highway 20’s scenic hairpin turn from Washington Pass Overlook.

Image: Andy Porter

Rainier Survey

National park roads from paradise to chinook pass.

Starting point: 107 miles from Seattle

From Paradise, Stevens Canyon Road heads east to meet State Route 123 north of Ohanapecosh; the Grove of the Patriarchs trail there makes for a stomach-settling short hike between windy stretches of road. State Route 123 goes north to meet Highway 410 at Cayuse Pass, and a turn eastward immediately meets two tight switchbacks before curving through Chinook Pass and descending toward the eastern foothills of the Cascades.

To drive Mount Rainier National Park’s perfectly scenic roadways is to marvel at the chutzpah to establish them in the first place. The routes slice upward into the high elevation mountainsides of Rainier’s alpine skirt, through meadows that have earned world records for annual snowfall. When visitation grew nearly tenfold in the 1920s, park officials mapped the web of roads we know today—connecting the south and east sides of the volcano—and began construction even as automobiles were still in the Model T era.

Expertise came from everywhere. Seattle’s Mountaineers club consulted on what natural areas should be made accessible, and one park superintendent brought road-building experience from a stint in American-occupied Philippines. Aesthetics remained key; workmen constructed bridges over Christine Falls and Box Canyon from concrete, then faced them with stone for a rustic look.

The Stevens Canyon Road, perhaps Rainier’s most stunning stretch of blacktop, links the park’s main visitor sites (Paradise, Sunrise, and Ohanapecosh). Its route of stone tunnels and high scenic traverses was one of the last bits of roadway completed, begun under the Great Depression–era Public Works Administration but finished after a break for World War II .

Mount Rainier on a clear night from Chinook Pass.

Image: Joe Tobiason

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Experience Washington's Ultimate Road Trip!

The north cascades highway (sr 20) is open for the 2024 travel season.

There's nothing like hitting the open road, cranking up the tunes, feeling the wind in your hair and taking a big old gulp of fresh air. And there's nothing like doing this on the Cascade Loop! From the salty sea air surrounding the Puget Sound, flowering fruit trees from Leavenworth, Wenatchee and Lake Chelan, acres of fresh cut hay and farmland in the Methow and Skagit Valleys, and miles upon miles of lush evergreen forest along the Stevens Pass Greenway and North Cascades National Park. This is the road trip of a lifetime.

Souvenir Passport Prize -- Congrats Kamthorn of Sammamish!

Collect Souvenir Passport stamps in your printed travel guide, and earn prizes, plus enter to win our Prize Package when you collect Passport Stamps from all 9 regions of the Cascade Loop!

The new travel guide is now available -- and the Souvenir Passport Game has begun!

Request your free 2024/25 Travel Guide and start planning your road trip!!

To learn more about the Souvenir Passport - CLICK HERE!

Find Locations to collect your stamps here!

Plan Your Adventure!

Winter can mean many kinds of weather on the Loop

Your guides to wildlife viewing, birding, wildflowers and more!

Relax in a cozy cabin or luxurious lodge!

Need-to-know information to help plan your trip around the Loop

So much to do when the snow falls!

Museums are special places that truly tell the story of an area in a way that no one else can, with complete authenticity.

Are you the kind of person who plans their itinerary in accordance to its proximity to killer food and drinks? We totally are and we've got a LOT of killer food here!

Grab some quality time indoors! Check out museums, tribal centers, galleries, live performances, or simply go shopping!

Some Visitor Favorites!

Regions on the Loop

Cascade Loop Scenic Highway: Best Washington Road Trip

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The Ultimate Washington Road Trip

The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway quickly became one of our favorite road trip adventures to date! We’ve embarked on some pretty incredible road trips throughout our travels – the North Coast 500 in Scotland and Ring Road in Iceland quickly come to mind. In fact, scenic drives are our preferred way to see the world! As you’ll soon come to find out, we take A LOT of pictures, so it’s nice being able to take our time and really enjoy the scenery as we travel. As one of the best scenic drives in Washington State, the views along the Cascade Loop clearly didn’t disappoint!

In January 2021, the US Department of Transportation designated the Cascade Loop as a National Scenic Byway . This scenic drive has now joined the ranks of such drives as the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway, and the Historic Route 66 as one of the best drives in the United States. Needless to say, it’s an incredible drive you definitely want to add to your US Road Trips Bucket List!

NOTE: Because of the uncertainty of travel restrictions and closures due to COVID-19, please be sure to check opening dates, times, etc. before setting out on your journey to avoid disappointment. And always follow local guidelines in regards to mask wearing and social distancing requirements.

Why the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway?

A few years back, we did a road trip around the Olympic Peninsula in Washington and completely fell in love with the region. As we started planning our next visit to the Pacific Northwest, we enlisted the help of our friend, a Washington native, to give us some suggestions. We already had a few days planned in the San Juan Islands in order to cross another item off of our bucket list – seeing orcas in the wild , so she suggested the nearby Cascade Loop Scenic Highway and boy, are we glad she did! Now that we’ve done the drive ourselves, we can wholeheartedly recommend it to you. So if you fancy scenic road trips like we do, you’ll want to go ahead and put the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway on your list!

Video of the Cascade Loop

Want to tag along on this ultimate Pacific Northwest road trip with us? Check out our video below:

Cascade Loop Scenic Highway

The Cascade Loop is a scenic 440-mile drive taking you past some of the most spectacular Washington State scenery! The journey starts in northern Washington near Everett, about 30 miles north of Seattle. Head east on Highway 2 and you’re on your way! Could the drive be done in a day or two? Technically, yes, but you would miss out on soooo much! We’ve put together this Cascade Loop road trip guide to 1) showcase the endless things to see and do along the route and 2) to convince you that this Pacific Northwest road trip is a vacation destination in and of itself! Our ultimate goal is to persuade you to start planning your own trip along the Cascade Loop in Washington, so by the end of this post, we’ll see if we’ve met that goal!

Don’t drive off with out checking out our printable Cascade Loop Destination Guide **. We summarize everything in this write-up and provide you with a customizable itinerary!

**Not only will you get our Guide to the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway , including towns, places to visit, things to do, and recommended lodging options, you’ll also gain access to our Tips for Driving the Cascade Loop , in addition to detailed (and recently updated) guides to Leavenworth , Manson , & Whidbey Island (all fabulous stops along the route)! We’ve also put together a customizable 7-day sample itinerary with loads of suggestions, so can you decide what you personally want to experience along the drive. Get your guide HERE !

In late September, we spent 9 glorious days driving and exploring the Cascade Loop Washington, and as such we were able to pack in quite a lot! Spending an average of two nights in each place gave us adequate time to explore the gorgeous Washington scenery. If your schedule doesn’t allow more than a week, you could stay in each of our recommended destinations for just one night, but you really wouldn’t want to spend any less than 5 days on the route. (Stay tuned until the very end to see our Cascade Loop lodging recommendations.)

Things to Do Along the Cascade Loop Drive

In this post, we’ll cover all of the wonderful things we experienced along the Cascade Loop drive! Because there is way too much information to cover in just one post, you’ll notice several links to other posts we’ve written from our adventures along the route. Hopefully this will help you plan your own Cascade Loop itinerary. So, without further adieu, let’s start the drive on this incredible Washington road trip!

Coming from Seattle, the road trip officially begins when you peel off from Interstate 5 onto Highway 2 in Everett . If you’ve got time to spare and you want to check out the Cascade Loop’s largest metropolitan city, stop by the vibrant town of Everett. We’re not big into cities, and we were eager to get on our way, so we skipped this stop. However, it’s worth mentioning that here you can visit the headquarters of Funko (one of the leading pop culture collectibles creators), stop by the largest public marina on the west coast, and choose from a variety of international dining options, and enjoy delicious local seafood.

If you’ve got little ones, you may want to stop by the Imagine Children’s Museum . The (stroller-friendly/wheelchair accusable) 1.75-mile paved Lowell Riverfront Trail provides views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainer, and the beautiful Cascade Mountains. Jetty Island in Everett is a small island accessible by a free (seasonally operated) public ferry. The ferry only takes about 10 minutes and is for foot traffic only, no vehicles. Enjoy wide sandy beaches and shallow warm water as you relax and watch for regional nesting birds.

Snohomish River Valley

Upon departing from Everett, you’ll pass through the Snohomish River Valley . If you already need a place to stretch your legs, you’ve got plenty of options here. The Centennial Trail is a 30-mile paved trail that runs along the old Burlington-Northern railroad line. There are over 30 pieces of public art along the trail. You can, of course, do just a portion of this trail. Another option for a not-too-long scenic stroll includes a 1.6-mile path that circles Lake Tye in Monroe.

If you’re into antiques, it’s important to note that the town of Snohomish is known as the Antique Capital of the Northwest . There are countless antique dealers, boutique shops, and wine tasting rooms all within a 6-block radius. Or if you’re more of a water enthusiast, be sure to visit the town of Monroe , further along the route, where you’ll find plenty of opportunities for fishing, rafting, and other water sports. They’ve also got a great weekly Farmer’s Market on Wednesday afternoons (late May-end of September) that is worth checking out. Got a need for speed? Check out the Evergreen Speedway . Got a sweet tooth? You’ll definitely want to stop by the Sultan Bakery in Sultan for a delicious snack. Also in Sultan is the Sky Valley Information Center where you can pick up maps, brochures, guides, passes, permits, and licenses for your journey along the Cascade Loop.

Gold Bar & Index

A must-stop in the town of Gold Bar is the Espresso Chalet (Milepost 36). Here, you will find plenty of beverage options and even more scrumptious eats. Don’t miss the opportunity to take your picture with (wooden) Sasquatch, marking the location where Harry and the Hendersons was filmed in 1987. Before you reach the chalet, you’ll have impressive views of Mount Index (5,991′) and just beyond the chalet are scenic views of Bridal View Falls (Milepost 35). For a close up of Bridal Veil Falls, embark on a challenging hike along the Lake Serene Trail and spur trails to a viewing deck that gets you close enough to feel the spray on your face. ( NOTE : A Northwest Forest Recreation Pass is required for trailhead parking.)

Speaking of waterfalls, you can also take a hike to the 3-tiered, 265-ft Wallace Falls within Wallace Falls State Park in Gold Bar. (Parking can be limited here, especially on the weekends, so arrive early.) If you’re into rock climbing, grab your gear and head to the Index Town Wall , a 500-foot vertical climb and one of nation’s premier rock climbing locations. It’s just a slight detour from the main route. Like trains? In the town of Skykomish , stop by the Depot Park and Railroad Museum and take a ride on the (free) miniature train. The mini train is modeled after the 1898 Great Northern & Cascade Railway and only runs on the weekends from May-October.

Stevens Pass

Beautiful Washington scenery is present throughout the entire drive, but the natural beauty really starts to pick up during the journey through Stevens Pass . In the early summer months, this region becomes a go-to destination for whitewater rafting. The pass is also transformed into a mountain bike park, complete with a scenic chairlift. Come late September/early October, when we visited, the leaves are beginning to turn beautiful shades of red and yellow. During the winter months, Stevens Pass becomes a popular snow resort destination. ( NOTE : Washington state highways can close frequently during the winter months, so visit the Washington State Department of Transportation website before setting out.)

Whether you picked up treats from the Espresso Chalet or brought some food of your own, a great spot for a picnic is Deception Falls (milepost 56). It’s located right off of the highway and offers great views of the falls in a lovely forested setting. Here you’ll also find a 0.5-mile (stroller-friendly/wheelchair accessible) trail to a bridge that spans the Upper Falls.

Leavenworth

After passing through the oh-so-scenic Tumwater Canyon , you’ll come to the charming town of Leavenworth , resting at the foothills of the Cascade mountains. Leavenworth is set up like a Bavarian village complete with alpine-style lodging, beer gardens, and a plenty of events and festivities taking place throughout the year. To read more about our two-night stay in this adorable German-themed village, check out our post about Leavenworth, WA .

Leaving Leavenworth behind, we continued on toward the town of Cashmere . Once in Cashmere, we stopped by Liberty Orchards , a candy factory where they make Aplets & Cotlets (fruit and nut candy similar to Turkish delight). Liberty Orchards has been giving free samples and free tours since 1920! It was a quick stop, but a tasty one nonetheless. If you’re into pioneer history, another noteworthy stop in town is the Cashmere Museum & Pioneer Village (open March through October).

The town of Wenatchee is known as the Apple Capital of the World and we could not believe the size of the apples we saw! Besides apples, cherries, and pears, the area also produces plump grapes which are skillfully turned into delicious wine. You can sample local wines, along with craft beers and handmade ciders at the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center and Tasting Room in the downtown National Historic District. Regrettably, we didn’t spend too much time in Wenatchee. Though we did peruse the Pybus Public Market , which houses a few shops and restaurants within a renovated steel factory.

After a quick bite, we relaxed along the shores of the Columbia River just behind the market, before making our way to our next overnight destination. Needing to stretch your legs during your stop in Wenatchee? More than 25 miles of paved paths make up the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail along and near the shores of the Columbia River. Other scenic places to explore in Wenatchee include Ohme Gardens (open April-October), offering stunning views over the valley, and the Rocky Reach Discovery Center (reopening late summer 2021).

Columbia River Valley

One of the many things we loved about this Washington State road trip was that the scenery was always changing! One minute we’d be driving through a small town in forested mountains and the next we’d find ourselves in a seemingly more arid environment surrounded by rocks, orchards, vineyards, rivers, and lakes. Once you reach the Columbia River Valley , you’ll leave Highway 2 behind and hop on to Highway 97 for a short while.

Lake Chelan is the third deepest lake in the US and is a major attraction along the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. The lake has 50+ miles of shoreline, and while the town of Chelan may be more well known at the moment, we’d encourage you to visit the equally charming (and less crowded) town of Manson , just 7 miles further down the road on State Road 150. We regrettably only stayed one night in Manson, but between driving the Scenic Manson Loop and taking a helicopter tour of the area with Lake Chelan Helicopters , we’d say we fit in quite a bit! Be sure to check out our post covering the Top 5 Things to Do in Manson WA .

Methow Valley

And wow, we thought the views were good before… the Methow Valley takes it to a whole new level! THIS is why you need more than just a day or two for this entire drive – you’ll want to keep pulling over to take pictures of the beautiful Washington scenery. Stay alert and keep your eyes peeled – this region is a wildlife corridor. You may see deer, bald eagles, osprey, and more! Also, on a clear night in the Methow Valley, the stargazing will blow your mind!

Twisp is the Methow Valley’s largest town and is also considered to be the arts and cultural center of the region. The downtown is quite quaint and you’ll find creative pieces of artwork all over the town. Stop by the Confluence Gallery and Art Center to enjoy rotating art exhibits. And if you need a pick-me-up for the drive, don’t miss a stop at Blue Star Coffee , as both their coffee and iced chai tea are delicious!

What would the arts center of the region be without a collection of artisan studios? Be sure to swing into TwispWorks , a 6+ acre campus supporting creativity, innovation, education, and the economic vitality of the community. Located right next to TwispWorks is the Methow Valley Interpretive Center , in case you’re interested in learning more about the surrounding area.

Just a few minutes down the road from Twisp, you’ll pass over the Spring Creek Bridge and cross into the western-themed town of Winthrop . The Discovery Ponds and Twisp Park Riverwalk are both nice paths to explore if you’re looking for a leisurely place to stroll near town.

In Winthrop, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time to the old Wild West as you stroll along the wooden boardwalks past several storefronts still maintaining their 1890 facades. It’s a cute town to explore complete with plenty of dining options (pubs and restaurants), outfitter stores, boutiques, and bakeries. ( NOTE : Many business in Winthrop are closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. Also, there is a seasonal Farmer’s Market (April-October) that takes place in Winthrop on Saturdays, but know that the weekends can attract a lot of visitors.)

The main drag is easily walkable with many interesting places to explore. If you couldn’t already tell, we love our sweets, so we’d be remiss if we didn’t recommend a visit to Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe . And if, like us, you consume a lot calories during your visit, don’t fret – there are plenty of places nearby to hike, bike, and rock climb (for the super adventurous)! Stop by the Methow Trails Office in downtown Winthrop for trail maps and permits.

And oh man, does this drive just keep getting better and better! We left the charming town of Winthrop behind and headed out on the ridiculously scenic North Cascades Highway (also known as Highway 20 Washington State).

Heather Maple Pass

Even with 9 full days on the route, we didn’t leave much time for hiking. We had read about Heather Maple Pass Loop being one of the best hikes in the North Cascades and knew that this had to be our one big hiking adventure along the route. It was a longer and more strenuous hike than we were used to (7+miles, 2,000-ft elevation gain), but none of that really mattered when we were taking in the incredible views! For a more detailed look at our hike, check out our Maple Pass Loop post.

North Cascades Highway

Wow. Wow. Wow. There isn’t much more we can say about the insanely gorgeous scenery along the North Cascades Highway , other than be prepared to be AMAZED! It is recommended that you travel the Cascade Highway Loop in a counter-clockwise direction, as the eastern approach into this region is not nearly as impressive when driving from west to east.

Also, another thing we should definitely mention regarding the North Cascades Scenic Highway is that the road closes each year (at milepost 171, west of Mazama, to milepost 134, east of Diablo) from mid November/December to around April. The exact dates can vary from year to year, depending upon the amount of snowfall, so again be sure to visit the Washington State Department of Transportation website for up-to-date information regarding Washington highway closures. ( NOTE : For reference – this past season, the North Cascades Highway closed on November 13, 2020 and reopened on May 5 in 2021.)

A special thanks to Mitsubishi for loaning us a brand new Outlander Sport to test drive on our road trip. It turned out to be the perfect road trip companion, offering a smooth ride and handling the curves beautifully! The panoramic glass roof was ideal for gazing up at the towering mountains overhead.

For one of the most iconic views along the Cascade mountain loop, be sure to stop off at the Washington Pass Overlook . Here you’ll have breathtaking views of the Cascade mountain range, including Liberty Bell Peak, Early Winters Spires, and the Methow Valley, along with the winding North Cascade Loop below. Several of these majestic peaks rise over 9,000 feet!

North Cascades National Park

Marblemount

The only stop we made in Marblemount was at the Wildwood Chapel , across the street from The Eatery . We met a couple earlier in the day (they graciously took our picture at the North Cascades National Park sign) who told us about this little hidden gem, so we had to stop and have a look for ourselves. The chapel is so tiny and probably holds no more than 10 people! Remember, Marblemount is where you can again fuel up, if you’re running low on gas. Of course, if you’re driving an electric vehicle, be sure to make note of electric vehicle charging stations along the route.

Another stop recommended to us was Cascadian Farm in Rockport . Funny enough we knew of Cascadian Farm because of their organic granola bars and cereals sold in grocery stores, but we had no idea we’d be passing right by their farm stand. Of course we had to stop in to have a look at their (seasonal) pumpkin patch and to sample their homemade ice cream! ( NOTE : Cascadian Farm and U-Pick will be closed for the summer 2021 season.)

A few miles down the road from the farm is a wonderful park perfect for having a picnic and doing some bird-watching along the scenic Skagit River . Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, great blue herons, and osprey.

There isn’t a whole lot to do in the town of Concrete , though we did come upon 5b’s (a gluten-free bakery) and a cool abandoned train car. This more or less officially concluded our drive along the Cascade Loop WA. However, we have one more incredible place to tell you about!

Whidbey Island

Most people will finish their drive along the Cascade Loop with a stay on Whidbey Island . We did the drive a little out of order and actually started along the route on Whidbey. Because the first part of our Washington trip included a visit to the San Juan Islands , it made more sense for us to visit Whidbey Island first, then continue on the route toward Leavenworth . Since most travelers end on Whidbey, we saved it until the end of our post. To read more about our time on the island, check out our post What to Do on Whidbey Island .

Did you enjoy these recommendations? Be sure to download our Cascade Loop Destination Guide to take with you, so you don’t miss any of these wonderful stops!

Heading to Olympic National Park with kids? You’ll definitely want to check out our other site ScavengerHuntKid.com where you can access our one-of-a-kind Olympic National Park Scavenger Hunt . We have a whole collection of national park scavenger hunts, along with an abundance of exciting indoor, outdoor, road trip, and other destination specific scavenger hunts.

Cascade Loop Lodging

We know this post is getting long and thanks for sticking with it! We hope it’s been helpful! Rather than putting together a completely separate post on where we stayed during the drive, we wanted to quickly highlight our picks for Cascade Loop lodging.

Hotel Pension Anna – Leavenworth

Hotel Pension Anna offers 16 unique rooms adorned with traditional furnishings and décor imported from both Germany and Austria. Start the morning with a Bavarian-style breakfast and experience authentic Bavarian lodging in Leavenworth.

Mountain View Lodge & Resort – Manson

Mountain View Lodge is a 31-room boutique-style hotel with all of the modern luxuries of a resort, including plush bath robes, a refreshing pool, a soothing hot tub, community BBQ grills, and an inviting fire-pit! It’s also pet-friendly if you’re traveling with your furry friend(s)!

Mazama Country Inn – Mazama

Mazama Country Inn is located less than 30 minutes from the Maple Pass Loop trailhead and directly behind the Mazama Store. They offer 18 guestrooms at their cozy inn and have 30 privately owned vacation homes throughout the Mazama area. Without TVs or telephones in the rooms, it’s the perfect place to connect with nature.

North Cascades Environmental Learning Center – Lake Diablo

For a truly unique lodging experience, stay in dorm-style housing at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center within North Cascades National Park. It’s like summer camp for adults (of course, kids are welcome too)! Access miles and miles of hiking trails right at your doorstep.

Garden Isle Cottages – Whidbey Island

Garden Isle Cottages in Coupeville on Whidbey Island offers two cozy garden cottages, along with a three-bedroom home. Take a dip in the hot tub, relax on the garden swing, and take a walk into Coupeville’s historic downtown area.

So… have we met our ultimate goal?! Did we persuade you to start planning your own trip along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway ? If so, check out our Cascade Loop planning guide where we summarized this post and provide you with a customizable itinerary! Hopefully, now you can see why one or two days simply isn’t enough. With so much to do and see along the route, it’s clear as to why the loop drive can be a vacation destination all by itself. And keep in mind… we’ve only listed the sights and activities we personally did on the drive. If you can believe it, there’s even more to discover on this incredible Washington road trip!

FAQs About the Washington Cascade Loop

Where does the Cascade Loop begin?

The Cascade Loop officially begins when you turn onto Highway 2 from Interstate 5 in Everett, Washington , about 30 miles north of Seattle.

What is the closest airport to the Cascade Loop?

Seattle (Sea-Tac) International Airport is the largest and closest airport to the start of the drive. You can also utilize Pangborn Memorial Airport in Wenatchee or Paine Field Passenger Terminal in Everett.

What is the Cascade Loop distance?

The Cascade Loop is a scenic 440-mile drive along Highway 2, Highway 97, and Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway) in Washington State. The scenic drive also includes a slight detour on State Road 150 to Manson, WA.

Which direction should I travel on the Cascade Loop?

It is recommended that you travel counterclockwise on the loop for some of the most iconic views!

How long does it take to drive the Cascade Loop?

Some may say you can do the drive in as little as 2 days. Of course, you’d be missing out on so much! Plus, that’s over 200 miles a day! We would recommend no less than 4 days for the drive and at least a week if you can afford the time.

When is the North Cascade Highway open?

The North Cascades Scenic Highway (Highway 20) is open typically from mid-late April to mid-November or early December. The exact dates can vary from year to year, depending upon the winter weather (i.e. – the amount of snowfall the region experiences). Visit the Washington State Department of Transportation website for up-to-date information regarding road closures.

FINAL TIPS FOR DRIVING THE CASCADE LOOP HIGHWAY

Check the Washington State Department of Transportation website for up-to-date information regarding Washington highway closures.
Because lodging can be somewhat limited along parts of the drive, you’re encouraged to make reservations ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
If you drive an electric car, it’s important to know where to find charging stations along the route .
Though entrance into North Cascades National Park is free, you’ll want to look into picking up a Northwest Forest Recreation Pass or Discover Pass if you plan to hike, camp, or access forest lands or parks.
For the most comprehensive information about the route, please visit the Cascade Loop website . Also, be sure to order your FREE Cascade Loop Travel Guide ! (The 2021-2022 guide is now available!)
Oh, and don’t forget your camera! 😉

We’d like to thank the following for their support during our drive along the Cascade Loop: The Cascade Loop Association , Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce , Hotel Pension Anna (Leavenworth), Leavenworth Ziplines , Mountain View Lodge & Resort (Manson), Lake Chelan Helicopters , Mazama Country Inn , The North Cascades Institute – Environmental Learning Center , Whidbey & Camano Island Tourism , Garden Isle Cottages (Whidbey Island) and Mazda . As always, all write-ups are an accurate reflection of the experiences we had.

16 Comments

I’ve been to the North Cascades on a road trip through the US but otherwise haven’t seen too much of Washington. Thanks for the great tips! I’m moving to Vancouver Island after Christmas so will definitely pin this for reference!

Oooh, you will love this drive then! You’ll also have to check out the San Juan Islands, as well, if you haven’t already!

Thanks for the great tips.

My husband & I have only 5 days after flying from Australia & before heading off on a cruise. We did the Olympic Peninsula last time & I was thinking of going back as I just loved the greenness of the area but your post has swayed me to see this section of Washington State instead. Thanks for helping make up our minds. We won’t be able to fit in the islands but the Cascade Loop looks great. Best wishes lyndal & Ian

Oh yay! We too LOVED the Olympic Peninsula, but also really enjoyed this drive as well! Washington State is so gorgeous! Glad we could introduce you to a new region; hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Planning to drive the loop this May! Will also try to squeeze in Olympic Peninsula. I’d love to see an Orca somewhere though (BUCKET LIST!) but I think that’d have to be near San Juan Islands and I don’t know how we could fit that in with (or even without) the Peninsula! We’ll arrive on a Friday evening in Seattle and depart the following week’s Saturday morning, so we’ll have 7 days to drive.

Hi Bridget! Orcas have been seen off the coast of Whidbey Island, which is a part of the Cascade Loop, so who knows… you may get lucky! Choosing between visiting the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Peninsula is a tough call. I honestly don’t think you’d have time to do the Cascade Loop, the Olympic Peninsula, and the San Juan Islands. Like us, you’ll probably return to Washington State again and again because there is just so much to discover! Now you’re making ME want to go back to Washington!

What a great post! We are going to Seattle for the first time April 6-13 and have been doing a lot of research on things to do. I’m finding a lot of the roads are still closed this time of year. Is this road open? What part of the loop did you enjoy the most? So far, we are taking a ferry to the Orcas for a day, doing Skagit Valley for the tulips & Leavenworth. Any other suggestions? Thanks, Teresa

Hi Teresa. Unfortunately there’s a good chance the Cascade Highway will still be closed during your trip. For the past several years, the road has never been open that early. To provide some insight for you, the road has reopened on the following dates: May 11 (2018), May 16 (2017), April 22 (2016), April 3 (2015), May 8 (2014). As far as our favorite part of the Loop, I hate to say, it was actually the Cascade Highway (which will most likely still be closed during your visit). We still thoroughly enjoyed our time on the rest of the Loop, particularly Leavenworth and Whidbey Island… and our detour to the San Juan Islands. I’d recommend spending at least a night on Orcas Island, as you might feel rushed only doing it as a day trip. And definitely spend some time in Leavenworth and around Lake Chelan, if time allows. No matter what you do, it will be a wonderful trip. The PNW holds a special place in our hearts and we can’t wait to get back there!

This looks amaZing! So, it looks like you did 4 nights along the route……would you recommend staying longer or a few more nights in certain parts before we plan for next summer? Thanks! Can’t wait – your review makes it so exciting to think about!

We actually did 8 nights along the route – we stayed in Leavenworth for 2 nights, Manson 1 night, Mazama 1 night, Diablo Lake 2 nights, and 2 nights on Whidbey Island. I certainly wouldn’t recommend any less than 4 nights along the route. Try to do longer if time allows. There is so much to see and do and you don’t want to spend your entire journey in the car! It really just depends on how much time you have and what you want to do along the way! Of course I’m going to plug the 16-page destination guide I created for the Cascade Loop, which includes a ‘create your own itinerary’ checklist that might be of great value when planning your trip! Get your guide here -> https://forgetsomeday.com/cascade-loop-scenic-highway-destination-guide/ .

Thanks for all your great tips!!! can’t wait to visit this fall.

You are so welcome! Have a wonderful time on ‘The Loop’!

totally the best road trip! 100%

What a great blog. My girlfriend and I are taking a week to drive the loop after a cruise to Alaska. You have provided valuable information about the entire loop that we can use. Thank you!!

That’s wonderful to hear. Enjoy your cruise and your trip around the loop!

Washington Road Trip: Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic National Parks

By: Author Robyn Robledo

Posted on Last updated: March 3, 2024

There is so much to see and many adventures to be had on this Washington road trip from Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic National Parks. We love the Pacific Northwest and have had a ton of great adventures exploring this part of Washington over the past 7 years of full-time RV living with our 5 kids .

Can’t Miss Things In Mount Rainier, North Cascades, & Olympic National Park

My top favorites of this Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic National Parks road trip that you don’t want to miss are:

Hiking to Panorama Point from Paradise Visitor in Mount Rainier National Park and Mount Fremont on the Sunrise side of the park
Snap a pic of Liberty Bell from Washington Pass viewpoint, hiking Maple Pass just east of North Cascades National Park, and views of Ross Lake
Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park, camping a Kalaloch, and hiking out to Second Beach in La Push

Mount Rainier to Olympic to North Cascades Road Trip

Planning Your Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic National Parks Road Trip

Best time for a mount rainier to north cascades to olympic national park road trip.

July and August are the best months for this Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic National Park road trip because they are the driest and warmest months. Plus, this is the best time to see wildflowers in the Sunrise area of Mount Rainier National Park.

Mount Rainier is open year-round , you can only drive from the southwest entrance to Paradise. While this would still provide you with incredible views of this 14,000-foot volcano, you wouldn’t be able to hike in the winter and even in the spring you’d need ice spikes or crampons.

Olympic National Park in northwest Washington’s temperate rainforest remains accessible year-round, except for the winter closure of Hurricane Ridge Road. Remember, this vast park boasts diverse topography, ensuring a range of conditions even during summer visits.

The road from Colonial Creek campground closes from November to May, limiting access to North Cascades’ beauty.

Average Highs & Lows in Mount Rainier, North Cascades & Olympic National Parks

Average high & lows in North Cascades NP
Average highs & lows in Mount Rainier NP
Average Highs & lows in Olympic NP

Common Questions About A Washington Road Trip

It’s a little over 200 miles from Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier to North Cascades Visitor Center if you go the most direct way via Seattle. Although, I recommend the scenic route (see blog below).

It’s a little under 200 miles from Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier to the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles.

Mount Rainier has more to do and see in our opinion, however, the area outside of North Cascades National Park (particularly the east side) is prettier, less crowded, and has a lot to do and explore.

I would personally prioritize Mount Rainier, then Olympic, then if you have the time, add in North Cascades. However, I also really love the towns of Leavenworth, Chelan, and Winthrop (which are east of North Cascades) and if you do this section of road trip, you may as well add in North Cascades.

Seattle or Tacoma are easier to find flights and rental cars but Everett or Bellingham are smaller airports, which I prefer because they are easier and less crowded.

I personally wouldn’t want to drive my 42-foot 5th wheel through these National Parks. I would look for a campgrounds on the west side of Mount Rainier & North Cascades so that I wouldn’t have to drive over the passes by these two national parks. Driving through Olympics is much easier with a big rig, but it would also be easy to base camp in Port Angeles and do day trips.

Other Stops To Consider

Leavenworth (Hike The Enchantments )

Lake Chelan

Mount Baker
Snoqualmie Falls

Tips For Visiting Mount Rainier National Park

Of the three parks, Mount Rainier is my favorite. From the mid-summer wildflowers and waterfalls to the green meadows and alpine lakes, Mount Rainier is sure to be a place you love too.

It’s a much smaller park that you can drive almost all the way around in the summer. But because it’s close to Seattle, it’s also the most crowded.

Starting from the west, you’ll want to stop at Longmire, stop by the visitor center to learn about the area and do the easy Trail of the Shadows hike before heading up the beautiful windy road to Paradise.

Related Blog: 11 Tips for Planning Your Mount Rainier Trip

If you loop this road trip or drive out to Sunrise, you may want to add in Crystal Mountain ski resort and ride the gondola to the top.

Best Hikes in Mount Rainier
Panorama Point via Skyline Trail
Mt Fremont Overlook
Pinnacle Peak

Related Blog: Best Hikes in Mount Rainer

Where to Stay or Camp in Mount Rainier

2 of the 3 developed campgrounds in Mt. Rainier offer reservations. I love staying at Cougar Rock but if you have a big RV, you may want to camp down near Ashford. I also love how beautiful and way less crowded it is on the Sunrise side of the park. You can camp at White River Campground or there are a lot of national forest campgrounds on the northeast side of Mount Rainier.

If camping isn’t your thing, I highly recommend staying at Paradise Inn for the best views of Mount Rainier and to get to experience it in the twilight hours when it’s much less crowded.

Related Blog: Best Campgrounds in Mount Rainier

4 Amazing Stops Between Mount Rainier & North Cascades National Park

You could keep this part of your Washington National Parks road trip shorter and take the I-5 from Mount Rainier to North Cascades. Instead, I think it’s worth the extra time to leave Mount Rainier eastbound and explore parts of the Cascade Lakes Highway, Leavenworth, Lake Chelan, Winthrop, and especially the National Forest area just east of North Cascades.

If you have a surplus of time, you could also add in Snoqualmie Falls and one of the epic hikes I’ve been dying to do near Cle Elem- Tuck and Robin Lakes or Marmot Lake and Jade Lake .

Watch our YouTube video of us trying to do these hikes too early in the season.

Leavenworth

The Bavarian town of Leavenworth is an outdoor enthusiasts’ playground due to the abundance of rock climbing, biking, mountain biking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming, and that’s just in the summer!

Bring river tubes and ask at the local mountain shops where to get in and out sign up for a guided float with Leavenworth Outdoor Center , located next to Der Hinterhof.

For amazing views and epic adventures, be sure to head up Icicle River Road which is filled with endless hiking, camping, and rock climbing. We love all the cheap forest camping and there is even a spot where RVers can free camp at.

After a day of adventure, head to Icicle Creek Brewery for great beer, good llanjager (smoked beef sticks), and good vibes. I love that Leavenworth is full of artisan food shops. Head to Cured for great salami, cheese, sausage, and more. Pick up some coffee at J5 . If you’re lucky and are visiting on a Thursday, stop by the fabulous, local farmers marke t at Little Lion Park.

If you’re brave, hike the famous Enchantments a strenuous 19-mile day hike (unless you can get the elusive backpacking permits). While it is extremely strenuous, the views you get up here are worth every step. Even though this was one of the hardest day hikes we’ve ever done, it is also one of the absolute best hikes we’ve ever done. For a shorter hike, check out Colchuck Lake.

The warm water of Lake Chelan in summer draws boating enthusiasts galore. And even if you don’t have a boat, Lake Chelan is perfect for inner tube floating or swimming. We loved playing at the Old Swimming Hole in Manson where you can swim out to the wooden pillars and jump into the lake.

Be sure to drive a bit north out of town to Blueberry Hills Farm where you’ll find blueberries, waffles, sandwiches, and pies galore.

On the northern end of Lake Chelan lies Stehekin, which is part of the North Cascades National Park. Getting here can be a bit of a challenge though as it requires 4wd or you can take a boat or plane. But if you do make it out this far, there are so many incredible hikes and backpacking trips you can do and the camping is epic!

Related: 10 Unforgettable USA Road Trip Itineraries

Winthrop offers an old-west ambiance and diverse dining options. Ideal for adventure seekers, it’s a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and river activities. The RV lot northwest of town is a spot for river tubing, but local shops can guide on to exit points.

Washington Pass

I enjoyed this area of northern Washington more than North Cascades NP itself. There are a ton of trails for hiking and mountain biking as well as a lot of free or cheap camping .

Mountain bikers will love to take on the challenge of Cutthroat Pass feel the burn in your legs and take in the beauty at the top of the Pass where the trail meets the PCT. Hikers will love exploring Maple Pass, Blue Lake , or Black Peak . If you Trad climb, don’t miss the opportunity to summit Liberty Bell .

Tips For Visiting North Cascades National Park

With over 300 glaciers and countless snowfields, the North Cascades has more glaciers than anywhere in the U.S. outside of Alaska (it has even more glaciers than Glacier National Park!) The challenging part is getting to them though since many of the most epic hikes are only accessible with 4wd.

North Cascades lacks a singular highlight like Rainier but boasts stunning views of Diablo Lake and Ross Lake. With rugged peaks, it offers diverse activities like hiking, water sports at Ross Lake, climbing in Skagit Gorge, biking in Methow Valley, presenting a challenge to explore fully.

The North Cascades Highway provides stunning scenic views like Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road but with wider, well-maintained paths. However, it lacks nearby towns or development, so plan ahead.

Related : Grand Teton to Glacier National Parks Road Trip

Best Hikes in North Cascades

Thunder Knob
Cascade Pass & Sahalie Trail
See top 35 on All Trails

Tip: If you detour to visit Mount Baker, check out these rad hikes: Blanca Lake, Heybrook Lookout, Heybrook Ridge, Gothic Basin, or Ptarmigan Ridge

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Where to Stay or Camp in North Cascades

We loved camping under the massive trees at Colonial Creek Campground . There are several other campgrounds just off the main road and then trails heading further away from the main road to more remote backcountry areas. We’ve also camped in the national forest area east of Washington Pass and enjoyed those areas a lot.

Related Blog: Best Campgrounds in Washington

If you don’t camp, you’ll want to look for a hotel in the closest towns of either Mount Vernon, to the west, or Winthrop, to the east.

Amazing Stop Between North Cascades & Olympic National Park

San Juan Islands & Deception Pass

I’d highly recommend you visit San Juan island because we got to see killer whales. It was very exciting, however, the orcas swim by on their schedule so it’s something that requires some patience.

Drive just west of Anacortes to Washington Park where you can take the ferry to the San Juan islands . Public transportation is very easy on the islands so you can just leave your car on the Mainland.

Tip: Orcas are on San Juan Island , not Orca Island. The lighthouse has a lot of information on the pods that live in the area. If you go, bring binoculars to help see the whales better.

Consider extending your stay at the lovely Washington Park campground on Fidalgo Island’s west end. It’s an ideal base for leaving your vehicle and spending a day exploring the San Juan Islands. The campground features a fantastic 2-mile trail through forested hills, a stunning beach adorned with driftwood, and captivating views of the San Juan Islands.

Camping Considerations: If staying at Fairholme Campground, book in advance if possible, especially during peak seasons.

Explore Washington’s famed Deception Pass, just a short drive from the San Juans. This popular State Park offers hiking, biking, fishing, and camping across two islands connected by a bridge. With 172 tent sites and 134 partial hookups, reservations fill quickly due to its high demand. Secure your spot early!

For the occasional climber that may be reading this: Mount Erie has some incredibly scenic climbing and we loved being able to overlook the ocean while enjoying Top-Rope routes.

Detour North : If you have time, you may want to detour north towards Bellingham & Mount Baker before heading down to Anacortes. Bellingham & nearby Fairhaven have great hiking and MTB trails and are some of our favorite towns to eat our way through. Check out the farmer’s market, eat at one of the many food trucks, and grab a pint at Aslan Brewery. Mount Baker has numerous trails for all levels of hikers that will take you to incredible alpine lakes.

Tips For Visiting Olympic National Park

If you want to see a massive diversity in ecosystems, olympic national park should be at the top of your list of places to visit..

Olympic National Park offers diverse climates and ecosystems, from beaches to temperate rainforests and subalpine mountains. Yet, exploring its richness requires ample time.

Since Olympic National Park is so large and spread out, visiting it just by car will only allow you to see the edges of the park.

Olympic National Park spans almost a million acres across four diverse regions with distinct ecosystems. The first stop on your road trip is Hurricane Ridge, just a few miles south of Port Angeles.

Hiking Insights: For hikers, always carry essentials like water, snacks, a map, or a GPS device, and wear appropriate footwear.

Tip: You might want to hang out a few days in Port Townsend. You’ll love its small-town charm incredible artisan, bright storefronts, and its passion for music. In fact, it hosts an annual Olympic Music Festival in July and August and the weeklong Jazz Port Townsend in July.

Discover stunning summer wildflowers, epic hikes, and subalpine trails leading to lakes in this biodiverse park. At Lake Crescent, enjoy a picnic, hike to Marymere Falls, or opt for the more challenging Spruce Railroad Trail. Cool off with a daring swim in the lake!

Other things to explore include the hot springs, Neah Bay, and Lake Ozette, or drive Obstruction Point Road, which is fine for 2WD but no RVs or trailers.

There is a campground nearby at Fairholme , which is a good option because Second Beach can get crowded. The third area is right next to Forks and La Push , which is an Indian reservation popularized by the book/movie Twilight. The coastline here is a unique combination of fauna and beach. We loved the forested trails and haystack beaches that were great for tide pooling.

A popular thing to do here is to camp overnight at Second Beach . It’s a short 0.7-mile hike from the parking lot. Make sure to get a wilderness camping permit, pack plenty of potable water, and a bear canister, and choose a spot above where high tide will rise.

The lush rainforest in the next three areas of Olympic National Park feel as if you’ve entered another planet.

Spruce Trail Hoh Rain Forest Best Hikes in the PNW

Explore Hoh Rainforest’s lush greenery, home to elk and stunning epiphytes. Kalaloch’s beaches offer sea life sightings, while Quinault’s scenic loop and hikes showcase elk in protected areas.

Best Hikes in Olympic NP

Mount Storm King
Hurricane Ridge
Hole in the Wall from Rialto Beach
Sol Duc Falls Nature Trail
Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Mosses
7 Lakes Basin
See all the popular trail on AllTrails

Where to Stay or Camp in the Olympic

Most campgrounds at Olympic NP are first-come first-served. Kalaloch has places to stay and nice beaches. It can be good for families. The kids loved camping at Kalaloch beach. It’s a beautiful campground that sits on miles of rugged coastline, has tidepools with purple sea urchins, and a ton of marine wildlife. Plus, the ranger presentation there was outstanding!

8-Day Washington Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise Side)
Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park (Sunrise Side)
Day 3: Leavenworth
Day 4: Lake Chelan & Winthrop
Day 5: North Cascades
Day 6: Olympic National Park (Hurricane Ridge to Forks)
Day 7: Olympic National Park (Hoh to Quinault)

We hope this helps you plan the perfect Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic National Parks Road Trip! If you have any questions, leave us a comment, and be sure to join our email list for more travel inspiration.

Related Blogs & Resources:

11 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Mount Rainier
Guide to Camping in Mount Rainier
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How to Plan a Successful Road Trip
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Best Hikes in the Pacific Northwest
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Saturday 19th of August 2023

Wondering if you could help us. Me, my wife and two 20-something sons are planning a 10-day road trip in mid-September (olympic, rainier, northern cascades). But given the sourdough fire, it is looking increasingly more likely that we will have to scrap the cascades portion. What is your best suggestion to fill the two days we were going to spend there. Some forums say the San Juan islands. Or should we just add a day to Olympic and Mt Rainier and hit stuff we otherwise would have rushed through? Any other ideas we might be missing. Thanks in advance, Mario

Guide + Itinerary: How to plan a trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Seattle to North Cascades National Park and experience the thrill of a road trip like never before. Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest as you hit the open road.

With each passing mile driving Highway 20, you’ll discover new wonders and hidden gems that will take your breath away. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for an epic adventure you’ll never forget.

If you’re just here for a North Cascades itinerary, it is at the bottom. Enjoy your trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park this summer!

Related: Best Fall hikes in Washington

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An Epic Adventure Road trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park

Planning your trip to north cascades national park, what is the best month for north cascades.

The best time to visit North Cascades National Park is during the summer, from June to September when the weather is stellar and the trails are snow-free. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and book your accommodations in advance.

Fall and spring can also be great times to visit, with fewer crowds and stunning fall colors or wildflowers in bloom. However, early in the spring, you’ll have to deal with snow because Highway 20 is historically closed at Ross Lake until mid-May.

When will the trails be melted out?

It takes a lot of warm weather to melt these mountains. Some trails are snow-free by late June, but in other years it’s mid-July. It all comes down to how heavy a snow year was and what May and June’s temperatures are. If it’s a warm and dry spring, the trails will be trekking-worthy earlier on.

Seattle to North Cascades National Park mountain goat

How late are sunsets during the summer?

In the summer, there is light in the sky past 10 pm. This allows you to hike for hours and not worry about running out of sunlight. However, it also means you must plan your meals unless you want to eat at 11 pm after a hike.

Bring plenty of snacks or sandwiches on your hike to stay nourished.

How do you get from Seattle to North Cascades National Park?

If you’re planning a trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park, driving is the best option. Take I-5 North to Burlington and continue on Highway 20 East, which will take you through the Skagit Valley and up into the mountains.

If you’re visiting and plan to drive in, you’ll probably want to rent a car .

Seattle to North Cascades National Park cascade pass trail

What is the best airport to fly into for North Cascades National Park?

The closest major airport to North Cascades National Park is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 120 miles (193 km) west of the park. You can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park from there.

Alternatively, Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is a smaller airport closer to the park but has fewer flight options. From BLI, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the park.

How do you get to the North Cascades from Seattle?

The most common way to get to North Cascades National Park from Seattle is by car. First, take I-5 North to Burlington, then follow Highway 20 East through the Skagit Valley and up into the mountains. Alternatively, a few shuttle and tour companies offer transportation from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

Is there an entrance fee for North Cascades National Park?

No, there is no entrance fee for North Cascades National Park. The park is one of the few national parks in the United States that does not charge an entrance fee.

Is North Cascades a day trip from Seattle?

While it is possible to visit North Cascades National Park as a day trip from Seattle, it is not ideal. The drive from Seattle to the park can take 2-3 hours each way, depending on traffic and road conditions, leaving you with little time to explore the park.

Additionally, North Cascades is a vast and rugged park with many trails and sights to see, so it’s worth staying overnight if you can. Please look at my North Cascades itinerary at the bottom for what to do!

What hiking gear will I need on my trip?

Day pack or running vest
Water filter
Hiking Poles
Hiking shoes / Trail Runners
Sunglasses and hat
Pull over fleece for early starts
Hiking pants / Zip off pants

Where to Stay around the North Cascades

What town is closest to north cascades.

The town closest to North Cascades National Park is Marblemount, located at the park’s western edge. The city has a few restaurants, a gas station, and a small grocery store, but it is primarily a gateway to the park.

Campgrounds

If you’re planning a visit to North Cascades National Park, you’ll be pleased to know that several campgrounds are available for you to choose from. Please plan ahead, as it will be nearly complete on the weekends. Here’s a quick rundown of each one:

Newhalem Creek Campground : This is the largest campground in the park, with 110 campsites. It’s located near the Visitor Center and the Skagit River and is open from May to October.
Colonial Creek Campground : This is another large campground with 142 campsites. It’s located on the shores of Diablo Lake, which is known for its stunning turquoise color. It’s open from May to October.
Gorge Lake Campground : This is a smaller campground with ten walk-in campsites. It’s located near Gorge Lake and is open from June to October.
Goodell Creek Campground : This small campground has 19 campsites near the Goodell Creek Trailhead. It’s open from May to October.
Hozomeen Campground: This is a remote campground with 31 campsites located on the Canadian border. It’s accessible only by boat or a long drive on a dirt road. It’s open from June to September.

All campgrounds in North Cascades National Park offer tent and RV camping, although some restrict RV size. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service. Some campgrounds also have first-come, first-served sites available.

Related: Get your camping essentials

Other lodging options

With the remoteness of the North Cascades, there are no motel or hotel options along Highway 20 in the heart of the mountains. However, you can find places to stay before you enter the park on the west side or drive through the park to Mazama, Winthrop, or Twisp on the eastern edge.

Things to do in North Cascades National Park

Seattle to north cascades national park guide – six great hikes.

The Maple Pass Loop is a 7.5-mile trail that takes you through meadows, forests, and along ridges with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. It’s a moderately strenuous hike with about 2,100 feet of elevation gain.

Cutthroat Pass

The Cutthroat Pass trail is an 11.5-mile out-and-back hike that starts on the eastern slopes of the cascades and climbs to Cutthroat Pass, with views of jagged peaks along the way. It’s a moderately strenuous hike with about 2,400 feet of elevation gain.

The Blue Lake trail is a 4.4-mile out-and-back hike that leads to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks. It’s a moderate hike with about 900 feet of elevation gain. This is totally worth the 3-hour drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

blue lake seattle to north cascades national park

Sourdough Mountain

The Sourdough Mountain trail is a 10.4-mile out-and-back hike that climbs to a lookout tower with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It’s a strenuous hike with about 4,800 feet of elevation gain.

Thunder Knob

The Thunder Knob trail is a 3-mile out-and-back hike that leads to a viewpoint overlooking Diablo Lake. It’s a relatively easy hike with about 700 feet of elevation gain.

Cascade Pass

The Cascade Pass trail is a 7.4-mile out-and-back hike that climbs to a high mountain pass with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It’s a strenuous hike with about 1,800 feet of elevation gain. This trail also provides access to the Sahale Arm and Stehekin Valley trails.

I highly recommend this as the best hike for those driving from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

Seattle to North Cascades National Park Washington Pass

Drive Highway 20 to Washington Pass on your Seattle to North Cascades National Park trip

Not feeling the hiking urge or just wanting to see the sights, driving Highway 20 is phenomenal. You’ll cut right through eight and nine-thousand-foot peaks and have your jaw drop at each turn. It’s a really cool drive and totally worth it.

Remember, the road is usually closed from Ross Lake Dam from November to mid-May.

Seattle to North Cascades National Park Diablo Lake

Kayak or Paddleboard on Diablo or Ross Lake

While the water will be chilly, kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing on Diablo Lake or Ross Lake is a great way to spend the day or weekend. There are no outfitters onsite, so most people bring their gear. If you can’t mount a kayak, getting a blow-up also works!

How many days do you need for North Cascades National Park?

Although visiting North Cascades National Park in a day is feasible, doing so may result in a hurried and incomplete experience. The park is extensive and boasts countless trails, viewpoints, and attractions to uncover. Due to this, I suggest spending a night if doable.

For a comprehensive and enriching visit to North Cascades National Park, stay for a minimum of 2-3 days and explore this place. This duration will allow ample time to tackle the numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking mountain vistas the North Cascades offer. Check out my North Cascades itinerary below.

1-day Seattle to North Cascades National Park Itinerary

Get an early start on the day to maximize your time in the North Cascades.
After about 2.5 hours of driving, stop at the Diablo Lake overlook to stretch your legs and soak in the beautiful views. The turquoise water will truly blow you away.
Then, keep driving to either Maple Pass or Blue Lake. Either of these trails will give you an understanding of how incredible the peaks and lakes are in the North Cascades. I’d estimate the hikes should take you between 3-5 hours. Maple Pass is 50% longer than Blue Lake, so factor that into your schedule.
After you hike, head up to Washington Pass (maybe 5 minutes from these trailheads) and enjoy the views.
Then, on your way back, fuel up in Marblemount with some food and drinks before returning to Seattle!

2-day Seattle to North Cascades National Park Itinerary

Day 1: Leave early from Seattle to the North Cascades
Get a good hike in before the crowds arrive. Do Blue Lake, Cutthroat Pass, or Maple Pass
Enjoy Washington Pass Overlook
Stop by Lake Diablo in the afternoon to chill – go kayaking or paddleboarding if you have them
Soak in the sunset at Thunder Knob and then head to your lodging area
Day 2: Do Cascade pass to Sahale Arm . This is a full-day hike.
Head back to Seattle

3-day Seattle to North Cascades National Park Itinerary

Day 1: Get an early start from Seattle to North Cascades National Park
Head straight to the Cascade Pass trailhead and knock out the best hike in the park. This will be a full-day hike but totally worth it.
Get food or go set up camp at the North Cascades National Park campgrounds
Day 2: Check out Diablo Lake either at the overlook or get on the water for some fun.
Hike Maple Pass and then go see Washington Pass Overlook.
If you have another night in the campground, great. You can also stay in Mazama or Winthrop for a night.
Day 3: Hike Cutthroat Lake and Cutthroat Pass or Blue Lake. Then start coming home on Highway 20. Stop again at Diablo Lake or do the short Thunder Knob trail.

Seattle to North Cascades National Park Blue lake

Wrapping Up – Seattle to North Cascades National Park

A trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park is genuinely fantastic, and you will be in heaven as you stare out at the jagged peaks of the American Alps. So enjoy your trip, and come back safe!

Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.

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Plan Your North Cascades Highway Road Trip

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

From river valleys to jagged glacial peaks, Washington's 140-mile North Cascades Scenic Highway is packed with extraordinary sights and activities. The route follows State Route 20 from Sedro-Woolley in the west to Twisp in the east, passing through the North Cascades National Park complex, a sprawling wilderness area that extends from the north end of Lake Chelan up to the border of Canada. The North Cascades Highway is part of the Cascade Loop —a popular multi-day Washington road trip—and is perhaps the most encompassing way to take in this mountainous, lake-dotted national park. Keep in mind that the high-elevation sections of Highway 20 are closed during the winter season.

Sedro-Woolley and Concrete

Beginning in the small logging town of Sedro-Woolley, the western section of the North Cascades Highway parallels the Skagit River . Sedro-Woolley and its neighbor, Concrete (also called "Cement City" for its concrete manufacturing), offer the full range of visitor services, from fuel to lodging and grocery stores.

Stock up on your road trip snacks here, then head to the shore of the Skagit River for a picnic and some bird watching. This waterway is popular for rafting, wildlife spotting (the salmon are abundant), and in the winter, it becomes home to a significant population of bald eagles.

Rockport and Marblemount

Patrick McManus / Getty Images

After Concrete, the North Cascades Highway will lead you to Rockport, home to the old-growth forest that makes up Rockport State Park and Rinker Peak, part of the Colorado Sawatch Mountains. Howard Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport is situated along the Skagit River and provides camping and picnicking spots right on the water. Further along, Marblemount offers even more in the way of hiking, birding, river sports, and more. These are your last opportunities to take advantage of commercial services before leaving the Puget Sound area for more remote road.

North Cascades National Park Visitor Center

Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

The visitor center for North Cascades National Park is located along State Route 20, near the company town of Newhalem. Inside are rangers who are eager to help visitors plan hiking trips, scenic drives, and sunset photography sessions. If you'll be staying in the park for a while or you're planning to do any activities apart from driving, it would be wise to at least pick up a map and ask the ranger about the current conditions. You'll also find multimedia exhibits on the park's history, a bookshop, and restrooms. Interactive trails around the visitor center include the Sterling Munro Trail, which treats hikers to views of Pinnacle Peak, and River Loop Trail, a 1.8-mile loop through lush forest.

Alfons Hauke / Getty Images

A stop in the small town of Newhalem along the North Cascades Highway will offer you access to fun activities like boat tours on Diablo Lake . Seattle City Light dinner cruises frequent this scenic waterway. To get there, you'll cross Diablo Dam, built in 1930 and once the tallest dam in the world. Newhalem is also home to the Skagit General Store, a historic road stop where you can stretch your legs and pick up a snack, and the "Old Number Six" historic steam locomotive, a restored Baldwin steam engine that serves as the meeting place for many Lake Diablo boat tours.

The visitor gallery at the Gorge Powerhouse includes photos and exhibits covering the construction of the Diablo Dam and its early days as a tourist attraction. On the wooded hillside behind the Gorge Powerhouse, you'll find a loop train that will take you to Ladder Creek Falls.

Hikers will enjoy the Trail of the Cedars, a short, family-friendly hike through the rainforest, and Ladder Creek Falls, a hilly loop trail located across a footbridge and behind the Gorge Dam Powerhouse.

Gorge Dam Overlook

LoweStock / Getty Images

Stop for a scenic view of the Gorge Dam and Gorge Lake at this overlook just a short hike from the highway pull-off. The first portion of this .8-mile (paved) interpretive loop is accessible , but able bodies can hike a little farther to get a different view. Because of vegetation, the views become more scarce year after year. Back on the highway, you'll head east of the Gorge Dam along the Skagit River, where it becomes a series of reservoirs along the road.

Ross and Diablo Lake Overlooks

Dams along the Skagit River form the major reservoirs of Diablo Lake and Ross Lake. The glacial silt in the water gives these lakes the stunning blue-green color that makes them highly photogenic. As you drive along North Cascades Highway, don't miss the opportunity to stop and enjoy the view from marked vista points. From the official Ross Lake Overlook, you'll be able to see the azure, mountain-rimmed watering hole from your car.

Methow Valley

Lidija Kamansky / Getty Images

The eastern section of the North Cascades Highway descends from Washington Pass and Rainy Pass down into Methow Valley. At this part of the trip, you return to civilization. Methow Valley is home to a number of hotels, lodges, resorts, art galleries, restaurants, and coffee houses. It's also a wildlife corridor where passersby are likely to see bald eagles, osprey, or deer, depending on the season. During July, promptly after the snow melts, Methow Valley becomes blanketed by blooming paintbrush, lupine, larkspur, penstemon, goldenrod, and sandwort.

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The Ultimate Washington Road Trip: North Cascades, Mount Rainier, and Olympic

Between the three national parks in Washington state, you can see USA’s fourth highest peak, the world’s only temperate rainforest, and one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the country. If you’re looking to see beautiful coast lines with tide pools, rainforests and jagged glacier capped mountain peaks all in one trip, head to the PNW! In this post, I’ll share our one-week itinerary for a Washington road trip that includes North Cascades, Mount Rainier, and Olympic National Parks.

Planning a trip to Washington? Pin it for later!

What you need to know before planning a trip to the PNW:

Expect a lot of fog, clouds and rain. Pack layers and rain gear and know that your views may be obstructed by fog and clouds. We only got one glimpse of the summit of Mount Rainier our entire time in Washington. In fact, we got a better view from our airplane. However, even with the clouds, Mount Rainier was still one of the most beautiful parks I’ve been to so don’t let this deter you!
Summer is technically the “dry season” but expect rain and cool temperatures any time of year. We went in early September to try to beat summer crowds, but still experienced a lot of rain and temperatures were mostly in the 50s.
Pay attention to the tides when exploring the coastal region of Olympic National Park. Stop by the Visitor Center or Ranger Station and pick up a tide chart and make sure you know how to read it. Some parts of the coast are only passable during low tide.

Our Washington Road Trip Itinerary:

Day 1-2: seattle ..

We flew into Seattle at night, and spent the entire next day exploring the city. Pike Place Market is a must! We also went to Chihuly Garden and Glass and had dinner at the Space Needle for a little bit of luxury before embarking on our adventure!

Day 3: North Cascades National Park. (Seattle to NCNP: 107 miles, 2 hours).

In the park, drive the North Cascades Highway all the way to Washington Pass Overlook , the road’s highest point, stopping at the many viewpoints along the way. Although Diablo Lake Overlook is a must stop along North Cascades Highway, I recommend also enjoying the lake from the shore! We stopped near the Thunder Knob Trailhead to have a lakeside snack. The intense turquoise color of the water is caused by glaciers grounding rocks into a powder, which then gets carried into the lake by creeks.

We also drove the narrow, steep and bumpy 23-mile Cascade River Road to Cascade Pass . It rained most of the day, so we didn’t hike as much as we had wanted to. Although we were disappointed we couldn’t hike the Cascade Pass Trail, the views just from this parking lot were well worth the scary drive here. You can see waterfalls and glaciers cascading down the jagged peaks of Johannesburg Mountain and Boston Peak.

The plan was to spend the night at Newhalem Campground right with a campsite right on Skagit River. The site looked amazing but since it was pouring and our day ended early, we decided to start our drive down to Mount Rainier. We got about half way and spent the night at a hotel instead. At least it cut down on our driving for the next day.

Days 4-5: Mount Rainier National Park . (NCNP to MRNP: 190 miles, 4 hours. MRNP to Skokomish: 107 miles, 2.5 hours) .

We started at the Nisqually Entrance and drove through Paradise to Ohanapecosh Campground the first day. The Trail of the Shadows is definitely worth a stop for the quick 0.5 mile walk. We also stopped at the 168-foot Narada Falls . Once we got to Paradise, we explored the 1.2-mile Nisqually Vista Trail and the 5-mile Skyline Trail to Panaroma Point . Despite the clouds, we still really enjoyed this hike and the views of the alpine meadows and waterfalls. Since we had way less driving to do than we anticipated due to our change of plans at NCNP, we had time to make a quick stop at Reflection Lake and hike the 2.5-mile trail to Snow and Bench Lakes on our way to Ohanapecosh where we spent the night.

On day 2 in the park, we drove up to Sunrise stopping at Grove of the Patriarchs Trail, an easy 1.3 mile loop. In the area of sunrise, we hiked the Sourdough Ridge Nature Trail for 1.5 miles and the 0.5-mile Emmons Vista Trail. We also hiked the 6-mile Burroughs Mountain Trail to Second Burroughs . This is not only my favorite hike of this trip, but probably my favorite hike that I’ve ever done. Many hikes offer grand views at the end, but this hike was stunning the entire way, even with the clouds obstructing a lot of our view. This hike is a must!

Grove of the Patriarch's Trail, Mount Rainier National Park

We began our drive towards Olympic after the day in Mount Rainier, again to cut down on our driving time for the next morning. We camped at Skokomish Park Lake.

Days 6-7: Olympic National Park . (Skokomish to Sol Doc: 130 miles, 3 hours. Sol Duc to Seattle: 255 miles, 5 hours) .

We stopped in Port Angeles for a quick breakfast and to get tide tables for the next day at the visitor’s center. We then drove to Hurricane Ridge and hiked the 3-mile Hurricane Hill Trail which offers expansive mountain views . We then drove the 8-mile road to Obstruction Point . This was a pretty scary drive. The road is unpaved and narrow with some pretty steep drop offs. Once there, we hiked some of the Grand Valley Trail . The views in this area are definitely worth the scary drive! Back on the road, we drove to Lake Crescent . This is a great place to stop for a lakeside picnic! We hiked the 1.75-mile Marymere Falls Trail through a forest to a 90-foot waterfall and finished our day’s hiking on the Sol Duc Falls Trail , which was about 1.5 miles roundtrip. We spent the night at Sol Duc Campground .

Hurricane Hill Trail, Olympic National Park

On day 2 in Olympic, we started by driving to Hoh Rain Forest , a 2.5 hour drive from Port Angeles. Here, we hiked the easy but enchanting 0.75-mile Hall of Mosses Trail . Right at the start of the trail, we found ourselves face to face with a massive elk, an experience I will never forget. Pictures or words won’t do this area justice. You simply need to see it for yourself!

After enjoying the rain forest, we got back on the road and headed to the coast. We stopped at Ruby Beach , full of driftwood, then Beach 4 where we hiked to see the tide pools full of starfish, green sea anemones and purple sea urchins. Next, we headed down to Beach 1 and hiked the short Spruce Burl Trail to see the strange growths that develop on the Sitka spruce trees. Next, we drove to Quinault and hiked the 0.5-mile Maple Glades Natural Trail for one last stretch of the legs before heading back to Seattle.

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Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip - Big Sur

The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (25 Stops + 3 Itineraries!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary + All The Stops Along The Way

The Pacific Coast Highway is easily considered to be one of the most iconic road trip routes in the world !

It’s not hard to believe either. From the moody beaches in Washington to the spectacular natural bridges in Southern Oregon to the winding roads of Big Sur, California , there is something new to see around every bend.

Berty and I drove the entire route back in 2017, and have returned to deeply explore sections every year since then!

Because we know this route so well, we wanted to create this comprehensive guide for iconic stops and places to see along the entire length of the Pacific Coast Highway, all 1,700-ish miles between Seattle, Washington and Orange County, California !

In this power, we’ll share the best PCH stops in Washington, Oregon, and California to make your Pacific Coast Highway road trip your most epic trip yet.

Let’s get planning!

Step By Step Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Directions (Download)

Where is the pacific coast highway how long is it.

The Pacific Coast Highway has many names.

You can also recognize it by its abbreviation (PCH), and referred to as the California Coast road trip , Pacific Coast Highway road trip, Route 1, Highway 101 (through Washington and Oregon), or even just Highway 1 (in California).

All names aside, they all lead you down the same road, which is the route that parallels the Pacific Ocean and the western border of the contiguous United States.

The traditional Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) is 655 miles long. The full Pacific Coast Highway (Orange County to Seattle) is just over 1,700 miles.

We’ll be talking about the entire Pacific Coast Highway itinerary in this blog post. (Seattle to Orange County)

Pacific Coast Highway Map, Directions, & Best Times

Which direction to drive the pacific coast highway.

Where should you begin your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary? Northbound or Southbound?

There are two directions to do a Pacific Coast Highway road trip – driving south or driving north! Honestly, both are great options but being from Washington, Berty and I began in Seattle and made our way south.

If you are searching for the best weather conditions, here are pros of each direction:

Southbound (Seattle to Orange County): Driven during spring break, you can escape the Pacific Northwest rain and enjoy the warmth of Southern California.
Nortbound (Orange County to Seattle): Driving north will help you escape California’s hot weather in late summer and fall.

The Hoh Rainforest - Twilight Tour in Forks

Pacific Coast Highway Start and End Points

Traditionally, the Pacific Coast Highway is considered to be the entire Highway 1 of the California Coast. This spans between Capistrano Beach is Orange County to Legget in Nortoerhn California. Highway 1 is 655.84 miles.

However, we like to think of this drive spanning three Pacific Coast states: Washington, Oregon, and California.

The traditional starting point in Washington is Seattle (with a detour through the Olympic National Park). The traditional starting point in California is San Diego .

When To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway

We also began our trip in June, but this trip is good to take any time of year.

If you decided on making it a winter road trip route , that means you’ll have a lot fewer crowds to deal with! Driving along the coast, the weather is more temperate and usually doesn’t get cold enough for snow, so you won’t run into many driving issues.

However, if you’re looking for the “windows-down, sunsets every night” kind of trip, we recommend taking this drive any time between June-September for the best chance of good weather.

Pacific Coast Highway Map

Top Tips For Driving The Pacific Coast Highway

So, how can you plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip? Here are our suggestions of things to do before your trip:

Plan Your Stops Carefully: Carefully creating an itinerary will help make reserving hotels and activies a LOT easier. However, make sure to leave just a little wiggle room for surprises! Book Accommodations In Advance: The Pacific Coast Highway is a popular road trip route. Once you know your trip dates, plan to book hotels and campgrounds ASAP. We like to split accommodations between car camping and hotels for a good mix. On a budget? Here are 20 car camping hacks to consider. Check Road Closures: Check you route for any major road closures. This actually happens a lot more often than you might think Big Sur often has landslides. Rent a Great Car (or RV!): You can rent a car and book hotels, OR you can rent a campervan and book campgrounds for a budget-friendly trip. Outdoorsy has cool recreation vehicles vans to rent – it’s like Airbnb but for RVs! Decide When To Embark: Determine when to plan your PCH trip and how many days you have. Keep scrolling to the bottom of the post for PCH itinerary examples. Use a Good Navigation App : Good navigation apps make a huge difference. Read our favorite road trip planner apps here. Get a Convertible…or a Harley! If you are driving only a small section of the PCH, rent a fun vehicle! This isn’t mandatory, but it sure is iconic to drive on the highway in one of these cool rides. Ask Great Questions: You’re in the car for a long time. Make sure to have these road trip questions ready to brighten those dull moments. Download Podcasts + Playlists : Download these road trip podcasts and personalized playlists when you have wifi. You’ll thank me later. Pack Your Car With The Essentials: Here’s a list of road trip essentials you need to be packing. Prepare To Stop Frequently: The whole point of driving the Pacific Coast Highway is to take in the sights!

Cape Kiwanda Oregon, Pacific Coast Road Trip Stops

How To Choose a Car For The Pacific Coast Highway

Choosing the right vehicle for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip is probably THE most important decision you will make.

Option 1: Drive Your Own Car Make sure your car has had a tune-up, and its oil changed. It’s worth it to get checked out now, than risk something going wrong mid-way through your trip.

Option 2: Rent a Regular Car Renting a car is a great option for a reliable drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. Personally, we like Avis becuase they have a great rewards program. You can find cheap options

Option 3: Rent a Campervan or RV Renting a campervan is an awesome way to experience a little bit of vanlife. Search for the best campervans at Outdoorsy . Just note, it may be a little tricky to drive a campervan one-way. You may have to return it at your starting point via I-5!

Option 4: Take The Public us (Kind of possible, but not recommended) Yes, it’s possible to cobble together transportation on local transit. You’ll find that you can get around easiest in Southern California and the central Oregon Coast. However, there will be stretches of road with no transporation avaiable, or you may have to leave the coast and venture inland to find a route. It’s cheap yes, but takes quite a bit of pre-planning.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip On A Budget

Are you hoping to plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip route on a budget ? Here are some budgeting hacks we like to use to plan a budget PCH trip:

Use The Dyrt To Find Campgrounds: The Dyrt is the largest online campground database. We use the offline campground search feature to find spots on the go (no service needed!). The Dyrt gave us a code for you, our epic reader, to try the pro membership for 30 days free! Click here to unlock your 30-day free trial . Find Free Campsites: Road tripping around the west coast for years, we’ve learned a thing or two about finding free campsites in the USA . Our guide includes campground searching hacks, backcountry packing guides, and tips on how to find the best camping spots on the PCH. Cook Your Own Meals: Save money on the road by making your own quick & easy camping meals . Manage Money On The Road: Learn how we travel on a budget in the Pacific Northwest .

Grab your gear and let's go! If you are like us and love to be outside, we've written this comprehensive post about the best winter coats & jackets to wear in the Pacific Northwest this season. We're covering everything from rain gear, parkas, to puffers, even utility jackets! TheMandagies.com

What To Pack For A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

A good Pacific Coast Highway road trip will take you through the rainy gloom of Washington, as well as the sunny beaches of California. This makes packing slighly more challenging – you’ll have to account for tons of variable weather!

Rain Jacket: You’ll need one in Washington and Oregon, especially during winter and spring. Here are our favorite rain jackets to wear in the Pacific Northwest . Light Layers: Once you reach California, it’s nice to have light, packable layers to bring on your day adventures. We like this windbreaker and this colorful fleece for easy layering. Down Jacket: Down jackets are an excellent option for extra warmth, especially when paired with a rain jacket. Get this packable one to save space in your suitcase. Sunglasses: You’ll need some, since you’ll be watchin the sunset every night! Grab this pair of inexpensive but HIGHLY rated sunglasses to knock around on your adventures. Hiking Shoes: Hiking in the PNW for over a decade, we know a thing or two about boots! Read our list on the best hiking boots , to pick the right ones for you. Walking Sandals : From walking around Huntington Pier to strolling around your campsite, walking sandals are essential to your Pacific Coast Highway packing list. Portable Phone Charger: This Goal Zero 24 is the perfect companion to charge your phone on a day trip. Camera: Here’s our guide on how to take smartphone landscape photography, or you can check out the travel photography gear as media professionals. Hiking Clothes: You’ll want to bring these highly-coveted hiking shorts , a day pack , and the 10 hiking essentials .

Here are some posts we’ve written about what to pack for certain parts of the Pacific Coast Highway:

5 Essentials to Bring On The Washington Coast
The Ultimate Packing List For San Francisco
What To Pack For A Weekend in Los Angeles

The Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops (State By State)

If you’re planning to experience the entire Pacific Coast Highway (including extending it to Oregon and Washington), you probably know that there is an insane amount of beautiful stops to take.

We’re going to break locations down state by state, to give you bite-sized chunks of information for each place.

Each state provides something unique and exciting for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, so read below for location inspiration in Washington, Oregon, and California!

Cape Flattery - Pacific Coast Road Trip Stops

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In Washington

Washington is not all rain and gloom!

While the movies portray this evergreen state in a constant shroud of clouds and moodiness (Thanks, Twilight) , its nothing farther from the truth.

Here, you can find powerful waterfalls, secret coves, and lush green forest, and amazing hikes in every corner of this beautiful state.

Keep on reading to read about some highlights along the Pacific Coast Highway in Washington!

Seattle, Washington

This is where we suggest starting your Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Seattle is a great place to stock up on all the road trip essentials , grab rental cars, and arrive by plane to stay on your journey on the Pacific Coast Highway. If you’re flying in to begin your journey, you’ll fly into Sattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Have a little bit more time on your hands? Stick around for a few days and try these unique things to do in Seattle , or take these incredible day trips from Seattle .

Fun things to do in Seattle, Washington:

Visit Pike Place Market
Go to the first-ever Starbucks Coffee store
Visit The Museum of Pop Culture
Watch the sunset at Jose Rizal Park
See the Space Needle up close at Kerry Park
Have a bonfire with friends at Golden Gardens Park
Go to A Husky Football game in the University District

Read More: What To Pack For The Pacific Northwest

Port Angeles

If you are starting in Seattle or Vancouver, chances are you’ll need to take a ferry across the Puget Sound to reach the Olympic Peninsula . It’s also possible to drive around through Olympia, if you don’t want to put your car on the ferry.

From here, you will pass the cities of Sequim and Port Angeles. Before hitting to Pacific Coast Highway, we recommend taking a stop by Lake Crescent for some classic PNW vibes and maybe a quick lunch break too.

If you want to see what the lake looks like from above, test your limits and hike Mount Storm King . The 4.7-mile round trip hike gains over 2,000 feet in elevation, including scrambling up the side of a cliff with the help of a few installed ropes.

This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but your attempts will be rewarded with experiencing one of the most spectacular places to see in the Olympic Peninsula .

Stay Overnight: Book a stay at The Olympic Lodge in Port Angeles . It’s right in town, and central to other adventures like Hurricane Ridge, Salt Creek, and Lake Crescent.

Sol Duc Falls

Sol Duc Falls is located in the Olympic National Park , and along Highway 101 on your way towards the coast.

It’s a small detour before heading to the ocean. However, the detour is worth every minute! The short trail to Sol Duc Falls leads to one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Washington state.

If you are wanting a unique place to stay in the Olympic National Park, consider staying at the Sol Duc Hot Springs, a natural pool resort in the park.

Doing this, you can wake up early to visit the falls and beat the crowds!

Cape Flattery

If you’re looking for the most northwest location in the lower 48 United States, you’ve found it at Cape Flattery !

This jaw-dropping piece of coastline is owned by the Makah Tribe. It includes beautiful sea stacks just offshore and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

If you are planning your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for epic photo spots, don’t miss this place! You’ll need an entry pass ($10 per vehicle) and you can pick it up at the gas station or grocery store at Neah Bay.

Forks, Washington

Emily at La Push Second Beach - Pacific Coast Road Trip Stops

La Push Beaches (First, Second, and Third)

You may know these beaches from the movie Twilight but rest assured there are no vampires in sight. (Partly because it’s werewolf territory anyway, DUH) In fact, we’ve seen some of the most incredible sunsets right here on Second Beach.

When visiting, it’s important to note that there are three beaches to choose from. First Beach provides easy and instant beach access, so it’s a popular choice for families.

Second Beach requires a hike on a short trail to reach the beach, and you can also camp on this beach. Second Beach is also the most popular option for its beautiful rock formations and vast shoreline.

Third Beach requires a longer hike and is the least visited of all the beaches.

Any of these Washington beaches you choose, don’t forget to pack these 5 beach essentials!

Read More: La Push Beach + and Beach Camping Tips

Ocean Shores, Washington

Ocean Shores is a quaint little town on the Washington Coast, just north of Grays Harbor.

Here, you will find tons of vacation rental homes, small seafood restaurants, and tons of beach activities. Berty and I came with our friends last summer and opted to rent motorbikes on the beach, eat our weight in crab, and explore the jetty!

Restaurants to try in Ocean Shores:

Murphy’s Candy & Ice Cream Shop
Galway Bay Irish Pub
Ocean Beach Roasters and Bistro
Oyhut Bay Bistro

Want more beach fun on the Washington Coast? Check out Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach !

Read More: 7 Fun Things To Do In Ocean Shores, Washington

Pierce County Area (Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Puyallup)

If you’re looking to spend a little extra for a comfortable room and some great food, spend some time exploring Gig Harbor and boating around the South Puget Sound . You will be able to spot wildlife all around you, whether it’s jellyfish or a pod of orcas!

Some of our favorite cities in Pierce County to explore: Puyallup (Washington State Fair), Tacoma, and Gig Harbor!

Mount Rainier National Park

Take your journey slightly inland to explore Mount Rainier National Park. Here, you can test your limits and backpack up to the summit (training required!) or simply take a nice stroll at the base of the mountain like on Nisqually Loop Trail .

Mount Rainier is best explored if you spend 2-3 days in the park! There are so many different areas to cover (Paradise Area and Sunrise Area are the most popular), so give yourself time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors here in the Pacific Northwest.

Most Popular Activities To Do At Mount Rainier:

Hike the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail
See Silver Falls
Hike the Skyline Divide Trail
Visit the Longmire Museum

Cape Disappointment State Park

Cape Disappointment is located in the far southwestern corner of Washington State. Here, you can discover miles of trails, play on the beaches, and maybe even spot an orca offshore!

For a memorable photo opportunity on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, take the trail down to Deadman’s Cove and capture this hidden beach at sunset!

Read More: Cape Disappointment + Deadman’s Cove

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Stops In Oregon

Emily Mandagie at Secret Beach on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast itself is worthy of its own road trip but lucky you – you get to see it all and more!

We’re sharing all the best stops along this part of the Pacific Coast Highway and what you can expect in this beautiful state.

Not enough time for the whole thing? Take an Oregon Coast Road Trip instead!

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a family and dog-friendly beach located 1.5 hours west of Portland. Here, you can explore the many quaint seaside shops, take a walk on the beach, and explore the many tide pools.

There are many services available here, so it’s a great stop for camping, resting, or even getting a seaside Airbnb! (By the way, y ou can get $40 off your first reservation at this link! )

Read More: Spending The Day At Cannon Beach

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda is a popular beach on the Oregon Coast. Here, you can walk along the beach and enjoy Pacific City’s own “Haystack Rock”, or climb the nearby sand dunes to discover incredible views, coves, and rock formations!

Too busy for you? Venture just a 5-minute drive south to Bob Straub State Park, where you can walk along the less-traveled and peaceful beachfront.

The area of Oregon can be rainy and cloudy year-round, but if you’re lucky you can experience one of its gorgeous sunsets (that is if the weather cooperates!). Make sure to pack a rain jacket!

Read More: 10 Epic Adventures To Take Aroun Cape Kiwanda

God’s Thumb Hike, Lincoln City

The hike to God’s Thumb is a moderately difficult hike along the Oregon Coast. A 4.6-mile round trip hike will bring you to a curved landscape on an oceanside cliff.

It gets its name “God’s Thumb” because it slightly resembles a thumb… but we think it kind of looks like a soft-serve ice cream swirl!

Located in Lincoln City, Oregon , this is a perfect place to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and see a beautiful area of the Oregon Coast.

Read More: Hike To God’s Thumb in Lincoln City On The Oregon Coast

Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is a perfect stop on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Here, you can experience the power of the ocean slamming and swirling into a carved-out bowl.

From the top, you can see down inside the “punchbowl”. During high tide, the waves swirl and crash around inside, but during low tide, you can walk down on the beach and explore inside.

Stay a while for a roadside picnic, to explore tide pools, or climb around on the rocks on the shore.

Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well in another one of the Oregon Coast’s amazing natural phenomena. You can experience the most dramatic sights at high tide, but beware – it’s the most dangerous time to visit too.

Similar to the Spouting Horn in Kauai , this sinkhole looks like water is just draining into a huge abyss, but it’s actually a natural rock tube that sucks and shoots water our according to the adjacent waves.

Don’t get too close to it though, it pushes and pulls water with a powerful force , meaning if you get too close you risk being swept off your feet into the hole!

This area is located just south of the Cape Perpetua Visitor’s Cente r, with lots of wheelchair accessible walkways AND walk-at-your-own-risk paths too.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is an amazing spot on the Pacific Coast Highway, and probably home to one of the best photo spots on the PCH!

For a quick side trip, take the drive up to Cape Perpetua Lookout , where you can see the Oregon Coast meet the winding highway below. It’s an incredible view – make sure to bring your camera!

This is also a great stop for some camping on the Oregon Coast, as well as exploring the many ocean features and scenic trails in the area.

Read More: 10 Epic Things To Do In Cape Perpetua Area Of The Oregon Coast

(Bonus Side Trip!) Umpqua Hot Springs + Toketee Falls

Got an extra day to spare?

Since you’re already in Oregon, consider taking a side trip east to the Cascade Mountains. The Umpqua National Forest has a lot to see, but it’s shining stars have got to be Toketee Falls and the Umpqua Hot Springs.

Both of the trails to Toketee Falls and Umpqua Hot Springs are nearby one another, short, and easy to follow.

They can be accomplished in a morning or afternoon trip. If you haven’t visited a Pacific Northwest hot springs yet, this is the perfect chance to do it!

We would suggest that you Visit Toketee Falls first, so you can save your soak for last!

Read More: 5 Essential Tips For Soaking at Upmqua Hot Springs

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Of all the stops on the Oregon Coast, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a MUST visit. Offshore rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves make this place a magical stop on the Pacific Coast Highway.

To fully experience this area, we suggest scheduling your visit for sunset. The sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day the skies light up with beautiful colors. Don’t forget to stop at other iconic spots in the park including Secret Beach, Natural Bridges, Arch Rock, and Indian Sands Trail!

Located on the Southern Oregon Coast , Samuel H Boardman spans around 10-miles of rugged, scenic coastline. There are many hikes to choose from around Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor . Take some time to explore a few (many trails are short) , and pick your favorite spots for sunset.

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In California

Congratulations! You’ve made it to California!

This is technically the beginning of the official Pacific Coast Highway (also called Highway 1) , but we all know you’ve put in too many miles on your car and see too much epic-ness for it to be just starting.

While you’ll be encountering a lot more sunshine in this section of the road trip, the Northern California coast can be a little temperamental! Don’t put away your rain coast just yet.

California road trip stops on the Pacific Coast Highway are some of the most breathtaking and beautiful areas of the whole trip. Read on to discover where to go and what to see below in the sunshine state.

Redwood National and State Parks

If your Pacific Coast Highway road rrip is taking you southbound, your first California stop will be at the Redwood National and State Parks.

The Redwoods are known for their spectacularly tall and beautiful trees. Furthermore, this area is home to some of the tallest trees on earth!

There are several scenic drives to take here, but the prettiest Northern California drives are through the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (the scenic route) and the Avenue of The Giants at Humbolt Redwoods State Park. For a lot of stops and viewpoints of the ocean, consider stopping at Patrick’s Point State Park !

Read More: 10 Things To Do In The Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon

Wait, did we just travel through time? You’re not far off if you felt like you just stepped foot into Jurassic Park. In fact, scenes from the movie were filmed right here in Fern Canyon!

Fern Canyon Trail in the Redwoods is a very short route – just 1.1-miles to revel in the 50-foot tall fern-covered walls and lush surrounding forest. The hike is easy, but getting there is a different story. The trip requires a few creek crossings and winding, narrow dirt roads to reach the trailhead. We’ve got everything you need to know about Fern Canyon right here !

Black Sand Beach

Have you been looking at thos e famous black sand beaches in Iceland ? Get a taste of the beauty (without the price of a plane ticket) and come visit a look-alike on the California Coast.

Shelter Cove is a little town located in the King Range National Conversation Area. Here, there are craggy coastlines, dramatic scenery, and a black sand beach. The waves are tall and powerful here.

Warning: The road is winding and treacherous, which can be dangerous in bad weather.

This is also an extremely out-of-the-way detour, with one route going in and out from the beach. Make sure to have a full tank of gas, and be prepared to drive on narrow roads and near tall cliff edges!

Read More: How To Get To California’s Iconic Black Sands Beach

Point Reyes National Seashore

Love the California beach? Explore the Point Reyes National Seashore , a protected coastline of rolling pastures, historic landmarks, and even a secret docked ship!

Start your journey in the town of Inverness, where you can stock up on food, gas, and even camping gear if you choose to spend the night in one of their many campgrounds .

Some of the best things to do in Point Reyes National Seashore are visiting the historic lighthouse (make sure to pay attention to its hours of operation! ), driving down the canopy of Cypress trees , and even whale watching if you come at the right time of year!

Read More: Spending The Day At Point Reyes National Seashore

Bolinas Ridge

If you have a scheduled stop in San Francisco on your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary, make sure to make a sunset stop just north of the city , on Bolinas Ridge .

This area of golden, glimmering rolling hills is located on the edge of Mount Tamalpais State Park in Marin County, California.

Our favorite scenic road to drive is Ridgecrest Boulevard , which includes pullouts ever so often to quickly park your car and enjoy the beautiful and consistent sunsets on this piece of the California coast.

Read More: A Golden Sunset At Bolinas Ridge

Mount Tamalpais

Keep the spirit of adventure alive , even in a bustling city like San Francisco !

If you’ve got a pit stop in the Golden City, journey just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and experience Mount Tamalpais State Park for a quick break from city life.

Here, you can take many amazing trails with stunning views of big city buildings across the bay. Some of our favorite trails for city views are the East Peak Hike (to a stone lookout tower) and the Verna Dunshee Trail.

Going when it’s cold outside? Read our San Francisco Winter Packing List .

Read More: 10 Adventurous Things To Do Outside of San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

No trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is complete without seeing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge!

On either side of the bridge, there are several incredible viewpoints to check out. Some of the best places to view the Golden Gate Bridge are from Battery Spencer, Kirby Cove, and the North Vista Point.

Remember: The Golden Gate Bridge is a toll bridge . Motorcycles and regular cars will get through and be billed $8.00 to the address your car is registered at.

San Francisco, California

Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary - San Francisco Stop

If you’ve been driving southbound on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, San Francisco will be the first large city you will encounter.

Here, you can experience many iconic and famous landmarks. Here are some places to see while in San Francisco :

See the sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge
Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
Stop By The Painted Ladies
Wander through the neighborhoods and see the beautiful Victorian-era houses

Need a place to stay in San Francisco? Click here and get $40 off your first booking on Airbnb!

Shark Fin Cove

Click here to see more amazing pictures from our visit to Shark Fin Cove.

Shark Fin Cove is a beautiful California coast beach located south of San Francisco – in Davenport, California. It’s named for its rock formation just off the shore that resembling a shark’s top fin.

You aren’t able to see this cove from the road, which makes finding access a little difficult . There are no signs indicating the location, so you must rely on Google Maps to help guide to you the parking lot off the California Coast Highway 1.

This place provides absolutely stunning views from above AND below. Start your visit at the top and walk along the trails near the cliffs (but be careful!). Finally, climb down into the cove via a steep trail to find beach access.

On a weekday, it’s very likely you will get this beach all to yourself!

Read More: What To Expect At California’s Shark Fin Cove

Big Sur State Park

When you think of driving down the California Coast , Big Sur is what Pacific Coast Highway dreams are made of. Sunny coastline, winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful bridges are scattered along 90 miles of this beautiful West Coast drive.

Some of the highlights on this part of the PCH include:

Pfeiffer Beach
McWay Falls
Bixby Creek Bridge
Pebble Beach
17-Mile Drive (Monterey/Pacific Grove)

Pro Tip: A day trip to Big Sur, California is absolutely the most quintessential activity of any good Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Don’t miss this.

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

(Detour Off Highway 1) Yosemite National Park

While you’re in the area, might as well take a little detour to one of the greatest national parks in America!

Yosemite is home to the tallest waterfall in North America, home to giant Sequoia trees, and has more than 800 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy.

Only have 24 extra hours to spare for Yosemite? Click here for our 24-hour guide to Yosemite National Park.

Pro Tip: If you are hoping to spend a few days in the park, make camping reservations extremely early in advance.

Camping spots generally get full six months before the reservation date. A trip to Yosemite National Park requires a lot of pre-planning.

Los Angeles, California

Pacific Coast Road Trip Stops - Los Angeles

Another major city on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip will be Los Angeles California. For many going northbound, this is a common starting point (as well as San Diego).

If you’re like us and coming to LA on a southbound Pacific Coast Highway trip, this is a fun pit stop to take a few days and recharge from all that driving.

Again, if you are looking to book a place on Airbnb, click here to get $40 off your first booking!

Here are some fun things to do in Los Angeles:

Santa Monica Pier + the Amusement Park on the boardwalk.
Venice Beach
Griffith Observatory
The Getty Museum
Hollywood Boulevard
Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Read More: How To Spend a Fun Weekend in West Hollywood, California

Orange County, California

Orange County California is just south of the city of Los Angeles. With a slower lifestyle, less traffic, and a lot more beach space, this place is a perfect getaway for sunshine lovers and surfers alike.

There are a few opportunities to camp on the coast, like RV sites in Huntington Beach and tent sites at Crystal Cove State Park. Either way, it’s definitely worth it to spend a few days in Orange County and experience all it has to offer!

Must-see spots to visit in Orange County:

La Tour (Secret Oceanside Castle in the cliff)
Huntington Beach (Sur City, USA)
Newport Beach Harbor and Balboa Island
Laguna Beach
Here are our favorite restaurants in Orange County to try!

Looking to travel to the OC on a budget? Check out our list of free things to do in Orange County to have maximum fun, with money still left in your pocket!

Read More: 10 Amazing Outdoor Activities in Orange County, California

San Diego, California

You did it!

San Diego will be the likely the end (or the beginning!) to your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary.

However, it’s still worth visiting for a few days. There are so many amazing things to do in San Diego that this city is an excellent way to kick off or wrap up any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Don’t miss out of Torrey Pines State Reserve! This network of outdoor trails have some of the best views in the entire city. Spend some time exploring the trails during sunset for a magical stay in San Diego.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in one trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re sharing some example itineraries for a five-day trip , one-week trip , and two-week trip down the Pacific Coast Highway.

Read below to find your perfect one!

5 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Five Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Five days to drive down the Pacific Coast is absolutely doable! During these days, you have time to experience the highlights of the coast, and whet your appetite for another future trip!

Day 1: Seattle, WA to Coos Bay, OR
Day 2: Coos Bay OR, to Redwood National Park, CA
Day 3: Redwood National Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
Day 4: San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Day 5: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

7 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

One Week Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

One week on the Pacific Coast Highway will allow you to see the most iconic locations. One week is great for travelers who want to fit in the entire trip during a school break, or only have so many days to take off of work.

A one-week Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary will allow you to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Here’s an example PCH itinerary:

Day 1: Seattle WA, to Forks, WA
Day 2: Forks, WA to Cape Kiwanda, OR
Day 3: Cape Kiwanda, OR to Redwood State Park, CA
Day 4: Redwood State Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
Day 5: San Francisco CA, to Big Sur, CA
Day 6: Big Sur, CA, to Orange County, CA
Day 7: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

10 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Two-week pacific coast highway road trip itinerary.

Two Week Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

If you have two weeks to spare, this is the ideal amount of time for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip!

Two weeks gives you ample time to see all the highlights, take some day hikes, and even some off-coast detours like Yosemite or Toketee Falls! You will be able to see everything you want and more, and not feel rushed in your process.

Day 1: Seattle, WA to Port Angeles, WA
Day 2: Port Angeles, to Forks, WA
Day 3: Forks, WA to Astoria, OR
Day 4: Astoria OR, to Cape Kiwanda, OR
Day 5: Cape Kiwanda OR , to Brookings, OR
Day 6: Brooking OR, to Redwood State Park, CA
Day 7: Redwood State Park, CA to Mendocino, CA
Day 8: Mendocino, CA to San Francisco, CA
Day 9: San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Day 10: Santa Cruz, CA to Big Sur, CA
Day 11: Big Sur, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Day 12: Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Day 13: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
Day 14: End in San Diego

Some of our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Inspiration

Creating this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary was quite the workload! Lucky for us, this is the kind of work we live for, and it was fun, inspiring, and most of all helpful!

We hope this helps in your own Pacific Coast Highway road trip and makes planning a little bit easier for you.

Here are some of the pins we’ve created to share with our followers on Pinterest. Feel free to save some too for your own inspirational road trip!

Pinterest ( Find us at @themandagies )

Have you taken a pacific coast highway road trip what were some of your favorite stops, ready to plan your own pacific coast highway road trip read these helpful posts:.

8 Steps For Planning A Flawless Weekend Trip

2o Energizing Hikes In The PN W

The Essential 2017 PNW Bucket List

Want more Pacific Coast Highway road trip inspiration? Follow our curated board on Pinterest!

Looking for the best route to take on the Pacific Coast Highway? We're sharing the complete PCH route, including the best stops in Washington, Oregon, and California for the ultimate west coast road trip! #westcoast #PNW #california #oregon #washington #roadtrip #PCH #pacificcoasthighway #Pacificcoastroadtrip

So excited for you guys! My hubby and I did a similar (but quicker, so we didn’t see everything) trip in the summer of 2010 (a LONG time ago!). It was amazing. There is an amazing hike in Redwood National Park (Gold Bluffs Beach Section) that leads down to this secret beach. Even in summer (August) there wasn’t anyone on the trail. We were pretty new to the “planning” travel business so didn’t really plan anything when we went, but this hike was a highlight of our trip. I’m dying to go to the Painted Hills and Hot springs so excited to see what you guys think. Have so much fun!!! We’re secretly living through both of your photographs and blogs dreaming of our move one day back to this beautiful region of the world. We love Ireland, but the PNW truly can’t be beat.

Hi Danielle! I’m so glad you like our photographs and blog! That means so much to us 🙂 I’m so intrigued about the Gold Bluffs Beach Hike in the Redwoods. Now we need to go back and do that one!!!

Seattle to North Cascades National Park Road Trip

With glacier-capped mountains, lush green forests, and vast blue-green lakes, it’s no wonder why the North Cascades are known as the American Alps! And despite their immense beauty, the North Cascades are the least visited national park in Washington!

Located in northern Washington state, the drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park is only a couple hours making it the perfect day trip, weekend getaway, or summer vacation spot! With hikes ranging from mellow forest walks to steep backpacking trips, the North Cascades offer experiences for all outdoor lovers.

How Far is North Cascades National Park from Seattle?

The drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park is less than 3 hours! From Seattle to the park’s west entrance, it’s exactly 2 hours (without traffic).

If you plan to drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park I’d recommend starting your trip early, especially if you’re visiting the park on the weekend.

When to Visit North Cascades National Park?

The summer time is the best time to drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park. North Cascades Highway, Washington Route 20, is only open when clear of snow. It opens in the spring, usually in May, and closes in the early winter, usually in December, weather permitting.

If you’re planning to go hiking or backpacking, I’d recommend visiting in the late summer through fall when trails are clear of snow. The North Cascades are beautiful during winter, however, most park roads close.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Through North Cascades National Park?

Washington Route 20 runs through the center of North Cascades National Park. It’s about an hour and a half drive from the park’s west entrance to the east. Of course, you’ll want to spend plenty of time making stops and enjoying the views along the way.

You’ll pass by many park highlights including Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and Washington Pass.

How to get to North Cascades National Park from Seattle

Head North on I-5 out of Seattle for about 47 miles. From I-5 exit right onto WA-530 E in Snohomish County. Continue on WA-530 E for about 46 miles. At the junction of State Route 20 turn right and head east.

Continue on Route 20, following along the Skagit River until you see the park entrance sign in about 14 miles. Route 20 continues all the way through North Cascades National Park, up over Washington Pass, and out to the town of Mazama on the east side of North Cascades.

How Long Should You Spend in North Cascades National Park?

Views along the drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park

While it’s definitely possible to plan a day trip to North Cascades National Park from Seattle, one day in North Cascades National Park is pretty limited. I’d recommend at least 2 full days, and even better if you can visit on the weekdays and avoid the weekend crowds!

Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park

Luckily enough, because the drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park is so close, it’s possible to visit the North Cascades as a one-day trip, a weekend trip, or a week-long trip!

I always recommend spending a few days in a park to fully experience it, but any getaway is better than none! These are some of my favorite hikes, stops, and spots to add to your North Cascades National Park itinerary.

Stop by the North Cascades Visitor Center

Whenever I visit a national park, stopping at the visitor center is a must. Buy a sticker, chat with a ranger, or learn about park geology and history. The National Park Service visitor centers are filled with valuable information about the park as well as a gift shop.

The Newhalem visitor center is open daily from May 21 – September 30 from 9 am – 5 pm. It’s completely closed and locked. outside of this season.

Diablo Lake Vista Point

Diablo Lake Vista Point is my favorite viewpoint in the park and it’s one of the first scenic spots along the drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

The Diablo Lake Overlook offers impressive views of the glacial-fed, dammed lake, that is surrounded by high mountain peaks covered with both forest and glaciers.

Visit during the summer to see Diablo Lake with the most bright turquoise color. On sunny warm days in July, August, and September the lake is the most vibrant as the glaciers melt and the silt reaches the lake which when sunlight meets it the color is the brightest. Diablo Lake is a must for your North Cascades itinerary.

Thunder Knob Trail

3.4 miles out & back, 675 foot gain, moderate

The Thunder Knob Trail is a great leg-stretching hike, located close to the west entrance of North Cascades National Park. It’s a moderate hike, 3.4 miles round trip, gaining just under 700 feet of elevation gain.

Thunder Knob rises almost 700 feet above the center of Lake Diablo. From the top, you’ll have stunning views of the turquoise Lake Diablo and glacier-covered peaks and jagged mountain ridgelines.

Even in the winter this a beautiful, moderate hike. But you may need snowshoes following a deep snowfall.

Thunder Creek Trail

3 – 10 miles out & back, mostly flat with small ups and downs, easy

The Thunder Creek Trail is my favorite easy hike in North Cascades National Park. It showcases a classic PNW forest. Dense and lush with moss, lichen, fungi, trees, and plants. It’s a stunning walk.

I’d highly recommend hiking at least to the Thunder Creek Bridge, 1.5 miles in. The trail is relatively flat with some rolling sections. Upon reaching the bridge you’ll have beautiful sites of blueish-green water rushing below. Surrounded by dense forest and the remains of old-growth trees, you’ll walk in awe on the trail.

Washington Pass Overlook

As you drive Highway 20 on North Cascades Scenic Byway, make sure you stop at Washington Pass Overlook. At 5,476 feet in elevation you’ll have impressive views of the east side of the North Cascades. The jagged peaks to the west all the way out to the high desert in the east, Washington Pass Overlook is a beautiful stop you don’t want to miss.

Ladder Creek Falls

0.5 miles, 70 foot gain, easy

Ladder Creek Falls are one of the first spots you’ll hit on your drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park. Located right off of Route 20 this trail features views of the Lake Diablo Dam, Ladder Creek Falls, and a suspension bridge.

It’s a great, family-friendly hike where you can see tiers of falls flowing down into the Skagit River.

Blue Lake Trail

4.7 miles out & back, 930 foot gain, moderate

The Blue Lake Trail is one of the best moderate trails in North Cascades National Park that offers views of a pristine, blue alpine lake surrounded by steep mountain peaks often covered with a bit of snow until late into summer.

Starting at the trailhead you’ll hike through subalpine forest until reading Blue Lake. Hike to the lake during the middle of the day for the biggest lake colors.

Maple Pass Loop

7.5-mile loop, 2200-foot gain

If you’re down for a strenuous hike to some of the most rewarding views you can reach on a day hike in the North Cascades then you should check out the Maple Pass Loop Trail .

Gaining over 2000 feet of elevation sounds exhausting but the views are beyond worth it. From ridgelines, you’ll have spectacular views looking down on Lake Ann and Rainy Lake while standing among the high snow and glacier-covered peaks.

This is a great introductory hike into the alpine of the North Cascades and a great test for anyone planning a backpacking trip through the steep terrain in the area.

Ross Dam Trail

1.5 miles out & back, 360 foot gain, moderate

The Ross Dam Trail starts right off North Cascades Highway and continues along Happy Creek down to the dam at Ross Lake which then flows into the Skagit River.

Along the hike and from the bottom you’ll have views o the Ross Dam and surrounding forests.

Go Backpacking

North Cascades National Park is filled with backpacking trails. Aside from Route 20 passing through the park, the park is only accessible by foot travel in the backcountry. It’s important to get permits but looking into planning a backpacking trip check out this guide for everything you need to know!

While you’re at it, plan a road trip to Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park too!

Seattle to North Cascades National Park Packing List

While the drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park is only a couple of hours, the climates are very different, especially depending on the season. Typically it’s a bit cooler up in the mountains although that strong summer sun can really heat things up.

Packing layers is always essential. In addition, sun protection, hiking equipment, and general road trip gear are included on this list too.

Clothing layers – puffy jacket, rain jacket, warm base layer
Comfortable hiking boots or trail runners
Quick-drying hiking pants
Long-sleeved sun hoodie
Day hiking backpack 18 – 30 liters
Trekking poles
Road maps – downloaded offline & paper
First aid kit – blister care, over-the-counter meds (Ibuprofen, Acetopmetafin, Benadryl), bandaids, gauze, medical tape, medical scissors, antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin)
Water filter
Garmin InReach Mini
Pocket knife

Where to Stay

If you’re planning to turn your Seattle to North Cascades National Park road trip into an overnight or few, think about whether you plan to camp or stay in accommodations.

If you’re traveling during the high season from Memorial Day to Labor Day, I’d highly recommend reserving campgrounds and lodging well in advance when visiting North Cascades National Park.

Lodging in the park is very limited. Aside from Ross Lake Resort and North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin , all lodging is outside the North Cascades National Park complex.

On the west side of North Cascades, check out the Mount Baker Hotel in Concrete. Ore rent an a-frame cabin or riverside cabin .

If you want to stay on the east side of the park, the small town of Winthrop has the closest options. Some of my top recommendations are The Sun Mountain Lodge , Rivers Edge Resort , Mt Gardner Inn , Chewuch Inn & Cabins , and the Methow River Log Cabins .

Luckily there are a handful of campsites in the North Cascades National Park complex. Dispersed camping is not permitted in the park but there are also backcountry sites.

On the west side of the park check out the Newhalem Creek Campground , Gorge Lake Campground , Goodell Creek Campground , Colonial Creek North Campground , and Colonial Creek South Campground .

During the summer there are also boat-in campgrounds on Ross, Lake, Diablo Lake, and Lake Chelan.

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21 Best Road Trips from Seattle When You Need to Get Away

person walking among rock formations in a state park, one of the best road trips from Seattle

Putting together a list of the best road trips from Seattle was super easy, though it took forever. That’s because there are so many awesome places to visit within driving distance of Seattle.

For example, you can visit three different national parks in Washington, explore the islands off the coast, head south to Oregon, or cross the border to Canada up north. You can plan your whole trip around the outdoors, or you can bask in a life of luxury tasting your way through the Pacific Northwest’s best restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

No matter your preferences, there’s a road trip for you. Get ready for a long list of the best road trips from Seattle, organized by distance with a bunch of ideas for customizing them to your liking.

This post has affiliate links, which means I’ll earn a small commission at no cost to you if you click on them and make a purchase. This is a small way I earn money to support this site. If links aren’t showing up for you , turn off your ad blocking software. Thank you for your support!

21 Best Road Trips from Seattle

Jump to a route, or keep scrolling to browse them all!

Seattle > Bainbridge Island
Seattle > Vashon Island
Seattle > Camano Island
Seattle > Whidbey Island
Seattle > Tacoma > Olympia
Seattle > Bellingham
Seattle > North Cascades National Park
Seattle > Leavenworth
Seattle > Mt. Rainier
Seattle > Mt. St. Helens
Seattle > San Juan Islands
Seattle > Wenatchee > Chelan > Winthrop
Seattle > Olympic Peninsula
Seattle > Yakima > Walla Walla
Seattle > Spokane
Seattle > Portland > Columbia River Gorge
Seattle > Oregon Coast
Seattle > Victoria, BC
Seattle > Willamette Valley > Eugene
Seattle > Mt. Hood > Bend
Seattle > Vancouver > Whistler

Overwhelmed by the idea of flushing out your road trip itinerary?

Let me plan it for you. I offer travel planning services where I create custom itineraries for travelers like you. All you need to do is fill out a travel questionnaire and book any reservations directly.

Book a personal travel planner and get a custom trip itinerary

Seattle > Bainbridge Island

distance from Seattle: ~50 mins | driving directions | best for: a day trip and shopping

Bainbridge Island is one of the easiest road trips from Seattle since the total travel time is just 50 minutes, which includes a pleasant 35-minute ferry ride. In fact, its proximity also makes it one of the best scenic day trips from Seattle .

person fishing at sunset | Best Road Trips from Seattle

I recommend spending at least half a day exploring the quaint boutiques, Bainbridge restaurants , and Bainbridge wineries dotting Main Street. The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is also worth visiting thanks to its regularly rotating exhibitions and great museum shop.

If you’re more partial to a hike, head to Grand Forest East and check out the lush Grand Forest Park Trail that connects to Grand Forest West. You can also walk the grounds at the gorgeous Bloedel Reserve .

woman walking through Grand Forest on Bainbridge Island, one of the best road trips from Seattle

If you’d like to plan the perfect day trip to Bainbridge Island, I’ve written an extensive guide to spending a day on Bainbridge island that should prove useful. You can also add on a longer road trip by tacking on Victoria or the Olympic Peninsula to this itinerary.

Seattle > Vashon Island

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr | driving directions | best for: farms and food

Vashon Island will always be one of the best road trips from Seattle, as it’s only an hour or so from downtown (including a 20-minute ferry). It’s packed with artists, restaurants, and boutique shops that give this place an irresistible artisanal vibe.

woman walking along beach at Point Robinson State Park, a thing to do on Vashon Island, WA

It’s tricky to summarize all the incredible things to do on the island (which is why I wrote an entire post on things to do on Vashon Island ). But I’d say if you’re here for the day, prioritize doing a food crawl of the amazing Vashon Island restaurants . Many of them are within walking distance of each other, so it’s a great way to spend the afternoon. If it’s a Saturday during summer, you can also hit up the Vashon Farmers Market for a quick break between eats.

To stretch your legs, head out on one of the many Vashon Island hikes, which are some of the best hikes near Seattle .

woman walking along wooded trail on Vashon Island

Shinglemill Creek Preserve is a moderate 3-mile hike that’s ideal for more experienced trekkers. While Point Robinson Lighthouse is a gentle beach stroll that offers great views of Mount Rainier on clear days.

Seattle > Camano Island

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr | driving directions | best for: peaceful retreat without a ferry

To get to Camano Island on your best road trips from Seattle tour, you’ll drive 62 miles along I-5 North from Seattle until you hit WA-532, which takes you right to Camano Island without the need for a ferry.

woman walking along the beach at sunset on Camano Island, one of the best road trips from Seattle

There are several things worth doing on Camano Island , as it’s home to beautiful beaches and manageable hikes. One of my favorite spots here is Iverson Spit Preserve , which offers over a mile of walking trails and unbeatable views over Port Susan Bay and the Cascades.

If you’d rather spend your day on the beach, head to Cama Beach Historical State Park to sunbathe on some of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific Northwest.

When your stomach starts rumbling, duck into one of the many Camano Island restaurants to refuel.

crab roll, tater tots, and beer from Camano Island | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Seattle > Whidbey Island

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr and 15 mins | driving directions (with ferry) | driving directions (without ferry, which is ~2.5 hrs) | best for: excellent seafood and wineries

Whidbey Island is one of the best road trips from Seattle and can easily be covered in a single day. Depending on how much time you can spare, either take the ferry at Mukilteo or head north to Deception Pass Bridge and tack on a visit to Anacortes and Skagit Valley (see the road trip itinerary below!).

older men canoeing on the water near a dock in the mist on Whidbey | Best Road Trips from Seattle

This location is best known for its excellent food scene. You can enjoy fresh mussels from Whidbey’s Penn Cove at many of the best restaurants on Whidbey Island or spend time exploring Whidbey Island wineries .

When you’re not eating or drinking, step back in time at Fort Casey Historical State Park , keep an eye out for whales at Deception Pass State Park , go shopping in the center of town, or pick up fresh produce at the Bayview Farmers Market if it’s a Saturday.

woman sitting on rock at Deception Pass Bridge, one of the best things to do in Skagit County, Washington

Seattle > Tacoma > Olympia

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: great art and food

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle for experiencing the biggest metropolises in western Washington. You can also tack on the Olympic Peninsula from Tacoma and avoid a ferry by driving over the famous Narrows Bridge .

Tacoma perfectly blends old and new thanks to its cool shops, surprisingly morbid history, and vibrant art scene.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Tacoma , but I’d say that you should prioritize visiting the Tacoma Art Museum , booking a ghost tour that takes you through various haunted parts of town, and marveling at the Museum of Glass. If you’re staying for dinner, check out some of the best places to grab food in Tacoma and its surrounding areas.

The Washington state capitol building, one of the best things to do in Olympia, WA

To round off your road trip from Seattle, head to Olympia for beautiful views, a few craft beers, and a bunch of cultural enrichment. There’s no shortage of things to do in Olympia . But visiting the capitol building and trying craft brews in the downtown area are must-dos (don’t miss 3 Magnets Brewing ).

If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to pick up ice cream from Sophie’s Scoops before visiting one of the many local parks or flower farms.

woman laughing on a swing at a sunflower farm in Olympia, Washington | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Seattle > Bellingham

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs without stops, ~2 hrs and 40 mins with | driving directions | best for: tulips, hikes, and history

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle that hits a bunch of places within 100 miles. In just under two hours it manages to pass through La Conner, Mt. Vernon, Burlington, Sedro-Woolley, and Bow before arriving in Bellingham.

Follow this itinerary to experience all of my favorite things to do in Skagit Valley . Or, if you’re short on time, just go right to Bellingham.

Samish Bay in Skagit County from beach with boat | Best Road Trips from Seattle

La Conner is a lovely seaside town that’s ideal for a romantic getaway. The streets are packed with artisanal boutiques, galleries, gift shops, and restaurants that all readily welcome visitors. If you need to stop overnight, there are also plenty of local inns to choose from.

While you’re here, make sure you stop by the Museum of Northwest Art and the Calico Cupboard Café for a breakfast.

downtown La Conner, what to do in Skagit County WA | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Continue to Mt. Vernon to explore the antique shops dotting Main Street. Don’t miss Perry and Carlson as you shop, a modern gift store and gallery that is a nice break from all the vintage. Stop at Farmstrong Brewing afterwards when you need a break from shopping.

Next stop at Tulip Town to see the gorgeous array of colors during the April blooming season. Read my article on how to avoid crowds at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival to make the most of your experience.

Another great stop is Little Mountain Park . It boasts several hiking trails and picnic areas that help you make the most of the panoramic views of Skagit Valley and the Olympic Mountains.

woman covering head with rainjacket during rain storm in a tulip field

With the San Juan Islands, Mt. Baker, and plenty of farmland serving as a backdrop, Burlington is the place to be for fresh produce, the tulip festival, and nature trails. It’s also home to Skagit’s Own Fish Market . My favorite stop for a lunch of fresh seafood (don’t miss the oyster ‘po boys).

If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t miss the Children’s Museum of Skagit County which is packed with interactive exhibits. For adults, make sure to stop at Garden Path Fermentation for some brews made with local grain and wild yeast from the Skagit air!

Sedro-Woolley

Sedro-Woolley is technically two towns that were joined back in 1898. And it boasts a rich history that can still be seen in the area today.

Although you don’t need a lot of time here, you should visit the Northern State Recreation Area to visit the abandoned asylums. If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday between April – October or December, you can also get afternoon tea at the gorgeous Willowbrook Manor .

Note, this is also along the main road you’d take to visit North Cascades National Park. If you don’t have time to visit during your Bellingham road trip, tack it on to the North Cascades itinerary below !

woman sitting on a decrepit ledge of an abandoned asylum building in disrepair | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Bow and Edison are two tiny bordering towns that most people mix up. So many people refer to them as just “Bow/Edison”. The area is agriculturally rich so it’s a great place to stop for artisan cheeses, oysters, and shellfish. Meander the small downtown area to pop into artist galleries and some of the best restaurants in Skagit County .

woman walking down road in Edison, what to do in Skagit County | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Your final stop on this road trip is Bellingham . Which is a charming riverside town with tons of B&Bs, stone cottages, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

If you have time, consider taking the famous Chuckanut Drive from Bow to Bellingham for gorgeous viewpoints from the famous Oyster Dome hike , Taylor Shellfish Farms , and Larrabee State Park .

woman overlooking water at beach with views of San Juan Islands | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Boulevard Park is a great place to stretch your legs for unbeatable views of the water once you hit Bellingham. Then head to downtown Bellingham to explore the funky shops and breweries. If it’s a Saturday, don’t miss the Bellingham Farmers Market .

I have a whole Bellingham guide of other things to do in the area. If you have time, take an optional day trip to Lummi Island or you can also take a day trip to Mount Baker for hiking.

woman crossing bridge at Whatcom Falls, a must do in this Bellingham guide | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Seattle > North Cascades National Park

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: great hikes and views of the Cascade Mountains

North Cascades National Park is one of the most underrated natural wonders in the country. And doesn’t require a fee to enter. Offering visitors backcountry camping, gorgeous hikes, colorful meadows, snow-capped peaks, and glimmering lakes, it’s a must-visit spot in Washington state.

View from a North Cascades national park itinerary | Best Road Trips from Seattle

I’ve created the ultimate North Cascades National Park itinerary if you’d like to make a comprehensive plan. If you want the quick list, Diablo Lake Overlook , Heather Pass Maple Loop , Blue Lake , and Washington Pass Overlook should all be on your list of things to do on this road trip from Seattle.

If you’re traveling in October, make sure to check out the larch hikes located in the park. They make for absolutely stunning photos!

Pro tip: If you do the whole North Cascades Scenic Byway, you’ll end up in Mazama and Winthrop. So you can tack on Winthrop to the end of this trip too!

woman doing Heather-Maple Pass Loop, a hike known for larches in Washington | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Seattle > Leavenworth

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: outdoor activities and wines

If you live in Seattle, heading to Leavenworth is a great way to spend a weekend. This Bavarian-themed town is best known for its quaint shopping and proximity to outdoor recreation activities. Like climbing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking.

There’s also a ton of things to do in Leavenworth in winter , too. For example, it has some of the best cross country skiing in Washington . And is close to Stevens Pass for downhill skiing in winter.

woman walking in downtown Leavenworth in winter | Best Road Trips from Seattle

You should take some time to hike to gorgeous Colchuck Lake or explore the stunning Lake Wenatchee State Park . When done, head back downtown to try the unique wines at one of the many Leavenworth tasting rooms .

If you’re looking for food, you should make time to visit the best restaurants in Leavenworth . While downtown Leavenworth has a lot of mediocre places to eat, there are a few gems all within close proximity to each other. So you can make a day of it doing your own food crawl.

woman sitting on ledge overlooking lake, mountains, and trees

Before heading back, drive 11 miles to the charming town of Cashmere for antiquing at Apple Annie’s , a spot of golf at the Cashmere Golf Course , and history at the Chelan County Museum and Pioneer Village , which contains over 13,000 Native American artifacts.

Seattle > Mt. Rainier National Park

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: nature walks and mountain panoramas

Mount Rainier never fails to take my breath away. And I love it so much that I’ve even created a guide to the ultimate Mount Rainier day trip from Seattle . This national park boasts over 240,000 acres of protected forest. And its central volcano is the 5 th tallest peak in the US at 14,411 feet above sea level.

Mount Rainier National Park | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Most people visit the Paradise/Longmire area of the mountain. Once you arrive, head straight to Christine Falls before schlepping a short distance to Narada Falls . The Skyline Trail Loop is one of the most impressive hikes here. And it’s a 5.5-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 1,450 feet.

If you have time, make the approximately 1.5 hour drive to the Sunrise area of the mountain, the tallest part you can drive up to. Once there, don’t miss the Fremont Lookout Trail accessed from the Sunrise Visitor Center for panoramas over the north side of the mountain. It’s one of the best hikes at Mt. Rainier .

woman walking on Mt Rainier hike trail with fall colors | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Seattle > Mount St. Helens

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs | driving directions | best for: hikes and spooky caves

Mount St. Helens is located inside the Gifford Pinchot National Forest to the south of Seattle. It’s one of the best road trips from Seattle for avid hikers. As you can opt for easy hikes that lead from Johnston Ridge Observatory or head to the active volcano area with a permit for a more challenging trek.

If you fancy navigating tricky switchbacks, the Lava Canyon Trail is an exciting pick that takes you across a narrow suspension bridge to a ribbon of pools and a cascading waterfall. If that’s closed or too tricky, check out the park map for other area trailheads.

Mt. St. Helens | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Another prime spot near the mountain is Ape Caves . This place is the third-longest lava tube in North America. And you’ll head deep underground to explore the pitch-black forest floor and fascinating rock formations that lie underground.

Seattle > San Juan Islands

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs and 15 mins | driving directions | best for: sea breezes and whale watching

The San Juan Islands are considered the best islands near Seattle . They consist of more than 170 islands in the Salish Sea. But the three islands most people visit are Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and San Juan Island itself. The rest of the islands are privately owned or super tiny with not much to do.

You can do the islands as a day trip from Seattle. But you’ll need to get up early to make it happen, as there’s just so much to cover! Therefore, I recommend making a couple days of it and hitting up as many islands as you can.

Pro tip: If you want to visit all 3 main San Juan Islands, start at the one farthest west and travel east, as you only pay for westbound trips from the mainland. The islands are listed below in that order to help save you money.

Note, you can only make vehicle reservations between Anacortes and the islands. Inter-island travel doesn’t accept them.

Anacortes on thee mainland is around 1.5 hours from Seattle. It’s the city you’ll drive to for your ferry departure. So stretch your legs before you leave by exploring the shops in the historic downtown area and getting lunch at Gere-a-Deli .

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is my favorite of the San Juan Islands. It’s the farthest west and actually almost became part of Canada! In 1872 there was the infamous “Pig War”, but it didn’t actually result in any fighting. Rather, it was more of a cold war caused by American settlers who killed one of the British settlers’ pigs.

The result was each side setting up military camps on opposite ends of the island and giving each other the stink eye. You can visit both camps today to experience not only history, but some breathtaking views.

San Juan Island Sculpture Park, one of the best road trips from Seattle

English Camp is on the northwestern part of the island near Roche Harbor and the San Juan Island Sculpture Park (one of my favorite attractions). At the camp you can meander trails and peruse the English gardens before heading to lunch at Westcott Bay Shellfish . Afterwards, head to Lime Kiln State Park to see if you can spot orcas, as this island is the best for whale watching.

woman looking out on the water and a lighthouse at sunset

American Camp is on the southeastern part of the island and it’s also my personal favorite. It has the stunning South Beach , Jakle’s Lagoon , and Cattle Point Lighthouse , all great spots for easy and scenic walks.

Downtown Friday Harbor is where you’ll find most of the area’s best restaurants, along with shops and wineries. It’s also the departure point of many whale watching tours. Check out my full San Juan Island guide to get even more ideas of what to do.

woman walking in grass on island, one of the best road trips from Seattle

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is considered by many to be the gem of this archipelago. When I first visited, I spent my time taking in the views from Mount Constitution (you can see across to Olympic National Park from here!), exploring the cascading falls in Moran State Park , and strolling through the quaint Eastsound Village for artisanal souvenirs and boutique shopping.

Foodies will want to make sure they stop at the Saturday farmers market , Orcas Island Winery , and Matia Kitchen (if you can snag a reservation!).

Check out my full guide to taking a day trip to Orcas Island from Seattle if you want even more ideas.

woman kayaking in the San Juan Islands | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Lopez Island

This island is super relaxed, yet there’s still plenty of incredible things to do on Lopez Island . Plus it’s the friendliest, considering every single local will wave as they drive by and there are a ton of quaint honors-system farm stands at the end of people’s driveways.

If you’re only going to do one thing here, head to Point Colville . The views of the sea from this hike are incredible and give you undisturbed lookouts over the azure waters.

woman overlooking ocean on a cliff, one of the best things to do on Lopez Island

If you have time, Spencer Spit State Park , Lopez Hill, and the tiny (but charming!) Lopez Village are all worth seeing. Don’t miss a meal at Ursa Minor , the best restaurant on the island and one of the restaurants worth the drive from Seattle .

person holding a stack of burger and fried chicken sandwiches from Ursa Minor on Lopez Island

Seattle > Wenatchee > Chelan > Winthrop

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: mountain scenery and vineyards

If you have time to extend your trip from Seattle to Leavenworth , continue onto Wenatchee, Chelan, and Winthrop for more breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and wineries.

Wenatchee is full of cute shops, nature hikes, delicious restaurants, and an impressive wine and beer scene. It’s also known as the Apple Capital of the world, so be sure to pick a few juicy ones if you’re here during fall! There are so many things to do in Wenatchee , so don’t be afraid to pad your itinerary if you’re not on a tight schedule.

View of the Wenatchee Valley in Washington from Ohme Gardens, what to do in Wenatchee WA if you like views

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is one of my favorite wine regions in the Pacific Northwest . You’ll see a ton of vineyards lining the slopes of the breathtaking lake, which is one of the deepest in the world. Check out my guide to the best Lake Chelan wineries for my favorites. Then head to the best Chelan restaurants for meals between tastes.

Given, you know, the lake, there are some world-class fishing opportunities here too. You can also rent kayaks or standup paddle boards to experience the refreshing water during hot weather.

There are also many things to do in Lake Chelan in winter . Mission Ridge is my favorite cross-country skiing area in Washington. You can also go tubing here and there’s a small hill for beginning skiers and snowboarders.

woman cross-country skiing on a ridge overlooking Lake Chelan, one of the best road trips from Seattle

Finally, you’ll reach the small town of Winthrop , which is known for its mountain scenery, incredible community vibe, and Wild West-themed downtown area lined with shops.

On your way here you’ll pass by Twisp. This is where all the best restaurants in Winthrop are, so make sure to stop for a much-needed bite.

restaurants in Winthrop WA - plate of street tacos

Winthrop is a bit south of North Cascades National Park , so you can add it to this itinerary if you can’t make it from Seattle in the itinerary above. Note the park is closed in winter due to snowy road conditions, but there are plenty of other things to do in Winthrop in winter . In fact, it has the largest network of groomed cross-country skiing trails in North America and there’s a magical winter hot air balloon festival every March.

hot air balloons | Best Road Trips from Seattle

Seattle > Olympic Peninsula

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: beaches and rainforest hikes

No list of the best road trips from Seattle is complete without Olympic Peninsula as a destination. I go to to the peninsula every year when visit Seabrook, a quaint Washington coast town at the south of the state. I absolutely love the area and think you will too!

This itinerary takes you toward the north since most people want to visit the famous Olympic National Park. However, check out my guide to the best Washington coast cabins if you want to explore the southern shores.

Also, know that you can get to these locations via Bainbridge Island by driving over the Hood Canal Floating Bridge if you want to tack this onto the Bainbridge itinerary above .

woman in rain coat sitting on log on Rialto Beach on misty day

Port Ludlow

Port Ludlow is a good starting point for visiting the Olympic Peninsula because you can stretch your legs after a long ferry and car ride. There are a ton of trails in the area to explore by foot or bike.

On your way to Port Townsend, make stops along the Olympic Peninsula cider route for tastings at cideries using home-grown apples. Depending on the day you’re traveling, there are also farmers markets worth stopping at.

Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a historic Victorian town nestled right on the water. You’ll love the colorful architectural areas of the downtown area, as well as all the cute shops to pop into. You can also visit the Jefferson Historical Society to learn more about the area’s past.

One of the things you must do in Port Townsend is visit Fort Worden State Park . It’s right on the water and offers a bunch of walking trails and beach views. However, the crown jewel is the haunting battery forts that you can walk inside (if you dare, it’s quite dark!).

battery fort at Fort Worden, one of the best road trips from Seattle

The batteries were created in the late 1800s/early 1900s as part of the “ Triangle of Fire ” defense strategy. In fact, you can visit nearby Fort Flagler State Park to see another one of these forts positioned to defend the mouth of the Puget Sound.

On your way to Sequim, keep an eye out for the Olympic Peninsual winery trail .

If you’re visiting in July and August, a stop in Sequim is a must to visit one of the many lavender farms during the annual Lavender Festival .

woman sitting in a lavender field, one of the best things to do in Olympia, WA

Port Angeles

Port Angeles is considered the gateway to the Olympic National Park given its prime proximity. Use it as a home base for exploring the famous Hoh Rainforest , Hurricane Ridge , and Lake Crescent area. You can also visit the most northern tip of Washington state, Cape Flattery .

You can also tack on Victoria, BC if you want to take the privately-run ferry between Port Angeles and Victoria.

woman walking on the beach on the Washington coast

Forks may sound familiar thanks to a little book and movie franchise called Twilight. They have a ton of cheeky references to the movies, including full-sized cutouts of Bella, Edward, and Jacob throughout town, but the main draw is the proximity to some of the best Washington coast attractions .

Some of my favorite stops along the coast are Cape Alava , Rialto Beach , Ruby Beach , and Kalaloch Beach , where there’s an impressive “tree of life” growing over a crevasse. Always check the tides before visiting Washington coast beaches, as it’s not unheard of getting stuck along a path that’s overtaken by water.

woman looking up at huge Tree of Life growing in crevasse at Kalaloch Beach, a WA coast attraction.

Seattle > Yakima > Walla Walla

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: wineries

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle for all the wine connoisseurs out there, as it stops at in two wine regions perfect for tasting the best Washington wines .

No trip to Yakima is complete without exploring the area wineries. There are hundreds in Yakima proper and the nearby towns dotting the road toward the Tri-Cities, but two of my favorites are Paradisos del Sol Winery and Gilbert Cellars .

Besides wine, Yakima is the place to be for museums, orchards, and outdoor activities. Spend hours hiking the Cowiche Canyon Trail and Yakima River Canyon which offered unbeatable views of the water below.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Yakima Area Arboretum which is tucked away between I-82 and Highway 24.

Food wise, don’t miss Los Hernández Tamales , Crafted , and Taqueria la Plazita .

Once you pass Yakima toward Walla Walla, you’ll start passing a ton of smaller towns with tasting rooms and some of the best wine country hotels in Washington . Use these towns as a home base for exploring some of the best Yakima wineries before continuing onto Walla Walla.

Walla Walla

You’ll end this trip at Walla Walla , which is one of my all-time favorite areas for delicious wines. As the entire region spans more than 2,000 acres, I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the Walla Walla wineries to help you navigate this place.

Seattle > Spokane

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs without stops, ~6.5 hrs with | driving directions | best for: small-town charm and natural wonders

If you’re on the hunt for the best road trips from Seattle that are on the longer side, then the Seattle to Spokane route is for you. This road trip features several stops, which allows drivers to take regular breaks along the nearly 300-mile journey.

Don’t have time for all these stops? Cut the journey short and visit the destinations as far as you have the time to travel!

woman walking on bridge over Spokane Falls

Cle Elum/Roslyn/Ellensburg

The first places you’ll hit on this road trip are the charming towns of Cle Elum, Roslyn, and Ellensburg.

Cle Elum is a small town approximately 96 miles from Seattle. Here you can visit the Swiftwater Cellars for New American fare and 509 Bake House for some of the most delicious cookies, lemon bars, and macarons you’ll ever taste. If you want to stay the night, book the gorgeous Suncadia Resort .

Roslyn is 3.5 miles away from Cle Elum. This tiny town is home to just under 3,000 people and boasts an impressive Historical Museum , a Heritage Distillery , and the sprawling Old Westbury Gardens which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also perfectly acceptable to just enjoy moseying along the quaint downtown streets and friendly atmosphere.

Ellensburg is 28 miles past Roslyn. This small town in eastern Washington is best known for its annual Labor Day Rodeo, but it also boasts several free museums, historic buildings, and a collection of impressive street art. Before leaving, don’t forget to take a photo with the famous Ellensburg Bull !

The view from Suncadia Resort Hotel in Washington overlooks the Cle Elum River and a ton of evergreen trees.

Palouse Falls

Once you’ve covered the holy trinity of Washington’s small towns about a third of the way from Seattle to Spokane, drive 130 miles to the cascading Palouse Falls .

You can spend an entire day trekking through Palouse Falls State Park , but travelers that are short on time can drive directly to the falls to take in this impressive natural wonder.

The waterfall itself is 200 feet high and you’ll need a Discover Pass to enter the park. There’s a marked path that offers an excellent view, and you can park in the area right around the falls which lets you make this attraction a quick pitstop before zipping off to Spokane.

woman walking over bridge in Manito Park in Spokane, WA

The final stop on this road trip from Seattle is Spokane , which is around 103 miles from Palouse Falls. When you get here, expect to be met with plenty of Native American heritage, art, culture, and of course, the tumbling Spokane Falls!

If you’d like to explore Spokane like a local , visit Riverfront Park and bike between urban wineries in the famous “Cork District” .

Seattle > Portland > Columbia River Gorge

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: food and waterfalls

Vancouver, WA

Most people think of Canada when they hear Vancouver , but locals know this is also a quaint town near the Washington-Oregon border. It’s the perfect jumping off point if you want to explore only the Washington-side of the Columbia River Gorge, but it also makes for a good pit stop before heading into Oregon.

There are so many things to do in Vancouver, WA . To start, meander the Vancouver Waterfront in the heart of the city. Then head into downtown to peruse the various boutique shops and public art displays . Afterwards, go on a crawl among the area’s many breweries and wineries .

History buffs will love Fort Vancouver with its walking trails, gardens, and historic village. Nearby is Officers Row , a series of restored 19th century homes that you can enjoy on a self-guided tour.

view of Portland and Mt Hood via Pittock Mansion, a must visit on a Portland itinerary

A short drive from Vancouver, WA is Portland , one of the best food cities in the US. I put together what I consider a perfect Portland itinerary but here are some activities not to miss.

Work up an appetite by exploring the many shops and boutiques in downtown Portland. If it’s a Saturday, head to the PSU Farmers Market , too. Once you finish downtown, make the rounds at my favorite vintage shops: Vintage Pink , Monticello Antique Marketplace , and Urbanite .

From there, head to one of the many PDX food pods for lunch (food crawl encouraged). I map out my favorites in my post on fun places to eat in Portland, Oregon .

Round out your trip by visiting Washington Park , the largest park in the city. Head to the arboretum to see Redwood trees (yes, the big red ones in California). Then check out the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden to be inspired for your own backyard landscaping. If you have time, you can walk the Wildwood Trail to Pittock Mansion for beautiful views of PDX and Mt. Hood in the distance.

historic Pittock Mansion in Portland, Oregon

Columbia River Gorge

Oh how I love the Columbia River Gorge . It’s not exactly a town, but rather a strip of scenic highway that goes along either side of the canyon that splits the Oregon and Washington state border. It’s one of the best road trips from Seattle for sure, but it makes a lovely day trip from Portland as well.

I have a very extensive guide on everything you need to know about visiting Columbia River Gorge that I encourage you to read. I also put together the perfect Columbia River Gorge itinerary , which you can follow to a tee, or create your own using my Columbia River Gorge waterfalls map .

You’ll make your way from Portland to Hood River while exploring the Gorge. Once in Hood River, check out the area breweries and visit my favorite Columbia River Gorge wineries .

Multonomah Falls, a must see during a Columbia River Gorge itinerary

Seattle > Oregon Coast

distance from Seattle: ~4 hrs | driving directions | best for: coastal views

With its rolling dunes, perfectly maintained state parks, and views of the Pacific Ocean that stretch way out into the distance, this is one of the best road trips from Seattle for aesthetes.

Start your adventure in Astoria , which you’ll pass through on your way to the coast. There’s a lot to love about this small seaside town, but the thing that stuck with me was the ridiculously good ice cream from Frites & Scoops . They serve up wacky flavors like hokey pokey honey toffee in traditional Norwegian krumkake cones.

Don’t miss nearby Fort Stevens State Park to see the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. It’s a real-life shipwreck right on the shore that makes for gorgeous photos.

Cannon Beach

Next head to Cannon Beach , which is a great destination for staying a few nights to explore the north Oregon coast. There are a ton of things to do near Cannon Beach , one of the most important being taking a picture of the enormous Haystack Rock looming just off the beach.

Another stop not to miss is Ecola State Park . There are a ton of walking trails and breathtaking views of the coastline dotted with sea stacks.

The view of the Oregon Coast from Ecola State Park. - Oregon coast | Oregon hikes | best Oregon hikes | best Oregon Coast viewpoints

Seattle > Victoria, BC

distance from Seattle: ~3 – 4.5 hours via ferry | driving directions | best for: historic buildings and great food

There are tons of fun things to do in Victoria, regardless of when you choose to visit. Located on Vancouver Island, you can get to the city via the private ferry in Port Angeles on the Olympic Peninsula. Or you can take the Clipper directly from Seattle to get there in under 3 hours.

Once there, you can spend an entire weekend exploring the charming downtown area’s Victorian buildings, wandering through Butchart Gardens, and strolling through Canada’s oldest Chinatown for souvenirs.

Aside from the incredibly unique things to do in Victoria , the city is also home to seriously good restaurants. When I visited, I was so blown away by the eateries here, that I wrote an entire foodie-focused guide on the place!

iconic legislative building in Victoria BC

Seattle > Willamette Valley > Eugene, OR

distance from Seattle: ~ 6 hrs | driving directions | best for: wine, beer, and biking

You’ll be passing through Portland to make your way here, so add on Portland to this itinerary instead if you can’t make it during your trip to the Columbia River Gorge.

Willamette Valley

Don’t tell Washington wineries, but the Willamette Valley might be my favorite wine region in the PNW. It’s a sprawling area that starts less than an hour outside of Portland and then extends all the way to Eugene.

There are a bunch of AVAs and towns within it, all of which would be impossible to explore during one trip, but I’ve tried to make it easier for you by mapping out the best Willamette Valley wineries . I also have a list of the best Willamette Valley restaurants for between tastings.

woman wine tasting on deck overlooking vineyards at one of the best wineries in Willamette Valley, Oreggon

Eugene

Eugene is a cool college town that’s the perfect jumping off point for exploring the lower Willamette Valley wineries and area hikes. It’s a very bikeable city, with a ton of paved trails and few hills. You’ll probably want to book a room at one of the best boutique hotels in Eugene so you can explore it all!

5th Street Public Market is one of the best things do in Eugene . It’s an indoor-outdoor market with a ton of area boutiques, restaurants, breweries, and wineries. If it’s a Saturday, the Lane County Farmers Market will be going on nearby. Then go to Alton Baker Park to walk and bike the paved trails.

person biking on a paved trail in a park in Eugene

Seattle > Mt. Hood > Bend, OR

distance from Seattle: ~ 6 hrs | driving direction | best for: skiing, biking, and scenic views

For one of the best road trips from Seattle that will clock up some serious miles, travel south on I-5 through Portland and east toward Central Oregon.

The first place you stop on this road trip will be Mt. Hood , which is home to several of the most popular skiing spots near Oregon. There are 4 different areas for skiing here, but you can also visit during the summertime for mountain biking, camping, and day hikes to Trillium Lake and Mirror Lake .

woman cross country skiing in Mt. Hood Oregon

After a few hours of driving, your road trip will end in Bend. This small city is regarded for its world-class river activities, scenic mountain vistas, and pristine trails. It also has a pretty serious brewery and food trail scene. My favorites of which I shared in this post on Instagram.

While you’re in the area, take time to explore Tumalo Falls , the Newberry National Volcanic Monument , and the High Desert Museum for a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

A bit north of Bend toward Mt. Hood is Smith Rock State Park . Stop here for cool rock formations and hiking trails for all skill levels.

woman walking toward large rock formations in an Oregon state park

Seattle > Vancouver > Whistler, BC

distance from Seattle: ~ 4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: experiencing Canada and skiing

If you want one of the best road trips from Seattle for visiting Canada, head to Whistler via Vancouver. This route doesn’t take long to drive and covers a couple of British Columbia’s finest cities. However, I put it toward the end of this list of the best road trips from Seattle because it can take closer to 5.5 or 6 hours depending on how long it takes you at the border crossing (though I’ve rarely waiting that long!).

Vancouver, BC

Your first stop on this road trip from Seattle will be Vancouver , which is known for blending metropolitan living with unmatched natural beauty. While there are so many awesome things to do in Vancouver , I always try to stroll through the 400-hectare Stanley Park , hit the cobbled streets of Gastown, and walk along the Seawall .

Whistler, BC

When you’re done in Vancouver, hop on BC-99 north to reach the charming skiing town of Whistler. This place is a serious winter wonderland and is home to a few of the largest ski resorts in North America. It’s also open in summer for hiking and biking if you’d prefer to visit when it’s warm.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Whistler , I have a whole guide to navigating where to eat in the touristy mountain village.

woman snowboarder standing in front of mountain at ski area

More Seattle trip ideas

Whew, that was a lot! Once you make your way through these best road trips form Seattle, check out these other destinations for even more adventures.

35 Best Hiking Spots in Seattle
Where to Go Glamping in Washington
Edmonds Restaurants Worth the Trip from Seattle

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Road trip: North Cascades Scenic Byway to Winthrop

For an upcoming weekend getaway, take the North Cascades Scenic Byway through a mix of striking crags and rolling hills. The rugged countryside provides a purely Western experience as it threads through tiny towns and jagged mountain. Start your journey just off I-5 in Sedro-Woolley and fuel up with gas and a sandwich from one of the small logging town’s quaint eateries.

You’ll then drive along the Skagit River past Concrete and stands of old-growth evergreens at Rockport State Park . As you enter the North Cascades National Park Service Complex, tiers of thick evergreens are now blackened toothpicks, after terrible fires raged across the landscape several years ago. However, new green growth covers the steep valleys, and valiant efforts preserved much of the wilderness and national park areas.

At Newhalem’s North Cascades Visitor Center , stop in for the helpful information display outlining various park hikes, including strolls under an hour, 1-2 hour rambles, half-day and full-day hikes and accessible hikes. An exhibit takes visitors through the mixed forests encountered on the peaks’ western and eastern sides, ranging from western hemlock to subalpine and back down to lodgepole pine. The well-curated bookstore can help you ID any plants or flowers you might come across while exploring local forests, and make sure to take a photo with the taxidermic grizzly bear.

Walk to the beautiful Gorge Creek Falls , or the overlook to Gorge Lake, and Gorge Dam. An interpretive trail helps explain what you’re viewing, but the eagle’s eye perspective towering over the waters needs no real explanation.

Driving on, whitecapped mountains begin playing hide and seek with each turn. Pull over at Diablo Lake Overlook or the Ross Lake Overlook to glimpse the lakes’ unreal teal color, reminiscent of 1950s cars and fridges. The remote, tent-only Colonial Creek South Campground sits on Diablo Lake, near hiking on Thunder Creek.

After Diablo Lake comes a stretch of highway only open from May through mid-November, cresting at Washington Pass , the highest point along SR 20. The overlook offers perspectives on the cinematic Liberty Bell Mountain, where the distinctive crack follows an ancient fault line. Look out on the spires, peaks and passes. The nearest campground, Lone Fir , offers spaces to campers.

In contrast to the North Cascade range’s sheer drama, as you descend into the Methow Valley, you’ll notice mellow, picturesque mounds where prehistoric flooding left the photogenic mountains rounded and polished.

The unincorporated community of Mazama welcomes visitors looking for the Methow’s quietest stay possible, with grassy rangeland, ranches, a well-stocked general store and plenty of wide-open spaces. The hotly anticipated Mazama Pub House just offered a soft opening in July 2022.

Road Trip to Winthrop

The town still retains its old-west storefronts — and many longtime, well-loved restaurants — but new, arts-oriented and youthful shops are setting up inside the city limits. Those who haven’t visited Winthrop in a few years may be surprised at the changes.

For example, Red Umbrella focuses on nature-infused products and art — silhouettes of trees, mountains and plants abound. Pick up teas, herbal concoctions, mugs, papers, candles, art earrings and more. Other shops for browsing each focus on books, kitchenware, wrought iron and home goods.

Enjoy gentle, beautiful walks in and around downtown Winthrop, including the newer two-acre Homestream Park near the Winthrop River, which features a tipi, sculptures, meandering pathways and signage. The nearby 1.3-mile Susie Stephens Trail passes over the picturesque Spring Creek Bridge and affords a chance to spot deer.

From downtown, cross the suspension footbridge for the easygoing two-mile Sa Teekh Wa Trail running along the Chewuch River, with interpretive signs explaining local irrigation engineering feats. The newer, figure-eight-shaped Meadowlark Trail looks over Winthrop and out onto Sawtooth/Chelan wilderness.

Visit Winthrop’s extremely well-done Shafer Historical Museum to learn about some of the valley’s early inhabitants, such as Scottish “gentleman cowboy” Lord Blythe who wore a dark suit and tie when out on the range. Amble into replica log cabins, offices and shops with antique tools and furnishings, as if the owners just stepped away. Don’t miss the terrifying “tooth extractor” used by late-1800s pioneers or the fascinating current photo exhibit featuring the historical re-enactors Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle.

For more contemporary fun, families may be delighted to learn that wheels are rotating again this summer during drop-in weekend evenings at Winthrop’s outdoor roller rink , which was closed last year.

For lunch and dinner, order at newcomer Jupiter ‘s counter from an out-of-this-world menu of salads, bowls, sandwiches and Sri Lankan specialties — including smoky lentil fritters, coconut milk-infused dal, or curried jackfruit sandwiches. Then dine on the expansive patio, under shady trees. Or take your picnic across the street to the charming Confluence Park, looking at the waters where the Chewuch River and Methow River meet.

The dinner-only Arrowleaf Bistro offers the most upscale options in the area — if you can squeeze yourself onto the reservation list — with farm-to-table fare such as wild boar meatloaf and pan-roasted chicken with morel gravy. For evening cocktails, the Copper Glance’s indoor and outdoor seating is almost as good as the restaurant’s creative drink list.

For breakfast, The Little Dipper Cafe and Bakery slings quiche with hashbrown crust in the morning. Stop by anytime for delicious cookies and pastries, and freezer meals of chicken potpie, mac and cheese and curry potpie to heat up in your Airbnb.

While in the area, you can choose your own stay experience . Find your inner cowboy or cowgirl with a trail ride at a ranch stay, your inner diva at an upscale resort, or just a laid-back mountain-town experience at an Airbnb, chalet or cabin overnight. Or take your pick of RV parks, camping and glamping options. A kitchen is recommended if you’re staying for more than a night.

Road Trip to Twisp

Further down SR 20, Winthrop’s artsy sister, Twisp, is home to numerous fine art and community galleries, studios and other imaginative endeavors — so much so that it’s a noted Creative District by the Washington State Arts Commission. Walk through the pedestrian-friendly downtown of a few blocks to browse shops, galleries and cafes.

Find a reason to stop by the well-stocked natural food store, Glover Street Market, one of the best grocery options in the area, with an expansive deli and bulk foods section, wine, organic and specialty foods, and locally grown produce. At Cinnamon Twisp Bakery, pick up an ever-popular Cinnamon Twisp made with whole wheat pastry flour and hazelnuts or a Hit the Trail Cookie of oats, chocolate chips, nuts and craisins.

Visit TwispWorks , a 6.4-acre campus integrating artists’ studios, a native plant garden, and Fork food truck serving up international delicacies such as a Korean fried chicken sandwich, falafel salad or bahn mi sandwich. At the small but complete natural history museum, you’ll learn how the Methow Valley’s clouds are truly unique due to extremes in elevation, temperature and a confluence of weather systems from various climates: marine, alpine, desert and arctic.

If traveling with children, see if the affordable Wagner Memorial Pool’s waters appeal on a typical hot day — an open swim takes place six afternoons per week.

Twisp lodging options aren’t quite as plentiful as other towns but include inns, lodges, RV parks and Airbnb rentals.

If you’ve decided you just can’t leave Methow after all, set up at Winthrop’s Drop Zone Cowork space and enjoy the river views and Wi-Fi — the West wasn’t explored in a day, after all.

Whether you’re looking to make an environmentally conscious choice with a hybrid or to save cash with our new car lease deals, Western Washington Toyota Dealers can help you find a new car that keeps up with your lifestyle.

Best Seattle to Glacier National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Two Epic Road Trip Ideas for Driving Between Glacier National Park and Seattle

When you are traveling to Glacier National Park from Seattle, Cascades Pass is a beauty to see.

As someone who now lives in Seattle but still has lots of family members in Montana, I’ve done the drive from Seattle to Montana many times. And the drive from Seattle to Glacier National Parks is my favorite. Here’s why.

This scenic road is the Best Way From Seattle to Glacier National Park and so worthwhile.

Glacier National Park is located in the northwest corner of Montana. So this gives road trippers coming from Seattle the perfect opportunity to head north before they head east and get to Glacier via Rte 20, which takes you right through the heart of North Cascades National Park.

That’s right, on a Seattle to Glacier National Park Road trip you can visit two national parks.

The Best Way From Seattle to Glacier National Park has the beautiful Washington Pass Overlook on the way, and it's a gorgeous site to see.

I’m going to go into all the things you can see on this epic road trip from Seattle and where you should stop, hike, and even stay overnight before arriving at Glacier National Park.

In a hurry and don’t have time for Hwy 2? Don’t worry, at the end of this article I’ll also let you know some special stops you can do on the faster route between Seattle and Glacier via I-90.

North Cascades National Park: First Stop After Leaving Seattle for Glacier

Cascades National park is one of the gorgeous sites you'll see on your Seattle to Glacier Road Trip.

North Cascades National Park is an undersung gem in Washington State. The park has a highway going right through it, yet it’s one of the less-visited national parks in the PNW. There are a few places to stop and soak in the views during your road trip.

Lake Diablo

On your next Seattle to Glacier Road Trip, be sure to visit Diablo Lake Beach.

When you see pictures of Lake Diablo, at first glance, it looks like it should be somewhere in Southeast Asia or New Zealand. But no, it’s right in the Pacific Northwest in North Cascades National Park.

Lake Diablo has a cloudy teal color with a curving shoreline that makes it look almost like a puzzle piece just nestled right into the Cascade Mountains. Tiny islands in the water give it a hint of a tropical look while the pine trees surrounding the lake give it a decidedly alpine feel.

There are two stops you should make to properly see Lake Diablo. The first is at one of the beach access points, where you can park and walk right down to one of the beaches along Lake Diablo.

Here you can feel the frigid temperature of the water, throw some stones in and try skipping rocks, and take a family photo op. This is also a good place to launch a paddleboard or kayak if you’re hoping to get right out onto the water of Lake Diablo.

The next stop is the Diablo Lake Overlook. If you only have time for one stop in North Cascades National Park during your Seattle to Glacier road trip it should be this one.

Diablo Lake Overlook is an iconic sight to see on a Seattle to Glacier National Park road trip.

From the parking lot for the overlook, you can get out of your car and walk the path that leads you along the perimeter of a cliff overlooking Lake Diablo. From this vantage point, you get the whole breadth of the size of the lake and its gorgeous color.

When I was there at the end of June it was still pretty chilly at this overlook and super windy. In fact, you can tell that this wind pattern happens quite a bit by looking at the trees which all are growing in a certain direction, giving them quite an interesting look.

Also because of the wind, make sure you have a jacket with you even at the start of summer.

Washington Pass Overlook

After Lake Diablo, my favorite place in North Cascades National Park is most definitely the Washington Pass Overlook.

If you’re driving from Seattle to Glacier National Park along this route, you can’t miss it since you’ll have to drive right over the pass.

Cascades scenery when driving from Seattle to Glacier National Park.

However, I recommend parking and getting out to look around for some better pictures and to fully appreciate the scope of this beautiful piece of scenery at the top of the park. If you’re a hiker, there are a couple of hiking trails you can do through this part of the park as well.

Winthrop and Methow Valley

Now for the next stage of your road trip to Glacier National Park: Winthrop and the lovely Methow Valley!

Winthrop is located in the north-central part of Washington state, and it is such a fun little town, not to mention beautiful!

A while back, Winthrop got a state grant to transform their little downtown area into one that feels right out of an old west movie. While walking along Winthrop’s main street, you’ll find western-looking buildings, bar stools shaped like horse saddles, rope swings, and more fun little touches that make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Also don’t miss a scoop (or three!) of homemade ice cream at Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe, which you can enjoy on those aforementioned barstools.

Winthrop isn’t just about the downtown area, though.

The region around Winthrop is called the Methow Valley, and it is home to gorgeous hiking trails, scenic drives, and sprawling farmland with mountain peaks jutting up in the distance.

My mom’s cousin lives in Winthrop. She and her husband own the very cute Winthrop Store, a general store that has local souvenirs, a wide selection of gourmet chocolates and other snacks, and delicious breakfast sandwiches. You can also fill up with gas there and enjoy the western architecture while you do so.

She always gives our family great tips on what to do when we are in Winthrop. Our favorite tip from her was hiking to Falls Creek Falls. Such a pretty part of the Methow Valley!

Winthrop is a wonderful overnight stop on your road trip from Seattle to Glacier National Park. And if you really want to explore the Methow Valley it’s a great place to stay for even two or three nights.

My family stayed at Hotel Rio Vista and loved it. We had a view of the river where we could see a mama and two baby deer throughout the day, and at night we watched bats swoop to catch mosquitoes right from our balcony.

The view from the Winthrop Hotel is worth the road trip from Seattle to Glacier National Park.

Hotel Rio Vista is right on the edge of downtown and is located across from a trail leading up to Shafer Historical Museum, which is another cool place to tour in Winthrop!

When you visit Glacier National Park, be sure to take in Grand Coulee Dam.

Sandpoint, Idaho

Soon after leaving Winthrop, you’ll come to Spokane, WA. Here, you’ll get onto US-2 and stay on it until you reach Glacier Country in Montana. Spokane is close to the eastern border of Washington and Idaho.

It doesn’t take very long to drive across this part of Idaho since it’s just the little chimney-shaped slice at the top of the state. But located in this sliver of Idaho is the resort town of Sandpoint which is a fabulous place to vacation thanks to the lake and river flowing right through town.

Sandpoint is a great place to stop on your way from Seattle to Glacier National Park, either for the night if you don’t end up spending it in Winthrop or to stretch your legs and get a bite to eat.

You can even take a beach break from the car. On our way back to Seattle from Glacier, it was a gorgeous day so we stopped for a couple of hours to get lunch at Spuds Waterfront Grill (excellent stuffed baked potatoes that were the perfect lunch to have in the “spud” state) and let our young children play in the water at Sandpoint City Beach Park before continuing the drive home.

Kootenai Falls and Suspension Bridge

Kootenai Falls is one of the many reasons to take a Seattle to Glacier Road Trip.

Kootenai Falls is such an easy hike to do when you’re driving from Seattle to Glacier National Park via Route 2. The easy to moderate hike has a big reward at the end so it’s worth the stop.

Kootenai Falls is just past Libby, Montana, a cute town known fo its eagle statues and charming Main Street.

See charming Libby, MT and its eagle statues on your next Seattle to Glacier Road Trip.

There’s a parking lot right off the highway for the hike to Kootenai Suspension Bridge and Kootenai Falls. Next to the parking lot are several informational signs telling you about the wilderness into which you’re about to embark.

There’s also a stand selling ice cream and coffee in the summer months, which is especially nice if — like me — you enjoy sipping on a coffee during your road trip. Or if — like my husband and daughters —you love a mid-road trip ice cream cone.

The trailhead is marked and gradually goes downward at the beginning.

Important Note: there are two staircases you’ll need to navigate to go up and down a bridge so this hike isn’t for those who will have trouble with a couple of flights of stairs.

The view from the Kootenai River makes the Seattle to Glacier Road Trip worth the time.

Soon after that staircase, there is a fork in the trail. It’s marked with arrows, but you’ll want to go to the left if you’re heading to the suspension bridge first and you’ll go to the right to see the actual Kootenai Falls.

You can’t see the falls from the suspension bridge or on the other side of it so don’t waste time walking around searching for them.

I went to the Kootenai Suspension Bridge first because I was most excited to see that. The bridge is the second one to hang across the Kootenai River after the first one was destroyed by a bad flood in 1948.

When you get to the Kootenai River, be sure to talk across the suspension bridge for a fun adventure.

It looks kind of scary, but honestly, it felt safer — at least with kids — than the cliff drop close to the trail that went straight into the river. If doing this hike with kids it’s completely doable since the hike is fairly easy, but you want to keep them close to you and hold their hands when you’re near that river edge.

As for the bridge, take turns letting people go from each side to cross it. Remember, you’ll have to cross it again to get back to the trail so be respectful of others and don’t spend too much time hanging out on the bridge taking selfies. Though I think everyone will understand if you stop for a few moments to take some quick snaps of the awesome views.

After you cross the bridge you’ll backtrack to that fork in the hike where you can continue to the Kootenai Falls viewing area. Go up onto the massive flat rocks to get a good view of the falls. Again, with kids, keep them close and keep them away from that edge.

At the fork, the trail down to the falls doesn’t take too long. Only about five to 10 minutes. Then from the fork in the trail, it was about 20 minutes back to our car.

Flathead Lake

There’s one more place that I think you should add to your Glacier National Park road trip from Seattle, WA.

This one is a little bit in the opposite direction of Glacier if you’re staying in the park or in West Glacier or Whitefish, but it’s worth the detour to see.

What’s the place? That would be Flathead Lake .

Here at Travel Montana Now, Flathead Lake is one of our favorite places to go in Montana.

Flathead Lake is the largest lake west of the Mississippi. It takes a good two hours to drive around the entire lake, which I recommend doing if you have time on your road trip, especially if you have time to stop at one of the state parks located along the shores of Flathead Lake or to explore one of the cute little lakeside towns like Bigfork or Polson .

The water of Flathead Lake is also excellent to get out on top of via boat or stand up paddle board or kayak. But it’s just as beautiful to view from the shore if you don’t have time in your itinerary for water sports.

Flathead Lake is also known for its cherry orchards, so if you’re there during the cherry-picking season, be sure to pick up some delicious cherries to enjoy on your road trip from one of the many roadside stands you’ll see.

Flathead Lake is located about 20 minutes south of Kalispell which is also worth a visit on your Seattle to Glacier National Park road trip, particularly if you like historic walking trails or breweries.

Historic buildings in downtown Kalispell, Montana along Main Street, one of the top things to see and do in Kalispell near Glacier National Park.

Kalispell is a common place to stay when visiting Glacier National Park so if this is your accommodations spot, it will be easy to explore!

If not, stop in Kalispell after driving around Flathead Lake for a pint from one of Kalispell’s award-winning breweries and do a walk around the historic downtown area.

—> Click here for our guide about all the top things to do in Kalispell, MT.

On your next road trip to Glacier national park, be sure to spend some time on the Whitefish Mountain hiking trail.

Another popular place to stay near Glacier National Park for those not staying right in the park is Whitefish. Like Kalispell, if this isn’t where your accommodations are, it’s still worth a stop to see the artsy downtown area that is right by the old train depot, which still services the area — Amtrak can also take you from Seattle to Whitefish!

Whitefish has many things to do. This includes a popular ski resort in the winter and a lovely lake with a public beach perfect for lounging in the summer.

Read More: Ultimate Summer Getaway Guide for Whitefish, Montana

Coram

If you’re staying in Kalispell or along Flathead Lake, on your way to the west entrance to Glacier National Park you’ll drive through a town called Coram.

There’s not too much to this town, but if you enjoy craft distilleries and good eats, this makes for a great place to stop on your way back from Glacier National Park.

Read More: Best Hidden Gems in Montana: 21 Secret Spots

I am not a whiskey fan, but my husband is, so we stopped at Glacier Distilling Company on our way back from Glacier to do a tasting, followed by dinner at Josephine’s Restaurant.

Josephine’s is located next door and is owned by the same family who runs the distillery.

As I mentioned, I’m not much of a fan of whiskey, but I like trying new things so I had tiny little sips of my husband’s tasting and was surprised to find that even I liked a couple of them. They had a huckleberry whiskey, which of course I had to try because Montana is known for its huckleberries, and a honey whiskey, both of which were good.

My husband also really liked one of their traditional whiskeys: the North Fork Whiskey.

At Josephine’s, we enjoyed gourmet gastropub-type cuisine with a Montana twist. The eatery also had craft beer on tap.

The decor of Josephine’s is also charmingly rustic with a farmhouse vibe. It made for the perfect dinner after a day spent exploring Glacier National Park.

Oh yes…we didn’t forget about the ultimate destination: Glacier National Park!

Last Road Trip From Seattle Destination: Glacier National Park

So now, without further ado, this road trip itinerary arrives at Glacier.

The last stop on this Seattle to Glacier National Park road trip is indeed Glacier National Park itself, an area of Montana — and the world — that is so fantastic, beautiful, and mesmerizing that it deserves its own post. Fortunately for you, we have exactly that. Here are some quick links to all of our top resources on Glacier National Park.

Alternate Route to Glacier National Park from Seattle

Now, I also mentioned I would talk about the faster way to get from Seattle to Glacier National Park. That would be via I-90. Once on that, it’s a straight shot through Spokane, WA and Coeur d’Alene, ID and onto Missoula, MT.

From Missoula, you take 93 north and wind around Flathead Lake, and within a couple of hours from leaving Missoula, you’ll be at Glacier National Park.

If you are in a hurry to get from Seattle to Glacier, you can easily do this second route option in a day. It takes roughly 10 hours.

I’ve done it before and it does make for a long day, but if you’re short on time and want to spend most of your vacation in Glacier National Park, this is your best route to take from Seattle.

A good overnight stop is pretty Couer d’Alene, Idaho where you can enjoy dinner by the lake. Or stay overnight in Missoula and enjoy dinner and drinks at a local brewery, followed by breakfast the following morning at a local coffee house. Then enjoy a ride around the lovely A Carousel for Missoula before taking your time to drive along Flathead Lake and through Kalispell onto Glacier National Park.

What if I’m Staying on the East Side of the Entrance?

You’ll find much more accommodation options on the west side of Glacier, but if you’re one of the lucky ones who got a booking at one of the east side lodges or motels located in the park or just outside it in St. Mary , then you have two main options for getting there.

The first is to time your drive so you get there before dark and can take the Going-to-the-Sun Road through the park from West Glacier. I say before dark because this drive is not one you want to do in the dark. It’s winding and narrow, right by cliffs, and is breathtakingly beautiful.

Make sure Going-to-the-Sun Road is open through Logan Pass if you’ll be planning to drive this way. Going-to-the-Sun Road’s open and close dates change every year depending on winter’s snowfall and how long it takes to get the road cleared of snow. Historically it opens sometime during the last two weeks of June but sometimes isn’t open until the first week or two of July . It usually closes sometime in October , but has closed in September before due to early snow or poor road conditions.

If you want to save driving the Going-to-the-Sun road for a different day in your trip itinerary, then continue east from Flathead Lake along US-2. You’ll go through the town of Essex and then can head up toward St. Mary or East Glacier, or the Two Medicine or Many Glacier entrance, depending on where your accommodation is.

Lodging Tip: If you don’t want to travel all the way to the east side quite yet, consider staying in Essex at the Izaak Walton Inn . It’s a charming and historic lodge that is built right by the train tracks in a gorgeous setting that stunningly frames the trains that go by every hour (including the Amtrak, which stops in West Glacier and East Glacier).

Click here for our detailed, first-person review of Izaak Walton Inn.

Izaak Walton Inn has a well-appointed rooms with a rustic vibe at the lodge, plus old train cars that have been converted into lodging and are a truly memorable place to stay. (Those train cars book up fast each summer so reserve early!)

Read More: Best Lodging In and Near Glacier National Park

Enjoy Your Trip from Seattle to Glacier National Park!

You'll love this view of Glacier National Park on your Seattle to Glacier Road Trip.

No matter which route you take I hope you’re able to enjoy the gorgeous scenery you’ll see along the way and that you have a wonderful time in Glacier National Park before you return to Seattle or head on to your next destination.

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

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The Loneliest Road

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Home / Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway road trip driving distance map from California to Oregon and Washington

For some reason, when people elsewhere in the country refer to the Pacific Coast, particularly California, it’s apparent that they think it’s a land of kooks, an overbuilt suburban desert supporting only shopping malls, freeways, and body-obsessed airheads. All this may be true in small pockets, but the amazing thing about the Pacific Coast—from the dense green forests of western Washington to the gorgeous beaches of Southern California—is that it is still mostly wild, open, and astoundingly beautiful country, where you can drive for miles and miles and have the scenery all to yourself.

Planning a West Coast Road Trip

Road Trip USA’s Pacific Coast route begins at the northwest tip of the United States at Port Townsend near Olympic National Park, and remains within sight of the ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border. This 1,650-mile (2,655 km), mostly two-lane route takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert. Most of the Pacific Coast is in the public domain, accessible, and protected from development within national, state, and local parks, which provide habitat for such rare creatures as mountain lions, condors, and gray whales.

A misty day at rocky Cape Flattery on Washington's Olympic Peninsula.

Heading south, after the rough-and-tumble logging and fishing communities of Washington State, you cross the mouth of the Columbia River and follow the comparatively peaceful and quiet Oregon coastline, where recreation has by and large replaced industry, and where dozens of quaint and not-so-quaint communities line the ever-changing shoreline. At the midway point, you pass through the great redwood forests of Northern California, where the tallest and most majestic living things on earth line the Avenue of the Giants, home also to some of the best (meaning gloriously kitsch) remnants of the golden age of car-borne tourism: drive-through trees, drive-on trees, houses carved out of trees, and much more. The phenomenally beautiful coast-line of Northern California is rivaled only by the incredible coast of Big Sur farther south, beyond which stretches the beachfronts of Southern California. The land of palm trees, beach boys, and surfer girls of popular lore really does exist, though only in the southernmost quarter of the state.

Along with the overwhelming scale of its natural beauty, the West Coast is remarkable for the abundance of well-preserved historic sites—most of which haven’t been torn down, built on, or even built around—that stand as vivid evocations of life on what was once the most distant frontier of a new nation. While rarely as old as places on the East Coast, or as impressive as those in Europe, these diverse sites include the Spanish colonial missions of California, Russian and English fur-trading outposts, and the place where Lewis and Clark first sighted the Pacific after their long slog across the continent.

Last but certainly not least are the energizing cities— Seattle and Portland in the north, San Francisco in the middle, and Los Angeles and San Diego to the south—that serve as gateways to (or civilized respites from) the landscapes between them. Add to these the dozens of small and not-so-small towns along the coast, with alternating blue-collar ports and up-scale vacation retreats, and you have a great range of food, drink, and accommodations options. Local cafés, seafood grills, and bijou restaurants abound, as do places to stay—from youth hostels in old lighthouses to roadside motels (including the world’s first, which still stands in lovely San Luis Obispo, California) to homespun B&Bs in old farmhouses.

10 Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

For more insight into each stop along a West Coast road trip, our content is arranged by state, with California’s coastline broken into its northern, central, and southern sections. Here are ten major sights along the Pacific Coast Highway where travelers aiming to follow only a section of the full cross-country route may wish to use to plan their drive:

Sunset at McWay falls in Big Sur along the Pacific Coast Highway

Olympic National Park, Washington – Combines the features of Maine’s rocky coast, the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and the unique rainforests of the Pacific Northwest
Astoria & Fort Clatsop, Oregon – Part of the extensive Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, Fort Clatsop is just outside the oldest American city west of the Rockies
“Dune Country,” Oregon – Hop out of the car and into a dune buggy to travel through some of the tallest sand dunes in the world
Redwood National Park, California – Stretch your legs with a walk through Lady Bird Johnson Grove
Mendocino, California – One of the prettiest towns on the California coast, and extra fun for fans of the TV show Murder, She Wrote
San Francisco, California – Easily one of the most enjoyable cities in the US and a great place to start, end, or spend a weekend along the Pacific Coast Highway
Monterey, California – Home to the excellent Monterey Bay Aquarium and the internationally famous Monterey Jazz Festival
San Simeon, California (Hearst Castle) – One of the truly unique attractions to see on a classic Highway 1 road trip
San Luis Obispo, California – A lively college town with a beautiful 18th-century Spanish mission to tour, and the Madonna Inn, one of the quirkiest places to spend a night
Los Angeles, California – Hollywood, Sunset Boulevard, and an intersection with another storied road trip: Route 66
San Diego, California – Beautiful beaches, grand buildings, and home to the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the world

Related Travel Guides

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8 Best Road Trips from Seattle
20 Best Road Trips From Seattle
9 Epic Seattle Road Trips to Plan Right Now
The 10 Best Weekend Road Trips From Seattle, Washington
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10 Scenic Road Trips from Seattle for the Ultimate Adventure
Distance: 214 miles. Number of Days: 3. Where to Stay: Friday Harbor. Take I-5 north from Seattle north until you reach Burlington, where you can take exit 230 on your road trip from Seattle. You'll then travel west towards Anacortes, where you can take the ferry (you'll need an advanced reservation ).
10 Amazing Stops on a Pacific Northwest Road Trip (+ 2 Itineraries
Distance from Portland: 183 miles. Travel Time: 3 hours. Crater Lake National Park is a stop you won't want to miss on your national parks trip and one of the best things to do in the Pacific Northwest. The park is known for its large body of water, created by a massive eruption that left a hole in the earth's surface.
The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary
About This 2 Week Pacific Northwest Road Trip. Pacific Northwest Road Trip Map. Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary: 14 days. Day 1-2: North Cascades National Park. Day 3: Seattle. Day 4-5: Olympic National Park. Day 6-7: Mount Rainer National Park. Day 8: Portland. Day 9: Columbia River Gorge.
Ultimate Itinerary: The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip
This epic PNW road trip includes: 2870 Miles. 54 Hours of driving. 14 National Forests. 4 National Monuments. 4 National Parks. 3 States. The journey as we put it together starts and ends in Seattle, but the road also passes through other urban areas including Portland, Boise, Bend, and Spokane.
Cascade Loop Road Trip: our ultimate itinerary (with map)
Driving Time. The Cascade Loop. 440 miles. 7 hours 30 minutes. Driving from Seattle. 470 miles. 8 hours. The Cascade Loop is about 440 miles in length and will take upwards hours to drive. The driving time required will vary, especially as part of the loop is closed during the off-season.
How to Plan a Perfect North Cascades National Park Itinerary
From Seattle. Getting to North Cascades National Park from Seattle is simple. Head north on I-5 to Sedro-Woolley (exit 232) and head east on Highway 20 until you're in the park. It's a two hour (112 mile) drive without traffic. ... Road Trips: Explore the best of the Pacific Northwest on a 14 day Pacific Northwest road trip.
How to Plan an Epic Day Trip From Seattle to North Cascades National
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your North Cascades National Park day trip. Is North Cascades National Park Worth Visiting? Many people tend to take a Mt. Rainier day trip by thinking it's closer to Seattle than visiting North Cascades National Park. However, a fun fact about Seattle is the difference isn't that significant, and there are so many reasons North Cascades differs ...
20 Best Road Trips From Seattle
Read on to find out our suggestions for some of the best road trips that take less than 3 hours to make. 1. Portland. Distance from Seattle: 170 miles. Driving time: 2 hours 50 minutes. Where to stay: Hotel Lucia is our favorite place to stay in Portland, but the city is full of great accommodation options.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary: What to See & Do in 7 Days
North Cascades National Park, WA. North Cascades National Park is located about 3 hours northeast of Seattle. With just 7 days in the Pacific Northwest, it's perhaps a little too far afoot to fit in comfortably. The national park in Washington State offers spectacular backwoods hiking and camping opportunities.
15 Road Trips From Seattle for the Ultimate Escape
Columbia River Gorge. Distance from Seattle: 3 hours. Recommended Time: 2+ days. Nestled along the border of Washington and Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful areas to visit near Portland. It is the perfect road trip destination for outdoor lovers, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, nearly 100 waterfalls, and ...
The 27 Best Road Trips From Seattle: The Perfect Mix Of Cities And
Fastest route: roughly 18-19 hours via the I-5 S. Recommended route: roughly 26-27 hours via U.S. Route 101 S. Road Trip Overview: This is a multi-state trip and a favorite for Seattle road trips, where you'll start in Washington and drive down the coast through Oregon and California to get to Los Angeles.
The Cascade Loop
Undoubtedly one of the best road trips in Washington, the Cascade Loop scenic highway is the best way to see some of the most awe-inspiring sights that Washington has to offer. Hanging out at Blue Lake in the North Cascades. Wearing: Patagonia Fleece Jacket and Danner Hiker Boot.
8 Best Road Trips from Seattle
National Park Roads from Paradise to Chinook Pass. Starting point: 107 miles from Seattle. The Route. From Paradise, Stevens Canyon Road heads east to meet State Route 123 north of Ohanapecosh; the Grove of the Patriarchs trail there makes for a stomach-settling short hike between windy stretches of road.
Washington State's Ultimate Road Trip
Extending from Pateros to the crest of the Cascade mountains, the Methow Valley is Washington state's Wild West! Passing by the massive bulk of Liberty Bell and Early Winters spires, the North Cascades Highway 20 climbs steadily through expansive, rugged beauty toward Washington and Rainy Pass viewpoints (milepost 157.6).
The 23 Best Road Trip Destinations from Seattle: Day Trips, Weekend
Add it all up, and this is a fun road trip from Seattle. This journey takes you through several mid-size cities in Montana that I really enjoy, including Missoula, Bozeman, and Billings. 23. Las Vegas and Great Basin National Park, Nevada. One last 10-day road trip suggestion for folks who don't mind 18 hours behind the wheel: Las Vegas!
Cascade Loop Scenic Highway
Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The Cascade Loop is a scenic 440-mile drive taking you past some of the most spectacular Washington State scenery! The journey starts in northern Washington near Everett, about 30 miles north of Seattle. Head east on Highway 2 and you're on your way!
Washington Road Trip: Mount Rainier to North Cascades to Olympic
You could keep this part of your Washington National Parks road trip shorter and take the I-5 from Mount Rainier to North Cascades. Instead, I think it's worth the extra time to leave Mount Rainier eastbound and explore parts of the Cascade Lakes Highway, Leavenworth, Lake Chelan, Winthrop, and especially the National Forest area just east of North Cascades.
Trip Guide: Seattle to North Cascades National Park
Day 1: Get an early start from Seattle to North Cascades National Park. Head straight to the Cascade Pass trailhead and knock out the best hike in the park. This will be a full-day hike but totally worth it. Get food or go set up camp at the North Cascades National Park campgrounds.
Plan Your North Cascades Highway Road Trip
TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris. From river valleys to jagged glacial peaks, Washington's 140-mile North Cascades Scenic Highway is packed with extraordinary sights and activities. The route follows State Route 20 from Sedro-Woolley in the west to Twisp in the east, passing through the North Cascades National Park complex, a sprawling wilderness ...
US Highway 2 Road Trip
The Great Northern Road Trip: US Highway 2. Though many come close, no other cross-country route takes in the variety and extremity of landscape that US Highway 2 does. Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US-2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention ...
The Ultimate Washington Road Trip: North Cascades, Mount Rainier, and
Chihuly Garden and Glass, Seattle. Day 3: North Cascades National Park. (Seattle to NCNP: 107 miles, 2 hours). In the park, drive the North Cascades Highway all the way to Washington Pass Overlook, the road's highest point, stopping at the many viewpoints along the way. Although Diablo Lake Overlook is a must stop along North Cascades Highway ...
9 Epic Seattle Road Trips to Plan Right Now • Valerie & Valise
The 9 Best Road Trips from Seattle. 1. The Olympic Peninsula. Suggested Days: 4 minimum. Suggested Overnights: Port Angeles, Neah Bay, Ocean Shores. When I first moved to Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula was one of the first road trips I made.
The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (25 Stops + 3
There are two directions to do a Pacific Coast Highway road trip - driving south or driving north! Honestly, both are great options but being from Washington, ... This is where we suggest starting your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Seattle is a great place to stock up on all the road trip essentials, grab rental cars, and arrive by plane ...
11 Splendid Weekend Getaways from Seattle (Road Trip Ideas!)
North of Seattle, at the entrance to Puget Sound, sit the San Juan Islands. Consisting of Orcas Island, San Juan Island, Lopez Island, and almost 170 other named islands and reefs, this stunning destination is one of the best weekend getaways from Seattle. The Islands offer hiking with amazing views, wildlife watching, beautiful beaches, and ...
Seattle to North Cascades National Park Road Trip
How to get to North Cascades National Park from Seattle. Head North on I-5 out of Seattle for about 47 miles. From I-5 exit right onto WA-530 E in Snohomish County. Continue on WA-530 E for about 46 miles. At the junction of State Route 20 turn right and head east. Continue on Route 20, following along the Skagit River until you see the park ...
15 Fun-Filled Road Trips From Seattle, Washington
15 best road trips from Seattle, Washington. In a nutshell, here are some of the best road trips to take from Seattle: Edison, Washington. Bellingham, Washington. Mount Rainier National Park. Bainbridge Island, Washington. Olympic National Park. Portland Japanese Garden, Oregan. San Juan Island, Washinton.
21 Best Road Trips from Seattle According to a Travel Planner
Seattle > Whidbey Island. distance from Seattle: ~1 hr and 15 mins | driving directions (with ferry) | driving directions (without ferry, which is ~2.5 hrs) | best for: excellent seafood and wineries. Whidbey Island is one of the best road trips from Seattle and can easily be covered in a single day.
Road trip: North Cascades Scenic Byway to Winthrop
By. Western Washington Toyota Dealers. For an upcoming weekend getaway, take the North Cascades Scenic Byway through a mix of striking crags and rolling hills. The rugged countryside provides a ...
Best Seattle to Glacier National Park Road Trip Itinerary
So this gives road trippers coming from Seattle the perfect opportunity to head north before they head east and get to Glacier via Rte 20, which takes you right through the heart of North Cascades National Park. That's right, on a Seattle to Glacier National Park Road trip you can visit two national parks. Washington Pass Overlook
The Classic Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Road Trip USA's Pacific Coast route begins at the northwest tip of the United States at Port Townsend near Olympic National Park, and remains within sight of the ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border. This 1,650-mile (2,655 km), mostly two-lane route takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

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Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary: 14 days

Day 3: Seattle

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Day 4-5: Olympic National Park

Day 6-7: Mount Rainer National Park

Day 8: Portland

Day 9: Columbia River Gorge

Day 10: Mount Hood

Day 11: Bend

Day 12: Crater Lake

Day 13: Oregon Coast

Day 14: Redwoods National Park

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Ultimate Itinerary: The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip

The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip

PNW Road Trip Section by Section

Seattle to Spokane

North Cascade National Park

Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Lake Chelan

Where to Stay

Spokane to Boise

Coeur d’Alene

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Wallowa Lake

Boise to Bend

Baker Historic District

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Lake Owyhee State Park

Smith Rock State Park

Bend to Crescent City

Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve

Crescent City to Portland

The Beach, Everywhere

Portland to Seattle

Enjoy the Pacific Northwest

Coastal History: A Guide to the Oregon Coast’s Lighthouses and Historic Sites

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A Complete 2 Day North Cascades National Park Itinerary

Day 1: Scenic Drive to Winthrop

Diablo Lake

Blue Lake Trail

Washington Pass Overlook

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Hike the Maple Pass Trail