road trip in washington state

The top 10 road trips in Washington State

Aug 11, 2022 • 8 min read

Step on the gas and explore the mountains, forests and scablands of Washington State © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Checked the gas prices? Sorted out the car rental? Loaded your playlists? It’s time to go on an extended road trip across the spectacular and diverse landscapes of Washington State .

From the winding, forested roads of the coast to the well-built engineering marvels of the Cascade Mountains to the dry, ruler-straight thoroughfares of the eastern plateaus, here are eight ways to escape the snarling traffic jams of Seattle and hit the open road.

Cascade Loop

Best family drive.

Burlington to Burlington; 440 miles; allow five days

The newest US National Scenic Byway, this 440-mile loop around the Pacific Northwest’s towering Cascades crosses the range twice – via Hwy 2 and Stevens Pass (home of a ski area), or Hwy 20 and the seasonally accessible Rainy Pass.

While the passes and mountains provide potent natural highlights, culture is laid on in a couple of cleverly themed towns. Leavenworth, blessed with a pretty alpine backdrop, is a former lumber town that was given a Bavarian makeover in the 1960s, after the transcontinental railway that threatened to put it out of business was rerouted. Stop at München Haus for authentic beer and sausages.

Once a struggling mining community, Winthrop avoided ghost-town status in the 1970s, when it was restructured to look like a cowboy settlement out of the Wild West. The nearby Sun Mountain Lodge is one of the best accommodations in Washington, period.

The western part of the loop traverses the gentler terrain of the Lower Skagit River Valley, incorporating the flower-growing fields of La Conner and the historic farming communities of Whidbey Island.

Vineyards of Eastern Washington

Best drive for oenophiles.

Yakima to Walla Walla; 140 miles; allow three days

If Washington’s North Cascades resemble Alaska, the vineyards of the southeast manage to do a good impersonation of Napa. The Yakima and Walla Walla valleys have emerged as major winemaking destinations in the last decade, and a drive through the region’s small towns and bucolic countryside will teach you plenty about the terroir and viticulture of the Pacific Northwest. The trip follows I-82 (with some turn-offs) as far as the Tri-Cities, and then US 12 to Walla Walla.

Seek effervescence in Yakima, the state's top spot for bubbles –  Treveri Cellars’ sparkling wines are sublime – then sober up in Toppenish, a quirky cowboy town decorated with intriguing murals.

The rolling Rattlesnake Hills grow thick with grapevines and apple orchards; they're known for smooth Bordeaux reds poured at a dozen or so local wineries, including Bonair near Zillah.  

Red Mountain is the smallest Washington AVA, with a stash of wineries sprawled over sun-drenched slopes flush with golden grass, sagebrush and, of course, vines. Terra Blanca offers reds and dessert wines in a Tuscan-style tasting room.

In Walla Walla, wine, scenery and food conspire in perfect alchemy. The historic downtown has a clutch of wine-loving restaurants, led by the fine-dining Marc .

Olympic Peninsula Loop

Best forest drive.

Port Angeles to Port Angeles; 435 miles; allow four days

Famously wet, richly green and refreshingly remote, the Olympic Peninsula looks like it might have been resurrected from a wild prehuman era. Most of the region is protected in a national park, and the vast roadless interior is studded with glaciated mountains.

Hwy 101 circumnavigates the park, pushing deeper inside it along several spur roads and kissing the coast in the west. Whichever direction you drive, be sure to divert to Hurricane Ridge , a lofty viewpoint with a small ski-station that’s often above the clouds, with several trails high enough to commune with mountain goats.  

A perennially popular detour off Hwy 101 is the 19-mile paved road to the Hoh Rain Forest , the densest, wettest, greenest and most intensely surreal temperate rainforest on earth. In the far west, the road does a drive-by of Ruby Beach (reached via a short path), a large expanse of stormy coast embellished by battered sea stacks and a forest’s worth of rotting driftwood.

One of the park’s least-crowded quarters is the thickly wooded Quinault River Valley, home to a historic lakeside lodge where you can recline in summer on the waterside lawn and in winter by the roaring fireplace.

Chuckanut Drive

Best coastal drive.

Bellingham to Burlington; 21 miles; allow two to three hours

Chuckanut Dr (aka State Rte 11) is Northwest Washington’s balcony over the Salish Sea, a historic coastal backroad that runs for 21 miles, from historic Old Fairhaven in Bellingham down to the fertile farmland of Skagit County.

The snaking road parallels the craggy, forested coastline, offering tree-framed views of an island-speckled sea. Halfway along is 2500-acre Larabee State Park , which boasts myriad diversions such as hiking, mountain biking, beachcombing and camping. On your ambling journey, be sure to pull over at the spectacularly situated  Oyster Bar for local seafood.

Coulee Corridor

Best geological drive.

Othello to Omak; 150 miles; allow one day

Dry canyons, swaying sagebrush and an arid landscape miraculously irrigated by the Columbia Basin Project (the largest land reclamation project in the US), Washington east of the Cascades is a completely different universe to the wet, forested coast. This route is a National Scenic Byway following SR 17, US 2 and SR 155.

Starting in the small city of Othello, the byway skirts the edge of the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, a jagged jigsaw of canyons, lakes, scablands, and ancient lava flows before passing monolithic Dry Falls, a 3.5-mile-wide precipice formed 15,000 years ago during the Missoula floods when a massive waterfall tipped over the drop.

The Grand Coulee Dam , built between 1933 and 1942, is the centerpiece of the region’s irrigation system and still the largest hydroelectric project in the US. A visitor center details the history of the dam and surrounding area that includes the water-sports nexus of Lake Roosevelt .

The drive’s endpoint, Omak is legendary for its annual stampede that includes the notorious "Suicide Race," a 210ft plunge down a steeply angled slope on horseback.

San Juan Island Loop

Best island drive.

Friday Harbor to Friday Harbor; 34 miles; 3 to 4 hours

This low-gear meander along quiet country lanes combines wine, history and whale watching in a short-but-sweet circumnavigation of San Juan Island. Car ferries dock in Friday Harbor, the San Juan archipelago’s only real town, where restaurants, shops and a creatively curated whale museum enliven a diminutive "downtown" grid.

Part of Washington’s little-heralded Puget Sound AVA, San Juan Vineyards produces cool-weather wines like Siegerrebe and Madeleine Angevine, while nearby Roche Harbor is anchored by a lovely marina packed with deluxe yachts and backed by a whimsical sculpture park .

English Camp is one half of a historical park that commemorates an 1859 border dispute between the British and Americans. The two powers narrowly avoided going to war over a dead pig. 

Before visiting the park’s American half, stop by Lime Kiln Point overlooking the deep Haro Strait, one of the best places in the world to view orca whales from the shoreline. Conclude your Pig War tour at American Camp on the southern flank of the island, also home to a new visitors' center cataloging the island’s indigenous history.

Mt Rainier – Paradise & Stevens Canyon Roads

Best mountain drive.

Nisqually entrance to Ohanapecosh entrance; 62 miles; allow four hours

This steep but spectacular drive across the southern skirts of the US' fifth-highest mountain rollercoasters between thick forest and high alpine meadows. Enter the park via the Nisqually entrance, which pitches you directly into old-growth rainforest with moss-covered behemoths dating back more than 700 years and measuring up to 200ft in height.

Since 1917, a National Park Inn has stood at the wooded way-station of Longmire, built in classic "parkitecture" style. It is complemented by a small store, tiny museum and a number of important trailheads, one of them partly accessible by wheelchair.

One of the park’s premier viewpoints, Ricksecker Point is beloved by photographers, and an ideal spot to study five of Rainier’s 25 glaciers. Nearby, a steep trail leads down through flowers and ferns to the misty 168ft Narada Falls, often embellished by ethereal rainbows.

The road’s high point is 5400ft Paradise , site of another historic inn. It’s famed for flower meadows backed by dramatic Rainier views and best enjoyed on the 5-mile Skyline Trail .

You'll do a double-take at seeing two visions of Rainier on the mirror-like surface of Reflection Lakes. From there, the road plunges downward through U-shaped Stevens Canyon to Ohanapecosh, where the 1.5-mile Grove of the Patriarchs Trail explores a small island in the Ohanapecosh River, replete with ancient trees up to 1000 years old.

Lewis & Clark Highway

Best riverside drive.

Vancouver, Washington, to Maryhill; 100 miles; allow five to six hours

This trip tracks SR 14, aka the Lewis and Clark Hwy, for 100 miles along the north bank of the mighty Columbia River. It marks the climax of American explorers Lewis and Clark’s transcontinental journey in 1805, as they homed in on the Pacific and a place in American history.

Start in Vancouver, remembering that this understated Washington city is several decades older than its more famous Canadian cousin. A visit to its early-19th-century fort will explain the history.  

To the east, distinctive 848ft-tall Beacon Rock is a former lava plug. It was bought for $1 by businessman Henry Biddle in 1915 who proceeded to build a snaking 1-mile trail to the top. You can still climb it. Just east of North Bonneville, you can also climb Dog Mountain. A tough 5-mile trail deposits hikers in vibrant subalpine meadows that showcase some of the state’s finest floral displays.  

Columbia Hills Historical State Park is one of the best places to see tangible traces of the region’s Native American heritage, courtesy of the petroglyphs saved when the river valley was flooded in the 1950s.

Conceived by the maverick entrepreneur and road builder Sam Hill, the grandiose Maryhill Museum of Art occupies a mansion atop a bluff overlooking the Columbia River. Hill’s life-size, unruined replica of Stonehenge lies 2 miles to the east.

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

After living in Washington for a few years and exploring all the cool regions this state offers, I decided to write the perfect Washington Road Trip itinerary! This is written by someone who lives here and explores pretty much every weekend. I have noticed that many itineraries have most people driving more than actually exploring, so I wanted to make sure you make the most of the short time you spend here. I have included hotels, food, awesome hikes, and viewpoints! I promise you that this itinerary highlights the best of the best Washington has to offer!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you. 

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About this washington road trip itinerary.

I have been living in Washington for a couple of years now, and I have been exploring different areas almost every weekend. I want to note that even though it might seem easy to get from one section to another, it is not. The drives are long.

I only recommend going to all three national parks if you are here for more than ten days. Trust me on this.

I think it is best to only drive to two areas when traveling for 7 days. Luckily I have highlighted 14 days, 7 days, and 10 days below. I have also highlighted one area that most people do not know about… The Mount Baker Area. It is my favorite section in the whole state by far, and it is the least talked about.

I have noticed other itineraries always have it as an option. So if you want to skip it because it is not an official “National Park,” then I understand but, I want to point out that it far exceeds the other areas in Washington. That is just my opinion, though :-).

This itinerary ends and starts in Seattle, but if you want to add more days into the mix and hang out in the city, you definitely can! I lived in Queen Anne for years and absolutely loved it! There is so much to see and do :-). Here is a great itinerary on Seattle.

The best airport to fly into is the Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Also, the Washington road conditions are bad near some of the trails. Therefore, it is best to rent a car with good clearance.

Download my Washington Hiking Checklist!

Best time for a washington state road trip.

As I am writing this blog post, it is the middle of June. Not many trails are open yet as there is still too much snow, so we have been limited to the trails we can hike. Mid-July to Mid October is a good time to come to Washington. Towards the end of September and October, it starts to snow, so always have a backup and make sure you are aware of trail conditions by reading the reviews on WTA .

Winters are pretty dreary in Washington so I would not plan to visit here from November to April.

Washington Road Trip Map

What To Pack For A Washington National Park Road Trip

Washington is one of the best outdoorsy states to visit in the United States. But I always hear about people getting lost. It is always a good idea to pack the ten essentials . Always pack a jacket no matter how hot it is outside! That heat can trick you! Remember that you will likely be hiking up in elevation (which means it is colder), and sometimes whiteouts happen, where you are literally in a cloud and it is so cold! It happened to me in Mount Rainier National Park while hiking the MOST popular trail. Below are the things I recommend taking:

• 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 prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there.  >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir:  Water reservoirs help prevent dehydration while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste.  >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water:  Stay nice and hydrated.
• Sunglasses:  It can get sunny in the summer, so make sure to pack some sunglasses.  >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks:  The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars.  >>>Check Out These Snacks
• 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:  If you are hiking in the winter, this might be a great idea. I usually still bring them in the summer because I do a lot of sunset hikes, and it is chilly at night.   >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 Washington.   >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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14 Day Washington Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in seattle and drive to port angeles.

Where To Stay At Port Angeles

• Olympic Lodge:  I stayed at the Olympic Lodge for one weekend, and it is 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. The concierge did tell me that they are remodeling soon. Also, the hotel is located close to Hurricane Ridge.    >Click Here To Check Pricing
• Sea Cliff Gardens:  If you want something cozier, then check out this cute bed and breakfast. It is located next to a cliff with spectacular views. Breakfast is good, the views are great, and the hosts are kind.  >Click Here To Check Pricing

Where To Eat In Port Angeles

Every time I go to Port Angeles, I always eat at the Next Door Gastropub . I also like Easy Street Coffee and Tea House.

Hurricane Ridge

Since today is a travel day, I recommend taking it easy. Driving around Washington can be exhausting! A good idea is to head to Hurricane Ridge for sunset as it is very close to Port Angeles. This place is magical! The winding road takes you up into the mountains. You do not need to hike to see the wonderful views. Even the visitor center looks uber cute with the mountains in the backdrop.

If you want to hike, I recommend either doing Hurricane Hill trail, Sunrise Point, or Klahhane Ridge. Sunrise Point is a super easy hike, while Hurricane Hill is a little more difficult, and Klahhane Ridge is a lot more difficult.

Read More On Hurricane Ridge Here: Everything You Need To Know About Hurricane Ridge

• Day 2: Olympic National Park

I recommend staying another day around Port Angeles and exploring the northern part of the park.

Sol Duc Falls

Sol Duc Falls is an excellent spot to visit early in the morning. The early sun coming through the forest floor is just gorgeous. Plus, there are fewer crowds around this time. The hike is straightforward and is perfect for the whole family.

After checking out Sol Duc, soak in some Mineral Hot Springs. Guests that stay at the lodge can visit for free, while other visitors can pay a fee. You can learn about pricing right here.

Lake Crescent, Marymere Falls, And Mount Storm King

This area is probably my favorite part of all of Olympic National Park. Lake Crescent is absolutely stunning! The colors of the lake are bright blue/green. Make sure to stop around the lake and take some pictures as there are many stops. But be careful as this road is very windy.

Afterward, head to Marymere Falls . The hike is short and sweet and is great for anyone with children.

If you want a hike on another level, hike Mount Storm King, next to the Marymere Trail. This is one of the best trails in this park, and the views are epic! You can even see Canada from the top.

I will warn you that the trail is extremely steep and that there is even a rope section, so this is not for everyone. You do not have to climb to the top, though. There is still a small area right before the rope section with views of Lake Crescent. The trail is short, though, so it is a great hike for sunset.

Madison Falls

If you still have enough time and energy after all this, then check out Madison Falls. This waterfall is more of a viewpoint than a trailhead, so it will not take much time or energy to check this out.

Day 3: Olympic National Park

On this day, I think the west side of the park should be best for exploring. If you think Seattle is rainy, try out Forks! It seems like every time I am here, it is raining. When it comes to hotels, it is best to stay in Port Angeles to avoid moving around too much.

Rialto Beach

Rialto Beach is a fantastic spot to explore when there are low tides . Make sure to check out the tide charts here to explore this area at ease. However, if the tide is too high, it can be a pain to explore Rialto Beach.

The best part of this beach is the Hole In The Wall area. There are two sea stacks as well as an area that resembles a door. It is a fun place to spot wildlife and sea creatures. You can even backpack and spend the night in this area which I have done. The hike is only 4 miles round trip with no elevation, so it is a great beach hike for the whole family.

Read More On Rialto Beach Here: The Ultimate Guide To Rialto Beach Washington

Second Beach

Second Beach is another great trail to visit with the whole family, and it is different then Rialto Beach. Instead of walking through the beach, you walk through a lush green forest. Toward the end, you do have to climb over some driftwood, so be careful.

You can also backpack to this area and spend the night with the sounds of waves crashing onto the sea stacks.

Read More On Second Beach Here: The Ultimate Guide To Rialto Beach Washington

Hoh Rainforest

I didn’t visit the Hoh rain forest for a while because I felt like it was an overrated place. Boy, was I wrong! This place is magical! The mossy trees really make this feel like an enchanted forest. I think the Hall of Mosses is a fantastic easy trail to hike with the whole family.

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My favorite beach in Washington is Ruby Beach. I am not sure why it is my favorite as it is pretty similar to the other beaches, but this one has a touch more of magical feelings 🙂

You can also visit Kalaloch Beach after Ruby beach, but it is probably my least favorite beach. I wasn’t too impressed with it, even with the Tree Of Life (one of the attractions at the beach).

Read More On My Favorite Beaches In WA: The Best Washington State Beaches

• Day 4: Drive To Mount Rainier National Park

The drive is long, so it is recommended to wake up as early as possible to get to Mount Rainier. It is best to stop at the Paradise section of the national park. This area has the best places to experience Mount Rainier.

I will say that after living and exploring this area for a few years, it can be cloudy, cold, and dreary, so if the clouds are blocking “The Mountain,” I recommend moving your itinerary around. The waterfall hikes and the Groves of The Patriarchs hike are great for days with too much cloud cover.

Where To Stay At Mount Rainier National Park

I will warn you that there are slim pickings when it comes to lodging near Mount Rainier.

• Paradise Inn:  This hotel is located inside the national park at Paradise. It is next to the best trail in the national park: Skyline Trail.  >Check Prices Here
• Alexander’s Lodge:  This cute historic Lodge was built in 1912! It features a restaurant, fireplace, and little outdoor yurts.  >Check Prices Here
• Little Owl Cabins: A few cute cabins near Packwood, Washington, but they sell out quickly! Get them as soon as possible. >Check Prices Here

Narada Falls

Narada Falls is an easy waterfall viewpoint when you are on the way to the Paradise area so do not miss this spot!

Skyline Loop Trail

Skyline Loop is probably the most well-known trail in the park. It is labeled as moderate and has fantastic views of Mount Rainier all along the way. There is also a waterfall called Myrtle Falls located on the loop. If you feel a bit too exhausted to hike the whole Skyline Trail, walk on over to Myrtle Falls. It is only 0.8 miles round trip and probably has the best views of Mount Rainier.

• Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park

You might not have time for everything I have listed out today, but I still wanted to give you many options because some trails are easier than others. If you are feeling tired, you can switch these options out.

Comet Falls

This is my second favorite waterfall in Washington State. It is absolutely breathtaking! I loved how tall this waterfall is, and I loved how there is another waterfall on this trail. Unfortunately, the pictures of this waterfall hike do not do it justice.

Groves Of The Patriarchs

Groves of The Patriarchs is another popular hike. The trail will most likely be busy when you go. It is effortless and has wonderful, large trees. There is also a light blue flowing river, as well as a cute bridge.

Silver Falls

Silver Falls is an underrated trail. I went on this hike right after Groves of the Patriarchs, and the difference in the crowds was shocking! We pretty much had this waterfall trail to ourselves while Groves Of The Patriarchs was packed. However, getting to the waterfall is not difficult either, so not sure why many people don’t hike here.

The waterfall is small compared to the others in the park, but the flowing river next to the trail and all the green moss is what I loved most.

Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park and Leavenworth

Head up to the North East side of Mount Rainier National Park and experience one of the best fire lookouts in the state. Next, drive up to Leavenworth, which is the cutest Bavarian town in the states!

Where To Stay At Leavenworth

You are in luck! Leavenworth has a ton of accommodation. Here are some of the spots I recommend:

• PostHotel Leavenworth : The absolute best place to stay in Leavenworth. This place is uber cute and has an amazing pool. Leavenworth is usually sunny in the summer, so you will most probably use the pool on a beautiful sunny day. >>>Check Prices Here
• Bavarian Lodge : Breakfast is included here and an outdoor pool as well. >>>Check Prices Here

Fremont Lookout

My favorite fire lookout in Washington is, of course, Fremont Lookout! It has incredible views of Mount Rainier, and if you are lucky, you might experience a cloud inversion (usually happens during sunrise and sunset). This is a great moderate hike with exposed views throughout. I love this trail, and you definitely should stop by.

Read More On Mount Rainier: The Best Hikes In Mount Rainier National Park

Day 7: Leavenworth

Since you have been going at it non-stop, I feel like Leavenworth is a great place for a rest stop. This little town reminds me of the cute Bavarian towns in Switzerland. I have not been to Germany, but it is actually supposed to resemble cute mountain towns in Germany. Leavenworth went bankrupt and decided to reinvent itself into a Bavarian town. It totally worked, and now it is one of the best towns to visit outside of Seattle.

There is so much to do here and it is a fantastic spot to relax, drink wine, shop, and eat.

My favorite place to eat is at the Rhein Haus . They have fantastic beers, great pretzels, yummy bratwurst, and an awesome atmosphere, especially on a beautiful day. The Danish Bakery is also a great spot to get some sweets, and I also like the WineGirl Wines for wine tasting.

Leavenworth also holds many festivals throughout the year, so maybe you will be around when they have them. I have been to two festivals, and they were so fun!

If you want to see more beautiful views, make sure to check out Lake Wenatchee. Don’t worry; it is an easy stroll to see this wonderful lake. It is around 30 minutes from this town.

Day 8: Hike Colchuck Lake

I wanted to give you some time to really take in one of the most beautiful hikes in Washington State, so I think you should take the whole day off to do this hike.

Now for Colchuck Lake , you NEED to get to the parking lot early in the morning. It doesn’t matter if you are going during the week or weekend, just get there early. On weekends maybe 5 am would be safe, and on weekdays 8 am would be ok.

This hike is worth the hype, by the way. And it is rated as difficult, but many beginner hikers attempt it as it is just too beautiful not to see. I have also seen single moms carry their babies up this mountain, so people are very dedicated to experiencing this lake.

Day 9: Drive To North Cascades

Where To Stay When Visiting North Cascades National Park

And the most difficult national park to find accommodation award goes to… North Cascades National Park!

I have never stayed in a hotel in this park due to the difficulty. I have just camped or backpacked. I know some people who have stayed at Buffalo Run , but it is not the nicest hotel.

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Blue Lake is a moderate hike with stunning views of a lake with mountains. So many people love to come here and swim on a hot summer day. I, of course, was too chicken to take a dip! This is a great trail for children as it is not long and difficult.

Diablo Lake

After hitting up, Blue Lake check out the wonderful Diablo Lake! It really is that blue/green, and I cannot get over how vibrant it is! There is a great viewpoint to view the lake and if you want to swim, head to the Thunder Knob Trailhead. This is where many people also go kayaking.

Day 10: North Cascades National Park

The best trail in North Cascades is the Sahale Arm Trail. Just getting to the trailhead has magnificent views. This trail is challenging, though (12 miles long with a 4000 ft elevation gain), so this is an all-day event.

Even if you feel like this is too long, I think you can at least get to the Cascade Pass. It still has stunning mountains surrounding you (7 miles long with 1200 ft elevation gain).

Day 11: North Cascades National Park

Maple pass loop.

Maple Pass Loop is another great all-day trail that has fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. I loved this trail! I have always heard about this trail, and it wasn’t very high on my list on hikes in Washington but seeing it in person really blew all expectations outs of the water.

Washington Pass Observation Site

Before or after the hike, make sure to check out the Washington Pass Observation Site. It is a quick stop and has views of the tall extraordinary mountains.

Read More On North Cascades: The Best Hikes In North Cascades National Park

Day 12: Drive To Mount Baker

Where To Stay Around Mount Baker

Mount Baker has a few more options when it comes to places to stay. The best thing to do is to rent a cabin:

Chain Lakes Loop

Chain Lakes Loop is one of my favorite trails in Washington. It is effortless, and the views are exceptional. So, if you are too tired to do some difficult trails, you need to hike Chain Lakes Loop.

Artist Point

Many photographers take their clients to Artist Point to take pictures because it is one of the best viewpoints in Washington. Go here during sunset after Chain Lakes Loop, and you will see why this area is my favorite in Washington.

Day 13: Mount Baker Area

Skyline divide.

Skyline Divide is known to be one of the best trails in this area. It is around 9 miles with a 2500 elevation gain.

Read More On Mount Baker: The Best Hikes In The Mount Baker Area

Day 14: Drive Back To Seattle

This is the end of your itinerary! Phew! What a trip! You just did the best things in Washington State! You definitely need to come back and see some more. Trust me. I have lived here for over two years, and I explore every weekend, and I still feel like I have way more to see.

7 Day Washington Road Trips

I know it might seem tempting to add in all national parks to a 7-day road trip but trust me, you will be driving most of the time and will not enjoy the state to its fullest. Many 7 day Washington itineraries have you driving around the whole state, and I cannot stress it enough that it will not be enjoyable. I think it is best to enjoy two areas, so I have two different options for you.

Option 1: 7 Day WA Road Trips

• Day 1: Arrive in Washington and drive to Port Angeles
• Day 3 : Olympic National Park
• Day 6: Drive To Leavenworth and Hike Colchuck Lake, or stay an extra day at Mount Rainier and Hike Fremont Lookout
• Day 7: Go Home

Option 2: 7 Day WA Road Trip

• Day 1: Arrive in Washington and drive to North Cascades National Park
• Day 2: North Cascades National Park
• Day 3 : North Cascades National Park
• Day 4: Drive To Mount Baker
• Day 5: Mount Baker
• Day 6: Mount Baker

10 Day Washington State Road Trips

• Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park and drive to Leavenworth
• Day 7: Leavenworth (Either Colchuck Lake or hang out and relax)
• Day 8: Drive To North Cascades National Park
• Day 9: North Cascades National Park
• Day 10: Go Home

Final Thoughts On Best Road Trip Washington State

Thanks for reading all about the perfect Washington state road trip itinerary. Make sure to check out some other Pacific Northwest posts:

• Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Road Trip
• Oregon Coast Road Trip
• The Ultimate Guide To Stanley Idaho
• Best Waterfalls In Washington State
• The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary
• The Perfect 10 Day Oregon Road Trip Itinerary
• 17 Breathtaking Easy Hikes In Washington State

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Washington Road Trip Itinerary: 7 to 14 Days in the National Parks

Julie Last updated: January 21, 2024 Itinerary , United States 78 Comments

This Washington itinerary is geared to visiting the three national parks in Washington state: Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades. But you also have enough time to visit Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed town, go wine tasting at Lake Chelan, visit Mount Baker, and go on a day hike in the Enchantments.

Note: There are currently road closures in North Cascades National Park (due to a forest fire) and Mount Rainier National Park (for road construction). Make sure you check the National Park websites for updated information. 

Table of Contents

About this Washington Itinerary

This Washington road trip is written as a 10-day itinerary. At the end of this post, we have a 7-day and 14-day itinerary, if you have more or less than 10  days.

The national parks in Washington are the larger side, and even with 10 days, what you can see and do in these parks is very limited. As you will see, you will also spend a lot of time driving from park to park.

On this Washington itinerary, you will start and end in Seattle, making one big loop through the state. You will drive 1,225 miles and this does not include any additional mileage for detours. Your mileage could vary a little bit depending on where you stay in each national park.

On this road trip, all of the roads you will drive are either paved roads or gravel roads that are suitable for standard cars, so a standard 2WD vehicle will do just fine.

This itinerary works best from July through September, when all of the roads and hiking trails are open in the national parks. You can still do a version of this itinerary outside of this time frame, but just be aware that some park roads will be closed from fall through spring.

On this Washington Itinerary, You will Visit:

This Washington itinerary focuses on the three national parks in Washington with several other notable destinations.

• Olympic National Park
• Mount Rainier National Park
• North Cascades National Park

Leavenworth

• Enchantments (optional)

Lake Chelan

• Mount Baker (optional)

If you are an avid hiker, you will love this itinerary. The hikes in these three national parks are incredible. If you have extra time to add to this itinerary, I highly recommend adding on the Enchantments. I don’t think it is worth zipping through these national parks any faster than I have written this itinerary, in order to squeeze in the Enchantments. At the end of the post, I will let you know how to add on the Enchantments.

And if hiking is not your thing, not to worry. With gorgeous scenic drives, stunning overlooks, and short but sweet strolls through the parks, you can have a fantastic trip without venturing too far down a hiking trail.

10 Day Washington Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles Day 2: Olympic National Park Day 3: Olympic National Park Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park Day 6: Leavenworth Day 7: Lake Chelan Day 8: North Cascades National Park Day 9: North Cascades National Park or Mount Baker Day 10: Fly Home How to Modify this Itinerary Best Time for This Washington Road Trip Practical Information

How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers. You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest.   If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Washington Itinerary: Day 1

Arrive in Seattle, drive to Port Angeles

On the Road: 95 to 130 miles, 2.5 hours

Fly into Seattle – Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and pick up your rental car.

Drive to Port Angeles. There are several routes you can choose from. All routes take roughly 2.5 hours. The shorter routes are only 95 miles but you will have to take a car ferry. To avoid this, you can drive south through Tacoma. This route is 130 miles long and takes just under 2.5 hours, as long as there is no traffic. This is the route we took to Port Angeles.

Get settled in your hotel and have dinner. We recommend Sabai Thai and Next Door Gastro Pub.

Where to Stay in Port Angeles

We stayed at the Olympic Lodge and highly recommend it. This hotel is centrally located in Port Angeles, with quick and easy access to restaurants and the park entrance. Sea Cliff Gardens and A Hidden Haven Cottages (great for families with four people!) also get great reviews. If you are traveling by RV, you can stay at the Crescent Beach and RV Park.

You will stay in Port Angeles for two nights.

Washington Itinerary: Day 2

On the Road: 200 miles, 4.5 hours

This is a big day. Today you will visit the western side of Olympic National Park. You will divide your time between the coastal sights and the temperate rainforest.

The two big sights you will visit are Rialto Beach and the Hoh Rainforest. For some people, this will be sufficient. But there are optional add-ons such as Mount Storm King and/or Marymere Falls, Ruby Beach, and Sol Duc Falls.

Start your day at the Pacific coast. To get here, take Highway 101 west from Port Angeles. You will drive past lovely Lake Crescent.

Optional: Mount Storm King and/or Marymere Falls

Two trails start at Lake Crescent and both of these are optional: Mount Storm King and Marymere Falls. For those who like the idea of visiting a waterfall, but have no interest in doing a strenuous hike, you can hike to Marymere Falls from Crescent Lake (1.8 miles, easy, about 1 hour).

Marymere Falls

Mount Storm King

If you are an avid hiker, I recommend starting the day with the Mount Storm King hike. This is one of the most popular hikes in Olympic National Park so it’s a good one to do first thing of the day.

This hike is short but very strenuous. It’s just over 4.5 miles long, out-and-back, but it ascends over 2,000 feet. It will take 3 to 5 hours and you have the option to add on Marymere Falls at the beginning or end of the hike. Get the full details in our Guide to Mount Storm King.

Rialto Beach

Continue on Highway 101. In the town of Forks, take route 110 out to the coast. “Hike” along Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall. This is an easy, 3.5-mile round-trip stroll along the beach where you get to see the sea stacks and rock formations that make the Olympic beaches look so unique.

There are other gorgeous beaches to visit in the nearby area. The La Push Beaches, which include First, Second, and Third beaches, are very nice to visit. To the north, Shi Shi Beach and Cape Flattery also look amazing.

Optional: Ruby Beach

If you like the idea of visiting another beach, put Ruby Beach on your list. You can have a picnic lunch here or hike along the coast until you get to the Hoh River (6 miles round trip).

This detour adds on 30 miles and about 40 minutes of additional driving time. Plan on spending 30+ minutes at the beach.

Hoh Rainforest

From Highway 101, turn onto Upper Hoh Road. This road is 18 miles long and travels through a dense temperate rainforest. It ends at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center.

For many people, a visit to the Hoh Rainforest is the highlight of a visit to Olympic National Park.

When you walk through the Hoh Rainforest, you feel like you are journeying back in time. Moss drips from trees that are over 250 feet tall and hundreds of years old. The understory is filled with fallen trees, saplings, and ferns. Keep an eye for deer, the northern spotted owl, elk, raccoon, and black bear.

There are two trails to walk here.

The Hall of Mosses is 0.8 miles round trip. It loops through some of the oldest trees in the area. As its name implies, it is also one of the best places to capture the moss hanging from the trees.

The Spruce Nature Trail is a 1.2 mile loop which features more views of the rainforest and the Hoh River. This trail tends to be less crowded than the Hall of Mosses.

Hall of Mosses Trail

Return to Port Angeles

Drive back to Port Angeles. On the drive, there is one more optional detour. Sol Duc Falls is a waterfall that is tucked away in the temperate rainforest. Just before you reach Lake Crescent, turn right onto Sol Duc – Hot Springs Road and take this to the end.

From the parking lot, it is an easy 2.25 mile round trip walk to the waterfall. This visit, including driving time, will take 2 to 3 hours. I only recommend this if you are doing well on time.

Sol Duc Falls

Washington Itinerary: Day 3

On the Road: 220 miles, 5 hours

Today you will visit Hurricane Ridge and then drive to Mount Rainier National Park.

Hurricane Ridge

From Port Angeles, it is a quick, easy, and very scenic drive to Hurricane Ridge (20 miles, 45 minutes).

At Hurricane Ridge, take your pick from easy walking trails to strenuous hikes. Here are a few ways to spend your time:

High Ridge Trail. Walk 0.5 miles round-trip for nice views along Hurricane Ridge Road. Go a little farther to Sunrise Point for a 1.6 mile round-trip hike.

Hurricane Ridge Trail to Hurricane Ridge. 3.2 miles, easy to moderate, 2 hours. This is our top pick if you are traveling with kids. As this wide trail heads along the ridge, it slowly gains elevation, but it is nothing too strenuous. There are a few switchbacks at the end of the hill as you climb up to the final peak, but your reward is a spectacular view of Olympic National Park.

Sunrise Ridge Via the Sunrise Point Trail. 3 miles, easy to moderate, 2 hours. This entire hike is beautiful, as you are hiking along a ridge with panoramic views the entire way. This hike ends at an overlook where you have a great view of Mount Angeles.

Klahhane Ridge Trail to Mount Angeles. 6.5 miles, strenuous, 4 to 6 hours. This hike is an extension of the Sunrise Ridge Trail mentioned previously. If you like the idea of climbing to the highest peak in the Hurricane Ridge area and the chance to have one of the best panoramic views in Olympic National Park, put this hike on your list.

Klahhane Ridge Trail

You can also visit the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center.

Another idea for something to do is to drive Obstruction Point Road. Obstruction Point Road is frequently called Washington’s scariest road. This gravel road starts at the Hurricane Ridge parking lot and ends at Obstruction Point at an elevation of 6,150 feet. Once at Obstruction Point, you can take your pick from the trails that head further into the mountains.

Obstruction Point Road

Important Note: This road is generally open from mid-July through October. A standard car is suitable for this drive but RV’s and trailers are not permitted on this road.

Midday: Lunch

Return to Port Angeles and have lunch.

Afternoon: Drive to Mount Rainier National Park

It takes three to four hours to drive to Mount Rainier National Park , depending on where you stay.

TIMED ENTRY PERMIT: A timed entry permit is required from May 24 through September 2, 2024, to visit the Sunrise and Paradise areas of Mount Rainier National Park. Learn more on the NPS website.

For this Washington itinerary, I recommend staying at the Paradise Inn or in Ashford or Packwood. We stayed at Ashford and Packwood and they both work just fine for this itinerary. If you stay in Ashford, it will be a shorter drive today. However, it will be a much longer drive when you visit the Sunrise area of the park, compared to Packwood.

In Ashford, we stayed at the Nisqually Lodge. Another nice place to stay is the Mountain Meadows Inn. The Copper Creek Restaurant was our go-to spot for dinner while staying in Ashford.

In Packwood, we stayed at the Cowlitz River Lodge. The Packwood Lodge and the Packwood Ski or Vacation Getaway also get good reviews. For dinner, we recommend Packwood Brewing Company and Cliff Droppers.

If you will be camping, Cougar Rock Campground, La Wis Wis Campground, and Big Creek Campground have convenient locations.

You will stay in Ashford, Packwood, or the Paradise Inn for 3 nights.

Washington Itinerary: Day 4

On the Road: 40 miles, 1.5 hours from Paradise Inn; 80 miles and 3 hours from Ashford; 66 miles and 2 hours from Packwood

Spend the Morning in Paradise

Paradise definitely lives up to its name. This is one of the most beautiful areas of Mount Rainier National Park.

Take your pick from numerous hiking trails that lead higher onto Mount Rainier. The shorter, easier trails take you up to nice viewpoints of the mountain and these include the Alta Vista Trail (1.7 miles) and the Nisqually Vista Trail (1.2 miles).

For the best experience, hike the Skyline Trail to Panorama Point, one of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park. It’s a big day, 6.2 miles round trip with some hefty elevation gain, but you are rewarded with panoramic views of the park.

The Skyline Trail

Another view of the Skyline Trail

If you aren’t big into hiking, have brunch at the Paradise Inn and then walk to Myrtle Falls (1 mile, easy, 30 minutes).

Myrtle Falls

Afternoon: More Sights in Mount Rainier National Park

From Paradise, it is a quick drive to Narada Falls. To view Narada Falls, it is a short but steep walk to the viewpoint (0.2 miles round trip). You might get a little wet, since you are close enough to feel the spray of the waterfall.

From Narada Falls, it takes about 7 minutes to drive to Reflection Lake, one of the prettiest lakes in the park.

Reflection Lake

If you like the idea of adding on another hike, you can hike to Bench and Snow Lakes. The trailhead is located on Stevens Canyon Road, just a short distance away from Reflection Lake. This hike is 2.7 miles round-trip and takes about 2 hours.

The final stop of the day is the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail. It can be challenging to get a parking space here since it is a popular spot. This easy, 1.5 mile round trip trail takes you past some of the largest and oldest trees in Mount Rainier National Park. These ancient Douglas firs, western red cedars, and western hemlocks are enormous. You will cross a suspension bridge and then walk on a series of boardwalk and dirt trails through the forest. Note: The Grove of the Patriarchs Trail is closed due to damage to the suspension bridge from flooding. Get updates on the  National Park Service website.

Grove of the Patriarchs

PRO TRAVEL TIP: If you are staying in Ashford, save the Grove of the Patriarchs for tomorrow. This will save you 30 miles and an hour of driving today, bringing down your total to 50 miles and 2 hours of driving. Visit the Grove of the Patriarchs first thing in the morning on the drive to Sunrise.

Washington Itinerary: Day 5

On the Road: 125 miles and 2.75 hours from Paradise Inn; 160 miles and 3.25 hours from Ashford; 106 miles and 2.25 hours from Packwood

Morning: Sunrise

Spend the morning in beautiful Sunrise. This is the highest you can get by car in the park. At an elevation of 6,400 feet, not only do you have fantastic views of Mount Rainier, but you can also look out over the Cascade Range.

On the drive, get out and stretch your legs at Sunrise Point. From this hairpin bend in Sunrise Park Road, not only do you get a great view of the peak of Mount Rainier, but you can also see Mount Adams, the second highest peak in Washington.

Sunrise Point

There are a handful of hikes that start in Sunrise, ranging from short, easy strolls to challenging day hikes. I recommend hiking the Sourdough Ridge Trail …the views of Mount Rainier are awesome. For the best experience, hike out to the Mount Fremont Fire Lookout for truly spectacular views (6 miles round trip). The Sunrise Nature Trail is also nice hike if you are looking for something shorter.

Sourdough Ridge Trail

Mount Fremont Fire Lookout

For a detailed list of hikes in Sunrise, check out our article 15 Epic Day Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park.

There is a visitor center in Sunrise, as well as the Sunrise Day Lodge, which has a gift shop and food services.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: Sunrise Road is only open during the summer. The road opens in late June or early July and closes in late September or early October.

Afternoon: Crystal Mountain

If you want jaw-dropping views with very little effort, ride the Mount Rainier Gondola to Crystal Mountain.

From Crystal Mountain Resort, ride the gondola up to the peak of Crystal Mountain. This is the location of the Summit House Restaurant, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant.

The food is great and the view from the outdoor patio is absolutely amazing. There is also indoor seating if it is cold. Even during the summer months, temperatures can be very chilly, so bring extra layers for warmth.

For more details on hours and pricing, visit the official website.

Washington Itinerary: Day 6

On the Road: 182 miles and 3.75 hours from Paradise Inn; 190 miles and 3.5 hours from Ashford; 165 miles and 3 hours from Packwood

In the morning, drive to Leavenworth. The route you take depends on your starting location. As you can see in the estimates above, it takes 3 to 4 hours to drive to Leavenworth. 

You will arrive in Leavenworth in the early afternoon. Check in to your hotel and spend the afternoon strolling through the shops in Leavenworth. This is a very small but picturesque town with many boutique shops and restaurants. Leavenworth is modeled after a Bavarian village in Germany.

For dinner, we recommend Visconti’s Ristorante Italiano (great Italian food with an outdoor patio), Mozart’s Steakhouse (great food and awesome cocktails), and Andreas Keller Restaurant (traditional German food and beer in a cozy, Bavarian-style restaurant).

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

The Bavarian Lodge is awesome and this is where we stayed. Enzian Inn gets superb reviews and has an indoor pool. PostHotel Leavenworth gets almost perfect reviews and is Adult Only. The Storybook Riverside Inn is a small, boutique hotel located in a Bavarian-style house. Rooms can accommodate two people and it looks amazing.

You will stay in Leavenworth for one night.

Washington Itinerary: Day 7

On the Road: 115 miles, 2.5 hours

Today is a low-key day. There is no need to roll out of bed early. In fact, you can take your time in Leavenworth and go out to breakfast if you like. However, if you are an avid hiker, see our optional recommendation below.

Today you will drive north to the eastern side of North Cascades National Park. On the way, spend a few hours on lovely Lake Chelan.

From Leavenworth, it takes about an hour to drive to Lake Chelan.

Top things to do in and around Lake Chelan include cruising around Lake Chelan on a jet ski or boat, taking the kids to Slidewaters water park, cruising Lake Chelan on Lady of the Lake, or visiting the wine cellars.

We had an awesome lunch and wine tasting at Tsillan Cellars. This beautiful winery has a covered outdoor restaurant with views of Lake Chelan. The food and the wine are fantastic. They get busy midday, so if this sounds like something you would like to do, I recommend making a reservation in advance.

Tsillan Cellars

From Chelan, drive north to either Twisp or Winthrop. Twisp is a tiny town without much to do, but this is where we spent two nights and loved it. Winthrop is a larger town with a western theme. There are several highly rated hotels and restaurants here to choose from. Sherri’s Sweet Shop is a busy place that serves great ice cream and desserts.

Optional: Hiking the Enchantments

If you are an avid hiker, Leavenworth is the gateway into the spectacular hiking destination known as the Enchantments, which is part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Today, you have the option to go hiking in the Enchantments, saving the drive to Twisp or Winthrop for the end of the day.

The best hike to do in the Enchantments is the thru-hike of the Core Enchantments. Turquoise, emerald, and aquamarine alpine lakes are scattered through the jagged, snow-capped mountain peaks. Wildflowers bloom along the edges of the trail and mountain goats graze on the grasses.

This is a massive hike. It’s just under 20 miles long with over a mile of elevation gain. It can be done in one day if you are fit and fast. However, you won’t have enough time to do this hike, recover, and then drive north towards North Cascades National Park, all in one day. If you want to hike the Core Enchantments, I recommend adding a day onto this itinerary.

If you want to day hike in the Enchantments and still have enough time and energy to drive to Winthrop or Twisp, I recommend hiking out-and-back to Colchuk Lake. This hike is 11 miles long with 2,200 feet of elevation gain. It will take between 6 and 7 hours.

Colchuk Lake

LEARN MORE: How to Hike the Core Enchantments: Step-By-Step Trail Guide

Where to Stay in Twisp & Winthrop

In Twisp, we stayed at Twisp River Suites. Take your pick from standard rooms to suites that have a full kitchen. The best part…sitting in the river and having dinner at the end of the day.

In Winthrop, the River’s Edge Resort gets impeccable reviews. The Methow River Lodge and the Mt Gardner Inn are also top picks.

You will stay in Twisp or Winthrop for one night.

Washington Itinerary: Day 8

On the Road: 95 miles, 2 hours to Marblemount; 175 miles, 4 hours to Glacier

North Cascades is a large, sprawling park that is made up of several sections. Today, you will drive through the heart of the park, visiting the most popular viewpoints with the option to go hiking.

From Twisp and Winthrop, head west along Highway 20. It’s a beautiful drive as you head into the jagged mountains that make the North Cascades so spectacular.

Just beyond the hairpin bend, stop off at the Washington Pass Overlook. From here, you have an outstanding view of Highway 20 and Liberty Bell Mountain.

Washington Pass Overlook

Three Optional Hikes

Technically, these hikes are located just east of the official national park border but they are beautiful and worth the time and effort. These are listed in order from east to west, as you drive on Highway 20.

Blue Lake. A few miles west of the Washington Pass Overlook is the trailhead for Blue Lake. This 5-mile round-trip hike is easy to moderate so it’s great for all ages and ability levels. The trail ends at the Blue Lake, a brilliantly blue lake that is surrounded by towering mountains.

Maple Pass Loop. 7.2 miles, moderate to difficult. The Maple Pass Loop offers a little bit of everything…wildflowers, old growth forests, a visit to a lovely alpine lake, and (the best part) panoramic views of the North Cascades. We liked this hike more than Blue Lake…it’s a fun but challenging hike and the views are outstanding.

Maple Pass Loop

Rainy Lake. 2 miles, easy. This paved trail takes you to a viewpoint of Rainy Lake. This walk shares the same trailhead as the Maple Pass Loop.

More Sights in North Cascades National Park

Continue west on Highway 20. Visit the Diablo Lake Overlook for one of the best views of the day and one of the most unique photos you will take on this trip. Diablo Lake gets its unusual color from the melting glaciers. The glaciers grind against the rocks, forming a powdery silt. The water washes this silt into the lake, giving it this milky green-blue color.

Diablo Lake

Farther down the road, take in the view from Gorge Lake Overlook, where you can see the Skagit Gorge and the Gorge Dam.

In Newhalem, you can walk the Trail of the Cedars , a 0.3 mile flat, easy trail that takes you through an old growth forest that faintly resembles the temperate rainforests of Olympic National Park. However, the temperate rainforests you saw in Olympic and Mount Rainier are more impressive, so this is skippable, in my opinion.

Trail of the Cedars

Finally, at the North Cascades Visitor Center, you can walk the short, easy Sterling Munro Trail to view the Pickett mountain range.

You are now on the western edge of North Cascades National Park. Get settled at your hotel and have dinner.

Where to Stay

If you plan to hike the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm trail tomorrow, stay in Marblemount. If you plan to visit Mount Baker tomorrow, you can also stay in Marblemount. However, you will have more hotel and restaurant options if you stay in Bellingham or along Highway 542 at Glacier.

MARBLEMOUNT: We stayed at the North Cascades Inn. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s clean, the rooms are large, and the Wi-Fi works well. There are also a few restaurants within walking distance.

BELLINGHAM: We stayed here after our visit to Mount Baker and before driving to the airport. We stayed at the TownePlace Suites but there are many more hotels to choose from.

GLACIER: This tiny town is located on Highway 542 near Mount Baker. We stayed at the Blue T Lodge. Rooms were basic but clean and quiet. For dinner, we ate next door at Chair 9 Pizza & Bar.

You will stay at this hotel for 1 night.

Washington Itinerary: Day 9

North Cascades National Park or Mount Baker

Today you will make a choice. Would you like to hike an awesome trail in North Cascades National Park or would you rather explore Mount Baker?

OPTION #1: Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm Hike

For hikers, I recommend hiking the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm trail in North Cascades National Park. This was our final hike after a six-week road trip through the national parks of Colorado and Washington state and it was one of the best.

Often labeled as the best day hike in North Cascades National Park, the Sahale Arm hike is gorgeous every step of the way. You’ll hike through evergreen forests, through fields of heather and wildflowers, past marmots, mountain goats, and maybe even bear. Once at the Sahale Glacier Camp, you get to enjoy spectacular views over Doubtful Lake and layers of jagged, snow-capped peaks.

This challenging hike is 12 miles out-and-back with 4,150 feet of total elevation gain. It’s tough but it’s worth it.

Before doing this hike, check the national park service website about the status of Cascade River Road. This gravel road is only open during the summer. In 2020, the final section opened on July 12.

LEARN MORE: How to Hike the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail

OPTION #2: Mount Baker

Mount Baker lies to the north of North Cascades National Park. In the summer it is a hiking destination and in the winter it is a skiing destination.

If you are not an avid hiker, I still recommend making the trip to Mount Baker (at least if the skies are clear) because the views are beautiful. Plus, there are two short, easy trails you should put on your to-do list.

Here are four hikes to do in the Mount Baker area.

Skyline Divide. This hike is 9 miles long with an elevation gain of 2,500 feet. This hike offers incredible, high alpine views with great views of Mt. Shuksan, Mt. Kulshan, and the North Cascades off in the distance.

Ptarmigan Ridge Trail. This hike is also 9 miles in length with 1,350 feet of elevation gain. Get close-up views of Mt. Baker with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Artist Ridge. This easy hike (only 1.2 miles and fairly flat) offers panoramic views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan.

Table Mountain. A bit longer and more challenging than Artist Point (2.6 miles with 725 feet of elevation gain), this trail steeply climbs up to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the area.

We spent one day at Mount Baker, but stormy weather and low-lying clouds made it impossible to do the hikes on this list. Guess we’ll have to come back someday, not that we mind. The North Cascades are gorgeous and the type of place we would love to visit again in the (hopefully) near future.

Spend the night near the airport.

The Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport is a beautiful property. Rooms look out over Lake Washington. There are onsite restaurants and bars.

The Cedarbrook Lodge has standard rooms and suites that can accommodate families. It’s a nice pick if you want a property that gets excellent reviews and is not a chain hotel.

But since you are near the airport, there are a bunch of chain hotels to choose from (great for those of you who rack up hotel points). The Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Sea-Tac Airport, Aloft Seattle Sea-Tac Airport, and the Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Airport all get awesome reviews.

Washington Itinerary: Day 10

On the Road: Minimal

Fly home or continue to your next destination.

How to Modify this Itinerary

With less time.

If you want to do this Washington itinerary but don’t have 10 days, what should you eliminate?

To make this a 9-day itinerary, remove day 9 (the Cascade Pass hike and Mount Baker). At the end of day 8, drive to the airport.

To make this an 8-day itinerary, combine days 6 and 7. On day 6, drive through Leavenworth, have lunch, continue past Chelan, and get settled into your hotel in Twisp or Winthrop.

It gets tough to make this a 7-day itinerary. You will have to eliminate either a day from Olympic National Park or Mount Rainier National Park.

7 Day Washington Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles Day 2: Olympic National Park Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park Day 5: Drive through Leavenworth and Chelan to Twisp/Winthrop Day 6: North Cascades National Park Day 7: Fly home

If you only have 7 days, you can also eliminate one national park, so you are not zipping through all three. Combine Olympic and Mount Rainier into one trip and save the North Cascades for a future visit.

With More Time

If you have more than 10 days for this Washington itinerary, here is where I recommend putting your extra time.

Add on one to two days for the Enchantments. One extra day gives you enough time to day hike the Core Enchantments . If you plan to backpack the Enchantments, add a second day.

The Enchantments

Add more time in Mount Rainier National Park. We spent 6 days here and never ran out of things to do. There are other sections of the park that are not included on this itinerary but they are worth the extra time. Take a look at our Things to Do in Mount Rainier article for more ideas of what you can see and do here.

Add more time in Olympic National Park. With one to two more days, you can explore the southern and eastern parts of Olympic National Park and/or add on more hikes. Take a look at our Things to Do in Olympic National Park to learn more.

Add one more day so you can visit Mount Baker and hike the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail.

Add one to two days to visit Seattle.

Add one to three days to visit the San Juan Islands.

14 Day Washington Itinerary for Hikers

Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles Day 2: Olympic National Park Day 3: Olympic National Park Day 4: Olympic National Park Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park Day 7: Mount Rainier National Park Day 8: Leavenworth Day 9: Hike the Enchantments Day 10: Lake Chelan Day 11: North Cascades National Park Day 12: Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm hike Day 13: Mount Baker Day 14: Fly Home

14 Day Washington Itinerary for Non-Hikers

Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles Day 2: Olympic National Park Day 3: Olympic National Park Day 4: Olympic National Park Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park Day 7: Leavenworth Day 8: Lake Chelan Day 9: North Cascades National Park Day 10: San Juan Islands Day 11: San Juan Islands Day 12: Seattle Day 13: Seattle Day 14: Fly Home

Best Time for This Washington Itinerary

The best time for this itinerary is in the summer months (mid-July through the end of September), when the roads in all three of the national parks are open. Outside of these months, you will have to alter this itinerary to account for road closures.

The main park roads in Olympic National Park stay open all year. There are a few interior roads and high-elevation roads, such as Obstruction Point Road, that close due to snowfall. But for the most part, you can visit Olympic National Park all year.

Mount Rainier can also be visited all year. Summer and early fall are the best times to visit, since all of the park roads and hiking trails will be open. The wildflowers typically bloom from mid-July through mid-August. If you want to see Mount Rainier during the peak blooming season, plan your visit for early August.

In Mount Rainier, there are several roads that close in the fall and don’t reopen until spring. If you plan to do this itinerary between October and June, you will have to skip several sections of the park (such as Sunrise).

Here are the opening and closing dates for the roads in Mount Rainier National Park:

• Stevens Canyon Road: open during the summer and early fall
• Sunrise Road: opens in late June or early July and closes in late September or early October
• Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass: Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass are generally open from Memorial Day through mid-November, depending on snowfall

Highway 20, the main road in North Cascades National Park, is typically closed from early November through early May, although these times can change depending on snowfall amounts. If you plan to do this Washington itinerary between November and May, you will need to skip North Cascades National Park.

Cascade River Road, the gravel road that ends at the trailhead for the Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm hike, is only open from early July through October.

Planning Your Trip

Hotel reservations.

Here is a list of where you will need to make your hotel or campsite reservations for this Washington itinerary. If you plan to visit Washington state during the busy summer and fall months, I recommend making your reservations 4 to 6 months in advance.

• Port Angeles: 2 nights
• Mount Rainier National Park: 3 nights
• Leavenworth: 1 night
• Twisp or Winthrop: 1 night
• Marblemount, Glacier, or Bellingham: 1 night
• Seattle – Tacoma International Airport: 1 night

National Park and National Forest Fees

• Olympic National Park: $30, valid for 7 days
• Mount Rainier National Park: $30, valid for 7 days
• North Cascades National Park: Free
• Enchantments: Northwest Forest Pass: $30 annual or $5 per day
• Maple Pass Loop: Northwest Forest Pass: $30 annual or $5 per day
• Mount Baker: Northwest Forest Pass $30 annual or $5 per day

America the Beautiful Pass

This annual park pass costs $80 and is valid for one year. You will get free admission to any national park or federal recreation sites that you visit within 365 days of purchasing this pass. This pass includes Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks and the Northwest Forest Pass for the Enchantments, the Maple Pass Loop, and Mount Baker.

For this Washington itinerary, you will almost break even if you purchase the America the Beautiful Pass. However, if you plan to visit more national parks or federal recreation sites within the year, then it is worth it to purchase this pass.

Click here to learn more.

Links to the Washington National Parks

Here are the links to each national park website. Check park conditions and road closures as you make your travel arrangements and just before your trip. Roads can close due to road construction projects and forest fires can close parts of these parks, so it is very important to stay updated and the best place to do so is on the National Park Service websites.

If you have any questions about this Washington itinerary, let us know in the comment section below.

More Information for Your Trip to Washington

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK: Hiking one or more of the trails is one of the best things to do in Olympic National Park. See the full list of must-have experiences in our guide to the Best Things to Do in Olympic National Park.

ENCHANTMENTS: The Enchantments is an epic hike in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness of Washington State. Check out our Enchantments Trail Guide and our guide to how to handle the logistics of hiking the Enchantments.

NORTH CASCADES: Take a look at our North Cascades National Park Travel Guide  for important travel planning tips, sample itineraries, advice on when to go, where to stay, and more.

BEST OF MOUNT RAINIER: While in Mount Rainier, top experiences include hiking the top trails in the park and visiting Paradise and Sunrise. Get the full list in our article Best Things to Do in Mount Rainier.

USA ROAD TRIPS: Planning your next big adventure in the USA? Check our our USA Road Trip Guide for travel ideas and sample itineraries.

If this is part of a bigger road trip through the USA, visit our United States Travel Guide and our Washington Travel Guide for more inspiration and travel planning tips.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

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Comments 78

Hello. For the North Cascades leg of the suggested itinerary is it always best to spend the second night on the west side rather than doubling back to WInthrop or Twisp (assuming we are staying two nights, which is the plan)? I am trying to check driving times to see what makes sense (need to be in Seattle the next day around 3), but I am having trouble with googlemaps. I think the map is not letting me look at driving options that include roads currently closed. Hopefully I can book my trip before July, which is when we leave.

Thanks, Jeremy

Hello Jeremy. On Google Maps, you can change the date of your drive for a day in July (change the Leave Now for a future date), to get accurate time estimates (this is great to do for locations with snow, especially this time of year). If you have to get to Seattle, you will have a much longer drive from the east side of the park. Plus, I think it makes sense to see the sights as you drive through the park and end on the west side, rather than driving to the east side again. Because you would then repeat that same drive to get to Seattle. I hope this helps! Cheers, Julie

Hi! Thank you for the itinerary and suggestions!

I am traveling to Seattle in April and will have 4 park days. Can you recommend which ones would be the best to visit during this time of the year?

Olympic is the best one to visit since most of the park roads will be open. Many of the roads in Mount Rainier and North Cascades don’t open until May through June (and even into July some years in the North Cascades). Cheers, Julie

We are a family of 4- avid hikers. (2 adults, 13 &11 yr old) This is out first time to Washington State. We are on a National Park bucket list. We would love any recommendations you have for hikes that are moderate with big vistas at the end. We did Rocky Mt NP this fall and did 27 miles in 4 days at 7-12K elevation. We definitely want to have time at each park- Mt. Rainier, Cascades, and Olympia. We did Motorhome around Iceland Ring road last year, we loved it. Is this route Motorhome friendly, if we rented one in Seattle? We like having a home base to eat and cook out of when traveling, but we can rent car and drive also.

Hello Mary. This itinerary is motorhome friendly but you will have to do some research on where to stay in each park, since we have only done this with a car and staying in hotels. If you plan to drive Cascade River Road in North Cascades, you might not be able to take an RV on this road. We have a hiking guide for Olympic , Mount Rainier , and North Cascades National Parks, with info on which ones are moderate with recommendations at the end of each guide. If you have any other questions please let me know. Cheers, Julie

Hi, Julie! First I want to tell you how appreciative I am of your blog. It is so detailed and helpful in planning my trips. I’ve done about a dozen national parks, and I always consult your blog in my planning process. With that being said, we’re planning a trip to Washington for July. We will land on a Wednesday at 7 p.m. so will spend the night in Seattle and then begin our trip. We fly home on the following Monday at 11:50 p.m. so we have 11 full days for the parks and about a half day before we head back to Seattle for the flight home. We love to hike (Sky Pond was one of our favorites thanks to your recommendation!) but aren’t avid enough hikers to add on the Enchantments, so we’re going to spend all of our time at the three parks. We are planning to start the day driving to each park as opposed to leaving a park at the end of the day and heading to our next destination. One exception is that we may head to Cascades in the afternoon/evening as opposed to the beginning of the day. This is what I’ve come up with and would love any input. Wednesday – land in Seattle Thursday – drive to Olympic (stay in Forks) Friday – Olympic (Forks) Saturday – Olympic (Port Angeles) Sunday – Olympic (Port Angeles) Monday – drive to Rainier (Packwood) Tuesday – Rainier (Packwood) Wednesday – Rainier (Ashford) Thursday – Rainier (Ashford) Friday – either drive to Cascades first thing in the morning or spend some more time in Rainier and then drive to Cascades (Twisp) Saturday – Cascades (Twisp) Sunday – Cascades (Twisp) Monday – Cascades for half the day/drive back to Seattle

Thursday to Sunday – Olympic Monday to Thursday (or Friday) – Rainier Saturday (or Friday) to mid Monday – Cascades If you have any suggestions on edits to this trip, I’d love to hear it! I was trying to split our time in Olympic between Forks and Port Angeles as well as split Rainier between Packwood and Ashford. If it helps, we’d probably max out on a hike at 10 miles, although I do have Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm written down for Cascades. Thank you so much!!!

Hello Katie. I think your itinerary looks fantastic! You have lots of time in each park which is great. My only suggestion would be to change where you stay on Sunday night, to set you up for the Sahale Arm hike (from Twisp, it is almost a 3 hour drive to the Sahale Arm trailhead). Sunday night, stay on the west side of the park, in Marblemount or Concrete. So during the day Sunday, you’ll see the sights and hike a short trail or two as you drive through the park. And as for what you do on Friday, I would say play it by ear. I think 2.5 days in the North Cascades is a sufficient amount of time so it will probably be better to spend that half day in Mount Rainier. Have a great time exploring the Washington parks and hiking to Sahale Arm (it’s the best experience in North Cascades that we had). Cheers, Julie

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How to Plan an Amazing Washington State Road Trip

Looking to plan an amazing Washington State Road Trip? You’re in the right place. Matt’s family still lives in the Seattle area, and we regularly venture north from our home base in Oregon to explore Washington State. Some of our favorite memories from the past few years (including when we spent the better part of a summer living in a van road tripping around Washington) were made in the northwest corner of the US. 

In this detailed guide, we’re going to go over a perfect road trip itinerary that takes you to all three national parks in Washington over 14 days, which is based on our own experiences exploring the state. 

Have more or less time than that? Have no fear, we’ve got ideas on how to structure a trip with more and less time below the main itinerary, and you can use the details in the main itinerary to help you plan out your trip. 

Now, we might be biased since Matt grew up in the Seattle area, but we firmly believe that this has to be the most scenic road trip in the United States.

From the diverse collection of landscapes on the Olympic Peninsula, to majestic Mount Rainier and the rugged North Cascades, prepare to be immersed in some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, full of awesome hikes and jaw-dropping views from beginning to end. 

In this complete guide to planning your Washington road trip itinerary, we’re going to give you the logistics you need to know – when to visit and our recommended route – along with a mini guide to each place on the itinerary. 

That mini guide will have information like what to do and where to stay – all based on our own experiences exploring Washington – along with links to more in-depth content we’ve written on the destination.

In each “where to stay” section, we’ll give you options for camping (which is what we usually do) and not camping, which we recognize is what the vast majority of people prefer. 

Finally, at the end, we’ll give you some ideas on how to shorten or lengthen the itinerary to fit your particular trip. 

Sound good to you? This guide is super detailed, full of our tips and favorite places based on our extensive experience exploring Washington, which means it’s LONG. Strap yourself in, grab a cup of coffee (or beer or wine, no judgment here), and let’s get to exploring Washington State!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel 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 never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

 How Many Days Do You Need for This Road Trip?

The short version of the longer answer below is at least 14 days , if you want to see all three national parks in the state. With less time, you can still plan a great trip, but you’ll need to make some decisions and focus a little bit. 

There’s going to be a lot of driving (things are further than you think), but if you plan it right and spend at least two days in all of the parks, it’s going to be magical. 

If you want to fit in Washington’s three national parks – Olympic, Mount Rainier, and the North Cascades – you’re going to need at least 14 days . 

11 or 12 days would be doable if you’re willing to cut the North Cascades, which is a big drive from the other places on this itinerary.

Each park deserves two to three days at the very least to justify the amount of driving you’ll need to do to connect them. 

If you have anything less than 10 days, we’d strongly recommend cutting the North Cascades (a shame, we know) and focusing on Olympic, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle area. 

You could still head over to Leavenworth for a day and hike Colchuck Lake , but the North Cascades are going to be too far out of the way to justify the drive time. 

With 7 days , you can do a sweet little loop that covers the Olympic Peninsula and Mount Rainier. That trip basically follows the first seven days of the itinerary below. The breakdown would essentially be three days in Olympic National Park ( here’s a guide! ), three days in Rainier, and one day in Seattle . 

We have an entire section dedicated to what to do with less time with some itinerary ideas at the bottom of this guide.

With more than two weeks, we’d recommend choosing two places to add a couple of extra days each.

The locations we’d choose between are the San Juan Islands , Seattle , and Mount Baker , and we have a “More Time” section below the main itinerary covering what to do and see and where to stay in each place. 

Want to experience Washington State in a campervan?

We own a van from Peace Vans in Seattle (their “modern” model, built on a Mercedes Metris) and highly recommend them.

The metris is a smaller footprint than the big Sprinter and Dodge Ram Promaster, which is why we like it. There’s still plenty of space, and the pop-top makes it even more spacious.

You can rent a van from Peace Vans on Outdoorsy , which would be a great way to experience Washington State (trust us, we’ve done it!).

The Best Time to Plan a Road Trip in Washington State

This is a very, very important section in this guide, which is why it’s one of the first things we’re talking about. 

If you are interested in hiking in the Cascades – specifically near Mount Rainier and in the North Cascades – your trip will need to be sometime between late July and mid-October . 

Otherwise, high elevation hiking trails (like the ones in both of those parks) will be covered in snow, and some roads and sections of the parks will be closed. 

You can still access certain parts of the parks – Paradise at Rainier is open year round (except in notable snow storms) and the North Cascades Highway is usually open up to Ross Dam in the winter and spring (same caveat about storms here), but that’s about it. 

The exact timing depends on the year, precipitation, and spring temperatures (among other factors), but you will be most safe with a trip in August or September . 

Late July and October can depend on the year, but we’ve been to both Rainier and the North Cascades in late July and found a bit of snow, but nothing crazy. 

Check road conditions for Rainier here , and the North Cascades here .

Where to Start and End Your Road Trip

The road trip route below starts and ends in Seattle. The easiest place to fly into is going to be Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) , known as “SeaTac” to most people who live in and around Seattle. 

You could rearrange this road trip to start in Seattle and end in Portland, if you’re interested in exploring the area around Portland at the end of your trip. Which we both love and recommend (because, you know, we live in Portland). 

How to Plan a Perfect 14 Day Washington Road Trip Itinerary

Here is the route that we’d recommend with 14 days in Washington – which features all three of the National Parks in Washington State , and makes a big loop around the state starting and ending in Seattle. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Drive to Olympic National Park
• Day 2: Olympic National Park (Hurricane Ridge + Lake Crescent)
• Day 3: Olympic National Park (Around Forks – Rainforests + Beaches)
• Day 4: Olympic National Park (Around Forks – Rainforests + Beaches)
• Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise)
• Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise)
• Day 7: Mount Rainier National Park (Sunrise)

Day 8: Bellingham

• Day 9: North Cascades National Park
• Day 10: North Cascades National Park
• Day 11: Leavenworth
• Day 12: Leavenworth
• Day 13: Seattle
• Day 14: Seattle & Fly Home

Of course, that’s just the base itinerary that we’d recommend. The exact route you take is going to depend on your particular interests, what time of year you’re visiting, and more factors than we can possibly take into account here. 

We have ideas for shorter and longer itineraries below the main itinerary if you have more or less time. 

We’ll do our best to give you all the information you need to plan YOUR road trip in Washington, but if we miss something or you have more questions, leave us a comment below and we’ll do our best to either answer your question, or point you to someone who can.

Now that we’ve covered the important logistics, let’s get into the detailed itinerary!

Days 1-4: Olympic National Park

Before we get into the best places to explore in Olympic National Park, it would make sense to quickly cover geography first. 

Olympic National Park is GIGANTIC. It’s also incredibly diverse – you’ll see everything from towering sea stacks rising out of the sandy beach on the Pacific Ocean, to the most spectacular temperate rainforest in the United States, and waterfalls galore. 

The other thing to know is that it is WET. It rains a ton, hence the rainforests. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof shoes and thank us later. 

There are four main regions of the park that we’d recommend that you take the time to explore. 

• Hurricane Ridge & Lake Crescent – This region features towering mountains on the north side of the Olympic Peninsula. It’s easy to get to from all points east, like Seattle, and it also sits just 17 miles south of Port Angeles. Don’t miss Sol Duc Falls, Marymere Falls, and Hurricane Hill.
• La Push Beaches – Rialto, First, Second, and Third Beach will all provide you with million-dollar sunsets and views onto the sea stacks with cliffs rising up from the sea. Make sure to look up too! You might spot the elusive bald eagle waiting patiently for its next meal (we saw two on our recent trip).
• Hoh Rainforest – This is the moss-covered rainforest region that features sphagnum moss, wildlife, old-growth Sitka spruce, ferns, banana slugs, and wildlife of all kinds.
• Lake Quinault – This is a region in the western part of the park that features the stunning Lake Quinault, located within the extraordinary Quinault Rainforest. 

To make the most of your time here, you’ll want to make a counter-clockwise loop starting with Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent, moving west to Forks and the Pacific Coast, and ending with a drive south along the coast, with a few beach stops along the way.

It also makes sense to split your time in terms of where you stay, staying two nights in the northern region of the park, and two nights out on the coast near Forks.

You’ll want to spend your first two nights near Port Angeles , a good home base for Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent, then spend the next two nights in Forks (yep, that Forks) to do the Hoh Rainforest and Pacific Beaches. 

One other thing : There are no two ways about it – getting from the Olympic Peninsula to Mount Rainier National Park requires some driving, so be prepared for a long drive at the end of this leg. 

Getting to Olympic National Park

On your first day, pick up your rental car and drive out to the area around Port Angeles, which is the perfect home base for Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent. 

There are two possible routes – one that involves driving into Seattle and taking an expensive ferry to Bainbridge Island , and one that involves driving around to the south and taking the Narrows Bridge in Tacoma to get onto the Peninsula. 

If you’re coming from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, you’re already about 30 minutes south of the city, and traffic going into the city is basically a nightmare at all hours these days. 

We’d opt for the long (and also, free) way around , because it means you don’t have to deal with driving into Seattle (which can be a veritable nightmare) and you don’t have to pay to take the ferry (which can be expensive with a car). 

The drive from SeaTac to Port Angeles should take you around two and a half hours, depending on traffic. 

What to Do in Olympic National Park

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Olympic National Park. Again, it’s a big, sprawling park, so we’ve included the region in parentheses to help you figure out how to fit it all together. 

We’ll also start from the northern edge around Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent and make our way counter-clockwise, just like we’ve recommended you do, so these places will be mostly in chronological order in terms of when you’ll encounter them. 

Hike Hurricane Hill (Hurricane Ridge): A nice, paved path takes you up to the top of Hurricane Hill. From the top of the hike on a clear day, you’ll have sweeping views in all directions, including Vancouver Island and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, Mount Baker and the San Juan Islands to the west, and the Olympic Range to the south. It’s a relatively easy hike. 3.2 miles / 650 feet elevation gain. More trail information here .

Explore Around Lake Crescent (Lake Crescent): Lake Crescent is a huge lake on the northern edge of the park. There’s a nice trail through the woods to the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, which would be a good place for lunch (if you didn’t pack your own), or a drink along the lake shore. After a break, do the short hike over to Marymere Falls , an easy stroll through the woods to a beautiful waterfall that is 90 feet high. If you’re feeling up for an adventure, hike up to Mount Storm King for sweeping views out over the lake (it’s a tough hike, and we think there are better options in the park). 

Sol Duc Falls (Lake Crescent): A short hike through a mossy forest brings you to Sol Duc Falls, a beautiful waterfall that you view from above thanks to a wooden bridge over the river. It’s a quick and easy hike, and it’s one of our favorite waterfalls in Washington State.  

Shi Shi Beach and Cape Flattery (Pacific Coast): The northern Pacific Coast is the more rugged, less-visited stretch of coast. It takes a bit longer to reach (it’s about an hour from the junction on Highway 101), but the drive is beautiful and takes you along the northern coast through Neah Bay. It’s worth stopping at the Makah Museum to learn about the tribe that calls this area home, and pick up a recreation pass that you need to park at both of these places. Cape Flattery is the northwestern tip of the contiguous United States, and a short boardwalk leads you out to a nice view. Shi Shi Beach is one of the best beaches in the park, and also one of the least-visited. It’s a short, relatively easy hike out to the beach, and then you can walk for miles along the beach (we’d go to Point of Arches at the southern end of the beach).  

Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall (Pacific Coast): This is one of our favorite hikes in Olympic National Park, though it’s a little hard to call it a hike because it’s more of a stroll along the beach. We’ve been here multiple times now, and we still can’t get over the near-perfect weather we got on our first visit, a warm summer evening with a few clouds in the sky (which is rare out here). You’ll walk out a mile or so to a rock formation called Hole-in-the-Wall, which is exactly what it sounds like. Along the way, there are sea stacks towering over you and bald eagles waiting in the trees above. It’s magical, though it’s often rainy and/or foggy out here. Check tide tables for a low tide if you want to be able to walk through Hole-in-the-Wall. 

The other La Push Beaches (Pacific Coast): In our humble opinions, the two best beaches near La Push and Forks are Second Beach and Ruby Beach . Second Beach requires a little bit of hiking to get to, but it’s only two or three miles round trip, including some exploring on the beach. Ruby Beach is right off of the road (near the turnoff to the Hoh Rainforest). Once you’re down on either beach, you’re treated to sea stacks just off the coast, all sorts of fun driftwood along the water, crashing waves, and towering trees above you. There are two other beaches near Second Beach, First Beach and Third Beach , that are worth a visit if you have some extra time on your hands. 

The Hoh Rainforest (Hoh Rainforest): The Hoh Rainforest is the crown jewel of the park because the coastal temperate rainforest that makes it famous needs very specific conditions to thrive (and it only thrives in a few places in North America). One of the key elements? A LOT of rain. As soon as you step into the rainforest, you’ll understand why. Thick moss and a forest floor of ferns cover every inch of the forest here. Definitely do the Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail, two short hikes from the parking lot. If you really want to venture deeper into the rainforest (and away from the crowds), head out along the Hoh River Trail, which follows the river out into the wilderness (you can go a few miles to Mount Tom Creek where the trail meets the river). 

We have an entire guide dedicated to the best things to do in Olympic National Park , along with a detailed Olympic National Park itinerary that will help you plan and organize your time in the park. 

Where to Stay in Olympic National Park

As we noted above, it makes sense to split your four nights here into two day stints on the northern side of the park and on the coast, which will save you literal hours of drive time. 

There are some pretty incredible places to stay in Olympic National Park , from four historic national park lodges (we think they’re cool, but waaaayyy overpriced), to unique treehouses, cozy cabins, and coastal camping.

At a high level, here’s our recommendation in terms of where to stay: 

• For your first two nights , stay on the northern edge of the park either in Port Angeles (a relatively small city with amenities like gas, grocery stores, and restaurants) and Lake Sutherland (a more secluded lakefront community that’s closer to Lake Crescent)   Staying here puts you in perfect position to explore Hurricane Ridge and the area around Lake Crescent and the Sol Duc River . In Port Angeles, look at the Olympic Lodge or this gorgeous treehouse . Near Lake Sutherland, look at one of the many lakefront houses and cabins . 
• For your last two nights , stay in Forks , which is the best area to stay to explore the Pacific Beaches and Hoh Rainforest . Your choice here revolves around whether or not you want to be in the town of Forks (which is fairly underwhelming, but has a grocery store and a couple of restaurants) or outside of town in a more wild setting. In town, the best options are the Woodland Inns or the Pacific Inn Motel . Outside of town, the Misty Valley Inn is a great option (~10 minutes to Forks), while the Hoh Valley Cabins offer a more rustic experience, situated in the Hoh Rainforest (which is less convenient, but more unique). 

If you’re interested in camping , there are 14 campgrounds inside Olympic National Park (along with quite a few along the boundaries). 

There are only several campgrounds that accept reservations in advance, including Sol Duc (meh) , Mora (best campground in the park, 5 minutes from Rialto Beach), and Kalaloch (on the beach, but very big and crowded).

There are a few more, but those are ones that are in good locations that put you near the places we recommend staying above. 

Book these well in advance as they fill up quickly, especially on summer weekends and holiday weekends. 

All other campgrounds in the park are first-come, first-served, and they definitely fill up on summer weekends (if you show up on a Friday night expecting a site, we’ve got some bad news for you). 

More information on camping in the park here . 

Planning a Trip to Olympic National Park? You won’t want to miss our detailed guides to visiting the Olympic Peninsula that are all based on our own personal experience exploring the park.

• All of our Favorite Things to Do in Olympic National Park
• How to Plan a Perfect Olympic National Park Itinerary (3-4 Days)
• Where to Stay in Olympic National Park: A Complete Guide
• The Best Hikes in Olympic National Park: A Helpful Hiking Guide
• Hiking the Enchanted Valley Trail: A Perfect 2-3 Day Backpacking Trip in Olympic National Park

Days 5-7: Mount Rainier National Park

Drive time and distance: 4 hours // 200 miles

Mount Rainier National Park is arguably the crown jewel of Washington State. Visible from just about everywhere in the western half of the state, the towering mountain is impressive because the entire region around it is basically at sea level.

It’s majestic, and we make it a priority to make it up to Rainier at least once or twice every year from our home in Portland to catch the wildflower displays in the early summer. 

There are five (or six, depending on who you ask) regions within Mount Rainier National Park, but the reality is that you’re not going to be able to fit them all in with a short visit to Washington. 

With limited time, we’re going to recommend you focus on two regions: Paradise and Sunrise. 

Your general route for exploring Mount Rainier National Park will be a counterclockwise half loop . 

Start in Paradise, the most visited area on the south side of the Mountain, you’ll make your way east to Ohanapecosh, in the southeast corner of the park, then north to Sunrise, on the eastern side of Rainier. 

These three regions – which are the most popular in the park – are going to give you some of the best hiking, waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes that make this national park one of the best on the west coast. 

It takes a long, long time to get from Ashford (the town at the southwest entrance to the park, where you’ll be coming in) to Sunrise, and the road is closed until June or July most years. 

For that reason, you’ll want to break up your three nights at the park , staying two in Ashford to explore Paradise, and one near Sunrise (spoiler: there aren’t very many options here!) to explore that portion of the park and set yourself up for a slightly shorter drive north the next day.  

There are a couple of main attractions to tackle at Paradise in the morning, and then we’d recommend spending the afternoon exploring Ohanapecosh, which is halfway between Paradise and your final destination, Sunrise. 

What to Do in Mount Rainier National Park

Here are our favorite things to do in Mount Rainier National Park. 

We’ll start from the southern edge around Paradise and make our way counter-clockwise, just like we’ve recommended you do, so these things will be mostly in chronological order in terms of when you’ll encounter them. 

The Skyline Trail (Paradise): Your first order of business is the Skyline Trail, which along with the Maple – Heather Pass Loop in the North Cascades (we’ll get there, don’t you worry), is at the top of our list of our favorite hikes in Washington State . The hike leaves from the main parking lot at Paradise, just outside the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center ( here on Google Maps), which is a good spot to check with park rangers about trail conditions before you hit the trail. Get a bright and early start to secure a parking spot, and to have some peace and tranquility on the trail. Keep an eye out for marmots, the medium-sized rodent creatures that call the rocky landscapes at high elevations home. They’re pretty cute. The hike climbs to Panorama Point , where you’ll have a 360-degree view of the surrounding area, including a view of Mount Rainier that is one of the best in the park, and sweeping views out towards the Tatoosh Range, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens to the south. We have an entire guide dedicated to hiking the Skyline Trail , with far more details (including the parking situation, which direction to hike, and more). 

The Waterfalls (Paradise): If you hiked the Skyline Trail, you already saw Myrtle Falls , which might be the best waterfall in the park thanks to the view of Rainier looming behind it. There are two other waterfalls in the area that you can basically drive to – Narada Falls ( here on Google Maps) and Christine Falls ( here on Google Maps). Comet Falls , which might be the most impressive of the four in terms of the waterfall itself, is a steep four mile hike from the trailhead near Christine Falls, which might be a bit much if you’ve already done the Skyline Trail that day (here’s a guide to hiking to Comet Falls ). 

Tipsoo Lake and Naches Peak (Sunrise): From the road above Tipsoo, there’s a picture perfect view of the lake in the foreground with the glowing peak of Rainier in the distance. The light is great at both sunset and sunrise, which is when we’ve been here, and the peak gets a brilliant pink glow. This is also the starting point for the Naches Peak Trail , which is one of the best easy hikes in Washington and might be the best bang-for-your-buck hike in the entire state.  

Hiking at Sunrise: The Sunrise portion of the park is heaven on earth for hikers who love alpine terrain and staggering mountain vistas. Which is us. This area is where you’ll find the highest concentration of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park (spoiler: they all leave from the same parking lot here on Google Maps). Here are three hikes we love, and think you will too. All three of these hikes follow the same basic path along Sourdough Ridge, where you’ll have incredible views of Rainier and the White River Valley, before diverging at Frozen Lake, heading in three different directions. 

• The Burroughs Mountain Trail: Our favorite of the three here, this hike is hard. It takes you up to a point where it really feels like you can reach out and touch Mount Rainier’s face. There are three burroughs, and the journey to the first two is relatively easy. To get up to the third burrough, it’s a steep, long climb, but we think the views are worth it. Read our Burroughs Mountain Trail guide for more information.
• The Mount Fremont Lookout: Do this trail for the views from the retired fire lookout , which has a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, including Rainier. The hike heads right at Frozen Lake, and climbs up to a ridge that you follow out to the lookout. Keep your eyes open for marmots, and bring bug spray in the early summer – we’ve never seen more mosquitoes in our lives than we did at the top of this hike. More trail information here .
• Berkeley Park: This is the hike to do for an epic wildflower show in the summer (we had good success with the last week of July). The trail heads straight at Frozen Lake, dropping down into an idyllic meadow full of blankets of wildflowers, babbling brooks, and… black bears. This area is a favorite haunt of the park’s black bear population, and it’s easy to see why. We’d like to live there, too. Keep your wits about you, make some noise on the trail, and you’ll be fine. More trail information here . 

Where to Stay in Mount Rainier National Park

Similar to Olympic National Park, you’re going to want to split up your three nights to spend two nights near Paradise (our favorite part of the park) and one night over at Sunrise (the highest point in the park you can drive to). 

Here’s a summary of the best places to stay. For more details and information, head over to our guide to where to stay near Mount Rainier . 

It’s worth repeating that if you want to spend all of your nights in one place, Packwood is the best place to do that . It’s about an hour from both Paradise and Sunrise, and it’s also the most well-equipped town near the park. 

• Near Paradise , you have a few options. Ashford , the town right outside the park entrance, has a nice collection of hotels that will put you within about 45 minutes of the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise. There are also a bunch of great cabins in the woods near Ashford, if you’re looking for a little more space and the ability to cook for yourself (which we almost always do). Packwood has a better selection of places to stay (and eat and drink), but it’s a little further away (~1 hour). In terms of camping, Cougar Rock Campground is the only option inside the park near Paradise, and it’s very popular. 
• Near Sunrise , the options are even more sparse. Camping is by far the best option here, with White River Campground being number one (inside the park), and Silver Springs Campground being second (just outside the park). If you’re not up for camping, the best option is probably Packwood again, which is a little further away but has the best selection of places to stay, especially on the eastern side of the park. 

Planning a Trip to Mount Rainier National Park? You won’t want to miss our detailed guides to visiting Mount Rainier that are all based on our own personal experience exploring the park.

• All the Best Things to Do in Mount Rainier National Park
• How to Plan an Unforgettable Day Trip to Mount Rainier From Seattle
• Where to Stay near Mount Rainier National Park: A Complete Guide
• The Best Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park: A Helpful Hiking Guide
• Hiking the Skyline Trail: Is This the Best Hike in the Entire State?
• Hiking the Jaw-Dropping Burroughs Mountain Trail at Mount Rainier
• Hiking to Towering Comet Falls in Mount Rainier National Park
• The Naches Peak Loop: The Best Bang-for-your-Buck in Washington

Drive time and distance: 3 hours 30 minutes // 165 miles

To this point, you’ve likely hiked a lot of miles over the first week of this itinerary, and Bellingham is a great place to take a day to rest your legs, catch your breath, and reset for the second half of this trip which features SPOILER ALERT even more hiking.

Bellingham is a charming little college town at its heart. It’s home to Western Washington University, and it almost feels sleepy during the summer when many of the city’s students aren’t around.

Still, between its location on the water and its good food and drink scene (thanks to the student population, we’d argue), it’s worth a stop.  

What to Do in Bellingham

Bellingham itself is a pretty compact city, though there are some cool places to see just outside the city limits too that you should include, if you can.  

It also has two of the most scenic drives in Washington nearby – Chuckanut Drive , which is a coastal drive south of Bellingham, and Highway 542 or Mt. Baker Highway . While you’re in Bellingham, you should do one of them. 

Chuckanut Drive is definitely more accessible and would be our top pick –   it fits nicely on your way into Bellingham (we have Mount Baker in the “with more time” section). 

If you find yourself with an extra day, then the drive up to Picture Lake and Artist Point along the Mt. Baker Highway is the first thing we’d add. It’s spectacular.

Here’s a map of a mini road trip up Chuckanut Drive from south to north, ending in Bellingham, including some of our favorite stops along the way. 

Here are some other places to visit, in no particular order. 

Bellewood Farms and Distillery : This is worth the journey north. They have an apple orchard that you can walk through, and make all of their spirits out of apples (so they’re all gluten free!). It’s cool to stroll the orchard and see all the different kinds of apples, and the store has all sorts of apple concoctions. If you’re there during the fall harvest, stop in for a u-pick apples experience. 

Frelard Tamales: We know Frelard from their location in Seattle, and we basically stop by every time we’re within 10 miles for their excellent (and huge) tamales. The location in Seattle is basically just a to-go window (with a bigger, more built out space coming soon!), but their location in Bellingham is bigger with a more extensive menu. Plus, they share the space with a brewery, which makes it a perfect place for lunch or dinner in Bellingham. P.S. the chorizo and cheese tamale is the GOAT. 

Camber Coffee: Is Camber the best coffee roaster in Washington? It’s close, and it’s hard for me to think of a more consistent roaster in the state. They have a lovely flagship location on a sunny corner in downtown Bellingham with plenty of seating both inside and outside, and it’s worth stopping by for a cup of coffee. They do pour over, usually have a couple of fun coffees available as espresso, and have a rotating menu of good specialty lattes that change with the seasons. 

Drink some local cider: If you’re into cider, I have some good news for you. Because of all the apples grown nearby, Bellingham is paradise for cider lovers. Make sure to grab a drink at Lost Giants Cider , the best cidery in town (followed by Bellingham Cider Company) . Even if you’ve never had cider before, it’s worth trying. When in Rome, right?

Where to Stay in Bellingham

We don’t have any strong perspectives on logistics here. With one night, it probably makes sense to stay downtown so you can walk everywhere. We’ve had our eyes on Hotel Leo for a weekend getaway for a while now. 

Days 9-10: North Cascades National Park

Drive time and distance: 2 hours // 92 miles

North Cascades National Park gets, by far, the least fanfare and visitors of the three Washington national parks . In our opinion, it’s no less spectacular, and we’ve found ourselves here multiple times over the past several years. 

It’s the least visited mainly because it’s the least accessible thanks to winding mountain roads that close for large portions of the year and hiking trails covered in snow from October to July (sometimes late July!).

If you’re mountain people like us (versus, say, beach people), then the North Cascades are essentially paradise. 

The crystal clear alpine lakes with rugged rocky peaks of the Cascades in the background are second to none, and you should spend most of your time here hiking and exploring the wealth of outdoor activities. 

The park is located just south of the Canadian border, about two hours north of Seattle.

The North Cascades Scenic Highway runs through the park, connecting the wet, temperate areas in western Washington to the drier, more arid climate you’ll find east of the Cascades. 

As a result, it’s a main artery of travel, and it’s one of the only national parks that does not require a fee to enter. 

Aside from hiking, the other highlights of the park are the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake, the sprawling shores of Ross Lake (which is only accessible by boat), and the scenic drive up to Washington Pass, the high point of the road between western and eastern Washington. 

Two days is a good amount of time to spend exploring here, and will set you up to do a couple of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park and take in some truly incredible views. And, if you’re lucky, mountain goats. Be careful, though, they can be aggressive!

One important note around logistics : There are very, very few places to stay on the western side of the park (the side closer to Bellingham). Unless you’re camping, we HIGHLY recommend staying in the eastern foothills of the Cascades, which puts you closer to the trailheads for our favorite hikes AND closer to your next stop, Leavenworth. 

Look for a place to stay near the charming town of Winthrop . Spend your first day driving all the way through the park, stopping for an afternoon hike and some scenic views, and then spend your second day on the trail (more below). 

What to Do in North Cascades National Park

Here are our favorite things to do in North Cascades National Park (spoiler, it’s mostly hiking!). 

The Heather-Maple Pass Loop (Trailhead here ) – 7.2 miles / 2,000 ft. elevation gain: This is the best hike in Washington in terms of bang for your buck. It has it all – a nice alpine lake, a climb to the top of a mountain pass for a good workout, and stunning views almost the entire way through the hike. And don’t forget the spectacular wildflowers in the summer and golden larches in October! It’s quintessential Washington State, and it’s not really that hard. It’s a 7.2 mile loop, and you’ll climb 2,000 feet over those miles. We always go counter-clockwise, which means a less-steep climb that goes on for longer, and a steep descent. Hiking poles will save your knees. Here’s our guide to hiking the Heather-Maple Pass Loop .

Blue Lake (Trailhead here ) – 4.5 miles / 1,100 ft. elevation gain: Another great hike that isn’t terribly long or difficult. It takes you to a picturesque lake, set in between a couple of sets of rocky peaks. You’ll climb through the forest, with a little bit of elevation gain along the way. Definitely explore the trail up the hill on the right side of the lake. It’s a 4.4 mile out-and-back hike, with just 1,000 feet of elevation gain. 

Hidden Lake Lookout (Trailhead here ) – 8 miles / 3,300 ft. elevation gain: This was our first hike in the North Cascades, and it sure set the bar high for all future hikes. The road to get to the trailhead is gnarly, and it’s a good thing we borrowed my mom’s SUV because our van would have never made the journey (although, somehow, we saw a Prius at the trailhead). The hike itself is equally rough – 8 miles long, with 3,300 feet of elevation gain. And it feels like you’re climbing straight up the entire time. But when you get to the top, with views of the perched lake with the Cascades in the background, it’s all worth it. Even the pain you’ll feel in your thighs and calves for the next several days. You can actually sleep at the fire lookout at the top, but it’s first-come-first-served and in VERY high demand due to its Insta-fame these days. 

Park Butte (Trailhead here ) – 7.5 miles / 2,200 ft. elevation gain: The road to the trailhead is a little rough, but we made it in our minivan, so it should be passable in most passenger vehicles. This hike is outside the park, but takes you up to an old fire lookout with an incredible view of the southern face of Mount Baker. In the summer, the meadows leading up to the lookout are blanketed in wildflowers like lupine, and the views of Baker get better and better. More trail information here . 

A Scenic Drive along the North Cascades Highway: This is one of the more scenic drives in Washington, and there are plenty of places to get out, stretch your legs, and hike a little bit along the way.

The scenic portion of the drive starts at the North Cascades Visitor Center in Marblemount ( here on Google Maps) and ends at the Washington Pass Overlook ( here on Google Maps). Here are the stops you should make along the way.

• Trail of the Cedars: Your first opportunity to stretch your legs, this is a very short stroll through a forest with good interpretive signage that serves as a nice introduction to the flora and fauna in the Cascades. Plus, a fun suspension bridge! Park in the town of Newhalem, and you can do the next stop without moving your car. More trail information here .
• Ladder Creek Falls: A nice waterfall at the end of a short hike that crosses the Skagit River, passes the Gorge Powerhouse, and arrives at a waterfall after just a quarter of a mile or so. More trail information here .
• Diablo Lake Overlook: About 20 minutes (12 miles) east, you’ll run into Diablo Lake. First, you’ll drive over a bridge, which doesn’t really give you an accurate picture of the natural beauty that’s in store for you when you drive up the hill immediately after the bridge and pull into the overlook on the left. Here, you’re treated to a spectacular view of Diablo Lake’s turquoise water, backed by the rocky peaks of the Cascades.
• The Ross Dam Trail: Ross Lake, along with Diablo Lake, is the other huge lake in the park. There’s a cool resort in the middle of the lake – the Ross Lake Resort – that you can stay at overnight. It’s only accessible by water taxi. There’s also a short hiking trail that takes you down closer to the water and Ross Dam, which is worth doing.
• Washington Pass Overlook: Your final stop marks the top of the pass, and the border between the mild, temperate climate of western Washington and the harsher, drier climate in eastern Washington. It’s about 35 minutes from Ross Dam to the top of the pass, and it’s a windy, scenic drive. 

From Washington Pass Overlook, it’s a downhill drive to your home base for the evening in the eastern Cascade foothills.

Where to Stay in North Cascades National Park

If you’re not up for camping, there really aren’t many good places to stay on the western side of the park, which is the direction you’ll be coming from. 

Which is part of the reason we’d recommend doing the road trip across the Cascades, so that you can stay in Winthrop for the night, which is a beautiful little town in the foothills of the mountains. 

There are some great places to stay in Winthrop – including hotels, resorts, and cool cabins. Here are three of our top picks. 

• River’s Edge Resort : Just off of the main street in town along the Chewuch River, this collection of cottages has options for various group sizes, all with some sort of kitchen facilities.
• Alpine Woods Cabin : About 10 miles northwest of Winthrop – which means 10 minutes closer to the park – you’ll find a cozy cabin in the woods with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open floor plan with plenty of windows and natural light.
• Artemisia – Zero Energy Home with a View : Perched on top of a hill above the town of Winthrop (but close enough to walk into town), this four bedroom eco-friendly, solar powered home is gorgeous. It’s full of natural light, has great views of the surrounding landscapes, and has plenty of room for bigger groups. 

If you are up for camping, stay at Colonial Creek Campground (our top choice, having stayed at both main campgrounds in the park) right on the shores of Diablo Lake, or at Newhalem Campground closer to the western edge of the park. 

For what it’s worth, we’ve camped at both, and we MUCH preferred Colonial Creek. 

Planning a Trip to North Cascades National Park? You won’t want to miss our detailed guides to visiting the North Cascades that are all based on our own personal experience exploring the park.

• All of our Favorite Things to Do in North Cascades National Park
• How to Plan a Perfect North Cascades National Park Itinerary (2-3 Days)
• Where to Stay near North Cascades National Park: A Complete Guide
• The Best Hikes in North Cascades National Park: A Helpful Hiking Guide
• Hiking the Heather-Maple Pass Trail: A Complete Trail Guide

Days 11-12: Leavenworth

Drive time and distance: 2 hours 30 minutes // 115 miles

From North Cascades National Park, it’s roughly a two hour drive south to Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-themed town set in the eastern foothills of the Cascades.

Leavenworth is fascinating to us because it was a timber town set right on the Great Northern Railway, which was a prosperous place to be in the 20th Century. 

Then, in 1925, the railroad pulled the rug, packing up and moving to Wenatchee. After a few decades of decline, a committee got together and said “how can we revitalize this town?”

The winning idea was turning it into a Bavarian-themed town to attract tourists, which began in the 1960’s and has resulted in Leavenworth being firmly on the tourist map 60 years later.

Especially around Christmas, when the town is lit up by Christmas lights, with carolers caroling and mulled wine flowing. 

For what it’s worth, we’ve been to plenty of kitschy towns that were built up around a theme to attract tourists, and Leavenworth is our favorite of them all, and pulls it off the best. 

Everything – even the Starbucks in town – has been constructed along strict guidelines to immerse you in the “Bavaria, ish” feeling. 

We enjoy Leavenworth, and it’s a good balance between the outdoor activities and the amenities of a city, which is why we’ve chosen to include it as a stop on this road trip. Plus, it’s the home base for a couple of excellent hikes (more on that in a second). 

What to Do in Leavenworth

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Leavenworth . 

Float the River: There’s nothing better on a hot summer day than jumping in the water and doing the leisurely float down the river. Here, you have two river options! You’ll need to go with a company that will drop you up north at the put-in, so you can float down the river and get out in town. Check out Leavenworth Outdoor Center for more information.

Hike to Colchuck Lake: We tackled this jaw-dropping hike as part of our longer backpacking trip in the Enchantments, but the hike to Colchuck Lake is one that should be on your Washington hiking bucket list. It’s an 8 mile out and back hike that gains 2,300 feet of elevation, and ends at a crystal clear blue-green gem of a lake. It also makes a great overnight backpacking trip, and serves as the gateway for backpacking in the Enchantments (but to get there, you have to climb Aasgard Pass, which gains 2,900 feet in less than a mile. Woof).

Indulge in some Wine, Beer, and Cider: For whatever reason, there’s a thriving alcoholic beverage scene in Leavenworth, with producers of beer, cider, and wine opening up tasting rooms lining the streets of Leavenworth. For wine, go to Icicle Ridge Winery or Archibald James (who also makes great cider), for local beer go to Icicle Brewing Company (who has a great outdoor patio area, perfect for an afternoon beer), and for cider go to Leavenworth Cider House or Bushel & Bee Taproom . 

Eat a Sausage or Three: What’s the first thing you think of when you think of German cuisine (specifically, Bavarian)? Something about beer, sausage, and pork knuckle is probably at the top of the list, and that’s what we think you should eat in Leavenworth! The Leavenworth Sausage Garten is our go-to spot for post-hike sausage and beer or cider, though München Haus across the street is a close second and has pretzels, sausages, beer steins, and more German-ish things to eat and drink. Make sure to stop by Whistlepunk Ice Cream (Alysha’s favorite!) afterwards for a well-earned post-hike desert!

Wine Tasting: It might be a little bit surprising, but this region is actually known for wine. There are tasting rooms in town, and just outside of town to the east. Head out to Icicle Ridge Winery or Silvara Cellars to visit a winery with great views over the surrounding landscape and the Wenatchee River, or just stick to one of the many tasting rooms in the town of Leavenworth itself. Go to Bergdorf in the winter for their gluhwein, a German spiced wine that is best when it’s warm. My little brother and I drank our body weight in it every night when we were exploring the Christmas Markets in Germany. 

Whitewater Rafting on the Wenatchee River: The Wenatchee River, for a few weeks between June and late July, is some of the most accessible whitewater rafting in Washington. It’s class II/III, which means it’s the perfect place for your first whitewater rafting adventure. I have personally rafted it multiple times since I used to work for a company that operated out there. Before you go, you should know that your experience is going to vary wildly based on the water levels that year, which are impossible to predict. Don’t book too early, otherwise you might end up spending part of the trip literally carrying the raft. The best time is usually June and early July. Go with Blue Sky Outfitters (full disclosure – I worked there in college many years ago). 

Read More: All of Our Favorite Things to Do in Leavenworth, WA

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

Because it’s a very popular tourist destination, the town of Leavenworth has plenty of great options in terms of places to stay. 

We like Loge (we stayed there last summer), which is an adventure-forward hotel company who have a downtown Leavenworth hotel , and a set of riverside cabins , the latter of which we’ve personally stayed at and enjoyed. 

The other option we’d recommend is the Bavarian Lodge , which is as central as it gets and gets consistently glowing reviews. 

If you’re camping, stay at Eightmile Campground (we’ve camped there!), which is a nice shady slice of paradise about 15 minutes outside of town, which puts you in the perfect position to tackle Colchuck and the gateway to the Enchantments on your second morning, if you’re up for the hike. 

Days 13-14: Seattle

Drive time and distance: 2 hours 30 minutes // 135 miles

Seattle is, first and foremost, a beautiful city. Flanked by snowy mountain peaks on three all sides (the Cascades to the east, the Olympics to the west, Mount Baker to the north, and Mount Rainier to the south), it’s also set right on Elliott Bay which gives it a waterfront flair. 

Seattle has changed a lot in the past few decades, and parts of the city are completely unrecognizable from when Matt was in college.

The influx of money, mostly from the thriving tech industry, has had a significant impact on the shape and feel of the city that Matt comments on every time we’re in Seattle. 

For us, Seattle is at its best in the neighborhoods outside the downtown core like Fremont, Ballard, and Capitol Hill (among others). That’s where we find ourselves gravitating towards when we visit. 

With a couple of days in Seattle (really, about a day and a half), we’d recommend spending half of your time on the main sights in Downtown Seattle – Pike Place Market and the Seattle Center – and the other half exploring one or two of those aforementioned neighborhoods. 

A note on the journey from Leavenworth to Seattle: To get from Leavenworth to Seattle, you’ll have to go up and over Snoqualmie Pass, which is home to some of the best hikes near Seattle . Depending on how you’re feeling, you could stop for a hike on your way into town ( Snow Lake is a great option).

Regardless, you should definitely stop at Snoqualmie Falls ( here on Google Maps), a powerful waterfall 40 minutes outside the city (make sure to go to both the upper and lower viewpoints). 

What to Do in Seattle

You only have a couple of days in Seattle if you include the day you arrive, which we do. You’re going to want to see the highlights, which is what you’ll find below. 

Pike Place Market: Probably the most famous attraction in Seattle, Pike Place Market lives up to the hype and then some. Though I can’t say the same for the also-famous but largely uninspired gum wall, which is downright disgusting if you really stop to think about it. Anyway, walk through the market and check out the vendors selling everything from candied nuts to flowers, and of course, the flying salmon. Stop by Rachel’s Ginger Beer , Beecher’s Cheese (their flagship cheese is one of my top three all time favorites), and Elleno’s Frozen Greek Yogurt while you’re there. To go a level deeper, take this awesome guided tour of Pike Place with a Local Chef , which my family has done before. 

Discovery Park: Discovery Park is lovely, and is emblematic of Seattle’s natural beauty with mossy forests and beaches on the Puget Sound. Take an easy stroll out to the western edge of Seattle, where you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the Pacific Ocean. The West Point Lighthouse is pretty cool, and is definitely worth the price of admission, which is simply a three mile round trip hike to get to it. The loop trail (lined above) is our favorite hike in Seattle . 

Explore Capitol Hill: Our favorite! “Cap Hill” as we locals call it, is home to the best selection of food, drinks, and coffee in the city. It’s packed full of interesting spots to stop in, whether you’re looking for vegan ice cream or a unique boutique selling who knows what. Our favorite stops are Espresso Vivace and Victrola Coffee for some of the best coffee in Seattle. Frankie and Jo’s and Molly Moons for awesome local ice cream (Frankie and Jo’s is 100% gluten free and vegan!). Elliott Bay Books for the best local bookstore in Seattle.

The Underground Tour: A little quirky and offbeat, kind of like Seattle, the Underground Tour is worth doing while you’re in Pioneer Square. The tour guides are funny, and you get to learn about the history of Seattle from a slightly different perspective. 

Seattle Center: I actually don’t really recommend you go up to the top of the Space Needle. The views are cool (check out Kerry Park nearby for the best views in Seattle – it’s here on Google Maps), but it’s expensive and kind of uninspiring. Seattle Center has some cool attractions though. MoPop is a must for music and culture lovers, with tons of unique and fascinating exhibits about music and pop culture you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a one-of-a-kind art installation featuring hand blown glass in all sorts of shapes and sizes. The Pacific Science Center is a great stop for kids, with interactive exhibits that make for a perfect rainy day activity in Seattle. 

Read More: Exactly How to Spend 2 Days in Seattle

Where to Stay in Seattle

If you’re in town for a couple of nights, you’re going to want to stay somewhere relatively central to maximize your time. 

There are two central areas that we like and would recommend. Here’s a high-level overview.

• Our top recommendation for most people is Belltown . Belltown is, in our opinion, the best combination of central location and selection of restaurants and bars. It’s within walking distance of Pike Place and the Seattle Center. We’ve stayed at the Ace Hotel (a hipster classic!), which is right near Pike Place Market in the heart of Belltown, and we’d recommend it. Our dream hotel in Belltown is Hotel Ändra , which is a very hip boutique hotel right in the heart of some of our favorite food and drinks in the neighborhood.  
• If you want to be in the coolest neighborhood in Seattle , with excellent food, drinks, shopping, and nightlife, stay in Capitol Hill . The downside is that there aren’t that many places to stay, but it’s by far our favorite place to hang out when we’re in Seattle. Great coffee, great bars, great food, and the best bookstore in Seattle – what’s not to love? In terms of where to stay, we’ve stayed with Sonder before in other cities, and have our eye on the serviced apartments at Sonder at Solis for our next trip to Seattle. It’s also worth mentioning the Silver Cloud Hotel . Though it’s not particularly interesting, it is in a great location at a great price.

For more details, head over to our guide to the best places to stay in Seattle , which covers our picks for the best neighborhoods for a variety of travel styles and budgets, complete with pros and cons for each. 

A word on parking in Seattle: If you have a car (which you almost certainly do), parking is going to be either a) expensive or b) a nightmare. Sometimes, both. Our strong recommendation is to pay for parking at your hotel and leave the car there for the vast majority of the couple of days in the city. It will be more of a hassle than help if you try to drive everywhere. 

What to Add with More Time in Washington State

If you are lucky enough to have more time in Washington State, we have a few suggestions. 

Multiple places on the list below – like the San Juan Islands and the Mount Baker Wilderness – are on our list of our favorite places in the state. But, with a shorter trip, they probably are too far out of the way to fit in. 

If you’re interested in exploring more in and around Seattle, you could easily fill another 1-3 days eating, drinking, and walking your way through the city (not to mention the great areas just outside of the city). 

It’s also worth noting that you could easily add a day or two to each national park, and still not run out of things to do and see. 

That’s another way to spend your extra time, and we’d recommend reading our more detailed guides to each of those parks for more details on what to do with extra time. 

Anyway, here are three more amazing places in Washington to consider adding to your road trip itinerary. 

The San Juan Islands (1-3 Days)

The island chain to the northwest of Seattle, this is one of our favorite summer getaways from Seattle. 

The weather is slightly cooler, and it’s a great time to get out on a kayak and explore the islands (though, the waters are treacherous and you’ll need to do a guided trip because it’s too dangerous for 99% of people to do solo). 

Plus, orca whales! 

The two main islands are San Juan Island, home to Friday Harbor and the Lime Kiln Lighthouse (where to go to see orcas from shore), and Orcas Island, home to Mount Constitution and some good hiking. 

One island can be done in one day / one night, both will take three days / two nights. Obviously, you could easily spend more time (we spent a full week between San Juan Island and Orcas Island last summer). 

As you might have guessed, we have guides to the best things to do on San Juan Island , where Matt used to spend a week every summer growing up, and guides to Orcas Island . 

Mount Baker (1-3 Days)

Mount Baker, specifically the north side along highway 542, is the most underrated hiking destination in the Pacific Northwest, we think. 

It’s hard to get to, with higher elevation trails covered in snow into August some years, and the snow creeping back in by early October, but those two months are pure bliss for lovers of alpine landscapes. 

Plus, there are far fewer people on the trails than in any of the national parks, even the North Cascades which is relatively undiscovered when compared to Rainier and Olympic. 

Definitely tackle the Chain Lakes Loop and Yellow Aster Butte , and head to Picture Lake ( here on Google Maps) and Artist Point ( here on Google Maps) for amazing views 

Here’s our guide to hiking near Mount Baker . 

Spend Time in Seattle (1-3 Days)

You might have noticed that, if you were to follow the Washington itinerary above exactly as written, you basically will spend a day and a half in Seattle. Which is probably enough to see the highlights, but not enough to actually get into what makes the city special. 

We love Seattle, and it’s well worth an extra day or two at the end of your trip to unwind after days spent hiking and exploring.

3 days in Seattle is usually our recommendation for first timers (though we have guides to both one day in Seattle and two days in Seattle , which you can use to plan a shorter trip). 

It’s also worth taking a ferry ride across the water to do a day trip to Bainbridge Island , which is anywhere from a half day trip to a full day, depending on how much time you want to spend out there. 

See all of our Seattle guides here , including day trips, things to do, hikes, and more. 

What to Do with Less Time in Washington State

If you have less than 14 days, you can still absolutely plan an amazing trip, and you’ll have plenty of places left to see on a return trip!

For each of these alternatives, we’ll give you an overview of how we’d think about your time, along with a sample shorter itinerary. Then, you can use the relevant sections above to get the details you need to plan your time. 

With 10 Days

As we mentioned at the top, with 10 days in Washington State, we’d cut the North Cascades and Bellingham and focus on Rainier, Olympic, and Seattle. Here’s what that looks like. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Drive to Olympic National Park via Bainbridge Island
• Day 2: Olympic National Park
• Day 3: Olympic National Park
• Day 4: Olympic National Park
• Day 8: Leavenworth
• Day 9: Seattle
• Day 10: Seattle & Fly Home

With 7 Days

With 7 days in Washington State, we feel pretty strongly that you should essentially cut the North Cascades from the main itinerary above and focus your entire trip on Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park. 

Depending on what you’re into, you might cut a day at Rainier to spend in Seattle. 

Here’s what that looks like. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Drive to Olympic National Park (Port Angeles)
• Day 2: Olympic National Park – Lake Crescent & Hurricane Ridge
• Day 3: Olympic National Park – Rainforest & Pacific Beaches
• Day 4: Olympic National Park & Drive to Mount Rainier National Park
• Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park (Sunrise) & Drive to Seattle
• Day 7: Seattle & Fly Home

With 5 Days

If you really rush it, you can fit both Rainier and Olympic into 5 days. But you’ll have to cut certain sections of both parks to make it happen. 

Here’s how we’d organize that trip.  

• Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Drive to Olympic National Park (Port Angeles) & Hurricane Ridge
• Day 2: Olympic National Park – Day Trip to Pacific Coast & Hoh Rainforest
• Day 3: Drive to Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise)
• Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise & Ohanapecosh) & Drive to Seattle
• Day 5: Seattle & Fly Home

With 3 Days

With 3 days in Washington, you really only have enough time to do one national park. We’d pick one and follow the itinerary in the main section above for that single park, spending any additional time you end up with in Seattle. 

For example, here is an idea focusing on Olympic National Park. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Drive to Olympic National Park (Forks)
• Day 2: Olympic National Park – Rainforest & Pacific Beaches
• Day 3: Olympic National Park – Lake Crescent & Hurricane Ridge & Drive to Seattle

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

27 Comments

Hello! First of all, thanks so much for this awesome itinerary ! I used it exclusively to help plan our trip coming up in August. It’s great :). We’re doing the 14 day trek! I was wondering if you could offer any guidance on how many of your hike recommendations, roughly, involve a long non-paved road to access. We tried to rent a 4WD vehicle, but the prices right now are absolutely insane :(. So we had to go with an economy. We loooove hiking, particularly long hikes, but don’t want to risk damaging the vehicle! I’ve been trying to do my research and look at Forumns on TripAdvisor, but frankly the replies are usually pretty aggressive toward non-locals. You seem so nice and kind! Thank you!!!

Almost none in this itinerary – the areas in Olympic and Rainier are super well developed (with the exception of Mowich Lake at Rainier, which is not on the itinerary because it’s 18 miles of washboard road). For reference, we did everything here in our super heavy Honda Odyssey that we live in, so a regular car should do the trick!

This is a wonderful itinerary, which we intend to follow pretty much as is. My husband and I, both seniors, are heading to Washington from Boston mid-September and currently plan to stay two weeks. I am wondering what temperatures to plan for in the parks. I was kinda freaked to learn there was snow on the ground in June!

Mid-September will be great. It’ll be relatively warm (the snow returns in mid-to-late October, most years). The weather is a little more unpredictable as you get into late September, so you might get a little rain, but you never know.

We love your complete two week itinerary! Hope to do it in August 2022. Thank you. If we were to drop any time in Seattle and instead spend the days in San Juan Islands, where in the itinerary would you fit in the San Juan’s?

You’d probably want to do it in between Olympic and the North Cascades. You can take a ferry to San Juan Island from Anacortes, which is roughly an hour north of Seattle.

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Explore 29 officially designated Scenic Byways that pass through the varied geographic regions of Washington, reflecting the depth of its scenic, cultural, and historic landscapes.  Discover wild Pacific beaches, temperate rainforests, snow-capped volcanic peaks, wilderness lakes and rivers, desert coulees and canyons, and rolling hills and vineyards – Washington delivers on the stunning and spectacular!

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Ultimate Washington Road Trip Guide | 2-Week Itinerary

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: May 3, 2023

Categories Hiking , Road Trips , Travel Guides , Washington

Washington State is home to 3 absolutely breathtaking National Parks. There is so much to explore within these areas, that this will simply absorb most of your time along this Washington Road Trip Guide.

Washington is a large state, and you could easily spend a lifetime exploring the ins and outs of this beautiful state. But in this specific Washington Road Trip Guide, we will take you to the coolest spots we found while exploring the state for just over a month and try to condense it into an epic 2-week itinerary.

We are pretty avid hikers, so be aware that this guide is geared towards putting in some serious miles on the trails. But the payoff for hiking in Washington rewards you with some of the most beautiful views in the country! However, we do make time for “rest days,” where you can enjoy some more leisurely activities like eating out, river floating, or going to breweries.

We will include a few additional add-on activities if you have the pleasure to explore Washington for longer than just a couple of weeks! But ultimately, we want to make sure you make it to the 3 National Parks, because well, they are National Parks for a reason after all! So let’s dive into this Washington 2-week itinerary. 

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Accommodation Along This Ultimate Washington Road Trip:

Do note, that we travel in our camper van full-time when we travel on these trips. We will include places we personally camped along the road trip or make a suggestion of locations.

We think this road trip would best be explored via car camping, campervan or RV, since there are so many areas where it will save you so much time camping versus finding hotels or vacation rentals. Therefore, we suggest renting a camper van or RV from Outdoorsy , RVezy or RVshare .

Also, food in some of these National Parks can be few and far between, and honestly be sub-par meals. Therefore having a kitchen with you can be great for making your own meals and honestly saving you some money during this Washington State Road Trip !

Some areas and campgrounds do require advanced reservations, so if you know the dates you will be visiting Washington State, it might be wise to book some of the campsites ahead of time to ensure your accommodation.

We have a Harvest Hosts & Boondockers Welcome membership which allows us to stay at wineries, local farms, breweries, golf courses, museums, local home driveways and more! The membership for harvest hosts is $99 annually, but if you use this Harvest Host Link , you can save 15% off at checkout! We even wrote a whole Harvest Hosts review , where you can learn everything you need to know if it is the right membership for you! And if you add on Boondockers Welcome (which are locals offering up their driveways or land for a place to park), you can combine the two platforms for a lower annual rate.

When there are no Harvest Hosts or Boondockers Welcome locations nearby, we use the app iOverlander. This is a super useful resource for finding camping on the road and can be used offline too. We will suggest places to stay, but you may travel at a little different pace, or choose to drive more or less than us.

Therefore, we suggest downloading and using this free and helpful resource along this Washington road trip!

But if camping isn’t your jam, there are still great vacation home rentals on VRBO s or hotels on Kayak that will help accommodate you for the night! Especially because this Washington Road Trip Guide is 2 weeks long, you might want to stay in a vacation home rental or a hotel midway through the trip to reset for other camping excursions.

Day 1 | Fly into Seattle & Head To Olympic National Park: 

Today will be a long travel day, but I promise it will set you up for a fun adventure day tomorrow! 

First stop, Seattle. Unless you border the state and can drive here, it is one of the harder western states to visit. Therefore most of you will be flying here. We suggest using Kayak to get the best deals on flights and rental cars. Or like mentioned above, rent a camper van or RV from Outdoorsy , RVezy or RVshare .

In this ultimate Washington road trip guide, we are going to skip exploring Seattle altogether, because you could easily spend a whole week or so here exploring the wonders of the city. There will be time at the end of the trip if you really want to explore Seattle.

We just feel like the surrounding areas are not to be missed, and when you only have a week or so to explore, then you might want to skip the city. But if you are able to explore Washington for longer this Washington 2-week itinerary, then here are some great Seattle travel guides . 

Once you get settled with your rental car or camper van/RV rental, we suggest heading to Olympic National Park via the North Route through Port Angeles.

Either stock up on groceries in Seattle or Port Angeles, unless you want to eat out for most meals. But having snacks for some of these hiking adventures is a good idea. And there aren’t a ton of restaurant options in some of the more remote areas of the National Parks.

Camping on Day 1 Of This Washington Road Trip: 

Tonight’s stop will depend on the time your flight gets into Seattle and how far you want to drive. If you have the energy to drive to Port Angeles, then some great Harvest Host locations are: Fleurish Lavender of Lost Mountain or Rain Shadow Lavender Farm. 

If you have a little extra energy, a great campground near Lake Crescent (a destination for tomorrow’s adventure) is Fairholme Campground. The cost is $24 and advanced reservations for Fairholme Campground can be made online at recreation.gov . 

If you are looking for a free place to stay there is a large pull-off near Highway 101 .

Day 2 | Mt. Storm King

One of my absolute favorite hikes in Olympic National Park is Mt. Storm King. It is a challenge, but one of the most rewarding hikes. The hike is 5.3 miles with 2076 ft elevation gain. Don’t forget to add the short detour to Marymere falls, which will add on about .7 miles round trip. 

The hike starts off pretty mellow till you reach the intersection to head up to Mount Storm King or head toward Marymere Falls. So once you make the detour and reach this intersection on your way back, the trail heads up which is a steady incline to the top.

About 1 mile from the intersection you will get a sneak peek of Lake Crescent from above. But I promise it only gets better at the top. Another .2 miles is where you will run into the “end of maintained trail” sign. 

Here you will run into the most difficult part of the trail. It’s best for experienced and confident hikers. There are ropes in place to help you safely climb up this section.

If there is recent rainfall, then the trail might be impassible at this point. As it would get pretty muddy and slick. But there are leftover gloves left by other hikers to help keep your grip on the rope to the top.

This section will most likely seem longer than it actually is (.2miles). But literally, the hard work will pay off instantly when you reach the top. Bonus if you can get here for sunrise or sunset. The hike is an out and back, therefore you return down the steep decline back to the parking lot.

After hiking Mount Storm King, it’s time to jump into the refreshing Lake you were just looking down upon. Or even better, rent a kayak to get out on the water. And if the timing works out, you can get a magical sunset over the lake.

Camping On Day 2 Of This Washington Road Trip:

You will probably be pretty tired after hiking Mt Storm King. So you might just want to head back to one of the camps near Crescent Lake: Fairholme Campground , Klahowya Campground .

For a free dispersed camping option, you could check for some spots down Forest Road 29 . 

Day 3 | Visit the Washington Coast

On Day 3 of this Washington Road Trip, we are going to be heading to the coast. But first, there is one more cool hike in Olympic National Park that should not be missed.  

Sol Duc Falls is 1.6 miles with 226 ft elevation gain, so it is a rather easy stop as we head to the ocean. It’s great for getting a little exercise before driving to the coast. The hike starts through dense lush forest and leads to 3 gushing falls. You might even be able to see a rainbow above the waterfalls.

Next, head back into the car and we are headed toward Rialto Beach. A popular destination is Hole in the Wall.

The hike is 3.3 miles with 108 ft elevation gain. Jake and I had our backpacking stuff with us, so we decided to backpack to this location ( permits are required ). But as you can see the mileage is rather easy, so by no means does this need to be done as a backpacking trip (most people hike much farther down the beach, but we just took the only permits available).

You will want to check for low tide , so you can safely cross to the other side and at least walk through the hole. 

If you have more time on your trip, some other great stops are Ruby Beach and the Hoh Rainforest. The only reason we don’t include these stops is because we include Rialto Beach which we personally found cooler. And there is so much dense and lush forest in Washington that you could maybe save the Hoh Rainforest for a different time. But if these two spots are of high interest to you, then they could easily be worked into the Washington Road Trip Guide.

Camping On Day 3 Of This Washington Road Trip: 

Camping or accommodation for this evening will depend on what time you got done with today’s activities. But tomorrow we will be heading to Mt. Rainier National Park and it’s about a 5+ hour drive. So we suggest choosing a camping spot on iOverlander that you think you can reach tonight. 

A good midway point would be near Rock Candy Mountain. There are 2 free primitive spots along the route. One being right off the highway , but you will need a Washington Discover Pass . And another one being about 15 minutes off the highway with nice mountain views.

There is also a Walmart in Aberdeen, WA, but it is a little out of the way and you will need to be in a self-contained camper van or RV to park here.

Day 4 | Mt. Rainier

Mt. Rainier is seriously one of the most mesmerizing mountains to look at. Jake and I have lived in Colorado in previous years where 14’ers (mountains over 14,000 ft high) are everywhere. But I think what makes Mt. Rainier so majestic is because it sits alone making it look so grand! 

Today we suggest driving into the park and stopping at a few viewpoints on your way to Skyline Trailhead. Some scenic stops are Christine Falls, Ricksecker Point, Narada Falls, and Reflection Lake. 

Also, if you are up for doing 2 hikes in one day, then you should consider doing Comet Falls before Skyline Loop trail. T

he Comet Falls hike is 3.2mi with 1279ft elevation gain. It may seem like an easy and short hike, but it has a decent climb up to the falls. But it will definitely be worth it with the beautiful rainbow that comes off the falls.

Next, head up to the top where you will find Skyline Trail Loop Trailhead. This is where you will find one of the main lodges (Paradise Inn) and the ranger station.

If you decided to indulge in Comet Falls first, then maybe consider getting a nice lunch break/early dinner at Paradise Inn. Which offers American-style cuisine.

Or you will also find the Tatoosh Cafe here too. This area has a large parking lot, but during peak season, it can be hard to even snag a spot. Although people do come and go rather often, so you might just have to wait a few minutes for someone to leave from their hiking adventure.

The Skyline Loop Trail is one of the best hikes in the park, offering absolutely stunning views of Mt. Rainier while it towers over you.

The hike is 6 miles with 1700 ft elevation gain. You can either go clockwise or counterclockwise.

Jake and I chose counter-clockwise to ease into the accent versus the other route. But nonetheless, they both lead you up with epic views of Mt. Rainier. And don’t forget to look back occasionally, because you get 360 views of breathtaking mountainous wilderness. 

If you choose to go counter-clockwise, you will run into Myrtle falls about .4 miles along the trail. A rushing waterfall with a view of Mt. Rainier directly behind it! If you go clockwise, then you can hit this stop on your way out.

Camping on Day 4 Of This Washington Road Trip:

Tonight, you are going to be heading out of the park and staying on National Forest Land right outside the park. The camp is along the White River and has some great views right from your campsite. And if it’s warm, you can even take a dip in the river.

The road can be a bit rough if you want to get super close to the river, but there are a few spots closer to the road if you don’t have high clearance. 

Day 5 | Sunrise Hike to Mount Fremont Lookout:

Day 5 on this Washington road trip is going to be an early one. That’s because this location can have some awesome cloud inversion if you get here early enough. And the sunrise over these mountains is unreal.

Oh and you will be hiking with the view of Mt. Rainier right next to you, so it’s pretty epic!

You might even see the light from some headlamps of people summiting Mt. Rainier. The hike is 5.6 miles with 1200 ft elevation gain. 

Depending on the time of year you are doing this hike, check the sunrise time. Plan for this hike to take you at least 1.5 hours to get to the top and maybe add in a little extra buffer time. 

The hike climbs steadily the whole route. It’s rather well-maintained but there are a few spur trails to be aware of. You will follow the Sourdough Trail until you reach Frozen Lake.

Here there are 3 different trails that merge. This is where you follow Mount Fremont Trail. This leads you up to a fire lookout. You can’t go inside, but you can see how rangers used to post up and look out for wildfires (and sometimes still do). 

After this hike, you will probably be pretty tired from waking up super early. So either grab a coffee at the Sunrise Day Lodge or consider taking a quick nap in your car. Because we have a drive ahead of us for the second portion of the day. 

Camping On Day 5 Of This Washington Road Trip:

Depending on how much driving you want to do today, there are a few different camping options along your drive. The drive from Mt. Fremont Fire Lookout trailhead to Leavenworth is just under 4 hours. Just past Liberty, WA there is a decent spot off the highway where you can camp for free. Or another one a little closer to Leavenworth.

Or if you want to drive the whole way to Leavenworth, then refer to camping on Day 6.

Day 6 | Exploring the Town Of Leavenworth

Leavenworth, WA is one of my favorite towns in Washington and has honestly been one of the highlights of vanlife. I think when we run into a super cool town that wasn’t completely on our radar is super special.

Jake and I plan our road trips thoroughly, so we don’t miss anything. But this town was super cool and something we found as we were traveling North. And honestly ended up spending a few days here enjoying the amazing vibe.

It’s a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains. You will get the feel as soon as you enter this unique town because even the fonts on all the business signs are the same, the building structure, and the restaurants are all Bavarian-styled. 

Today is going to be more of a touristy day, and after the hiking you’ve done, I’m sure you could use a nice break. 

Check out our post for the Ultimate Guide to Leavenworth Washington for everything you gotta do while you are here! Including the best restaurants, bakeries, museums, breweries, and more.

A couple highlights from our trip are the 3 breweries (Blewett Brewing Co, Icicle Brewing Co, & Doghaus Brewery), Rhein Haus restaurant for a pretzel and bratwurst, waterfront park trail, Munich Haus and the Danish Bakery. There are also various shops you can explore which can easily kill a whole days worth of your time.

Camping On Day 6 Of This Washington Road Trip:

If you are traveling in a camper van or RV, then Leavenworth has an awesome opportunity for an overnight stay. If you are tent camping, then there is National Forest Land nearby where you can stay for the night.

There is a free parking lot on the Southwest edge of town (walking distance) where you can park for 24 hours. So you can grab that extra bier stein at one of the bavarian pubs because you don’t have to drive tonight! 

There are also two great campground options near Leavenworth Washington.  Alpine View RV Park  is located less than 1 mile from downtown. There is a dump station on-site, complimentary showers for guests, and free wifi. 

There is also the  KOA Holiday Leavenworth , which is also less than a mile from town. They offer a luxurious style of camping with both RV and tent sites. It’s located just a short walk from the Wenatchee River, so during those summer months, you can take a nice dip to cool off. There is complimentary wifi, cable TV, pool, hot tub, and even fun campground recreation to keep you and the kids entertained. 

Day 7 | The Enchantments 

The Enchantments are one of the most popular backpacking trips in Washington. And if you are lucky enough to snag a permit, there is an amazing thru-hike, which you absolutely should do. But you can also hike to one of the coolest lakes on this backpacking trip as a day hike. So that is what we suggest doing on Day 7 of this Washington Road Trip. 

The day hike leads up to Colchuck Lake which is 9 miles with 2283 ft elevation gain. The hike starts off as a mellow incline and gradually gets steeper along the route.

Especially during peak summer, getting to the lake is so worth it, because you can take a dip in the majestic aqua blue water with towering mountains along the opposite shoreline. It can be a challenge to find an accessible spot to the lake, but there are various paths that will lead you to one.

Be sure to pack along a snack or lunch to enjoy the beautiful mountain views. 

Because the weather was so nice Jake and I spent a few hours enjoying this beautiful setting. But the hike back down was a little buggy, so I would assume during certain times in summer, the bugs could be a problem up at the lake (which we experienced hiking to various other lakes throughout the summer).

Camping/ Accommodation on Day 7 Of This Washington Road Trip:

There are a few campgrounds in Leavenworth that could be worth reserving in advance, so you can explore more of the lovely town of Leavenworth. Otherwise, consider checking out a spot nearby via the iOverlander app. 

Day 8 | Float The Wenatchee River

One of our favorite things we did besides hiking on this Washington Road Trip was floating down the Wenatchee River. There are a few tours that you can pay for that provide the tubes and a shuttle ride to the start of the float trip.

Or you can choose your own adventure. Jake and I have the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak , so we decided to park at the “take out” and walk to the start of the float trip to get some extra exercise, and float down the river back to our car. The hike was a bit longer than we thought, but worth it if you are on a budget and want to save a few bucks. 

One of the tubing rental companies is the Leavenworth Outdoor Center . You can park in their grass lot for $10 or somewhere in town and they will shuttle you to the launch point. You can choose between a 2-mile or 4-mile float trip. But do note the 4-mile float trip is only offered in July due to water levels. The price ranges from $25-$30 per person.

Other companies that offer tubes and shuttle services are Blue Sky Outfitters , River Riders , and Osprey Rafting Co . If you want to step up your game from the lazy float down the Wenatchee River, each of these companies also offers White Water Rafting earlier in the season.  

Camping on Day 8 Of This Washington Road Trip:

If you are like us, then you might have indulged in a few beverages along the float trip, making it not a great idea to drive afterwards. So we suggest either staying at the campgrounds in town, a discount hotel from Kayak , or a VRBO .

You could try out one of the various breweries or check out a different local cuisine in the area. 

Day 9 | Head Toward The North Cascades: 

On Day 9 of this Washington Road Trip guide, we are going to head to The North Cascades National Park. Once you get here, take a drive through the park. 

The first stop on the drive is Blue Lake Trailhead. Another stunning blue lake with gorgeous mountain peaks along the lake’s edge. The hike is 5mi with 1100ft elevation gain. 

The hike meanders through open meadows and subalpine forests with beautiful wildflowers during the summer season. Blue Lake Trail is rather mellow and well-maintained. Definitely bring a packed lunch or snacks to enjoy at the lake.

Camping On Day 9 of This Washington Road Trip:

If you are traveling in a camper van or RV, then you can park in the Blue Lake Trailhead (there weren’t “No Camping” signs at the time we visited). There were also a few other campers and RV’s sharing the lot with us as well.

If you want a more official campground for the night, Lone Fir Campground is based on a first-come, first-serve system. There are 27 sites, but during peak season, this campground tends to fill up quickly.

Day 10 | Hike Maple Pass Trail:

Day 10 of this Washington Road Trip Guide brings you to one of the most popular hikes in the park. And for good reason. Maple Pass Trail hike is 6.6mi with 2145ft elevation gain. It is a bit more challenging, but amazing views as soon as you leave your vehicle. 

The hike starts from Rainy Lake Trailhead and can be done in either direction. The trail starts off as a steady incline through a forest and opens up to a meadow with beautiful wildflowers in the summer season. If you go counter-clockwise, which is a more gradual ascent, you run into Lake Ann.

There is a short detour to Lake Ann if this is of interest. We decided to forgo the detour, but if it’s a hot day, it could be a nice place to stop for a swim.

At 2.5 miles into the climb, you will encounter Heather Pass Trail. Continue to the left on Maple Pass Trail. Here the trail circles around Lake Ann and continues the climb to the summit of Maple Pass where you will have panoramic views of the area.

Then, the descent starts, which can be slow going miles. It was super nice to have hiking poles on this section of the hike. Lastly, toward the end, you will be blessed with a top-down view of Rainy Lake.

After the hike, there are a few cool viewpoints to check out on your way out of the park. Of course, if you come to North Cascades National Park, you have to stop at the famous Diablo Lake Vista Point. You get to look down upon the aqua, blue-green water surrounded by mountain peaks.

There is a cool waterfall along the bridge that goes over Gore Creek. You can park on either side of the bridge in the designated parking lots and walk along either side of the bridge.

If you don’t like heights, you may want to skip this one or at least “don’t look down”. The bridge pathway is see through and a long way up from the ground.

The waterfall is roughly halfway along the path. 

Camping on Day 10 Of This Washington Road Trip:

There are a few great campgrounds in the park for camping on day 10 of this Washington Road Trip. Two great campgrounds that are near Diablo Lake are Gorge Lake Campground and Colonial Creek South . Reservations can be made in advance at both campgrounds.

North Cascades National Park also has some unique camping options if you have the time. There are a few locations that allow boat-in camping to Ross Lake, Diablo Lake and Lake Chelan. A backcountry permit is required for each wilderness area.

If you have more time on your road trip, you can also visit Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest & Mount Baker Wilderness. Sadly when we visited we ran out of time, and quite frankly, got a little burnt out from mountain hikes. But again, pretty high on our list of awesome places to visit when we come back to Washington. Some hikes that are on our bucket list are Chain Lakes Loop Trail and Heather Meadows & Artists Point Trail. 

Day 11 | Head To Anacortes:

One activity Jake and I regret not doing while visiting Washington was kayaking the San Juan Islands. But it is definitely high on our list for the next time. 

Kayaking the San Juan Islands does take some extra planning because in order to get to the islands you need to take a ferry . And then you can get a kayaking tour from there.

Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor are two of the more popular starting locations for kayaking the San Juan Islands.

The ferry for passengers from Anacortes to Friday Island is about an hour long and costs $15/person.

Therefore, we suggest after visiting the North Cascades heading to Anacortes. This could be a relaxing day before your last adventure exploring the San Juan Islands. You can either choose to explore the small town of Anacortes or Friday Harbor.

Tonight you should treat yourself to a nice seafood dinner since you are near the coast.

Some restaurants you could try out for fresh seafood near Anacortes are Secret Cove, Adrift Restaurant or Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon. Sadly, I can’t personally recommend one of these locations from personal experience, but these places come highly reviewed for seafood restaurants.

Restaurants you could try in Friday Harbor for fresh seafood are The Bait Shop, Downriggers, or Coho Restaurant. You could also check out the San Juan Island Brewing Co if that is of interest to you!

Camping/ Accommodation For Day 11 Of This Washington Road Trip Guide:

Camping near cities gets a bit more difficult. If you want to stick with the camping theme of this trip, then you could ride the ferry over to Friday Harbor the night before your kayaking trip around the San Juan Islands.

If you are traveling in a camper van or RV, you can also ferry your vehicle over, it will just cost more. The fares for taking your vehicle across start at around $43, but you can check the ferry fares here for your specific vehicle details. But Friday Harbor has a nice campground called Lakedale .

If you have a Harvests Host Membership, then you could stay at the Amaro Farms on Friday Harbor.

But there are also great VRBO s or great hotel deals on Kayak , that can accommodate you for the night.

Day 12 | Kayak The San Juan Islands

Now is for the final fun adventure to truly explore Washington State. There are a few different guided tours around the islands. One company that stands out is the San Juan Kayak Expedition . They offer both day trips and multi-day trips. So you can choose your own adventure.

But on this specific Washington Road Trip Guide, we suggest the full-day tour where you can either visit the Lime Kiln or Griffin Bay. The price for a full-day tour is around $150/person.

A full-day tour is about a 6-hour journey, with 4 hours on the water, 2 hours for lunch and a coastal hike at the Lime Kiln Point State Park. You will often witness marine wildlife such as River Otters, Porpoises, Harbor Seals and even Orca Whales.

Camping / Accommodation on Day 12 Of This Washington Road Trip Guide:

Refer to Day 12 for camping info about Lakedale or Amaro Farms with Harvest Hosts. Or use the links above to find a great deal on a VRBO or a great hotel deal through Kayak.

Day 13 | Head Back Toward Seattle

Day 13 is a travel day back to Seattle. Here you could catch an evening flight out, or get a hotel close to the airport and take off the next morning.

Some popular tourist attractions are the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Pike’s Place Market, The Gum Wall, etc. And of course, they have a great brewery scene which always entices Jake and me!

As mentioned above, Jake and I mostly avoid cities when we travel (not a great fit with vanlife), so here are some great Seattle guides  if you want to explore more of the city when on this Washington Road Trip.

Day 14 | Traveling Home

Sadly, this Washington Road Trip has come to an end. And while you are probably exhausted from this awesome adventurous Washington Road Trip, it will probably leave you craving to see more of this beautiful state. 

But this is one absolutely EPIC Washington Road Trip and in my opinion, gives you such a great idea of what Washington State has to offer. Obviously, there is so much more to explore, but you can leave that for next time.

We hope you enjoy this comprehensive guide for a Washington Road Trip and that you are able to explore the beautiful wonders of this state. Let us know if you are planning a trip or if you have visited and we missed something epic! Have a great road trip! 🙂

Honorable Mention For A Washington Road Trip Guide:

All of these honorable mention hikes deserve a spot on this Washington road trip guide, but like mentioned above, sometimes there just isn’t enough time. But if you get lucky and have longer than 2 weeks to travel the beautiful state of Washington, these should totally make it into your Washington Road Trip!

Hoh Rainforest:

Fit this after Day 3. There is a pretty easy 1-mile loop that goes through the Hoh Rainforest called Hall Of Moss. I think the Hoh Rainforest is a unique vibe of Washington State and offers lush green forest.

Ruby Beach:

Fit this in after Day 3. Ruby Beach is another cool beach along the Olympic National Park Coast with unique formations along the coastal shore. You can explore the area and make the walk as short or as long as you would like.

As mentioned above, we just felt Rialto Beach was a bit cooler, and this gives similar vibes to that scenery. And like our picture above, during mid-day cloudiness, it didn’t quite do it for us. But if you can fit this in for a sunrise or sunset with beautiful colors, then this could be a great stop along this Washington Road Trip Guide.

Jade Lake & Marmot Lake:

Fit this in after Day 5. Jade Lake and Marmot Lake is probably one of the coolest backpacking trips Jake and I have ever been on but also one of the most challenging. Jade Lake is simply breathtaking and extremely rewarding once you get there. BUT, the bugs on this backpacking trip are some of the worst we have ever encountered in our life . And I’m from northern Wisconsin, where the bugs are ruthless. To say we each ate about 5+ bugs is probably an understatement. 

There is also a creek crossing in order to get to the trailhead. Therefore, it is often impassible until mid-summer.

As I said, this hike is a challenge. The length of this hike is 20.7 miles with 4284 ft elevation gain. So with a heavy backpack on, this is no easy task.

The main reason we leave this backpacking trip out from this Washington Road Trip Guide is because it will take up about 3+ days of your road trip. And there is just so many amazing stops along this trip that we don’t want you to miss out on. We did the backpacking trip as a 2 day trip, but we would most definitely suggest doing it as a 3 day trip if possible. (AND BRING BUG NETS).

We were absolutely exhausted when we got back, so we had a whole rest day before moving on to the next adventure. But with that being said, it is absolutely one of the most stunning aqua blue lakes we have ever witnessed. So if you crave an absolute adventure, then check out our Jake Lake & Marmot Lake Backpacking Guide .

Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout:

Fit this in after Day 5. This hike will be a fair amount out of the way as it is not located near many of the other hikes in Mt. Rainer National Park. The hike up to Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout is 5.5 miles with 1600ft elevation gain. The time we visited this area the weather wasn’t totally cooperating with us and was super foggy. Therefore, we almost felt like the long trek out here wasn’t totally worth it. But that is not to say, you will have the same luck. It was definitely still pretty cool with the mystic fog.

Thornton Lakes Trail:

You can fit this adventure in after Day 10. The hike up to Thornton Lakes is 10.9 miles with 3057 ft elevation change. The reason we left this hike out is because of its difficulty, especially toward the end of the trip. We found Blue Lake and Maple Pass Loop to be the two best hikes in the park, and assume you might be pretty tired after this trip to add in a challenging hike to another lake. Therefore, if you have time, this hike looks absolutely beautiful but could be worth saving for another time.

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The Best 9 Day Washington Road Trip Adventure Itinerary

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Washington State is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering stunning landscapes, and exhilarating adventures. And what better way to experience it all than with a 9-Day Washington road trip adventure around the state’s most iconic destinations?

We took a summer road trip through Washington State last year and absolutely fell in love with the beautiful state. The glacial lakes, insane mountain ranges, wildflowers, and jaw dropping lookouts absolutely blew us away.

From Mount Baker, to North Cascades National Park, to the famous Enchantments, to Mount Rainier National Park, this jam packed 9 Day Washington road trip itinerary covers a ton of the bucket list hikes and adventures in Washington State. So buckle up, grab your camera, and get ready for the ultimate Washington road trip!

Things to Know Before You Embark on a Washington Road Trip

Our washington road trip route.

We started by flying into Seattle and made our way around to Mt Baker, North Cascades National Park and Mt Rainier National Park since we did Olympic last year. We also ended this itinerary in Seattle.

Notes on This Itinerary

This itinerary does not include Olympic National Park since we had fully explored that park during a prior visit to Washington. If you’d like to add that on to your trip, we’d do it before or after this itinerary for logistics reasons as it’s pretty far away from the rest of this itinerary. You can check out our full guide on Olympic National Park here .

Additionally, Stephen and I are very “go, go, go” kind of travelers. If you happen to travel in a different style where you prefer to knock off 1-2 things per day, you might need a longer amount of time to complete this itinerary. Or, you can simply axe some of the items on here and save it for another trip.

Best Time to Do a Washington Road Trip

If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, the best time to visit Washington is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is generally sunny and warm, and the national parks and outdoor attractions are open for visitors. However, you do have to keep an eye out on snowmelt levels each year, as sometimes areas won’t open until July due to seasonal road closures from snow.

July and August are also a great time to visit Washington if you are in search of beautiful wildflowers! The flowers were peaking all over the state when we did our road trip last year in mid August.

Fall is also a great time to visit Washington for its colorful foliage and harvest season. The temperatures are mild, and there are fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the state’s wineries and orchards. If you are hoping to catch Washington’s famous golden larches, late September through mid October is the perfect time to visit.

Weather in Washington

The weather in the Mt. Rainier, North Cascades, and Mt. Baker regions of Washington during the summer can vary depending on the elevation and location of each area. Here is some general information on what to expect:

• Mt. Rainier region : The weather in the Mt. Rainier region during the summer months (June to August) is typically mild with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (17-23°C) at lower elevations. Snow can also be present in higher elevations, and some hiking trails may still be closed due to snowpack.
• North Cascades region: The weather in the North Cascades region during the summer months (June to September) is generally warm and dry with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-27°C) at lower elevations. Mosquitoes can also be present in some areas, especially near water.
• Mt. Baker region: The weather in the Mt. Baker region during the summer months (June to September) is typically mild with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (17-23°C) at lower elevations. You will also want to keep an eye out for mosquitoes as the snow melts.

In summary, visitors to the Mt. Rainier, North Cascades, and Mt. Baker regions of Washington during the summer should be prepared for mild to warm temperatures, occasional afternoon thunderstorms, potential rainfall, and the possibility of mosquitoes. It’s important to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, including layers, rain gear, and insect repellent.

Be Mindful of Fire Danger

Washington is prone to wildfires during the summer months, especially in the eastern part of the state. Be mindful of fire danger and always follow fire restrictions and regulations. Make sure to properly dispose of cigarettes and campfire ashes, and only have campfires where they are allowed and regulated.

How to Get Around (Car vs. Van)

We chose to do our Washington Road Trip as a van trip to have the best accessibility, but there are other ways to do it as well. We opted to rent a van off of Outdoorsy and camp around various campsites around the National Parks and National Forests in Washington. After flying into Seattle, we picked up our van and were able to hit the ground running. If you decide you’d like to do something similar, you can use our code LoversPassport for 10% Off your van rental.

Another way to do this road trip would be via car rental or your own car. You can either sleep via:

There are so many different accommodation options available – just know that the cheapest option is to camp around either established campsites or on free campsites nearby the parks on National Forest land or BLM land. We use Free Roam and Free Campsites to find the closest free campsites near us.

What to Pack for a Washington Road Trip

Pack for all types of weather Washington weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains and on the coast. Make sure to pack layers, including rain gear, warm clothes, and sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor activities.

Our favorite thing we packed for this trip was our inflatable paddle board . Washington has some absolutely stunning lakes and we were able to use this at least 3-4 times during our week long trip to enjoy the beautiful water. We just checked it at the airport and it was super easy traveling in the van with it since it collapses down into a backpack.

Estimated Costs of a Washington Road Trip

Everyone travels differently, but just so you have an idea of how much our exact Washington road trip cost, we’ve listed out a breakdown below:

• Van Rental : $200/night! Considering that’s a car rental and hotel in one we thought that was pretty good! We rented the van for 7 nights.
• Gas: $300 
• Food & Drinks: $300
• Accommodations : Free since we dispersed camped on free land & were sleeping in the van! 
• Passes/Fees : Free since we have the America the Beautiful National Parks pass & our van rental came with the Northwest Forest Pass & Discover Pass  
• Road Trip Total Cost: $2000 for 2 people for the week or $128 per person per day 

We were able to save money by using Gas Buddy to find the cheapest gas, cooking a majority of our meals by getting groceries once we landed, and by camping in the van!

Reservations & Construction in National Parks

During our trip, one thing that we wish we knew about in advance was allowing travel time for construction and road closures. If you are traveling during the weekdays, you will likely encounter some sort of construction going on around the national parks. Subsequently, just make sure that you are allotting yourself enough time to get from point A to point B.

Check out current road conditions and delays here:

• Mt. Rainier National Park Road Conditions
• North Cascades National Park Road Conditions

Photography/Videography in National Parks

If you are a photographer, videographer, or content creator hoping to create in National Parks and post your content on platforms that help you monetize, you need to be aware of permits and restrictions. You cannot do commercial photography or videography in National Parks now without prior permits. Each national park has it’s own application and most require that you submit permit applications weeks in advance.

Note, you are never allowed to fly a drone in National Parks in the USA.

Hiking in Washington Expectations 

The hikes in Washington are next level – both in terms of views and difficulty. Most of the hikes on this itinerary are fairly long and rated for more moderate to advance hikers. Before your Washington road trip, we’d recommend training for longer distances and elevation gain.

Be Aware While Hiking in Washington

North Cascades National Park and Mt. Rainier National Park are homes to a variety of wildlife, including black bears and mountain goats. Be sure to keep a safe distance and never approach wildlife. For more info on bear safety, check out the NPS guide on being bear aware.

As always, please make sure to follow Leave No Trace Guidelines when out adventuring on your Washington Road Trip. It’s important to keep these beautiful places clean for future generations to come. That includes: taking your trash with you, respecting other visitors, respecting wildlife, and staying on trail.

9 DAY WASHINGTON ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1: travel day .

Fly Into Seattle, Pick Up Your Car/Van, and Head to the Grocery Store 

Mount Pilchuck Fire Tower Hike for Sunset 

Start off your adventure with a hike to the gorgeous Mount Pilchuck Fire Tower. This hike is a Washington classic. The trailhead is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, about an hour and a half drive from Seattle.

The Mount Pilchuck fire tower itself is a historic structure that was originally built in 1918 and has been restored and maintained over the years. The tower offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area, including Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. On a clear day, you can even see the city of Seattle in the distance.

The trail is a 5.2 mile round trip hike that is pretty well-maintained, with switchbacks leading up to the fire lookout tower at the summit. You’ll want to make sure you’re wearing good hiking shoes, as it is pretty steep with about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. Additionally, it’s a good idea to arrive earlier than you think to secure a parking spot at the trailhead as it can fill up quickly.

DAY 2: Mount Baker Region

Watch the Sunrise at Picture Lake

To start off your first full day of adventure, there’s no better place than going taking in the views of Mt. Baker. Picture Lake offers gorgeous views of Mt. Baker and the surrounding mountains, especially at sunrise. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the viewing area, and is a must see on your Washington road trip.

Hike the Chain Lakes Loop Trail

This area has the beauty of a national park without the technical designation, so there’s way fewer crowds and much more opportunity to really immerse yourself in nature. Not to mention, a lot of the trails are dog friendly!

Get ready to head out to hike the Chain Lakes Loop. This trail, in particular, is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of Mount Baker and the surrounding mountains. It is a 7.1-mile trail that takes hikers through alpine meadows, past glacial lakes, and up to several scenic viewpoints. The trail is rated as moderate and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels as long as you prep accordingly. Overall, it’s a pretty well-maintained trail that is easy to follow. However, you should be prepared for some steep inclines and rocky terrain.

The loop starts at Artist Point, which offers panoramic views of Mount Baker and the North Cascades. The trail then descends into the valley, where hikers will pass several glacial lakes, including Bagley Lake, Mazama Lake, and Iceberg Lake. We’d highly recommend doing this loop counterclockwise to avoid having to scale up tons of stairs at the end of your hike.

Make sure to start early, bring plenty of water and snacks, follow the Leave No Trace principles, and check trail conditions before you go!

Day 3 & 4: North Cascades National Park

Hike the thunder knob trail.

Start off your morning by heading out to hike one of the most popular and beautiful hikes in North Cascades National Park. The Thunder Knob Trail is a 3.6-mile round-trip hike that offers stunning views of Diablo Lake and the surrounding mountains. Compared to the other hikes on this itinerary, this one is a relatively short and easy hike that is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

The trail then climbs up to the summit of Thunder Knob, which offers panoramic views of Diablo Lake and the surrounding peaks, including Colonial Peak, Pyramid Peak, and Davis Peak. The summit of Thunder Knob is 4,000 feet above sea level and offers some of the best views in the park.

There isn’t too much parking at the trailhead, so doing this earlier in the morning is definitely the best move.

Paddle Board on Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is one of the most stunning lakes in Washington, dare I say, even in the USA. It’s gorgeous turquoise water is not to be missed! If you decide to bring a paddle board or kayak, we highly recommend getting out on the water to take it all in. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even take a dip; but, beware, the water is frigid!

Hike the Maple Pass Trail

Then, it’s time to hike one of our top favorite hikes of all time. The Maple Pass Loop Trail in North Cascades National Park is a 7.2-mile hike that offers stunning views of alpine meadows, glaciers, and towering peaks. The trail gains around 2,000 feet of elevation and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. The best time to hike the Maple Pass Loop is from July to October when the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the weather is mild. If you are looking for larches in fall, this hike is a must do!

Optional Add On: Hike to Blue Lake

Right next to Maple Pass is the gorgeous Blue Lake trail. The trail is a moderate 4.4-mile round trip and gains around 1,100 feet of elevation. The highlight of the hike is the stunning Blue Lake, which is surrounded by rocky cliffs and snow-capped peaks.

Day 5: Explore the Enchantments 

Hike colchuck lake.

It’s time to wake up early and head out on your next sunrise hike! Colchuck Lake is basically guaranteed to take your breath away. The Colchuck Lake trailhead is located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, near the town of Leavenworth. The trail is about 8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 2,200 feet, making it a moderately difficult hike. But, the views are absolutely incredible and worth the climb.

The key to this hike is getting there as EARLY as possible. This was the most crazy busy trailhead we have ever seen, even when we were parking at sunrise. Both day hikers and backpackers use this trailhead so there’s quite a bit of traffic. If you don’t get there at sunrise, good luck finding a parking spot that’s near the trail.

You will need to get a day permit to hike it, but they have them right at the trailhead for you! Keep in mind, you can’t backpack this trail without proper permits from recreation.gov. Make sure to pack a lot of snacks and your 10 essentials, and remember to have a great time!

Explore the Quaint Town of Leavenworth

Next, head to the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth. This quaint town is nestled in the Cascade Mountains and offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and skiing. The town itself is full of shops, restaurants, and festivals, including the famous Oktoberfest celebration in the fall. Make sure to head into the local shops to try all the tasty beer and wine, pretzels, cookies, cheese, and more!

Drive to Mt. Rainier National Park

Say goodbye to the North Cascades and head on over to Mt. Rainier National Park. This is going to be a fairly long drive of 4-5 hours so give yourself time to kick back and relax. Depending on how early you arrive, you could potentially catch a sunset in the park!

Days 6 & 7: Mt. Rainier National Park

Next, it’s time to pull out your National Parks pass again as you head to Mount Rainier National Park, one of the most stunning natural attractions in Washington. The park features snow-capped peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and waterfalls. We’d recommend spending one full day in the Paradise side of the park, and one full day in the Sunrise side to really see a lot of the park’s highlights.

Paradise Area

The Paradise side of Mt. Rainier is bound to take your breath away, especially if you visit during the summer. This area is located on the south side of Mount Rainier. Here, you’ll be treated with tons of wildflowers during July and August, and epic up close views of the glaciers on Mt. Rainier. Make sure to check out the Nisqually Vista Trail or the Skyline Loop Trail for wildflower and glacier viewing. Other highlights on this side of Mt. Rainier National Park to check off your list include:

• Reflection Lake at Sunrise 
• Narada Falls
• Bench & Snow Lakes Trail
• Pinnacle Peak Trail

Sunrise Area

The Sunrise area of Mount Rainier National Park is located on the northeast side of the mountain. The Sunrise area is only open during the summer months, typically from late June to early October, due to heavy snowfall in the winter.

• Little Tipsoo Lake at Sunrise
• Emmons Moraine Trail
• Fremont Lookout, Sourdough Ridge, OR Naches Peak Loop for Sunset
• Tolmie Peak and Eunice Lake

Day 8: National Forest Near Mt. Rainier

Hike to high rock lookout.

We loved hiking to High Rock Lookout for golden hour. In fact, we loved it so much we did it at both sunset and sunrise. However, you really only need to do it once and both times looked fantastic. We got treated to epic cloud inversions both times with incredible views of Mt. Rainier directly in front of you.

Teeley Creek Trail to Bertha Lake 

Day 9: Head Back to Seattle

After a 2-3 hour drive, end your Washington road trip back in the vibrant city of Seattle. Spend a day exploring the iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit.

Tip: Don’t miss out on the coffee scene in Seattle. The city is home to some of the best coffee shops in the country, including Starbucks’ first-ever location.

Ready to head out on a Washington Road Trip? We hope this 9 Day Washington Road Trip itinerary has helped with your planning. Let us know if you have any questions down below in the comments.

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January 10, 2024

Looking for the perfect road trip itinerary for a one-week Washington road trip from Seattle? For the perfect week long road trip itinerary through Washington State to mountains, ocean, and rainforest, read on!

why this blog? hi there! My name is Maddy and I’m an adventure guide and guidebook writer committed to helping people explore the outdoors, with a focus on Midwest Adventurers. Last year, I spent 8 months living and working as a guide in Washington State. I’ve decided not to create any eBooks on hiking & paddling within Washington, at least for the foreseeable future, and instead have created a number of detailed, totally free resources linked throughout this blog post! I’m stoked to show you around!

from left to right: hiking the Lake Ann trail, visiting the San Juan islands, Olympic National Park

Best 7-Day Washington Road Trip Route:

Here is the ultimate week long Washington road trip to see the most things possible in the shortest amount of time, visiting the best hiking in Washington and best National Parks:

Note: this blog post contains affiliate links! That just means that if you chose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you 🙂

When is the best time of year for a road trip in Washington State?

Washington is beautiful in all seasons, with the rainforest coming alive in the winter, and the wildflowers of the spring! Still, the best time of year to visit to make the most of your hiking is late summer and the fall. The mountains will be mostly snow-free from mid-July until first snow in October. That said, you’ll experience heat and bugs in those months. For the most ideal conditions, consider visiting September- early October.

Because campgrounds and lodging fills early, I recommend planning your trip at least a few months in advance!

What to pack for a 7-Day Washington Road Trip:

Travelling and hiking in Washington you’re likely to experience cold, sun, heat, rain, and just about everything in-between! Here’s a few quick essentials to make your Washington Road Trip easy:

• 2 lightweight, long hiking pants. I wear a size 8 and am short, and find the  REI trailmade  to be super flattering as well as the  Kuhl freeflex .
• A pair of  shorts , and  yoga pants with pockets 
• A fleece. Any fleece will do, but I really love my  Patagonia Synchilla
• Wool baselayers. Five years of heavy paddling and my  Smartwool baselayers  are the only wool baselayers I’ve had that have really stood the test of time. For seven days, pack four baselayer tops. 
• Study hiking boots. I like my  Briger Mids.  Working in outdoor retail I literally never had anyone try on these shoes and not buy them. Pair with  Darn Tough  hiking socks and pack at least five pairs. In the alpine areas,  trekking poles  are also a great choice!
• hiking sandal and quick dry shots: I like Patagonia Baggies
• A puffy jacket. It can be cool even in the summer near the lakeshore, especially evenings. My partner Andy (also a wilderness guide) swears by the  Patagonia Nano Puff . I like my  Helly Hansen Liftloft . 
• If camping, a tent, packable sleeping bag ( Nemo Disco ) and pad ( comfortable sleeping pad ):  Read my budget tent recommendations here!
• A day hiking pack: I love my  Perimeter 35L . I was gifted this pack a few years back and it’s still my go-to day pack; a savvy packer can easily pack for a seven day hiking trip in this bag. 
• A raincoat. I love the  Moss Raincoat from Helly Hansen ; It’s affordable, cute, and super durable.
• Maps: Mount Rainier National Park , Olympic National Park , Mt. Baker Trails Map
• A Northwest Forest Pass (National Forest), Discover Pass (State Parks), and National Parks Pass (also covers national forest use)

Day One: Seattle to Mount Baker Highway

First thing on your Washington Road trip pick up your rental car and head north towards Bellingham, Washington. In Bellingham, grab lunch and the best coffee and tea drinks in town at Locus of Bellingham . Hop on the Mt. Baker Highway to your campsite at the Silver Fir Campground , centrally located most of the way up the Mt. Baker Highway.

In the evening, head up to the Artist’s Point parking lot to watch the sunset in the mountains and hike some of the short and easy trails that leave from that parking lot for stunning views of Mt. Shuksan and Mt. Baker.

for a full list of all the best hiking trails accessible from the Mt. Baker Highway, click here!

hiking trails near Artist’s Point along the Mt. Baker Highway

Day Two: Mount Baker to San Juan Islands

Set your alarm for early in the morning to hit the trail and get in one of the most beautiful hikes in Washington State before the crowds hit! Head up to either the Lake Ann Trail or the Chain Lakes Loop. The Lake Ann Trail is an out and back to an alpine lake, about 10 miles round trip if you hike around the lake and meadows, with stunning views of Baker, Shuksan, and the Lower Curtis Glacier. Meanwhile the Chain Lakes Loop is about 7 miles and features views of several alpine Lakes and Mount Baker as well as Shuksan.

Personally, I would choose the Lake Ann Trail over the Chain Lakes Loop. Chain Lakes is crowded with brutal elevation change (I do recommend starting from the lower parking lot rather than the upper). While both routes are beautiful, Lake Ann has the added beauty of not being quite so crowded and borders North Cascades National Park.

If you start your hike early enough, you’ll be back at the car by 5pm, in time to drive back down the mountain and to your next destination, Anacortes, Washington! Book a budget friendly hotel in Anacortes (or the adorable Ship Harbor Inn in Anacortes which I loved staying at and is right next to the ferry terminal!) for two nights! Alternately, camping is available at the nearby Washington Park , also walking distance from the ferry.

Scenes from hiking trails along the Mt. Baker Highway

Day Three: See the Orcas in the San Juan Islands

Hop on the early morning ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands! To reach Friday Harbor via ferry, you can either walk on as a foot passenger (no reservation needed!) or bring your car across (more expensive, reservation recommended but I’ve never had an issue at I lived on island for a summer).

The single best thing to do in the San Juan Islands is book a whale watching tour with Maya’s Legacy! This gets you on a high-speed boat touring the islands and spotting wildlife ranging from sea lions to orcas. While these tours are a little pricey, this is the most expensive activity on the list and 100% worth it.

Overall, a whale watching trip in the San Juan Islands is one of the best things to do on a Washington road trip!

In Friday Harbor, grab coffee at 13 Ravens Cafe and a bite to eat at Downriggers before hopping on the ferry and heading back to Anacortes! If you’ve brought your car and have extra time, head to American Camp in the San Juan Islands National Historic Park. Here, you’ll find beautiful beaches, bluffs, and hiking trails as well as the foxes of San Juan Island.

Scenes from Washington’s San Juan Islands! Personally, I think the San Juan Islands are beautiful but easily the most exciting thing about the San Juan Islands is how they are teeming with wildlife!

Do I need to bring my car for a day trip to the San Juan Islands:

No! While bringing your car to the island will help you access many of the beautiful hiking trails in the San Juan Islands , it is not required to spend a day in Friday Harbor, and most tours pick up right down town by the ferry terminal.

more resources for planning a trip to the San Juan Islands:

• best things to do in the San Juan Islands
• how to see whales in the San Juan Islands
• best things to do on Orcas Island

Some of the beautiful easy hiking trails in the San Juan Islands

Where to stay on San Juan Island:

Personally, I recommend bringing your car and doing SJI as a day trip if you only have one week in Washington. Hop on the earliest ferry over, spend the morning hiking by American camp, grab lunch and coffee, then hop on an afternoon whale watching tour before heading back to Anacortes. With this option, I recommend staying at the Ship Harbor Inn , which is cute with ocean views and a 30 second drive from the ferry.

If you plan on staying on San Juan Island, the cheapest option is the San Juan Island Hostel — there is a campground at San Juan County Park, but it fills pretty much immediately every summer. Another good, more luxury option is the Earthbox Inn and Spa .

Day Four: Travel to Olympic National Park

Wake up early in Anacortes to catch an AM ferry from Coupeville to Port Townsend, reservations highly recommended! This ferry will take you from Whidbey Island, accessible via the highway, to the Olympic Peninsula!

In my opinion, the Olympic Peninsula is easily the most magical place in the whole state of Washington. Here, you’ve got plenty of car camping options, as well as cheap hotels and lodging in Port Angeles. I’ve done the trip both staying in Port Angeles and camping on the Coast, and I’ve got to recommend heading all the way to the Coast to camp. Olympic National Park’s Kalaloch Campground is magical beyond belief, but book far in advance!

On your way to the coast, stop at Crescent Lake and a quick hike to Marymere Falls to stretch your legs! After, finish the long drive to Kalaloch, set up camp, then head just 10 minutes up the road to Ruby Beach (aka the most beautiful place in the world) to watch the sun set.

Check out this budget-friendly guide to visiting Olympic National Park!

Visiting Olympic National Park, left to right: Sol Duc Falls, Hoh Rainforest, Ruby Beach

If you’re only going to do one thing on your Washington road trip, make it Olympic National Park! It’s truly the most magical place on earth and I can’t stop thinking about it!

Day Five: Exploring Olympic National Park

Whether you’ve chosen to stay in the Port Angeles Region or on the Coast, there is so much great exploring to do in Olympic, and it’s impossible to do everything in just one day.

If staying on the coast or near Forks, do the Hoh Rainforest first thing in the morning when the sun begins to hit the damp moss for the best light rays. Then, head to Rialto Beach and hike the hole-in-the-wall (tides dependent), or head up to Cape Flattery to hike the northwestern most point in the continental US (be sure to pick up a permit at the Makah cultural center!)

If you’re staying near Port Angeles, head up to Hurricane Ridge early in the morning to hike up in the mountains! If you’ve still got juice left, consider tackling the difficult Mt. Storm King hike near Crescent Lake. Alternately, head inland to hike the beautiful Sol Duc Falls then head to the coast and hit Hurricane Ridge first thing the next morning.

from left to right, Cape Flattery, the Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge

Day Six: From Olympic to Rainier

Use Day Six, your last full day before catching a flight home, to soak up the last little bit of the Olympic Peninsula! If leaving from the Coast, hit Sol Duc Falls early in the morning for one last hike. If near Port Angeles, head up Hurricane Ridge!

Note! It will take about 3-5 hours of driving to get to Rainier National Park from Olympic! One of the things I disliked most about living in Washington is how long it takes to get to places that , in theory, are pretty close together. If your goal for your road trip is to hit all the best places in Washington, it’s definitely doable, but you’ll likely spend a decent amount of time waiting in Seattle traffic or waiting for ferries. This road trip is meant to be a compromise between seeing as much as possible, and spending tons of time waiting in traffic and lines.

Alternately, leave Olympic early to head to Rainier as soon as possible. There are plenty of Inns, Cabins, and Yurts along Highway 706, which is the best place to stay to access the Paradise region of Mount Rainier National Park. Alternately, stay at the Cougar Rock Campground in Mount Rainier National Park.

Mount Rainier in the Fall

If there is one park to skip on your Washington road trip, it’s Mount Rainier! Rainier is beautiful, but very crowded. I’d recommend only visiting if you can make it at the end of September or on a weekday.

Day Seven : Mount Rainier National Park to Seattle

Mount Rainier National Park is incredible and definitely worth the visit, but can be super crowded! The Paradise Visitors center is easily one of the best place to visit, with easy hiking to Marymere Falls and the six-mile Skyline Loop , considered one of the best hiking trails in Washington State.

After spending the morning exploring Mount Rainier National Park, head back to Seattle to get ready for your flight back home in the morning. Be sure to swing by the Copper Creek Inn for pie on your way back down the mountain!

A few things to keep in mind when planning your Washington road trip route:

Keep in mind that travel times between destinations can be long, especially when travelling near or across Puget Sound and near Seattle. The Washington State Ferry can eliminate some driving time, but only actually saves time when you time it correctly. While all of these places are fairly close as the crow flies, mountains, the Sound, and Seattle traffic mean that you’re likely to spend a lot of time in-transit between destinations.

For example, I lived in Bellingham, WA, and as the crow flies it was only about 70 miles to Olympic National Park. In practice, it was at least six hours of travel to reach the park due to Seattle traffic/ the ferries.

If you had to skip any one place, I would skip Mount Rainier National Park and spend more time up in the Baker area or in Olympic. Rainier is really beautiful, but it’s so so crowded that personally I feel like my time is better spent elsewhere. It’s definitely worth visiting once, and I would love to come back and backpack the Wonderland Trail, but other than that I’m just not sold on it.

Looking for more on planning your Washington Road Trip? Check out these additional resources!

• Kayak the San Juan Islands
• Solo Female Road Trip Guide
• Check out the Northern Oregon Coast

free resources like this one  are made possible by paying subscribers of the  Hello Stranger Newsletter .  Join the newsletter today to connect with thousands of like-minded adventurers and get gritty and honest adventure stories delivered right to your inbox (aka read my diary).

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7 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Washington Before You Die

Jessica Wick

Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.

More by this Author

Whether you’re driving along our coast, cutting through our forests or cruising past the Palouse, your scenery will be beautiful. Washington is an incredible state, and there really is no better way to explore it than by climbing in your car. So gas up the car, pack the snacks, and get ready; here are seven of the best and most unforgettable road trips you can take in Washington. Let’s go!

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OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Best road trips in washington.

What are some of the best day trips in Washington?

Big, overnight adventures sure are fun, but day trips really are the best way to experience lots of different places around the state! Check out these 12 day trips in Washington , designed to be tackled monthly for an entire year! Some noteworthy day trip destinations on the list include Chelan, a popular summertime destination that becomes downright delightful in the winter; Whidbey Island, a sleepy little town full of the most charming shops, restaurants, and attractions; Mt. Rainier National Park , a PNW treasure that's positively perfect for a summer day trip; and Leavenworth , which is quite possibly the most Hallmark-level Christmas town in the country.

What are a few of the must-visit attractions in Washington?

It simply doesn’t get any better than Washington. In terms of attractions, the real question is, where to begin! We have incredible scenic beauty, offering some of the best outdoor recreation in the county. Our big cities offer residents and visitors the world — from top-rate attractions to Michelin Star restaurants. For those looking to bask in the splendor of The Evergreen State, there are countless boat rides, rail expeditions, and scenic tours that allow for a slow savor of the state. And of course, the local farmers markets and artisans in Washington truly are in a league all their own. We’ve put together this list of Washington’s best attractions that truly showcase everything The Evergreen State has to offer -- it's one to bookmark, for sure!

What are some fun things to do in Washington?

There's no reason to ever be bored here in Washington, as we truly have it all! But sometimes, you just need a little inspiration, and you'll find that in this list . From quaint small towns to bigger cities, each of the places on this list offer lots to see in do: restaurants, parks, attractions... you name it!

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Great Washington State Road Trips

Fun and Scenic Drives in Washington State

Washington State is home to diverse landscapes, from the rugged coastline to the snowy mountain peaks, and the best way to see it all is to pack up your car and hit the road. The state offers a plethora of scenic routes to take, where you can marvel at mountains, manmade wonders, lush rainforests, or even deserts. Some trips can be done in a day or over a long weekend, but to make the most of Washington's natural splendor, you should give yourself at least a week to really explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, apple orchards, and roadside cherry stands—all iconic touchstones of a Washington road trip.

The Cascade Loop

TripSavvy / Chris VR

The Cascade Loop is a circular route that has a short section on the coast and also encompasses the majestic Cascade National Park. From Seattle, this 440-mile route follows Highway 2 past Leavenworth and Wenatchee. From there, you'll turn north and get on Highway 97, passing the town of Chelan before you veer eastward. It's here where things get really scenic as you travel through the Methow Valley and over the Cascade Mountains via the North Cascades Highway. On your way back west, you'll pass through the Skagit Valley and then along Whidbey Island.

It would take 11 hours to drive the whole loop if you didn't stop at all, so you'll be better off taking your time and breaking up the trip into sections over three or five days. You'll need plenty of time to explore the hiking trails and viewpoints when you get to the park, but you might also decide linger in Leavenworth , a town that looks just like a German village complete with an authentic snowy mountain backdrop.

Olympic Peninsula Loop

Angela M. Brown

Washington's Olympic Peninsula is located in the state's northwestern corner, just across the Salish Sea from Victoria, Canada . Highway 101 forms a 300-mile loop around the peninsula, which encompasses Olympic National Park . Give yourself a couple of days to take side excursions not just in the park, but also to interest points like Cape Flattery and the Dungeness Spit. Fans of the "Twilight" series may even wish to visit the town of Forks , which is right off Highway 101. While you're in the park, the most popular sections to visit are Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and the Hoh Rain Forest. It's an extremely popular RV destination , but there are also many places to camp in the park. If you'd prefer a bed and plumbing, there are a variety of lodges with cabins and rooms, as well as bigger hotels throughout the park.

Mount Baker Highway

Spanning about 70 miles, a ride down the Mount Baker Highway— Route 542—is short enough for a day trip from Bellingham . However, it's also a good destination for one or two days if you want to camp overnight in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie Forest. The route is lovely at any time of year, but most beautiful during the fall when the autumn foliage lights up the landscape in shades of red and yellow. However, a summer visit has the benefit of being able to access the road that leads up to Artist Point at the very end of the highway. Here, you'll find the best views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. There are a lot of campsites along the highway, but there are also plenty of lodges and resorts off the main road, particularly near the towns of Warnick and Glacier.

Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway

TripSavvy / Chris VR

East of the Cascade Mountains, a road trip along the Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway may be less green than one would expect for the "Evergreen State," but the area is still full of fascinating geology, unique views, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The entire region was carved by enormous ice age floods that left deep channels, known as "coulees," that are now scattered with lakes of all sizes. These unique landscapes are now home to several state parks and provide habitat for abundant birds and wildlife.

All of the natural wonders along this Washington State road trip are accompanied by one massive man-made wonder, Grand Coulee Dam , which is open for tours. The complete Coulee Corridor road trip runs from the town of Othello and the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge north, past Grand Coulee Dam , to Omak. From Othello, it's about 146 miles north to Omak along Highways 17 and 155, which will take you about three hours to drive.

North Cascades Highway

TripSavvy / Noah Kreyenhagen

If you don't have time for the whole Cascade Loop, or would rather focus on the concentrated beauty of the park, the North Cascades Highway has all the ingredients of a fun-filled and scenic road trip all on its own. While planning your trip bear in mind that The North Cascades Highway is closed during the winter months, typically from November into May.

The road follows State Route 20 from Sedro-Wooley on the west side of the Cascade Mountain Range to Twisp on the east side. Along the way, you'll pass the Skagit River and the town of Newhalem, and plenty of other places in between like the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center, which is worth a visit.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is only 63 miles south of Seattle and while there are no connecting roads that can take you in a perfect loop around the mountain, you can still put together a road trip that includes most major regions of the park, including Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, and Sunrise. Traveling through all of these will allow you to see the peak of Mount Ranier from many different angles.

From Seattle, travel southwest via Highways 164 and 410, which will start to bring you around the east side of the park, past the entrance for Sunrise Park Road. Then you can follow Highways 123 and 12 around the south side of the park and until you can turn north to get onto Highway 7, which will connect you to Highway 706. Follow this road west to drive into the park towards Longmire and Paradise. The route covers about 270-miles, which translates to seven hours of driving time, so make sure to stop along the way and plan for overnight accommodation. Your options include camping in the park and the historic lodges at Longmire and Paradise.

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Cascade Loop Road Trip: our ultimate itinerary (with map)

Located in Washington State, the stunning Cascade Loop is a once-in-a-lifetime road trip through the beautiful natural world and small towns of Washington. Discover everything from alpine wonderlands to serene lakes, gorgeous forests to expansive valleys, and adorable small towns to popular ski villages along this popular road trip route.

The Cascade Loop extends for 440 miles in Washington state and takes the traveler about four to five days to drive including overnight stops. You will visit the best sights of Washington, including national and state parks, mountain ranges and more.

Recently designated a National Scenic Byway in 2021, the Cascade Loop is fully open during the months of June-October but can be experienced in segments any time of the year. Keep scrolling to discover a truly stunning road trip experience!

Where is the Cascade Loop?

The Cascade Loop is located in Washington State, in the Northwestern corner of the United States; it forms a larger loop through much of the state, with stops in towns and cities like Everett, Snohomish, Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Chelan, Winthrop, Anacortes and Coupeville.

The loop itself is located about twenty-five minutes from Seattle, the largest city in Washington, and includes stops through several parks, namely the North Cascades National Park, the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Follow the Cascade Loop to go from the Salish Sea and the Don Juan Islands all the way to deep within the mountainous region on the eastern side of Washington State.

Where does the Cascade Loop begin and end?

The Cascade Loop is (not surprisingly!) a circular route, which means that you can start from anywhere along the route and still get to experience the bounty that it has to offer in its entirety.

That being said, there are a couple of typical starting points, namely Mukilteo and Everett, both about a thirty minutes' drive from the city of Seattle. If starting here, the endpoint will typically be either Langley or Clinton, before the Ferry to Mukilteo.

How long is the Cascade Loop, and how long will it take to drive its entire length?

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. Realistically, we recommend planning for about four to five days to get the full Cascade Loop experience.

If you're coming from Seattle, the total mileage will be something closer to 470 miles, as Seattle is thirty miles from the start of the loop. Make sure to add another thirty minutes to your itinerary if you plan on coming back to Seattle after completing the Cascade Loop.

Best way to drive on the Cascade Loop

Due to the nature of this route, there's really only one way to drive the Cascade Loop, though we should add that you can always just drive part of the loop and save the rest for another trip.

We've added an itinerary that includes the drive from Seattle to the start of the loop, as many road-trippers will typically stop in the city for a car rental before continuing onto the Cascade Loop.

Driving the entire length of the Cascade Loop

The Cascade Loop is known as the best road trip in Washington, featuring dozens of cities and towns along its route and offering travelers a rare opportunity to discover the state's stunning nature in-depth.

The whole route encompasses several national parks and forests, including a visit to North Cascade National Park, and takes traveler from the waters of Puget Sound to the mountains. The Loop is broken up into 9 regions, further detailed on the map above.

While you could certainly explore a segment of the route without driving the entire thing, part of the appeal of this road trip is the diversity offered across the Cascade Loop, from wineries and small-town restaurants to gorgeous valleys nearby which you'll find serene lakes or massive mountains.

The route for this loop is relatively straightforward: starting at Everett, you'll travel along US-2, following road signs for the Cascade Loop. You'll eventually merge onto US-97, and then WA-153 and WA-20, before finally getting to WA-525 which takes you back to the starting point!

Driving on the Cascade Loop from Seattle

To get to the Cascade Loop from the beautiful city of Seattle, you'll have to exit the city via Interstate 5. This highway will take you all the way past Lake Washington and straight to the Everett, where you can get onto Highway 2.

Once you've gotten onto the Cascade Loop, you follow the same route that we've highlighted and expounded upon above!

Best places to stay along the Cascade Loop

While you could certainly do the Cascade Loop in one long drive, our recommendation is to take your time with this gorgeous road trip. After all, you don't want to be rushing from town to town or natural wonder to natural wonder without having the opportunity to enjoy each attraction.

That's why we suggest stopping for at least one overnight stay in one of the many adorable towns along the Cascade Loop. Keep scrolling to discover our favourite stopover spots!

A nature escape in Winthrop

Located about halfway along the Cascade Loop, Winthrop is a popular stopping point for travelers taking this route, offering tons of attractions in its small area, including some gorgeous nature spots.

One of the reasons Winthrop is such a popular stopping point for Cascade Loop travelers is its proximity to the North Cascades National Park, probably the biggest attraction in the loop—after all, that's where it gets its name—and conveniently located just west of Winthrop.

This small town really has the ultimate cozy vibe, oozing with charm throughout its adorable downtown center. If you're thinking about stopping in this town, we definitely suggest stopping in Downtown Winthrop, which is filled to the brim with adorable restaurants and unique shops.

Winthrop is known for its proximity to the Methow Valley, which houses the continent's largest network of cross-country ski trails. The town also boasts the Sa Theekh Wa Bridge and Trail!

As usual, we've got you covered for accommodations with our recommendation of the Sun Mountain Lodge , one of the most luxurious lodges along the Cascade Loop.

The hotel boasts two restaurants with gorgeous views and a full-service spa, as well as a fabulous outdoor pool, two tennis courts and an activities center offering seasonal activities like mountain biking, fly fishing and horse riding.

This hotel is ideally located about 20 minutes from Winthrop, providing guests with tons of access to nature and a good amount of privacy. It's also right by Highway 20 which takes you back onto the Cascade Loop.

Bavarian luxury in Leavenworth

For something a little different when it comes to an overnight stop, we recommend Leavenworth, an adorable, Bavarian-inspired town that is a highlight of the Cascade Loop.

Leavenworth is an adorable Alpine-style village that offers a “taste of Bavaria”, including wonderful dining experiences, several spas and unique shops. It's especially gorgeous in the winter, decked out in Christmas lights.

The town has tons on offer when it comes to attractions, including the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, the Leavenworth Town Center and the Enchantments, a pristine alpine wonderland that's only accessible via a pretty challenging hike.

You'll have lots of accommodation options in Leavenworth, though our recommendation is the stunning Bavarian Lodge . Boasting a year-round outdoor pool, complimentary hot breakfast, and Bavarian-inspired décor with village and mountain views, the Bavarian Lodge is one of the most highly rated lodges in Leavenworth.

The hotel is also in fabulous location, close to the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, Front Street Park and the picturesque town center. Best of all, it's close to the highway which takes you back onto the Cascade Loop in the morning.

Things to see on a road trip on the Cascade Loop

There are dozens and dozens of attractions along the Cascade Loop—here's a selection of some of our must-visits for your trip.

The entire length of Cascade Loop

• Everett - A popular starting point for the Cascade Loop, Everett has tons to offer including an Arboretum, a unique children's museum, and the Shack Art Centre.
• Lake Washington - Just outside of Everett, you'll find gorgeous Lake Washington, perfect for exploring via canoe or simply to enjoy from its stunning shores.
• Snohomish - If you're into antiquing, Snohomish is for you, boasting a renowned collection of antique shops and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Alpine Lakes Wilderness - The Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, just outside of Leavenworth, offers several lakes as well as countless trails and walking paths perfect for an exploratory adventure.
• Leavenworth - Historic and cozy, Leavenworth is Washington State's premiere Alpine ski village, inspired by the Bavarian Villages of Europe and offering tons when it comes to spas, restaurants, and other attractions.
• Wenatchee - Referred to as the “Apple Capital of the World” due to its many orchards, the Wenatchee Valley is charming and perfect for a pit-stop or day's visit.
• Chelan - Lake Chelan and the nearby town of Chelan are both highlights along the Cascade Loop, boasting many apple orchards and a small but peaceful lake.
• Winthrop - The nearest town to the Methow Valley, Winthrop is known for its western flair and small-town vibe; it also boasts the continent's largest network of cross-country ski trails.
• Methow Valley - Methow Valley is a four-season recreational wonderland, offering tons of mountains, rivers and lakes that will keep you eager to explore this wonderful area.
• North Cascades National Park - Boasting a beautiful alpine landscape, North Cascades National Park is a highlight of the Cascade Loop, known for its stunning scenery and many hiking trails.
• Anacortes - Access the San Juan Islands via Anacortes, a popular and sunny destination for boaters and water-sport fanatics.
• Coupeville - There are tons to see in the small but mighty town of Coupeville, though you'll want to start by sampling its famous Penn Cove Mussels, which are exported to fine dining restaurants around the world.

Things to see driving from Seattle

• Boeing Future of Fligh t - Discover this wonderful museum, which is located just outside of Seattle and offers a look into the history and future of aviation.
• Marina Beach Park - Take in the beauty of Puget Sound from the vantage point at Marina Beach Park, which offers a serene beach as well as grounds for picnicking.

Best time to drive on the Cascade Loop

The Cascade Loop is only accessible in its entirety between the months of June and October, so while you can certainly explore and enjoy many of the attractions on this loop year-round, the only way to get the full experience is to travel during these months.

To see what kind of weather might await you on your trip, make sure to visit the dedicated website for more information.

Summer is the most popular season for exploring the Cascade Loop due to the wonderful weather this area gets during the hotter months. You'll find that tourism typically peaks during this time, but don't let that deter you; the loop is large and spread-out enough that you shouldn't feel an overwhelming tourist presence.

Summer temperatures in Washington will range between the upper 80s and mid 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Winter in Washington State can be quite snowy and wet and will typically last into the late months of spring. As parts of the loop are closed during this season, we recommend against travelling during this time and instead choosing a time during the summer or early fall to take this trip.

That being said, some of the attractions (like Leavenworth, the Bavarian village) would be absolutely stunning during this time. Winter temperatures can easily dip into the 20s and 30 degrees in Washington state.

Closures affect access to the loop throughout all of spring, though by the end of the season you'll find most of the route re-opened and ripe for exploration. Fall, on the other hand, is a truly perfect time to take the Cascade Loop, as tourism is typically lower than in the summer and the fall foliage is stunning. Many of the apple orchards along the trail will also be ready for harvest, so you can enjoy harvest activities.

There are several events happening in the small towns and cities along this route—highlights include the Lake Chelan Winterfest in January, the Village of Lights: Winter Karneval in January, the Manson Apple Blossom Festival in May, and the Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival in June.

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The Ultimate Washington Road Trip Itinerary

July 8, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Trying to plan the perfect Washington road trip? We’re here to help make the process a little less stressful!

Washington has SO much to offer, especially when you’re driving through the state, so you’re sure to be in for the time of your life with this road trip. Just make sure to pace yourselves when mapping out your travel time and when adding stops to your Washington road trip itinerary!

Washington is full of adventure: from rainforests on the Peninsula to deserts on the east coast, and the National Parks with mountains, glaciers and beaches in between, the stops on this trip are bound to take your breath away. It is truly one of the Best Road Trips In America!

We are listing some of the must-see stops for a Washington road trip, so make sure to explore these sites (or at least the ones that interest you!). So, with that being said, get your car ready to go, pack some travel snacks and start creating a playlist! You’re in for a wild exploration of Washington state!

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

Getting to Seattle

To start off your Washington road trip, we highly recommend flying into Seattle. The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) has a variety of different airlines that fly into this popular city/hub, which includes Alaska, Southwest, American, Delta, and more.

Flying into SEA is easy not only because they have a lot of Airlines, but because you can fly to Seattle from a lot of cities. This includes but is not limited to: Minneapolis, Atlanta, Nashville, Pittsburg, Salt Lake City and more. This will come in handy when you are booking a flight to start your Washington road trip!

Getting Around Washington

To start you Washington road trip, you first and foremost need to rent a car. Thankfully, you can easily rent a car at the Seattle Airport from suppliers like Avis, Dollar, E-Z and more. This means that you have a variety of great choices and therefore good rates!

We recommend making sure you rent a vehicle that you are going to be most comfortable with and in. You want to ensure that you are getting good mileage as Washington is a large state to travel across, and you want to also make sure you have enough space! This trip can be long if you want it too (depending on your own timeline!), so really just consider renting a type of vehicle that can handle the landscape of Washington during your road trip– save those sports cars for later!

Stop 1: Start Sleepless in Seattle

Because you are flying into Seattle, it only makes sense to start your Washington road trip here! Surrounded by water, mountains, and forests, Seattle is the perfect Pacific Northwest city to explore and introduce you to the city-life of Washington.

When exploring the city, we recommend checking out the iconic landmark that is known as the Space Needle . This observation tower offers great views because of its 520 foot tall observation deck: from here you can see downtown Seattle, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Elliot Bay, and more!

The Pike Place Market is also cool: this 9-acre market is a permanent farmers market in the hub of the city that opened in 1907 and is still here today! This is a wonderful place for small farmers, crafters and local businesses to thrive and therefore is a popular tourist destination. You can pick up the best and most unique travel gifts here!

And if you’re feeling artsy, you can always go explore the Seattle Art Museum that features modern and historic works, or the Museum of Pop Culture ! The Chihuly Garden and Glass which features outdoor works by the famous Dale Chihuly is also great, and the Gum Wall is a great photo op that might also be sticky. (But do it for the gram!)

Puget Sound , a estuary, and the Woodland Park Zoo are also great areas to explore where the city meets nature. Don’t believe us that Seattle can have gorgeous views of the landscape? Make sure to also stop at Discovery Park , and Lake Union !

Where to Stay in Seattle 

Low-Range:  Stunning Capital Hill view Apartment Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-Range: Basement Suite with Large Patio and Tub Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 2: Swinging by Port Angeles

Now that we are on the move, we added Port Angele s to your Washington road trip itinerary! Voted as one of the best small towns to live in and explore, we recommend swinging by here to experience these small-town vibes (which are much unlike Seattle’s vibes!) on the Olympic Peninsula .

Because this region is known for its stunning natural beauty, this town is shadowed by the Olympic Mountains and most activities are based around hiking and the lakes. We recommend taking a hike at the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge , which is a sand and pebble beach known for its shorebirds and has great views of the San Juan Islands.

The 6.5 mile Waterfront Trai l is part of a larger Olympic Discovery Trail system that is great for a moderate hike. And if you’re feeling more artsy or indoorsy, you can visit the Blue Whole Gallery or the Landings Art Gallery . You can also explore a love for all marine life at the Feiro Marine Life Center. 

Lastly, if you want to support local, feel free to tour locally during your Washington road trip! Harbinger Winery  and Sorensen Cellars are great tasting rooms and shops that you can find on the Waterfront Landing Complex for an evening of tours, great food, and local shops. Don’t forget to check out some of the coolest Airbnbs In Washington!

Where to Stay Near Port Angeles 

Mid-Range: Olypmic Discovery Trail Guest House, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Low-Range: Tent Camping: Whiskey Creek Beach Front, Check Rates: Airbnb.com 

Stop 3: Spend Some Time at Olympic National Park

Because you are already on the Olympic Peninsula and leaving Port Angeles, we recommend next stopping to explore Olympic National Park which is super close by. There are so many things to do in Washington and this is one of the best!

Besides, a Washington road trip wouldn’t be the same without stopping by national parks, so we’ve made sure to add this one on your itinerary!

There are so many natural wonders to explore in this park! First, we recommend exploring the Olympic National Forest , where there is a multitude of trails, camping opportunities and rain forest lodges for you to explore. You can also visit the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center while here if you want to learn more about rainforests!

Ruby Beach is a remote beach that features tons of beach trails and campsites and offers breathtaking views on the water! And speaking of water: Lake Crescent is a mountain lake that is icy blue. Many people love to camp here and have some recreational fun on the shore.

If you’re still looking for more recreational fun, the Sol Duc River is a winding river where you can hike up and alongside it, and its natural flow promises great views and soothing sounds– you might even see some famous rainbow trout jumping in the water! And don’t forget to try your hand out at skiing if you visit the park during the winter season: Hurricane Ridge is known for its elevated destination and fun courses!

Where to Stay Near Olympic National Park 

Low-Range: Tent Camping Near Hurricane Ridge , Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-Range: Off Grid Cabin, Check Rates, Airbnb.com

Stop 4: Relaxing at the Olympic Hot Springs

You’ve got it right! We’re spending a bit more time on the Olympic Peninsula, and staying in  Olympic National Park , but this time we are sending you on your way to relax in a natural hot spring. We are making sure to add the Olympic Hot Springs to your Washington road trip itinerary just because you cannot miss it when you are visiting the park!

The Olympic Hot Springs are near Boulder Creek , which is a tributary of the Elwha River . By the river, you can check out the dormer dam at Gines Canyon and pass by the Madison Creek Falls . Walking this route will take you straight to the hot springs!

At the springs, there is a variety of pools: along the right side of the trails are the more public pools, but others can be more secluded. Although we do want to warn you– test the temperature! Some pools can get up to 188 degrees, but we don’t think that will stop you from enjoying a soak and photo op here!

Where to Stay Near Olympic Hot Springs 

Low-Range: The Sol Due Tent, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-Range: Valley View Farm Stay, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 5: Swing by Cape Flattery

Next on your Washington road trip is none other than Cape Flattery. This is the most northwestern point of the United States, jutting out on Washington’s peninsula. To start viewing this amazing area, we recommend hiking the Cape Flattery Trail . This is a 1.2 mile walk that is heavily trafficked, but is good for all levels and seeing wildlife!

After exploring, we recommend going to Shi Shi Beach to see the Pacific in all of its glory and make sure to check out the coastal forest that is right by the beach for some fantastic camping experiences. Close to Shi Shi is the Point of Arches , which is a great park for hiking, backpacking, and breathtaking views.

Speaking of views, Cape Flattery’s Lighthouse is iconic and you must swing by it for a great photo op, and don’t forget to check out Tatoosh Island , where the Lighthouse is located. Taking boats and ferrys and tours here is highly fun and many tourists do it!

Lastly, because this area is part of the Makah Reservation and is a Marine Sanctuary, we would recommend stopping by the Makah Cultural and Research Center to learn more about the land and the history you’ve spent time exploring!

Where to Stay Near Cape Flattery 

Mid-Range: Oceanview Port Renfew Accommodations, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

High Range : Ocean Side Retreat, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 6: Visit Mora and Rialto Beach

Mora is a campground in the Olympic National Park, so you won’t really be traveling far when embarking on this part of your Washington road trip! And after spending some time at Mora, you can visit Rialto Beach !

Mora is just inland of Rialto Beach, and is well known for its towering trees contrasted with the roar of the Pacific nearby. If you follow Mora, you will eventually find the mouth of the Quillayute River when you trek inward far enough, but if you follow Mora Road, off of La Push Road , you will find Rilato Beach.

This rocky beach and pounding waves are the perfect places to visit if you are looking for facilities, picnic areas, and spaces to camp. A Hole-in-the-wall sea-carved arch is near Rialto, and if you feel like driving away from the beach for a few days, you can reach the town of Forks in less than 30 minutes (yes all you Twilight fans, Forks !).

We do warn you though, make sure to check the tides! It is possible to get stranded in certain areas of Rialto when the coast is impassable once high tide rolls in, so keep an eye on time and head back inward to Mora to visit the Quileute Indian Reservation to avoid getting stuck!

Where to Stay Near Rialto Beach

Low-Range: Forks Outside (Camping), Check Rates: Airbnb.com

High-Range: Isacc’s Yurt at Hoh Rainforest Resort, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 7: Take a Break in Everett, Washington

To break up some of the lengthy drives during your Washington road trip, it would be awesome if you spend some time relaxing in Everett ! This city is filled with activities for explorers, and its longstanding history of aviation keeps people coming back for more!

While in Everette, we recommend checking out the Schack Art Center which has diverse exhibits, specifically focusing on young craftsmen! But the stand-out area here is the glassblowing studio that is open to the public!

Carleton Farms is a family farm that offers great fun for adults and children– if you’re visiting in the fall, you must check out the hayrides, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, zombie paintball, and more!

But if you’re feeling even more adventures, check out the Flying Heritage Combat Armor Museum . This is a unique assemble of historical aircraft, and to make this trip even better, you can book a tour at the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour to design your own plane on an observation deck!

Where to Stay Near Everett 

Low-Range: Professionals Stopover Private Room, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 8: Relax Near Lake Cavanaugh (In Skagit!)

Although Lake Cavanaugh is a census-designated space in Skagit County, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t loads of activities to do here! We HIGHLY recommend going to the Outback Kangaroo Farm for some unique experiences with cute animals.

And if you’re feeling up to it, the Boulder River Trail is an easy hike, as is the hike around Lake 22 (however, this trail can get a bit slippery so do be careful!). But some of the coolest views come from Canopy Tours where you can biplane and walk through this gorgeous area!

Little Mountain Park is also close by which is great for picnics or mountain biking. And the Bonhoeffer Botanical Gardens is a fantastic and free space that is pet friendly and FULL of serene flowers and plants.

The Skagit area also has a Valley Tulip Festival if you’re in town during the appropriate time, and the little areas have tons of farmer’s markets and little town places, such as the Concrete Theatre and the Oso Slide Memorial !

Where to Stay Near Lake Cavanaugh

Mid-Range: Entire Guest Suite Mountain View Victorian , Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-Rage: The Birches, Daylight Downstairs Apartment , Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 9: Breathe in Bellingham

A coastal city in Washington, Bellingham straddles the Canadian border and ports many ferries to Alaska. This city is a great hub with lots to explore, which is why we are adding it your Washington road trip!

East to Bellingham is snow-capped Mount Baker . This volcano offers fantastic ski runs if you are interested in visiting in the winter, but if you are more interested in staying in the city, downtown has a SPARK Museum that is all about electrical invention. The hands-on exhibits are great if your e traveling with family!

You can also check out the Whatcom Museum, which features more than just art– it also talks about nature and regional history. However, most people love to stay outside when they are visiting Bellingham because there is so much to do!

The Whatcom Falls Park is a large recreational area with natural gardens and streams, and the Larrabee State Park is great for bayfront camping and its freshwater lakes that you can boat on. Many freshwater lakes are popular in this area, such as Lake Whatcom and Lake Padden . And many people love to take a ferry or boat ride to Lummi Island , which is a rural island that has an old-fashioned vibe. A trip here will have you feeling like you stepped back in time!

Where to Stay In Bellingham 

Low-Range: The Aloha Suite, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-Range: Pleasant Bay Look Out Privat e Room, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 10: Hike Some More at Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Because you are already so close to Mount Baker after visiting Bellingham , what better stop is next other than the Mount-Baker-Snoqualime National Forest for your Washington road trip? This national forest extends more than 140 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Range and the Canada border.

Wallace Falls State Park is a famous hiking area and campsite that puts you in the middle of nature if you’re interested in staying here. Better yet, Stevens Pass is accessible here. But do be warned, the full length of the pass is 1,238 miles long, so you may just want to travel it for a bit at this access point!

And if you are visiting in the spring, make sure to mark the tulip festival on your calendar! There is a place, Skagit Valley , that is known for its vast landscapes covered in tulips every year.

After, you can always explore Rattlesnake Ridge which is known for its hikes and scenic views: from here you can see glacier-covered peaks, mountain meadows, and forests that are rich and thriving. The smooth paths meandering through the forests to this ridge is easy for any hiker!

Where to Stay Near Mount Baker 

Low-Range: Upper-Level Suite near Mission, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

High-Range : Cabin Middle Fork Retreat, Check Rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 11: Moving Toward North Cascades National Park

Would you really be on a Washington road trip if we didn’t add a national park to your itinerary? No need to worry because your last stop is the North Cascades National Park ! A vast combination of conifer-trees, mountains, glaciers and lakes, this is a must-see!

While driving, you should be aware that  the Cascades Highway can take you pretty far into the park, however, you can pass by great hikes and viewpoints like the ones leading to famous trails like Thunder Creek Trail. 

There is also some great water-activities to do here, such as renting boats or sightseeing at Ross Lake and Lake Chelan . And if you’re looking for some social interactions, the remote town of Stehekin is close to Lake Chelan!

While visiting the park, know that you can bike, horseback ride, boat fish, and camp here. Just be aware of the 200 species of wildlife that exist here. And if you’re interested, check out the Buckner Orchard for some history and apples! Just know there is SO much to do and explore within these vast national parks so take your time and enjoy the landscapes!

Where to stay near Stehkein 

Mid-Range: Mazama Trails Studio Cottage, Check Rates: Airbnb.com 

Mid-Range: River Pines Inn-River Suite , Check rates: Airbnb.com

After finishing your adventures at the North Cascades National Park, make sure to get back to your car and circle back around to Seattle to wrap up your Washington road trip! Washington’s truly a rich state: with tons of national parks, coastal towns, deserts on the east, and more, you will have so much fun exploring.

Whether you are looking for family-friendly things to do, new hikes to challenge yourself, or just seeking a getaway, Washington has something for everyone, and with breathtaking views!

This state will continuously surprise you: so be prepared to conquer your Washington road trip and pack some great hiking shoes– we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!

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Washington State: 13 Epic Road Trips with Itinerary Maps

So, you’re itching to explore the Pacific Northwest, huh? Look no further because we’ve got the ultimate Washington State road trips you won’t want to miss out on!

Having spent more time exploring Washington than we’d like to admit (trust us, we have the coffee stains and flannel shirt collection to prove it), we’ve got a few ideas for you.

From the misty, dramatic coastlines and lush rainforests to rugged mountain terrains – granny’s road trips this ain’t!

As frequent U.S. travelers, it’s safe to say we’ve developed a soft spot for the Pacific Northwest.

So for all you adventure-seekers who are sitting there with a packed suitcase but no idea where to go, we’ve got your back.

Trust us; these road trip routes are the real deal – Washington State will not disappoint!

13 Best Washington State Road Trips

Without further ado, brace yourselves for the ultimate Washington State road trip itinerary.

From sipping world-class wines in Walla Walla to chasing waterfalls in Olympic National Park , we’ve chalked out the most epic routes to satisfy your wanderlust needs.

1. Olympic Peninsula Loop

Loop: Start and end in Seattle Mileage: 412 miles Time: 7 hours 40 minutes

The Olympic Peninsula Loop, fondly dubbed as ‘Nature’s Disneyland,’ is going to be your 412-mile-long roller coaster ride, without the actual roller coaster, of course.

This route combines the city’s thrill with nature’s serenity so seamlessly that even Bob Ross would be impressed!

Starting in Seattle (a.k.a., the city where it rains more than it shines), you’ll venture into the wild yonder of the Olympic Peninsula.

Along the way, prepare to lose your breath (and I’m not talking about the heart-stopping coffee prices) as you immerse yourself in Sequim’s lavender fields.

Then have your mind blown with a green overdose at Olympic National Park .

You’ll witness the majestic Hoh Rainforest, where trees grow moss instead of leaves (talk about fashion sense!). And let’s not even get started on Ruby Beach. It’s so stunning you’ll start questioning your own existence.

At the end of the loop, you’ll pass through Olympia (no, not the one in Greece) and Tacoma, where you can marvel at the city’s bustling waterfront and thriving arts scene.

The Olympic Peninsula Loop isn’t just a drive. It’s a journey. It’s a tour. It’s an emotion. It’s…well, you get the point.

Don’t forget to wave goodbye to Bigfoot on your way out!

2. Cascade Loop

Loop: Start and end in Everett Mileage: 448 miles Time: 11 hours plus stops

Get ready for the Cascade Loop; it’s a journey so captivating it could make a sloth get up and dance!

Kicking off from Everett (no, not that weird cousin of yours), this 448-mile joyride will have your jaw dropping with incredible landscapes you can’t even fathom unless they are right in front of you.

It all starts in Leavenworth, where you’ll feel like you’ve been teleported to a picturesque German village in the heart of the Cascades. Here, you can feast on pretzels the size of your head and prost with beers bigger than your ego!

Next, glide into Lake Chelan, where the water is so clear you can see your future in it (or at least the bottom of the lake).

Fancy a dip? Or perhaps, a wine-tasting tour ? They’ve got it all.

From there, you’ll swing by the cowboy town of Winthrop. Feel free to yee-haw your heart out and experience the Wild West in all its glory.

And finally, brace yourself for North Cascades National Park. Now, this place is so wild it makes the Amazon look like a well-manicured garden.

Expect an overload of glacial peaks, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife encounters that’ll have you questioning if you’ve stepped into a National Geographic episode.

3. Mount Rainier Loop

Loop: Start and end in Seattle Mileage: 300 miles Time: 7 hours 30 minutes plus stops

The Mount Rainier Loop isn’t just a drive – it’s an expedition. A 300-mile odyssey that’ll make your GPS question your sanity.

Next, head up to Sunrise, the highest point on Mount Rainier that is accessible by vehicle.

You’ll find the name isn’t only a time-of-day indication but also a life philosophy. The view is so dreamy unicorns might as well be frolicking in the meadows.

Now, let us warn you – there’s a real danger of getting drunk on nature during this drive.

So, sober up in the rustic town of Enumclaw. Enjoy a hearty meal; if you don’t try the local cheese, you’re denying yourself a slice of heaven.

Ready for the Mount Rainier Loop? It’s a journey that’ll make you forget about flat tires, traffic tickets, and that cup of coffee you left on the roof of your car last week.

4. San Juan Islands

Loop: Start and end in Anacortes Mileage: 127 miles plus ferry rides Time: 7 hours plus stops and ferry rides

Venturing off from Anacortes, a charming maritime town known for its vibrant murals, you’ll embark on a 127-mile journey that encapsulates the tranquil beauty of the San Juan Islands.

Enjoy scenic ferry rides that will whisk you away to three islands – Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez.

On Orcas Island, the enchantment begins with Moran State Park.

Here, between the rustle of the leaves and the distant call of the island’s wildlife, you can take a leisurely hike and marvel at the breathtaking views. A vision of lush forests and pristine waters will greet you at every turn.

As your ferry docks at San Juan Island, you’ll be transported into history at the San Juan Island National Historical Park. Tales of yesteryears echo between the park’s preserved buildings, peering into the island’s storied past.

As you roam around, don’t forget to soak in the island’s natural charm – it’s a sight for sore eyes!

The final leg of your journey takes you to Lopez Island, a haven of calm and beauty. This place has a certain tranquil rhythm that invites you to relax, unwind, and simply be .

The San Juan Islands drive is undoubtedly one of the best drives in Washington. It’s the kind of enchanting expedition that leaves you with a heart full of memories and a camera roll full of pictures.

5. Seattle To Spokane

One Way: Seattle to Spokane Mileage: 365 miles Time: 5 hours 50 minutes plus stops

Buckle up and get ready to leave behind the bustling hubbub of Seattle , plunging into landscapes that seem to have been painted by Mother Nature herself.

Your first pitstop? Snoqualmie Pass.

This isn’t just any old mountain pass, no sirree! This is a place where waterfalls cascade with fervor as if auditioning for a shampoo commercial.

The Snoqualmie Falls is a sight to behold, a spectacle that’ll have your camera clicking and your heart racing.

But don’t get too comfy! You’re not done yet.

There’s a detour to Lake Coeur d’Alene, a destination that probably took you three attempts to pronounce correctly. And was it worth it? Oh, you betcha!

The shimmering waters and pine-fringed shores are a sight for sore city eyes. It’s a slice of lakeside heaven that’ll have you considering a career as a full-time hermit.

Finally, you reach Spokane. It’s not just the end of your road trip; it’s the beginning of your love affair with this city.

With its Riverfront Park and the mesmerizing Spokane Falls, it’s a city that doesn’t just welcome you; it seduces you.

6. Palouse Scenic Byway

One Way: Palouse Falls State Park to Rosalia Mileage: 196 miles Time: 4 hours 15 minutes plus stops

Welcome to the Palouse Scenic Byway!

This 196-mile-long trail starts from the exquisite Palouse Falls State Park, where the falling water seems to sing harmonies with the wind.

Remember, if you didn’t get a selfie at the falls, did you even start the drive?

You’ll then journey through the rolling hills of Palouse, which is as close as you’ll get to driving on a cloud. It’s like the Earth put on a green velvet dress just for you.

On your way, make sure to stop by Pullman, where the restaurants serve food so good you’ll want to write poetry about it.

The drive continues to Colfax. You’ll love this small town’s charm and single traffic light. It’s like stepping back in time but without the terrible fashion sense of the 70s.

The culmination of your trip is at Steptoe Butte State Park. Prepare to be blown away. The view is so breathtaking even your camera will gasp!

And finally, Rosalia. A quaint end to an epic journey.

At this point, if you’re not in love with Washington, check your pulse. You might be a robot.

7. Coulee Corridor

One Way: Ephrata to Grand Coulee Mileage: 122 miles Time: 2 hours 45 minutes plus stops

The Coulee Corridor, a 122-mile stretch, is as spellbinding as it is spine-tingling.

Starting in Ephrata, you’ll soon find yourself in the realm of Dry Falls, a geological wonder that’s anything but dry.

Picture Niagara Falls , multiply it by five – and subtract the water. That’s right; Dry Falls is a plunge pool party where the water forgot to show up.

But don’t worry; the awe-inspiring sight of what was once the world’s largest waterfall is sure to leave you drenched in amazement.

As you journey on, the landscape morphs into a scene straight out of a Martian postcard – welcome to the Grand Coulee, a large glaciated valley.

Your drive culminates in the small town of the same name, Grand Coulee, home to the Grand Coulee Dam.

Once the largest concrete structure in the world, this colossal dam is now the backbone of the region’s power supply. At dusk, stick around for the laser light show, where the dam’s enormous walls transform into a canvas for a history lesson projected in lights.

There you have it – the Coulee Corridor, where the sights are grand, the history is rich, and the only traffic jams are caused by you stopping to snap photos.

8. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway

One Way: Olympia to Westport Mileage: 317 miles Time: 6 hours plus stops

Fasten your seatbelts for the ultimate Washington Coast road trip, as your next adventure is the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway.

This one is similar to the Olympic Peninsula loop discussed in number one above, but a slightly shorter route with different beginning and endpoints. So if you want to cut out about 100 miles of the drive, this one is your go-to.

You’ll kick things off in Olympia, where it’s all fancy government buildings and green parks for days.

Trust us; the truly exciting part of this journey is yet to come.

You’ll hit the road and cruise towards the Olympic Peninsula coast. But this isn’t your grandma’s Sunday drive.

With the salty sea air in your lungs and the rugged coastline in your sights, you’ll feel like a bonafide explorer charting new lands.

Head west towards Port Angeles, a town that clearly got the memo about the whole ‘breathtaking views’ thing.

Savor the vistas of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the mystical Olympic Mountains.

The route continues southwards, down along the coast of Olympic National Park , until you reach Aberdeen. Hey, it’s not just a Kurt Cobain song, alright? This place has a certain charm that’s hard to put a finger on.

And finally, you’ll land in Westport. It’s a town that delights in simplicity, with a lighthouse, a marina, and enough seafood joints to send any seafood lover into a blissful food coma after the long drive.

So, there you have it, 317 miles of pure coastal amazement. You’ve just done the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway – go ahead, brag a little.

9. Wineries Of Washington

One Way: Yakima to Walla Walla Mileage: 131 miles Time: 2 hours plus stops

Embark on a vinous voyage from Yakima to Walla Walla, wandering through Washington’s famed wine country. This 131-mile route is like a wine lover’s yellow brick road, a veritable Napa of the North.

Departing from Yakima, a fertile land of hops and wine grapes, you’ll soon find yourself cruising through Prosser, a town small in size but big on varietals.

Here, you can pop into a boutique winery or two and maybe even catch a wine festival if you time it right.

Next is Benton City, where the vineyards rival the scenic beauty of Tuscany , and the wines give Bordeaux a run for their money.

Don’t forget to swing by the Red Mountain AVA, Washington’s smallest, warmest wine-grape growing area.

The finale of your oenophile odyssey is Kennewick, the heart of the Tri-Cities wine country.

It’s a place where old-world charm meets new-world wine techniques. Here, the cellar doors are always open, and the winemakers are just as enticing as the wines they craft.

Your journey ends in Walla Walla, a name so nice they named it twice. With over 120 wineries and vibrant downtown, Walla Walla is the cherry on top of your wine country sundae.

10. Lewis and Clark Trail

One Way: Longview to Clarkston Mileage: 404 miles Time: 7 hours plus stops

For those who crave a taste of history sprinkled with some spectacular natural views, look no further than the Lewis and Clark Trail, one of the best scenic drives in Washington State.

Stretching over 400 miles, this route is the epitome of a road trip with a historical twist.

Beginning in Longview, you’ll get to trace the path of the legendary explorers Lewis and Clark. Don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to trade in your car for a canoe, as you’ll be following the Columbia River much of the way.

Vancouver is your second stop, where Fort Vancouver awaits.

This National Historic Site takes you back to the 19th-century fur trade era. The reconstructed fort is so realistic you may have to pinch yourself to remember you’re still in the 21st century.

Pressing onwards, you’ll find yourself in Captain William Clark Park. Here, you can stroll along the beach, picnic under the shade of towering trees, or gaze out over the waters Lewis and Clark navigated over 200 years ago.

Sacagawea State Park is next in line. Named after the famed Shoshone woman who greatly assisted the explorers, the park offers a wealth of history and a dash of stunning views.

Your historic journey concludes in Clarkston at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, a site that bodes well for reflection on this memorable road trip.

11. North Cascades Highway

One Way: Sedro-Woolley to Winthrop via Hwy 20 Mileage: 127 miles Time: 2 hours 30 minutes plus stops

The North Cascades Highway is 127 miles of pure, unadulterated, panoramic eye candy. Strap in because it’s a 2.5-hour drive, not counting stops, and trust me, you’ll want to stop.

From the moment you hit Highway 20, Washington’s most northern route, you’re thrust into the heart of the Cascades.

The highway carves through the mountains, treating you to views that make it clear why they call this the ‘American Alps.’ Towering peaks, craggy cliffs, and valleys filled with lush forests provide a visual buffet that puts 4K Ultra HD to shame.

If that’s not enough, prepare yourself for the emerald beauty of Diablo Lake, a body of water so stunningly turquoise you’ll swear it’s photoshopped.

The twisty, turny route makes a beeline through the Ross Lake National Recreation Area into the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, finally spitting you out in the charming Old West town of Winthrop.

And believe us, all these names are more than just complicated tongue twisters – they’re your ticket to a scenic smorgasbord.

12. Highway 2

One Way: Everett to Leavenworth Mileage: 100 miles Time: 2 hours plus stops

You’re about to embark on a journey along Highway 2, a road trip that promises a brilliant blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

It’s a mere 100 miles from Everett to Leavenworth, but don’t let that fool you. This is a road trip packed with more sights, history, and adventure than you can shake a stick at.

Starting in Everett, you’ll exchange the hustle-bustle of the city for the tranquil rhythm of the Cascade mountains.

As you navigate the curves of Stevens Pass, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and, if you’re lucky, a sprinkling of snow that adds a magical touch to the already gorgeous scenery.

Just wait for the moment when you crest the pass. Breathtaking doesn’t even begin to cover it.

You’ll find yourself surrounded by an alpine wilderness straight out of a postcard, with snow-capped peaks, sparkling water bodies, and the occasional deer darting across the landscape.

Then it’s off to Leavenworth. It’s like a little piece of Bavaria decided to vacation in the Pacific Northwest, with its charming Bavarian-themed buildings and traditional festivals.

Enjoy a hearty German meal, stroll around the quaint downtown, or just kick back with a local brew.

Two hours on the road, and you’ll have traversed landscapes, climbed mountains, and visited a slice of Europe , all without leaving Washington.

Highway 2, it’s the real MVP of road trips.

13. Puget Sound

One Way: Seattle to Port Townsend Mileage: 142 miles Time: 3 hours plus stops

Our final option for the best scenic drives in Washington is a road trip from Seattle to Port Townsend that explores the tranquil beauty that is Puget Sound.

This 142 mile-route is an absolute treat for your senses, offering stunning water views, picturesque islands, and a healthy dose of maritime vibes.

Setting off from Seattle, you’ll skirt along the edges of the serene Puget Sound. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful orcas that often frolic in these waters.

While the view of the Sound is enough to occupy your senses, this drive also takes you through a string of charming towns like Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and onto Bainbridge Island – each with its unique flavor and attractions.

As you progress, you’ll be rewarded with a panorama of the majestic Olympic Mountains.

And at the end of the drive, Port Townsend offers you a quaint Victorian seaport brimming with history, culture, and a dash of quirkiness. Awash in historic buildings, it also offers a vibrant arts scene and a plethora of eateries for food enthusiasts.

Bonus: Skagit Valley Tulips

One Way: Seattle to Skagit Valley Mileage: 70 miles Time: 1 hour 30 minutes plus stops

As you can’t do this any time of year, this is a bonus…but one you absolutely should do if you time it right!

Trust us when we say the Skagit Valley Tulip Drive isn’t just a drive – it’s like stepping into a Claude Monet painting, but with fewer haystacks and more tulips.

Imagine a 70-mile stretch of road, flanked on either side with endless fields of vibrant tulips, all swaying in unison as if welcoming you to their candy-colored paradise.

Starting from Seattle, it’s a breezy 1.5-hour road trip to the heart of Skagit Valley.

The drive itself is pretty straightforward, but don’t you dare rush through it! This isn’t a trip to your dentist. Feel the excitement slowly build up as the urban landscapes give way to the iconic rural charm of Skagit Valley.

As you reach it, the sheer explosion of colors hits you.

No, this isn’t a psychedelic dream; this is Skagit Valley in April. You’ve got tulips of every imaginable color, from canary yellows to pinks that would make Barbie jealous and reds that could start a fire.

Each year, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival draws flower aficionados from all over the world to bask in the breathtaking beauty of these floral fields.

In Skagit Valley, ‘stopping to smell the roses’ gets an upgrade. Here, you stop to gawk at the tulips instead!

So, prepare your picnic baskets and your best floral print outfits (for those selfies, of course) and enjoy the riot of colors that is the Skagit Valley Tulip Drive.

Conclusion – Best Washington State Road Trips

And so, my dear road trip enthusiasts, we’ve reached the end of our journey – at least for now.

These road trips will have you driving through the heart of Washington State, traversing peaks and valleys, and marveling at the multicolored spectacle of tulips that would shame even the most extravagant rainbow.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just a passionate wanderer, something in the state of Washington will call to you like a siren’s song.

So, pack your bags, fuel your car, and set your GPS for adventure.

Trust us, the best Washington State road trips are out there, waiting for you to explore just beyond the horizon.

Jenny is an adventurous globetrotter with an insatiable curiosity for exploring the world. From her first international trip at the age of 13 to Australia and New Zealand , she has since traveled to over 30 countries across six continents. With degrees in both accounting and photography, Jenny combines her love for organized travel planning and her passion for photography to capture stunning moments and inspire others to embark on their own extraordinary adventures.

Ultimate Washington Road Trip Itinerary: Best of the Evergreen State!

Welcome to the Ultimate Washington Road Trip Planner!

The Pacific Coast Highway 101 takes a beautiful turn in Washington around the Olympic Peninsula. However, there are many other attractions in Washington State that you can easily combine with an Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip.

This trip planner is a must-read for those planning a Washington State road trip and looking for the perfect Washington State road trip itinerary. Here you will find information on must-visit attractions including Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula, Mt. Rainier, and North Cascades.

Related: Best Things to do in Washington State, USA

Whether you are planning a Tacoma or Seattle road trip or want to skip the cities and instead go on a Washington Coast Road Trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, we have got your covered. You can use our itinerary to plan the best road trip in Washington State. 

In this itinerary, we recommend spending anywhere from 7 to 10 days to see the highlights at a leisurely pace. We suggest beginning this one-week road trip from Seattle because it is easy to fly in and has excellent connectivity.

Then explore the state’s natural beauty! Visit Cascades National Park and Ross Lake before making your way to Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula to complete an epic Washington State National Parks itinerary. 

We have also given suggestions to have a short 4 day WA road trip or ways to plan a flexible, longer two week WA road trip itinerary that explores the petrified forest trails of eastern Washington. 

If you want to explore Highway 101 Washington State attractions and head further south along the Beaver State coast, then we even have suggestions to convert this into a terrific Oregon Washington PNW Road Trip Itinerary! 

And with that, let’s get to planning your best Pacific Northwest road trip ever. We hope you like our WA road trip planner! 

Ultimate Washington State Road Trip Itinerary

Washington is one of the most unique states in the country! It has a magical rainforest and trees so big that they tower above all others. It has Seattle, a trendy bohemian city, and Tacoma, a paradise for art lovers! 

Washington has summer wildflowers, deep blue glacier lakes, snow-clad mountain ranges, and stunning hiking trails. It also has a desert and petrified trees in its eastern part! 

Washington, honestly, is one of the best states to visit. You can’t road trip WA without getting overwhelmed and excited at the beauty that surrounds you at every place. No wonder, it’s nicknamed the ‘Evergreen State’! 

Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is one of the most charming cities in the country. It is a tech and culture capital. The city is also famous for its coffee houses and everyone’s favorite Starbucks started right here! The city enjoys an amazing location on Puget Sound and water activities abound in the city. 

Related Post: Best Things to do in Seattle

Optional: Bellingham

After seeing Seattle, drive northwards along the coastline to Bellingham. This coastal city is closer to the Canadian border than to any other major US city. Located in the shadow of Mt. Baker, Bellingham is an important port for Alaska cruises. The city is charming and has plenty of outdoor excursions for enthusiasts. 

North Cascades National Park

From Bellingham, take the road to North Cascades National Park. The distance is merely an hour and a half. North Cascades has stunning alpine scenery and abundant wildlife. Here you will find frozen glaciers, volcanic peaks, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and stunning views. On the summer, you will find berry laden and flower filled meadows. Take a scenic drive or two or go hiking and camping in the park to explore its delights. 

Optional: Ross Lake National Recreation Area

A part of the Cascades, Ross Lake National Recreation Area is definitely worth the visit if you have time. This glacier fed lake is extremely picturesque. To get the most iconic view of this turquoise lake surrounded by the mountain ranges, stop by the overlooks on Highway 20. Rent a boat to get on the lake or stay in a cabin by its shores to enjoy this spectacular landscape. 

Optional: Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Also a part of the North Cascades National Park units, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is also great to stop. This is one of the most remote areas in the country and has no accessible roads! That’s right, you need to take a ferry from the town of Chelan to access the area and its attractions. But the untouched nature here is the reward for your efforts! 

Leavenworth

We definitely recommend adding the Bavarian alpine town of Leavenworth on your Washington State bucket list. Located in the Cascade mountains, Leavenworth has intriguing history. Take a stroll along the pretty chalet architecture and indulge in Bavarian delicacies. If you happen to plan a winter time Washington State road trip, then you will find Leavenworth even prettier, sporting stunning holiday decor. 

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

Forget the snowy mountains and the foggy coast. Step foot into eastern Washington’s arid desert. Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park and the adjacent Wanapum Recreation Area are unique geological attractions. Here you can see many species of petrified wood and Native American petroglyphs. The on site museum explains the unique history of the park. 

From the state park, start driving west towards the famous Mt Rainier National Park. 

Mt Rainier National Park

Mt. Rainier provides the fascinating backdrop to the Seattle skyline. This iconic peak and its surrounded meadows are preserved as a part of Mt. Rainier National Park. The park has enchanting scenery and the wildflowers that bloom here during the summer are simply incredible. You really cannot complete a Washington State road trip without visiting the famous Mt Rainier. 

Mt St. Helens National Volcanic Monument 

The volcanic peaks of Mt St Helens offers a special attraction to those who love geology. The Johnston Ridge Observation located very near the crater rim offer splendid views of the volcanic blast area. The views from Johnston Ridge are simply fantastic. 

After seeing Mt St. Helens Volcanic Monument, make your way to the Olympic Peninsula. We have also covered all the attractions here in a separate Olympic Peninsula Highway 101 Loop Trip post, we suggest reading that post before you plan your Washington road trip. Here are some of the must-sees in the Olympic peninsula. 

Hoh Rainforest

Hoh Rainforest, located in Olympic National Park, is a magical and enchanting place. It is one of the largest rainforests in the country and frequently receives over 150 inches of annual rainfall. The trees here grow tall and immense and the mosses and lichens that grow over their trunks and branches provide a canopy so thick that sunlight can barely reach the forest floor. 

Rialto Beach

Another must stop on your Washington Coast road trip! Rialto Beach is popular due its striking sea stacks and driftwood that line the beach. The views of the beach on a foggy day or at sunrise or sunset are just spectacular. This is one of the most Instagram famous destinations along the Washington Coast. 

Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of mainland USA. Located on the Makah reservation, Cape Flattery viewpoint is an absolutely beautiful place that can be reached by a short mile long trail. From here, you have stunning views of the carved out coastal bluffs, trees that grow right up to the ocean, and marine life. 

Lake Crescent

Located inside Olympic National Park, Lake Crescent is one of the deepest lakes in the country. The lake is located right along Highway 101. The lake waters almost always appear calm and placid, making the lake appear like a glistening mirror, broken by the occasional boat on its surface. Visitors can rent a canoe or a kayak and enjoy the splendid views from the surface. 

Olympic Hot Springs

Another must stop on the Olympic Peninsula are Olympic Hot Springs. Drive along the Olympic Hot Springs Road till you reach the trailhead. A moderate 4.8 miles round-trip hike leads visitors to the hot springs. To enjoy the hot springs without hiking, stay at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and enjoy the lukewarm water in the comfort of a pool. 

Hurricane Ridge

Olympic National Park is unique and diverse. It encompasses everything from the coastal bluffs to the icy mountain ranges. To experience the towering peaks on the Olympic Peninsula, visit Hurricane Ridge. Here you can ski and snowboard in the winter and go hiking in the summer. 

Port Angeles & Port Townsend

Port Angeles and Port Townsend, both, make excellent places to stay while visiting the Olympic Peninsula. Port Angeles is big and bustling while Port Townsend is a small Victorian community with quaint buildings and architecture. Here’s a little information about both destinations, we recommend spending some time in both to enjoy their vibes. 

Port Angeles makes a great vacation destination with it’s proximity to the national park and other outdoor attractions as well as a variety of indoor attractions. Visit the art galleries, Feiro Marine Life Center, Olympic Coast Discovery Center, and more in the city. You can also tour nearby wineries and go wine tasting.  

Sequim, which is located close to Port Angeles, as well as the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge are also worth visiting while in the area. From here you can have excellent views of the San Juan Islands. Sequim is famous for its lavender farms. 

After visiting the park and Port Angeles, visit Port Townsend. This charming town enjoys a strategic location on the Puget Sound. It is most famous for the Victorian houses that can be found throughout the town. Check them out as well as the well maintained gardens, stroll through downtown, and spend time at the marina.  From here, you can also go on whale watching tours. 

After seeing the Olympic peninsula, head back to Seattle. You can either take the ferry back from Port Townsend or continue along Highway 101 to Olympia and Tacoma before reaching Seattle. 

Optional: Olympia

Olympia is the state capital of Washington. It is located on the southern end of Puget Sound in the shadows of Mount Rainier. Olympia’s main attraction is the Washington State Capitol building. You can tour the grounds as well as the interior and admire this beautiful structure. Also check out the farmers market and the Olympia waterfront area. 

Optional: Tacoma

Tacoma is one of the most culturally buzzing destinations in the state. It’s museums are equal to those of Seattle. Tacoma is also the state’s largest port city and was once the western terminal of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Visit the famous Tacoma Glass Museum and admire the unique glass artwork. Visit Fort Nisqually and learn about Lewis and Clark at the Washington State History Museum. Tacoma also has many restaurants and cafes and a diverse dining scene. 

If you have more time, you can also make a day trip to Snoqualmie Falls from Seattle. 

Optional: Snoqualmie Falls

While Snoqualmie Falls need you to make a detour from this Washington Road Trip, they are certainly worth a visit. Located just half an hour away from Seattle, they make an excellent outdoor destination. The 268 foot waterfalls are beautiful to look at. You can hike to the Upper Falls Viewpoint or have a picnic in view of the lower falls. The falls are very scenic and make a great addition to your Washington itinerary. 

Optional: Drive south to Portland

If you want to go on just a western Washington road trip, then you can see Seattle, Tacoma, Olympic Peninsula, and then drive south along Pacific Coast Highway 101 to the Oregon Coast. 

Oregon Coast is even more dramatic and wild than the Washington Coast. In northern Oregon you have sea stacks, in the Central Oregon Coast, you have towering sand dunes, while in southern Oregon, you have the giant redwood trees. 

See the highlights of the coast, then make your way to the unique city of Portland. Read the below articles to plan the Oregon part of your road trip:

Best Places to visit in Oregon Oregon Road Trip Itinerary Essential Stops along Oregon Coast Road Trip Best Things to do in Portland

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary Pacific Coast Highway 10 Day itinerary All PCH Itineraries Best Places to Stay along the Pacific Coast Highway Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

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The ultimate washington road trip, from seattle to the sea and snow.

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The Space Needle and Seattle's downtown skyline at dusk. (Photo by George Rose)

Western Washington State boasts four incredible travel destinations — Seattle, the San Juan Islands, the Olympic Peninsula and Mount Rainier.

Why visit them one at a time when you can discover all five of these incredible places on a single road trip lasting between 10 and 14 days?

Starting at SeaTac International Airport, of course, where road trippers can tap into 16 different rental agencies, many of them with economy, intermediate and even full-sized cars and with spring rates below $50 per day.

Chihuly Garden and Glass at Seattle Center.

Seattle: Back to the Future

“Living in the Space Age” was the motto of the 1962 Century 21 Exposition in Seattle. And now that we’re in that century, it’s fun looking back to see what endures from a world fair that inspired more than 10 million visitors and earned headlines around the globe.

More than 60 years after it opened — and helped inspire The Jetsons TV show — the Space Needle remains one of the nation’s most iconic structures. Whether you consider it the ultimate expression of Mid Century Modern or the crowning glory of Googie architecture, the 605 -foot (184-meter) tower looks as futuristic as the day it opened. A recent renovation added a rotating glass floor with glass benches and windows that slant outwards for an even more vertiginous experience.

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Down at ground level, the original exposition ground is now Seattle Center , an eclectic culture and entertainment complex that includes the Museum of Pop Culture (with its Science Fiction & Fantasy Hall of Fame) and the incredible Chihuly Garden and Glass .

From there you can hop the Seattle Center Monorail — another enduring relic of the 1962 World’s Fair — into downtown Seattle. Sleep someplace central like the hip State Hotel , a five-minute walk from Pike Place Market , the Seattle Art Museum , and waterfront restaurants.

Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.

San Juans: Washington’s Treasure Islands

With the Emerald City in your rearview mirror, cruise up Interstate-5 to Anacortes and drive onto a Washington State Ferry bound for Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.

Besides being a great place to chill out for a couple of days, the island offers an enticing blend of nature, history and surprisingly good food for such a remote destination.

The two units of the San Juan Island National Historical Park preserve buildings and battlements left over from the 1859 “Pig War” between the U.S. and Britain over control of the islands. The south unit is a great place to glimpse those utterly cute San Juan Island foxes.

Lime Kiln Point State Park is renowned for its photogenic lighthouse (built in 1919) and cliff-top perches to watch orcas and other whales in the Haro Strait.

Animals are the focus of wildlife cruises from Friday Harbor, outfits like Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching that meander through the islands in search of orcas, humpbacks, stellar sea lions, sea otters, bald eagles and other critters that call the San Juans home.

Among the island’s many cool eating and drinking spots are the Westcott Bay Shellfish Co. with its amazing oysters and waterfront picnic tables, and gourmet seafood at the romantic Duck Soup . Overnight options range from the cozy Bird Rock Hotel to the stylish modern cabins of Saltwater Farm .

The historic 1919 lighthouse overlooking Haro Strait in Lime Kiln Point State Park on San Juan ... [+] Island.

Olympic Peninsula: Mother Nature’s Masterpiece

On clear days you can easily see the Olympic Peninsula and its jagged snowy mountains rising on the far side of the Puget Sound. Getting there from San Juan Island is a three-step process that requires the ferry back to Anacortes, a one-hour drive to Fort Casey via the colossal Deception Pass Bridge (built in 1935) and Whidbey Island , and then another vehicle ferry over to Port Townsend with its well-preserved Victorian mansions.

Highway 101 meanders across the top of the peninsula to Port Angeles and gateways to lofty Hurricane Ridge, the leafy Sol Duc Valley, and gorgeous Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park . The rustic Log Cabin Resort (open May-September) on the lake’s north shore is an excellent place to base your stay on the park’s north side.

Following 101 around to the park’s west side — via the town of Forks and its vampire stories — are the magical Hoh Rain Forest with its resident elk herd, and the national park’s coastal Kalaloch area and seminal sands like Ruby Beach with its artsy driftwood piles and rocky sea stacks. One of the icons of vintage national park architecture, Lake Quinault Lodge (opened in 1926) offers excellent digs and woodsy ambience.

Moss-covered trees in the Hoh Rain Forest section of Olympic National Park.

Mount Rainier: One Who Touches The Sky

There are several ways to make the three-hour drive between Lake Quinault and the Nisqually (western) entrance station to Mount Rainier National Park . From there, scenic Paradise Road makes its way up the mountain’s south side with various trailheads, viewpoints, picnic areas, and Cougar Rock Campground along the way.

The Native American name for the mountain (Tahoma) translates into “One Who Touches the Sky,” and it certainly does. “Of all the fire mountains which like beacons, once blazed along the Pacific Coast, Mount Rainier is the noblest,” wrote John Muir after an 1888 visit. What the famed naturalist didn’t realize is that Rainier is still an active stratovolcano (although it hasn’t erupted since the 19 th century).

At the top of the road is Paradise , a cluster of buildings perched at 5,400 feet (1,600 meters) on the peak’s southern side. Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center offers exhibits, maps and advice on exploring the park. Just outside are several short trails across the rocky slope, covered in snow during winter and spring, and wildflowers in summer.

Another classic “parkitecture” hotel, Paradise Inn opened in 1916 and was later added to the National Register of Historic Places. The soaring A-frame lobby is a great place to hang out, even if you’re not staying overnight, while every table in the Paradise Inn Dining Room offers epic views.

From Paradise, the drive back to the SeaTac Airport Rental Car Center is roughly two hours.

Late in the spring, Mount Rainier and Paradise are still covered in snow.

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Home » A Scenic Eastern Washington Road Trip Itinerary

A Scenic Eastern Washington Road Trip Itinerary

Immerse yourself in diverse natural beauty and find recommendations for what to see and where to stay.

This content is sponsored by State of Washington Tourism and is an abridged version of The Mandagies’ Road Trip route . Discover their downloadable itinerary here .

An Eastern Washington road trip is the perfect way to experience the diversity of Washington’s natural beauty. The entire east side of the state holds many hidden gems, incredible geographic history, scenic views, and fun recreation opportunities.

This trip is an ideal route for all kinds of travelers. From multi-generational groups (that’s what we did – Berty and I took his parents around the state!) to avid hikers and photography enthusiasts, here are the highlights of a fun 5-day road trip around Eastern Washington.

Eastern Washington Road Trip Route

Day 1: spokane to walla walla.

Drive: Highway 195 and Highway 12 (part of the Palouse Scenic Byway )

See: On Day 1, depart Spokane (more starting locations at the bottom of this post) and drive through the rolling hills and farmlands of Eastern Washington. They are varying shades of green in the spring, and a rich, toasty yellow at the end of summer and fall season.

On the way, experience Steptoe Butte State Park. Here, you can drive to the highest point in the area, with dizzying panoramic views of the farmlands and distant mountains near Spokane .

Don’t forget quick stops at Steptoe Battlefield State Park , Patit Creek Campsite , The Jolly Green Giant , and Lewis & Clark Trail State Park .

Stay: There are several adorable places to stay in this part of Washington’s Wine Country. Bed & Breakfasts provide a more intimate stay and guests can receive personalized tips from their hosts during a stay. Book The GG for a fun and eclectic way to enjoy a historic Walla Walla mansion.

If you come in the afternoon, you still have time to visit some spots in town. Opt for a wine tasting at one of many beautiful wineries in the area. Tranche and Kinhaven are some of our favorites. For a little bit more activity, consider calling for a meet and greet at Old Homestead Alpacas , or lavender picking at Blue Mountain Lavender Farm .

See Also: Your Guide to Walla Walla

Day 2: Walla Walla to Yakima

Drive: Harvey Shaw Road/Lyons Ferry Road, Highway 261/260, Highway 24

See: Encounter Washington’s state waterfall on today’s route – Palouse Falls !

Other major stops on day two of your Eastern Washington road trip include Lyons Ferry State Park (a great swimming stop) and Hanford Reach National Monument . Hanford Reach is a once-prohibited nuclear area turned wildlife refuge, where you can see an abundance of species.

Stay: Downtown Yakima is a great place for an overnight stay. The Hilton Garden Inn is centrally located, and if you come on Thursdays in the summer, you can catch some live music at Yakima’s Downtown Summer Nights free festival!

See Also: The Perfect Yakima Valley Itinerary for Spring

Day 3: Yakima to Soap Lake

Drive: Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 821), Interstate 90

See: Before heading out of Yakima for the day, take a morning stroll in Cowiche Canyon . You’ll find a network of trails to explore here, but starting at the Weikel Trailhead is most common.

Leaving town, drive the Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway. It’s a winding route along the Yakima River, with swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities practically around every corner!

Near Vantage on the Columbia River you’ll find Ginko Petrified Forest State Park and Wild Horse Monument . Hike to the monument for sweeping views and to admire artist David Govedare’s horse sculptures, officially titled “Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies.”

If you’ve ever driven from Seattle to Spokane, you’ve likely noticed these spots, and they are definitely worth a visit!

Stay: After a long day, check in at the Soap Lake Natural Spa & Resort for a night of R&R. Each room has an option of filling their tub with the healing waters of the lake. It’s known for its rich mineral properties, good for skin ailments and sore muscles.

Day 4: Soap Lake to Kettle Falls (Via Lake Roosevelt)

Drive: Washington State Route 17, and Highway 25

See: Highway 17 is chock-full of geographic wonders, leftover from the historic Missoula Floods, around 18,000 years ago. You can see evidence of this at Dry Falls State Park and Lake Lenore Caves .

Along the route, you’ll also discover the Grand Coulee Dam , one of the largest concrete structures in North America. Explore the free interactive museum during the day, and try to catch the Laser Light Show once the sun goes down.

Continuing north, take the scenic Highway 25 north along Lake Roosevelt for great views of the water. On the way to Kettle Falls, you can stop by Fort Spokane and St. Paul’s Mission to learn more about the area’s history.

Stay: Relax at the Columbia Point Resort in Kettle Falls for the night. Here, you can take your pick of lodge rooms, campsites, and glamping tents (coming soon!). If you’re lucky, you may even show up on a night that the hosts are doing a cookout for everyone on-site!

Day 5: Kettle Falls to Spokane

Drive: Highway 20, and the North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway (Highway 31)

See: For the final day of your Eastern Washington Road Trip, enjoy the wonders of Pend Oreille County. Crawford State Park is home to the famous Gardner Cave , the longest limestone cavern in Washington. Tours are free but required advanced reservation . You’ll be taken down with a guide, who shares history and cool facts about the cave.

If you have time, take a tour of the Boundary Dam. Tours are also free, and run between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Check here for opening dates and times , and remember, the tour is first come first serve with a max of 25 visitors.

On your way south to Spokane, drive the North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway home. The route kind of reminded us of Highway 20 through the North Cascades. Stops like Eagles Nest Viewpoint , Sweet Creek Falls , Box Canyon Viewpoint , and Metaline Waterfront Park are all great places to pull over and snap a photo.

Stay: Finish off your road trip in Spokane! This city has a ton of options to choose from, from luxury to budget-friendly. We recommend staying close to downtown. It’s very walkable, and you can find great places for an evening stroll like Riverfront Park and the Centennial Trail.

Road Trip Logistics + Planning Tips

There are a few things to think about when planning an Eastern Washington road trip. Here are some of our top suggestions for a smoother ride:

Google Offline Maps: There are several stretches of road that may not have cell service. Download a Google Offline Map of the area to help with navigation during these times.

Washington State Park Discover Pass: You will see several Washington state parks along this route. An annual pass is $30, and it will pay for itself the first day. (The average day-use fee is $5-$10) You can pre-purchase one online here , or buy one at the kiosk at any state park.

Not starting in Spokane? If you are coming from the west side, you can easily drive to Spokane from Seattle (4 hours on Interstate 90) or take a quick 30-min flight into the city and rent a car.

If you want to begin your trip on the west side, consider starting your route in Yakima (2 hours from Seattle). From here, you can rearrange the days of the trip to fit your driving direction. See more alternative itineraries at the end of this blog post.

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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!

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7 Scenic Washington Towns Just Outside State Parks

• Scenic small towns near WA state parks offer unique visuals and recreational opportunities with each changing season.
• Historic downtowns lined with quaint stores and eateries make these some of the most unique small towns near state parks in Washington.
• These Washington state park gateway towns offer a getaway like no other, perfect for outdoor adventures or a peaceful escape from bustling cities.

Nature’s unspoiled beauty is fully represented in Washington, and popular attractions like Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park are enough to convince travelers that its natural diversity is unrivaled. To leave tourists in complete awe of nature, there are scenic small towns near such famous national parks in Washington State . Still, others are strategically placed just outside Washington’s state parks with scenic hikes .

With the surroundings of rolling hills and towering trees, the beauty of scenic small towns near Washington state parks transforms with the changing seasons. So, each visit provides unique visuals and recreational opportunities. Additionally, their historic downtowns, lined with quaint stores, gift shops, and local eateries, enhance their allure, making them some of the most unique small towns to visit in Washington .

Whether seeking outdoor adventures or a peaceful escape from bustling cities, these scenic towns just next to Washington’s state parks offer a getaway like no other.

7 Washington State Parks With Scenic Mountain Overlooks

21.4 miles from deception pass state park.

Coupeville is a scenic waterfront town located in the heart of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve . This town is the perfect base for travelers visiting Deception Pass State Park , as it is only a 25-minute drive from the famed park. The 4,134-acre outdoor space offers everything from beautiful hiking trails traversing through lush old-growth forests to water-based activities, including boating, scuba diving, and kayaking.

Beyond Coupeville’s proximity to this iconic park, it is home to the famed Coupeville Wharf , a historic marina featuring a restaurant, a fuel dock, a kayak rental, and a gift shop. It's one of the best spots to take epic snaps and soak in the magnificent views of the Coupeville waterfront. Vacationing in this town also means having easy access to Deception Pass State Park Campgrounds , often rated among the best campgrounds in Washington's state parks .

17.3 miles to Palouse Falls State Park

Washtucna is a small but scenic town in Adams County, home to around 201 residents . It's about a 25-minute drive from Palouse Falls State Park , one of the underrated state parks in Washington . This 94-acre natural area is famed for the picturesque Palouse Falls, viewed from three vantage points, with the Fryxell Overlook offering the most dramatic vistas of the cascades and Palouse River Canyon.

Another must-visit attraction within Washtucna is Bassett Park , a serene spot where nature lovers spot various birds during the spring and fall migration. The park also has shaded areas to rest and picnic on a sunny day, but visitors must watch out for rattlesnakes. Additionally, the town's central location in eastern Washington provides quick access to the beautiful cities of Walla Walla, Spokane, and Pullman.

10 Affordable Small Towns To Retire In Washington

Friday harbor, 8.8 miles from lime kiln point state park.

Friday Harbor is a charming and secluded town set along the eastern shore of San Juan Island. The idyllic town is the ideal base for vacationers seeking a slow-paced life and access to intriguing attractions like the Lime Kiln Point State Park , located about 8.8 miles away. The park is one of the world’s best whale-watching spots , but travelers also catch glimpses of orcas and porpoises from spring through fall, depending on salmon migration.

Besides visiting the state park, vacationers can explore the town's Whale Museum to learn about the natural history of marine mammals through educational programs and fascinating exhibits. The museum features real whale skeletons, an orca family tree, and an exhibit honoring a young orca named Sooke, who died after massive head trauma.

8 Washington National Park Road Trips With Scenic Stops

Concrete, rasar state park, 8.3 miles from rasar state park.

Concrete makes up for its small size with its stunning mountain scenery and unique logging and construction history preserved at the Concrete Heritage Museum . History buffs can discover everything from an exhibit detailing the regional dam constructions to intriguing logging tools and a well-equipped loggers' shack. Adventurers can also take a self-paced walking tour to find eclectic shops and several historic buildings.

A 12-minute drive from the town along State Route 20 W leads nature lovers to Rasar State Park . As one of the alternative state parks to Olympic National Park , this 180-acre slice of paradise features forested campgrounds, serene picnic areas, and a beautiful sandy beach. Visitors can also enjoy exploring along the ADA-accessible trails winding through a lush forest offering river and beach access.

Coulee City

6.3 miles from sun lakes-dry falls state park.

Formerly known as McEntee’s of the Grand Coulee, Coulee City dates back to the 1870s when Philip McEntee joined surveyors to locate a road in the area. After completing the surveying job, Philip built the first log cabin and established a cattle-selling business before other pioneers settled in the area. With time, the town’s population and businesses thrived despite facing storms and drought.

Today, Coulee City is one of Washington’s must-visit towns for its rich heritage and scenic high-desert landscape worth exploring at the nearby Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park . This park offers excellent hiking opportunities, with 15 miles of trails winding through hills to offer panoramic vistas from the cliffs. Besides hiking, outdoor lovers can enjoy catching trout at the Dry Falls Lake, winter camping, and golfing.

See Washington's Most Beautiful National Park (With No Reservation)

6 miles from peshastin pinnacles state park.

Despite its small size, Peshastin is one of Washington’s scenic towns that fascinates tourists seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation experience. Situated in Chelan County, Peshastin has a tight-knit community that comes together during must-attend annual events like the Kids & Pets Parade in June and the Pancake Breakfast with Santa. However, travelers should check the Community Calendar for up-to-date information when planning to attend the town’s events.

For outdoor lovers who enjoy new challenges, the nearby Peshastin Pinnacles State Park offers unique scenery. Located 6 miles from Peshastin, this park has been known as a rock climbing spot, with 11 climbing areas and 46 routes worth exploring. However, in more recent times, visitors are kindly requested not to climb the pinnacles because they're sacred to the local Tribes in the area. Washing State Parks have requested that visitors respect the Tribes' sacred pinnacles and instead respectfully admire their view from a distance.

Peshastin Pinnacles State Park faces closure from November 1 to March 15 . In addition, the park and the Pashastin Pinnacles are sacred to local Tribes, so it's important to respect the First Peoples who have relationships with these sacred terrains. Visitors are kindly requested not to hike or climb the pinnacles out of respect for the local Tribes to whom they're sacred.

7 Scenic Small Towns Right Next To Major Washington National Parks

3.3 miles from pearrygin lake state park.

Winthrop is a small but scenic old western town in Okanogan County, known for its pristine landscapes, offering year-round recreational opportunities. Tucked in the Methow Valley, this tiny town sits 3.3 miles away from Pearrygin Lake State Park , a 1,186-acre paradise worth visiting throughout the seasons.

The warmer months are perfect for hiking and birdwatching along the park’s beautiful trails, while boating enthusiasts and anglers admire the shrub-steppe scenery from the water. However, winter brings a snowy wonderland best explored on a fat tire bike, snowshoes, or skiing board.

After working up an appetite, travelers enjoy delicious meals at some of Winthrop’s best restaurants serving American, Mexican, or International cuisines. However, food lovers craving sweet or homemade treats stop by the Rocking Horse Bakery for delectable pastries, sandwiches, and drinks.

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Seattle Roadtrip - Vancouver? - Seattle Forum

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Seattle Roadtrip - Vancouver?

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4 replies to this topic

If you did decide to do Van and Whistler, flying out of Van, if you elected not to go by car , makes sense, rather than doing a boring drive down the interstate back down to Seatac (and waiting at the border again).

There are scenic areas in WA of course but not with good food and culture too, generally. June is early for most national park/mountain areas here because of snow. I think you are also late in finding lodging for national park type areas here, but there's plenty of lodging in Van and Whistler.

Welcome to the Washington state Trip Advisor forum!

But truly any direction from Seattle would make an interesting roadtrip. Whidbey Island, the San Juan Islands, east to North Cascades, west to Pacific ocean coastal towns, south to Portland and Columbia Gorge. Even on to the Oregon Coast is not terribly far with 5 days time.

http://cascadeloop.com

There is a lot to see outside of Seattle .

Two suggestions, in opposite directions from each other.

I'm one who tends to disagree about having a car in Vancouver, especially for a party of five. (I assume you're renting something big enough - maybe a minivan?) Yes, Vancouver is like any big city in that parking can be troublesome and expensive, but Vancouver is also a city of neighbo(u)rhoods where a car can be much more useful than multiple Ubers or fussing with bus schedules.

"Looking for a mix of scenery, activity, culture, good food... "

Scenery: Obviously, Whistler . The "Sea to Sky" highway (BC99) is one of North America's most scenic drives, and Whistler is crammed with activities and options for accommodations. (Many ski-season lodgings are more affordable in the summer.)

You might also look at a night or two on the BC Sunshine Coast, reached by ferry from Horseshoe Bay. This is a beautiful area with a very relaxed/funky pace, a bit under the radar for most visitors from the south. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxpY9nukekM

Culture: How about Shakespeare with a view? The Bard on the Beach Shakespeare festival runs from June to September in a park next to False Creek. It's a marvelous experience. https://bardonthebeach.org/

Food - Endless choice. Maybe visit the immense Asian Night Market in Richmond, not far from YVR airport. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgUKldYDbSo

If you wanted to spend a fairly full day getting from Seattle to Vancouver, this route, which includes beautiful Whidbey Island, might be of interest. Google the places on this map - https://maps.app.goo.gl/csoERSivVke7bmQM6

2. Columbia River Gorge/Mount Hood

In about the same time as it would take to get to Vancouver (maybe less, depending on the border wait times) you can get to the Columbia River Gorge area east of Portland . This is a remarkably beautiful and varied area, famous for its vista points and waterfalls. But there's much more - Hood River with its windsurfing and kite boarding, the Hood River Valley with its "fruit loop," wineries and orchards, Mount Hood with hiking, summer skiing, and superb sightseeing, on and on.

Scenery: So much. The Gorge itself, the waterfalls along the Oregon-side "waterfall zone," Mount Hood with its iconic Timberline Lodge and "Magic Mile" chairlift up to the permanent ice fields on the side of the big volcano, but also the Mount Adams wilderness, access through picturesque Trout Lake, WA, forest hikes..

Culture: The unexpected and eclectic Maryhill Museum of Art is a surprising (and beautiful) discovery, on the clifftops east of Hood River, where the landscape has changed from the "wet side" with forests and waterfalls, to red rocks and sagebrush overlooking the great river. Visit the nearby weird copy of Stonehenge. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aRZrRNb9q8

Food: Hood River is a center for local wines, craft brewing, "farm to table" restaurants and the like. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD2ttnFn2Xw

Again, google the places on this map, which includes accessing the Columbia via the east side of the Cascades, rather than the trafficky and boring I-5 corridor between Seattle and Portland. https://maps.app.goo.gl/2yK6BRXEG7oFoGvS9

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What is Road Trip all about?

Watch the video below, which gives you a glimpse into the experience of Road Trip, which is now in its thirteenth year.

The Heartbeat of this Program

The best way to experience Washington wine is in the vineyard with your hands in the dirt or in the winery working directly with the fruit. Whether it’s performing punchdowns, tasting clonal selections, or even steam-cleaning barrels by hand, Road Trip is equal to none.

“I’ve traveled on 5 continents on wine trips and this is one of the best executed I’ve attended.” — Ronald Randall,  Il Ritorno St. Petersburg, FL 

Five days of immersive learning, listening, and living. You get to meet our ground breakers—those who helped put Washington on the world-wide map—but you also get to meet those who are breaking new ground: people who are experimenting in ways never before seen. If there’s one thing people know about Washington, it’s that there is nothing we can’t do. Through hands-on vineyard and winery exercises, focused seminars led by influential wine personalities, regional tastings with all of the players and makers of today, and unforgettable dinner parties, Road Trip is sure to make a lasting impression.

How does one go on this trip?

Road Trip was designed for, and with, high-level trade and wine professionals in mind. To participate in Road Trip, one must go through a nomination process (see link below), and then later be selected to attend. Road Trippers come from all over, but they share one thing in common: they are professionally passionate about wine. These individuals are decision makers and purchasers for their companies, or taste-makers in their communities. The program is intensive, so it should be noted that some tasks and activities can be physically demanding, from walking long distances in the vineyard to lifting/maneuvering in tight spaces, but we accommodate every single need. You can be on-premise or off-premise, work for a chain or single unit, or be a wine educator. To see the full guidelines for eligibility, please visit the nomination link below.

Please note that this program is not open to consumers, media, or distributors.

Testimonials

The relationships forged on this five-day trip between attendees, staff, and winemakers are life-long. We always love hearing about our Road Trippers’ experiences, first and lasting impressions, and reflections. You can see a few below from some of our alums.

“I can honestly say, this is one of the best trips that I’ve been on in my entire career.” — Jill Zimorski,  Alinea Restaurant Chicago, IL

“This was a fantastic experience in all ways: from the people (both staff and fellow attendees), to the networking opportunities with winemakers and vineyard properties, and others on the trip, to the the dozens of Washington wines represented and tasted, as well as the seminars and educational resources provided. And not least, this trip was wildly fun as well!” — Amber Rill,  CORKBUZZ , New York, NY

“The Road Trip was a truly amazing experience. One I will never forget. I met so many wonderful people that I will grow great relationships with. I feel so passionate about Washington, it’s land, it’s wine, and the people working hard to showcase its greatness!” — Claire Perry, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House Chicago, IL

“The quality is second-to-none. This was a trip of a lifetime; every detail was done with proud care and gave a 360-degree view of the industry. We had fun, we learned, we laughed, but a true craftsmanship of a journey. Road trip is one of the best events in the wine business anywhere.” — Chris McFall, Lazy Bear San Francisco, CA

“Just when I think I have a handle on the types of wines coming out of this state, I try something new that blows me away. They are only getting better!” — Emily Edeen,  Canlis Restaurant Seattle, WA

Now you can build out your own custom Washington Wine road trip with our app: Map My WA Wine. See below to learn more about it and get it on your iOS or Android device. We can’t wait to see where you go and what you discover.

Introducing Map My WA Wine

• Entertainment

11 things to do in the Seattle area this weekend

Welcome to the weekend! From some of the best Washington road trips for this spring and summer to what to do for Easter this weekend, here’s the latest on local things to do.

Eats and drinks

• At $21, is this bowl of Seattle soup worth it? Food critic Bethany Jean Clement says yes. Here’s where to try it for yourself.
• To cook something new at home, try these “Marry Me” white beans for a quick, tasty snack or the brunch potatoes recipe from the now-closed Seattle restaurant Sawyer.

Arts and community events

• Lies and laughter run rampant in Seattle Shakespeare Company’s “The Bed Trick” and Seattle Public Theater’s “The Moors,” both running now and worth your time, according to our critic.
• Head to MoPOP to see the new exhibit “Massive,” which asks, “What is pop culture?” Barbie, Beyoncé, Batman and more are featured in the emotionally impactful display.
• With Easter falling a little bit earlier than you may expect this year, catch these local egg hunts and other festivities .

Spring travel

• Spring break is here. Head to British Columbia, where you can soak in these five Canadian hot springs on one epic road trip from Seattle.
• From “one of the most beautiful drives you’ll ever take” to free planetarium shows, here are 10 wide-ranging road-trip destinations in Washington for this spring or summer.

Movies and TV

• Watch local connections shine on screen, through streaming services. In PBS’ “Invisible Shield,” two Washingtonians explain how the pandemic affected their communities; in “Sh i rley,” Seattle-born Brian Stokes Mitchell learns a new lesson on U.S. politics; and the fantasy film “Damsel” features Seattle-raised Nick Robinson.
• Heading to the theaters? Check out what our reviewers thought of “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” and other recent releases .

Video games

• From the long-awaited Final Fantasy VII Rebirth to the surprise hit Helldivers II, the start of 2024 has been a great time for avid gamers. Here’s what to play this year.
• Local author Tarryn Fisher’s new novel, “Good Half Gone,” makes use of the Seattle area’s atmospheric downcast environment to paint a chilling tale of emotional vindication. 

This City Block: A deep dive into Ballard

• Grungy yet gentrified: What makes Ballard an enigma in Seattle
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The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

Advertisement

How the Key Bridge Collapsed in Baltimore: Maps and Photos

By Weiyi Cai ,  Agnes Chang ,  Lauren Leatherby ,  Lazaro Gamio ,  Leanne Abraham and Scott Reinhard

On Tuesday, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed into the water seconds after it was struck by a cargo ship, sending vehicles on the bridge into the river below. The ship lost power and issued a mayday call shortly before it hit the bridge.

The ship, a 948-foot-long cargo vessel called Dali, was about a half hour into its journey toward Colombo, Sri Lanka, when it hit a main pillar of the bridge. All crew members are safe, according to the ship’s owners.

Follow our live coverage .

A mayday call from the ship gave officials enough time to stop traffic at both ends of the bridge. The waters where the bridge collapsed are about 50 feet deep. By Tuesday morning, six construction workers who had been fixing potholes on the bridge remained missing as divers and other emergency workers on boats and helicopters continued to search for them. Two others had been rescued, and one was in the hospital.

Francis Scott

Patapsco River

The ship left the Port

of Baltimore around

1 a.m. on Tuesday.

Where impact occurred

Direction of the ship

The ship hit the

bridge at 1:28 a.m.

The ship hit the bridge at 1:28 a.m.

Where impact

Source: Spire Global

The New York Times; satellite image by Google Earth

The lights of the ship flickered on and off as it lost power in the minutes before the ship changed bearing and hit the bridge.

Ship approached from

the Port of Baltimore

Road repair crews

Ship changed heading

as it neared pillar

Ship hit pillar

Southern and central spans

of bridge began to collapse within

seconds of impact

Northern span began to

collapse seconds later

Within 30 seconds of impact,

the central part of bridge had

entirely collapsed.

Source: StreamTime Live via YouTube

Timestamps are from StreamTime Live video.

The New York Times

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977 and carried more than 12.4 million vehicles last year. The bridge was one of the three major ways to cross the Patapsco River and formed part of Baltimore’s beltway.

The Port of Baltimore is a major trade hub that handled a record amount of foreign cargo last year. It is an especially important destination — the nation’s largest by volume last year — for deliveries of cars and light trucks.

Ship impact

To Chesapeake Bay

Sources: Maryland Port Administration, OpenStreetMap, MarineTraffic

Note: Ship positions are as of 2:46 p.m. Eastern time.

Overall, Baltimore was the 17th biggest port in the United States in 2021, ranked by total tons, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The bridge collapse brought marine traffic there to a standstill, with seven cargo or tanker ships stranded in the harbor as of Tuesday afternoon.

Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency for Maryland and said that his office was in close communication with Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary. The White House issued a statement saying that President Biden had been briefed on the collapse.

Erin Schaff/The New York Times

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