road trip from seattle

15 Road Trips From Seattle for the Ultimate Escape

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: June 24, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips From Seattle

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

Columbia River Gorge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Cascades National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Olympic Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bend Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

San Juan Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Rainier National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Chelan

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

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

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

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

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

Leavenworth

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portland Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redwoods National and State Parks, California

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount St. Helens

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eastern Washington

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seattle Road Trip Wrap-Up

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

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

The Emerald Palate

Seattle food tours & retreats

Oregon , Travel Guides , Washington · July 12, 2022

21 Best Road Trips from Seattle When You Need to Get Away

Putting together a list of the best road trips from Seattle was super easy, though it took forever. That’s because there are so many awesome places to visit within driving distance of Seattle.

For example, you can visit three different national parks in Washington, explore the islands off the coast, head south to Oregon, or cross the border to Canada up north. You can plan your whole trip around the outdoors, or you can bask in a life of luxury tasting your way through the Pacific Northwest’s best restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

No matter your preferences, there’s a road trip for you. Get ready for a long list of the best road trips from Seattle, organized by distance with a bunch of ideas for customizing them to your liking.

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21 Best Road Trips from Seattle

Jump to a route, or keep scrolling to browse them all!

Seattle > Bainbridge Island

Seattle > vashon island, seattle > camano island, seattle > whidbey island, seattle > tacoma > olympia, seattle > bellingham, seattle > north cascades national park, seattle > leavenworth.

• Seattle > Mt. Rainier
• Seattle > Mt. St. Helens

Seattle > San Juan Islands

Seattle > wenatchee > chelan > winthrop, seattle > olympic peninsula, seattle > yakima > walla walla, seattle > spokane, seattle > portland > columbia river gorge, seattle > oregon coast, seattle > victoria, bc.

• Seattle > Willamette Valley > Eugene
• Seattle > Mt. Hood > Bend
• Seattle > Vancouver > Whistler

Overwhelmed by the idea of flushing out your road trip itinerary?

Let me plan it for you. I offer travel planning services where I create custom itineraries for travelers like you. All you need to do is fill out a travel questionnaire and book any reservations directly.

distance from Seattle: ~50 mins | driving directions | best for: a day trip and shopping

Bainbridge Island is one of the easiest road trips from Seattle since the total travel time is just 50 minutes, which includes a pleasant 35-minute ferry ride. In fact, its proximity also makes it one of the best scenic day trips from Seattle .

I recommend spending at least half a day exploring the quaint boutiques, Bainbridge restaurants , and Bainbridge wineries dotting Main Street. The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is also worth visiting thanks to its regularly rotating exhibitions and great museum shop.

If you’re more partial to a hike, head to Grand Forest East and check out the lush Grand Forest Park Trail that connects to Grand Forest West. You can also walk the grounds at the gorgeous Bloedel Reserve .

If you’d like to plan the perfect day trip to Bainbridge Island, I’ve written an extensive guide to spending a day on Bainbridge island that should prove useful. You can also add on a longer road trip by tacking on Victoria or the Olympic Peninsula to this itinerary.

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr | driving directions | best for: farms and food

Vashon Island will always be one of the best road trips from Seattle, as it’s only an hour or so from downtown (including a 20-minute ferry). It’s packed with artists, restaurants, and boutique shops that give this place an irresistible artisanal vibe.

It’s tricky to summarize all the incredible things to do on the island (which is why I wrote an entire post on things to do on Vashon Island ). But I’d say if you’re here for the day, prioritize doing a food crawl of the amazing Vashon Island restaurants . Many of them are within walking distance of each other, so it’s a great way to spend the afternoon. If it’s a Saturday during summer, you can also hit up the Vashon Farmers Market for a quick break between eats.

To stretch your legs, head out on one of the many Vashon Island hikes, which are some of the best hikes near Seattle .

Shinglemill Creek Preserve is a moderate 3-mile hike that’s ideal for more experienced trekkers. While Point Robinson Lighthouse is a gentle beach stroll that offers great views of Mount Rainier on clear days.

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr | driving directions | best for: peaceful retreat without a ferry

To get to Camano Island on your best road trips from Seattle tour, you’ll drive 62 miles along I-5 North from Seattle until you hit WA-532, which takes you right to Camano Island without the need for a ferry.

There are several things worth doing on Camano Island , as it’s home to beautiful beaches and manageable hikes. One of my favorite spots here is Iverson Spit Preserve , which offers over a mile of walking trails and unbeatable views over Port Susan Bay and the Cascades.

If you’d rather spend your day on the beach, head to Cama Beach Historical State Park to sunbathe on some of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific Northwest.

When your stomach starts rumbling, duck into one of the many Camano Island restaurants to refuel.

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr and 15 mins | driving directions (with ferry) | driving directions (without ferry, which is ~2.5 hrs) | best for: excellent seafood and wineries

Whidbey Island is one of the best road trips from Seattle and can easily be covered in a single day. Depending on how much time you can spare, either take the ferry at Mukilteo or head north to Deception Pass Bridge and tack on a visit to Anacortes and Skagit Valley (see the road trip itinerary below!).

This location is best known for its excellent food scene. You can enjoy fresh mussels from Whidbey’s Penn Cove at many of the best restaurants on Whidbey Island or spend time exploring Whidbey Island wineries .

When you’re not eating or drinking, step back in time at Fort Casey Historical State Park , keep an eye out for whales at Deception Pass State Park , go shopping in the center of town, or pick up fresh produce at the Bayview Farmers Market if it’s a Saturday.

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: great art and food

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle for experiencing the biggest metropolises in western Washington. You can also tack on the Olympic Peninsula from Tacoma and avoid a ferry by driving over the famous Narrows Bridge .

Tacoma perfectly blends old and new thanks to its cool shops, surprisingly morbid history, and vibrant art scene.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Tacoma , but I’d say that you should prioritize visiting the Tacoma Art Museum , booking a ghost tour that takes you through various haunted parts of town, and marveling at the Museum of Glass. If you’re staying for dinner, check out some of the best places to grab food in Tacoma and its surrounding areas.

To round off your road trip from Seattle, head to Olympia for beautiful views, a few craft beers, and a bunch of cultural enrichment. There’s no shortage of things to do in Olympia . But visiting the capitol building and trying craft brews in the downtown area are must-dos (don’t miss 3 Magnets Brewing ).

If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to pick up ice cream from Sophie’s Scoops before visiting one of the many local parks or flower farms.

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs without stops, ~2 hrs and 40 mins with | driving directions  | best for: tulips, hikes, and history

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle that hits a bunch of places within 100 miles. In just under two hours it manages to pass through La Conner, Mt. Vernon, Burlington, Sedro-Woolley, and Bow before arriving in Bellingham.

Follow this itinerary to experience all of my favorite things to do in Skagit Valley . Or, if you’re short on time, just go right to Bellingham.

La Conner is a lovely seaside town that’s ideal for a romantic getaway. The streets are packed with artisanal boutiques, galleries, gift shops, and restaurants that all readily welcome visitors. If you need to stop overnight, there are also plenty of local inns to choose from.

While you’re here, make sure you stop by the Museum of Northwest Art and the Calico Cupboard Café for a breakfast.

Continue to Mt. Vernon to explore the antique shops dotting Main Street. Don’t miss Perry and Carlson as you shop, a modern gift store and gallery that is a nice break from all the vintage. Stop at Farmstrong Brewing afterwards when you need a break from shopping.

Next stop at Tulip Town to see the gorgeous array of colors during the April blooming season. Read my article on how to avoid crowds at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival to make the most of your experience.

Another great stop is Little Mountain Park . It boasts several hiking trails and picnic areas that help you make the most of the panoramic views of Skagit Valley and the Olympic Mountains.

With the San Juan Islands, Mt. Baker, and plenty of farmland serving as a backdrop, Burlington is the place to be for fresh produce, the tulip festival, and nature trails. It’s also home to Skagit’s Own Fish Market . My favorite stop for a lunch of fresh seafood (don’t miss the oyster ‘po boys).

If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t miss the Children’s Museum of Skagit County which is packed with interactive exhibits. For adults, make sure to stop at Garden Path Fermentation for some brews made with local grain and wild yeast from the Skagit air!

Sedro-Woolley

Sedro-Woolley is technically two towns that were joined back in 1898. And it boasts a rich history that can still be seen in the area today.

Although you don’t need a lot of time here, you should visit the Northern State Recreation Area to visit the abandoned asylums. If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday between April – October or December, you can also get afternoon tea at the gorgeous Willowbrook Manor .

Note, this is also along the main road you’d take to visit North Cascades National Park. If you don’t have time to visit during your Bellingham road trip, tack it on to the North Cascades itinerary below !

Bow and Edison are two tiny bordering towns that most people mix up. So many people refer to them as just “Bow/Edison”. The area is agriculturally rich so it’s a great place to stop for artisan cheeses, oysters, and shellfish. Meander the small downtown area to pop into artist galleries and some of the best restaurants in Skagit County .

Your final stop on this road trip is Bellingham . Which is a charming riverside town with tons of B&Bs, stone cottages, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

If you have time, consider taking the famous Chuckanut Drive from Bow to Bellingham for gorgeous viewpoints from the famous Oyster Dome hike , Taylor Shellfish Farms , and Larrabee State Park .

Boulevard Park is a great place to stretch your legs for unbeatable views of the water once you hit Bellingham. Then head to downtown Bellingham to explore the funky shops and breweries. If it’s a Saturday, don’t miss the Bellingham Farmers Market .

I have a whole Bellingham guide of other things to do in the area. If you have time, take an optional day trip to Lummi Island or you can also take a day trip to Mount Baker for hiking.

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: great hikes and views of the Cascade Mountains

North Cascades National Park is one of the most underrated natural wonders in the country. And doesn’t require a fee to enter. Offering visitors backcountry camping, gorgeous hikes, colorful meadows, snow-capped peaks, and glimmering lakes, it’s a must-visit spot in Washington state.

I’ve created the ultimate North Cascades National Park itinerary if you’d like to make a comprehensive plan. If you want the quick list, Diablo Lake Overlook , Heather Pass Maple Loop , Blue Lake , and Washington Pass Overlook should all be on your list of things to do on this road trip from Seattle.

If you’re traveling in October, make sure to check out the larch hikes located in the park. They make for absolutely stunning photos!

Pro tip: If you do the whole North Cascades Scenic Byway, you’ll end up in Mazama and Winthrop. So you can tack on Winthrop to the end of this trip too!

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs  | driving directions | best for: outdoor activities and wines

If you live in Seattle, heading to Leavenworth is a great way to spend a weekend. This Bavarian-themed town is best known for its quaint shopping and proximity to outdoor recreation activities like climbing, kayaking, fishing, and tons of hiking .

There’s also a ton of things to do in Leavenworth in winter , too. For example, it has some of the best cross country skiing in Washington . And is close to Stevens Pass for downhill skiing in winter.

You should take some time to hike to gorgeous Colchuck Lake or explore the stunning Lake Wenatchee State Park . When done, head back downtown to try the unique wines at one of the many Leavenworth tasting rooms .

If you’re looking for food, you should make time to visit the best restaurants in Leavenworth . While downtown Leavenworth has a lot of mediocre places to eat, there are a few gems all within close proximity to each other. So you can make a day of it doing your own food crawl.

Before heading back, drive 11 miles to the charming town of Cashmere for antiquing at Apple Annie’s , a spot of golf at the Cashmere Golf Course , and history at the Chelan County Museum and Pioneer Village , which contains over 13,000 Native American artifacts.

Seattle > Mt. Rainier National Park

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: nature walks and mountain panoramas

Mount Rainier never fails to take my breath away. And I love it so much that I’ve even created a guide to the ultimate Mount Rainier day trip from Seattle . This national park boasts over 240,000 acres of protected forest. And its central volcano is the 5 th tallest peak in the US at 14,411 feet above sea level.

Most people visit the Paradise/Longmire area of the mountain. Once you arrive, head straight to Christine Falls before schlepping a short distance to Narada Falls . The Skyline Trail Loop is one of the most impressive hikes here. And it’s a 5.5-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 1,450 feet.

If you have time, make the approximately 1.5 hour drive to the Sunrise area of the mountain, the tallest part you can drive up to. Once there, don’t miss the Fremont Lookout Trail accessed from the Sunrise Visitor Center for panoramas over the north side of the mountain. It’s one of the best hikes at Mt. Rainier .

Seattle > Mount St. Helens

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs | driving directions | best for: hikes and spooky caves

Mount St. Helens is located inside the Gifford Pinchot National Forest to the south of Seattle. It’s one of the best road trips from Seattle for avid hikers. As you can opt for easy hikes that lead from Johnston Ridge Observatory or head to the active volcano area with a permit for a more challenging trek.

If you fancy navigating tricky switchbacks, the Lava Canyon Trail is an exciting pick that takes you across a narrow suspension bridge to a ribbon of pools and a cascading waterfall. If that’s closed or too tricky, check out the park map for other area trailheads.

Another prime spot near the mountain is Ape Caves . This place is the third-longest lava tube in North America. And you’ll head deep underground to explore the pitch-black forest floor and fascinating rock formations that lie underground.

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs and 15 mins | driving directions | best for: sea breezes and whale watching

The San Juan Islands are considered the best islands near Seattle . They consist of more than 170 islands in the Salish Sea. But the three islands most people visit are Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and San Juan Island itself. The rest of the islands are privately owned or super tiny with not much to do.

You can do the islands as a day trip from Seattle. But you’ll need to get up early to make it happen, as there’s just so much to cover! Therefore, I recommend making a couple days of it and hitting up as many islands as you can.

Pro tip: If you want to visit all 3 main San Juan Islands, start at the one farthest west and travel east, as you only pay for westbound trips from the mainland. The islands are listed below in that order to help save you money.

Note, you can only make vehicle reservations between Anacortes and the islands. Inter-island travel doesn’t accept them.

Anacortes on thee mainland is around 1.5 hours from Seattle. It’s the city you’ll drive to for your ferry departure. So stretch your legs before you leave by exploring the historic downtown area and getting lunch at Gere-a-Deli .

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is my favorite of the San Juan Islands. It’s the farthest west and actually almost became part of Canada! In 1872 there was the infamous “Pig War”, but it didn’t actually result in any fighting. Rather, it was more of a cold war caused by American settlers who killed one of the British settlers’ pigs.

The result was each side setting up military camps on opposite ends of the island and giving each other the stink eye. You can visit both camps today to experience not only history, but some breathtaking views.

English Camp is on the northwestern part of the island near Roche Harbor and the San Juan Island Sculpture Park (one of my favorite attractions). At the camp you can meander trails and peruse the English gardens before heading to lunch at Westcott Bay Shellfish . Afterwards, head to Lime Kiln State Park to see if you can spot orcas, as this island is the best for whale watching.

American Camp is on the southeastern part of the island and it’s also my personal favorite. It has the stunning South Beach , Jakle’s Lagoon , and Cattle Point Lighthouse , all great spots for easy and scenic walks.

Downtown Friday Harbor is where you’ll find most of the area’s best restaurants, along with shops and wineries. It’s also the departure point of many whale watching tours. Check out my full San Juan Island guide to get even more ideas of what to do.

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is considered by many to be the gem of this archipelago. When I first visited, I spent my time taking in the views from Mount Constitution (you can see across to Olympic National Park from here!), exploring the cascading falls in Moran State Park , and strolling through the quaint Eastsound Village for artisanal souvenirs and boutique shopping.

Foodies will want to make sure they stop at the Saturday farmers market , Orcas Island Winery , and Matia Kitchen (if you can snag a reservation!).

Check out my full guide to taking a day trip to Orcas Island from Seattle if you want even more ideas.

Lopez Island

This island is super relaxed, yet there’s still plenty of incredible things to do on Lopez Island . Plus it’s the friendliest, considering every single local will wave as they drive by and there are a ton of quaint honors-system farm stands at the end of people’s driveways.

If you’re only going to do one thing here, head to Point Colville . The views of the sea from this hike are incredible and give you undisturbed lookouts over the azure waters.

If you have time, Spencer Spit State Park , Lopez Hill, and the tiny (but charming!) Lopez Village are all worth seeing. Don’t miss a meal at Ursa Minor , the best restaurant on the island and one of the restaurants worth the drive from Seattle .

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: mountain scenery and vineyards

If you have time to extend your trip from Seattle to Leavenworth , continue onto Wenatchee, Chelan, and Winthrop for more breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and wineries.

Wenatchee is full of cute shops, nature hikes, delicious restaurants, and an impressive wine and beer scene. It’s also known as the Apple Capital of the world, so be sure to pick a few juicy ones if you’re here during fall! There are so many things to do in Wenatchee , so don’t be afraid to pad your itinerary if you’re not on a tight schedule.

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is one of my favorite wine regions in the Pacific Northwest . You’ll see a ton of vineyards lining the slopes of the breathtaking lake, which is one of the deepest in the world. Check out my guide to the best Lake Chelan wineries for my favorites. Then head to the best Chelan restaurants for meals between tastes.

Given, you know, the lake, there are some world-class fishing opportunities here too. You can also rent kayaks or standup paddle boards to experience the refreshing water during hot weather.

There are also many things to do in Lake Chelan in winter . Mission Ridge is my favorite cross-country skiing area in Washington. You can also go tubing here and there’s a small hill for beginning skiers and snowboarders.

Finally, you’ll reach the small town of Winthrop , which is known for its mountain scenery, incredible community vibe, and Wild West-themed downtown area lined with shops.

On your way here you’ll pass by Twisp. This is where all the best restaurants in Winthrop are, so make sure to stop for a much-needed bite.

Winthrop is a bit south of North Cascades National Park , so you can add it to this itinerary if you can’t make it from Seattle in the itinerary above. Note the park is closed in winter due to snowy road conditions, but there are plenty of other things to do in Winthrop in winter . In fact, it has the largest network of groomed cross-country skiing trails in North America and there’s a magical winter hot air balloon festival every March.

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: beaches and rainforest hikes

No list of the best road trips from Seattle is complete without Olympic Peninsula as a destination. I go to to the peninsula every year when visit Seabrook, a quaint Washington coast town at the south of the state. I absolutely love the area and think you will too!

This itinerary takes you toward the north since most people want to visit the famous Olympic National Park. However, check out my guide to the best Washington coast cabins if you want to explore the southern shores.

Also, know that you can get to these locations via Bainbridge Island by driving over the Hood Canal Floating Bridge if you want to tack this onto the Bainbridge itinerary above .

Poulsbo is called “Little Norway” given its rich history and signature Scandinavian architecture. It makes the perfect starting stop for visiting the Olympic Peninsula.

Peruse the town’s many shops and make sure to stop at the famous Shuys Bakery for doughnuts. Then walk along Liberty Bay Waterfront Park before sipping at the many breweries or wineries.

For even more ideas, check out my guide on things to do in Poulsbo .

Port Ludlow

Port Ludlow is a good stop when visiting the Olympic Peninsula. There are a ton of trails in the area to explore by foot or bike.

On your way to Port Townsend, make stops along the Olympic Peninsula cider route for tastings at cideries using home-grown apples. Depending on the day you’re traveling, there are also farmers markets worth stopping at.

Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a historic Victorian town nestled right on the water. You’ll love the colorful architectural areas of the downtown area, as well as all the cute shops to pop into. You can also visit the Jefferson Historical Society to learn more about the area’s past.

One of the things you must do in Port Townsend is visit Fort Worden State Park . It’s right on the water and offers a bunch of walking trails and beach views. However, the crown jewel is the haunting battery forts that you can walk inside (if you dare, it’s quite dark!).

The batteries were created in the late 1800s/early 1900s as part of the “ Triangle of Fire ” defense strategy. In fact, you can visit nearby Fort Flagler State Park to see another one of these forts positioned to defend the mouth of the Puget Sound.

On your way to Sequim, keep an eye out for the Olympic Peninsual winery trail .

If you’re visiting in July and August, a stop in Sequim is a must to visit one of the many lavender farms during the annual Lavender Festival .

Port Angeles

Port Angeles is considered the gateway to the Olympic National Park given its prime proximity. Use it as a home base for exploring the famous Hoh Rainforest , Hurricane Ridge , and Lake Crescent area. You can also visit the most northern tip of Washington state, Cape Flattery .

You can also tack on Victoria, BC if you want to take the privately-run ferry between Port Angeles and Victoria.

Forks may sound familiar thanks to a little book and movie franchise called Twilight. They have a ton of cheeky references to the movies, including full-sized cutouts of Bella, Edward, and Jacob throughout town, but the main draw is the proximity to some of the best Washington coast attractions .

Some of my favorite stops along the coast are Cape Alava , Rialto Beach , Ruby Beach , and Kalaloch Beach , where there’s an impressive “tree of life” growing over a crevasse. Always check the tides before visiting Washington coast beaches, as it’s not unheard of getting stuck along a path that’s overtaken by water.

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: wineries

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle for all the wine connoisseurs out there, as it stops at in two wine regions perfect for tasting the best Washington wines .

No trip to Yakima is complete without exploring the area wineries. There are hundreds in Yakima proper and the nearby towns dotting the road toward the Tri-Cities, but two of my favorites are Paradisos del Sol Winery and Gilbert Cellars .

Besides wine, Yakima is the place to be for museums, orchards, and outdoor activities. Spend hours hiking the Cowiche Canyon Trail and Yakima River Canyon which offered unbeatable views of the water below.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Yakima Area Arboretum which is tucked away between I-82 and Highway 24.

Food wise, don’t miss Los Hernández Tamales , Crafted , and Taqueria la Plazita .

Once you pass Yakima toward Walla Walla, you’ll start passing a ton of smaller towns with tasting rooms and some of the best wine country hotels in Washington . Use these towns as a home base for exploring some of the best Yakima wineries before continuing onto Walla Walla.

Walla Walla

You’ll end this trip at Walla Walla , which is one of my all-time favorite areas for delicious wines. As the entire region spans more than 2,000 acres, I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the Walla Walla wineries to help you navigate this place.

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs without stops, ~6.5 hrs with | driving directions | best for: small-town charm and natural wonders

If you’re on the hunt for the best road trips from Seattle that are on the longer side, then the Seattle to Spokane route is for you. This road trip features several stops, which allows drivers to take regular breaks along the nearly 300-mile journey.

Don’t have time for all these stops? Cut the journey short and visit the destinations as far as you have the time to travel!

Cle Elum/Roslyn/Ellensburg

The first places you’ll hit on this road trip are the charming towns of Cle Elum, Roslyn, and Ellensburg.

Cle Elum is a small town approximately 96 miles from Seattle. Here you can visit the Swiftwater Cellars for New American fare and 509 Bake House for some of the most delicious cookies, lemon bars, and macarons you’ll ever taste. If you want to stay the night, book the gorgeous Suncadia Resort .

Roslyn is 3.5 miles away from Cle Elum. This tiny town is home to just under 3,000 people and boasts an impressive Historical Museum , a Heritage Distillery , and the sprawling Old Westbury Gardens which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also perfectly acceptable to just enjoy moseying along the quaint downtown streets and friendly atmosphere.

Ellensburg is 28 miles past Roslyn. This small town in eastern Washington is best known for its annual Labor Day Rodeo, but it also boasts several free museums, historic buildings, and a collection of impressive street art. Before leaving, don’t forget to take a photo with the famous Ellensburg Bull !

Palouse Falls

Once you’ve covered the holy trinity of Washington’s small towns about a third of the way from Seattle to Spokane, drive 130 miles to the cascading Palouse Falls .

You can spend an entire day trekking through Palouse Falls State Park , but travelers that are short on time can drive directly to the falls to take in this impressive natural wonder.

The waterfall itself is 200 feet high and you’ll need a Discover Pass to enter the park. There’s a marked path that offers an excellent view, and you can park in the area right around the falls which lets you make this attraction a quick pitstop before zipping off to Spokane.

The final stop on this road trip from Seattle is Spokane , which is around 103 miles from Palouse Falls. When you get here, expect to be met with plenty of Native American heritage, art, culture, and of course, the tumbling Spokane Falls!

If you’d like to explore Spokane like a local , visit Riverfront Park and bike between urban wineries in the famous “Cork District” .

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: food and waterfalls

Vancouver, WA

Most people think of Canada when they hear Vancouver , but locals know this is also a quaint town near the Washington-Oregon border. It’s the perfect jumping off point if you want to explore only the Washington-side of the Columbia River Gorge, but it also makes for a good pit stop before heading into Oregon.

There are so many things to do in Vancouver, WA . To start, meander the Vancouver Waterfront in the heart of the city. Then head into downtown to peruse the various boutique shops and public art displays . Afterwards, go on a crawl among the area’s many breweries and wineries .

History buffs will love Fort Vancouver with its walking trails, gardens, and historic village. Nearby is Officers Row , a series of restored 19th century homes that you can enjoy on a self-guided tour.

A short drive from Vancouver, WA is Portland , one of the best food cities in the US. I put together what I consider a perfect Portland itinerary but here are some activities not to miss.

Work up an appetite by exploring the many shops and boutiques in downtown Portland. If it’s a Saturday, head to the PSU Farmers Market , too. Once you finish downtown, make the rounds at my favorite vintage shops: Vintage Pink , Monticello Antique Marketplace , and Urbanite .

From there, head to one of the many PDX food pods for lunch (food crawl encouraged). I map out my favorites in my post on fun places to eat in Portland, Oregon .

Round out your trip by visiting Washington Park , the largest park in the city. Head to the arboretum to see Redwood trees (yes, the big red ones in California). Then check out the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden to be inspired for your own backyard landscaping. If you have time, you can walk the Wildwood Trail to Pittock Mansion for beautiful views of PDX and Mt. Hood in the distance.

Columbia River Gorge

Oh how I love the Columbia River Gorge . It’s not exactly a town, but rather a strip of scenic highway that goes along either side of the canyon that splits the Oregon and Washington state border. It’s one of the best road trips from Seattle for sure, but it makes a lovely day trip from Portland as well.

I have a very extensive guide on everything you need to know about visiting Columbia River Gorge that I encourage you to read. I also put together the perfect Columbia River Gorge itinerary , which you can follow to a tee, or create your own using my Columbia River Gorge waterfalls map .

You’ll make your way from Portland to Hood River while exploring the Gorge. Once in Hood River, check out the area breweries and visit my favorite Columbia River Gorge wineries .

distance from Seattle: ~4 hrs | driving directions | best for: coastal views

With its rolling dunes, perfectly maintained state parks, and views of the Pacific Ocean that stretch way out into the distance, this is one of the best road trips from Seattle for aesthetes.

Start your adventure in Astoria , which you’ll pass through on your way to the coast. There’s a lot to love about this small seaside town, but the thing that stuck with me was the ridiculously good ice cream from Frites & Scoops . They serve up wacky flavors like hokey pokey honey toffee in traditional Norwegian krumkake cones.

Don’t miss nearby Fort Stevens State Park to see the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. It’s a real-life shipwreck right on the shore that makes for gorgeous photos.

Cannon Beach

Next head to Cannon Beach , which is a great destination for staying a few nights to explore the north Oregon coast. There are a ton of things to do near Cannon Beach , one of the most important being taking a picture of the enormous Haystack Rock looming just off the beach.

Another stop not to miss is Ecola State Park . There are a ton of walking trails and breathtaking views of the coastline dotted with sea stacks.

distance from Seattle: ~3 – 4.5 hours via ferry | driving directions | best for: historic buildings and great food

There are tons of fun things to do in Victoria, regardless of when you choose to visit. Located on Vancouver Island, you can get to the city via the private ferry in Port Angeles on the Olympic Peninsula. Or you can take the Clipper directly from Seattle to get there in under 3 hours.

Once there, you can spend an entire weekend exploring the charming downtown area’s Victorian buildings, wandering through Butchart Gardens, and strolling through Canada’s oldest Chinatown for souvenirs.

Aside from the incredibly unique things to do in Victoria , the city is also home to seriously good restaurants. When I visited, I was so blown away by the eateries here, that I wrote an entire foodie-focused guide on the place!

Seattle > Willamette Valley > Eugene, OR

distance from Seattle: ~ 6 hrs | driving directions | best for: wine, beer, and biking

You’ll be passing through Portland to make your way here, so add on Portland to this itinerary instead if you can’t make it during your trip to the Columbia River Gorge.

Willamette Valley

Don’t tell Washington wineries, but the Willamette Valley might be my favorite wine region in the PNW. It’s a sprawling area that starts less than an hour outside of Portland and then extends all the way to Eugene.

There are a bunch of AVAs and towns within it, all of which would be impossible to explore during one trip, but I’ve tried to make it easier for you by mapping out the best Willamette Valley wineries . I also have a list of the best Willamette Valley restaurants for between tastings.

Eugene 

Eugene is a cool college town that’s the perfect jumping off point for exploring the lower Willamette Valley wineries and area hikes. It’s a very bikeable city, with a ton of paved trails and few hills. You’ll probably want to book a room at one of the best boutique hotels in Eugene so you can explore it all!

5th Street Public Market is one of the best things do in Eugene . It’s an indoor-outdoor market with a ton of area boutiques, restaurants, breweries, and wineries. If it’s a Saturday, the Lane County Farmers Market will be going on nearby. Then go to Alton Baker Park to walk and bike the paved trails.

Seattle > Mt. Hood > Bend, OR

distance from Seattle: ~ 6 hrs | driving direction | best for: skiing, biking, and scenic views

For one of the best road trips from Seattle that will clock up some serious miles, travel south on I-5 through Portland and east toward Central Oregon.

The first place you stop on this road trip will be Mt. Hood , which is home to several of the most popular skiing spots near Oregon. There are 4 different areas for skiing here, but you can also visit during the summertime for mountain biking, camping, and day hikes to Trillium Lake and Mirror Lake .

After a few hours of driving, your road trip will end in Bend. This small city is regarded for its world-class river activities, scenic mountain vistas, and pristine trails. It also has a pretty serious brewery and food trail scene. My favorites of which I shared in this post on Instagram.

While you’re in the area, take time to explore Tumalo Falls , the Newberry National Volcanic Monument , and the High Desert Museum for a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

A bit north of Bend toward Mt. Hood is Smith Rock State Park . Stop here for cool rock formations and hiking trails for all skill levels.

Seattle > Vancouver > Whistler, BC

distance from Seattle: ~ 4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: experiencing Canada and skiing

If you want one of the best road trips from Seattle for visiting Canada, head to Whistler via Vancouver. This route doesn’t take long to drive and covers a couple of British Columbia’s finest cities. However, I put it toward the end of this list of the best road trips from Seattle because it can take closer to 5.5 or 6 hours depending on how long it takes you at the border crossing (though I’ve rarely waiting that long!).

Vancouver, BC

Your first stop on this road trip from Seattle will be Vancouver , which is known for blending metropolitan living with unmatched natural beauty. While there are so many awesome things to do in Vancouver , I always try to stroll through the 400-hectare Stanley Park , hit the cobbled streets of Gastown, and walk along the Seawall .

Whistler, BC

When you’re done in Vancouver, hop on BC-99 north to reach the charming skiing town of Whistler. This place is a serious winter wonderland and is home to a few of the largest ski resorts in North America. It’s also open in summer for hiking and biking if you’d prefer to visit when it’s warm.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Whistler , I have a whole guide to navigating where to eat in the touristy mountain village.

More Seattle trip ideas

Whew, that was a lot! Once you make your way through these best road trips form Seattle, check out these other destinations for even more adventures.

• 35 Best Hiking Spots in Seattle
• Where to Go Glamping in Washington
• Edmonds Restaurants Worth the Trip from Seattle

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8 Best Road Trips from Seattle

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

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

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

Jump to Your Route:

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

Beachfront Property

Long beach from seaview to oysterville.

Starting point: 170 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

Long Beach is the state's sandiest road.

Image: cavan images by Jason Neuerburg

Moses Coulee from State Route 28 to Highway 2

Starting point: 173 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

Image: courtesy the nature conservancy / don macanlaly

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

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

State of the Gorge

Highway 14 from camas to maryhill.

Starting point: 176 miles from Seattle

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

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

Beacon Rock State Park

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

Beacon Rock sits high above the Columbia River Gorge.

Image: shutterstock by hopeless traveler

Spring Creek Hatchery State Park

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

Columbia Hills State Park

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

Maryhill State Park

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

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

Image: Mac Holt

Palouse Pretty

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

Starting point: 291 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

The rolling landscape of the Palouse makes for easy riding.

Image: Shutterstock by chanya thirawarapan

Chuckanut Buffet

Chuckanut drive from burlington to bellingham.

Starting point: 66 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

A jammy Breadfarm treat.

Image: Olivia Brent

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

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

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

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

Chuckanut Drive ends in a charming Bellingham neighborhood.

Image: Shutterstock by darryl brooks

Olympic Fanfare

Highway 101 from port angeles to kalaloch.

Starting point: 82 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

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

The ever-changing coastline at Kalaloch Beach.

Image: Shutterstock by Abbie Warnock-Matthews

Northern Composure

State route 20 from marblemount to mazama.

Starting point: 101 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image: Andy Porter

Rainier Survey

National park roads from paradise to chinook pass.

Starting point: 107 miles from Seattle

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

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

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

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

Mount Rainier  on a clear night from  Chinook Pass.

Image: Joe Tobiason

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The 27 Best Road Trips From Seattle: The Perfect Mix Of Cities And Outdoors For Your Vacation

July 13, 2022

Ahhh exploring the great pacific northwest and beyond but have no clue where to go for your road trip from Seattle? Lucky for you, Seattle, aka the emerald city, is situated on the west coast and can easily make routes to portland, Vancouver bc, California, las vegas, national parks across the midwest and west coast, and more!

However, maybe you want to take it slow though, and start off with small day trips or weekend trips? Well, if that’s the case we also got you covered because we usually take day trips or weekend trips ourselves when taking road trips from Seattle. So we know the best spots to visit when touring by car, while also on a time crunch. If going big is more your style then keep on reading because we covered the best long road trips to take from Seattle!

This post is all about the best road trips from Seattle to take! Whether day trips, weekend trips, or long trips are your style we made sure to have an assortment! Plus, you’ll be able t choose between a mixture of outdoorsy places such s national parks, beaches, lakes, and more cities such as LA or Vegas.

Hold Up! If you’re planning a road trip make sure to check out our Best Road Trip Planner Apps Guide!

Quick Note: All routes listed are the fastest routes, if we listed another route then this is the route that we most recommend taking but it will take longer. You will be traveling through multiple states so please be aware of local laws. Something that is legal in one state may be illegal in another state so beware and be cautious. 

Table of Contents

Road Trips From Seattle: National Parks And Other Beautiful Sites To See

Best Road Trip From Seattle: Yellowstone National Park- Wyoming

Trip Duration: roughly 11-13 hours via the I-90 E.

Road Trip Overview: You’ll be starting this trip in Seattle, Washington, and traveling for around 11-13 hours to get to Yellowstone. This all depends upon the traffic of course and any stops you might be making. This is a multi-state road trip as you’ll be starting in Washington, traveling through Idaho and Montana before reaching your destination state of Wyoming.

Things to do in Yellowstone: Creating the Perfect Yellowstone Itinerary is a must if you plan on visiting this national park! This massive park is full of almost limitless outdoorsy things. You can go hiking, watch wildlife and go biking. Explore the geysers, like the famous Old Faithful Geyser. You can also see the basins and hot springs and so much more!

Crater Lake National Park- Oregon

Trip duration: roughly 7-8.5 hours via the I-5 S

Road Trip Overview: Crater lake is a gorgeous unique spot to visit as it was formed by a collapsed volcano. This road trip is roughly 7-8.5 hours depending on any traffic, road closure stops you make and the route you choose to take. For this trip, you’ll, of course, be starting in Seattle, Washington, and making your way south through Washington to eventually reach the Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.

Things to do in Crater Lake National Park: You can go hiking, camping, swimming, and biking. You can also go for a nice scenic drive around the entire lake, this drive is called Rim Drive. While on Rim Drive you can also stop at the various overlooks and viewpoints to take in the beautiful sites, snap photos, and stretch your legs. There are also boat tours available for you to get out on the water and explore the lake.

Grand Canyon National Park- Arizona

Trip duration: roughly 18-21 hours via the I-84 E

Road Trip Overview: Starting in beautiful western Washington you will make your way Southeast through Washington. You’ll travel through a few states like Oregon, Idaho, and Utah before reaching Arizona. You could even take a side route and pass through Nevada, stopping in Las Vegas before heading to the Canyon.

Things to do in the Grand Canyon National Park: You can go hiking, rafting, camping, backpacking, biking, and more. You can take a scenic drive through various routes available, ride a train into the canyon, take a helicopter tour over the canyon or take a desert jeep tour near the canyon. You can also visit the famous skywalk and see the 4000 feet deep abyss right below you.

Best Road Trips From Seattle: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon- Arizona

Road Trip Overview: Starting in Seattle, you’ll travel through Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Utah and arrive at your destination in Arizona. The reason Horseshoe ben, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon are paired together as a trip is because they are all very close to each other within the same area of the canyon. Getting to Antelope Canyon from the horseshoe bend takes about 10-15 minutes and to get to Glen Canyon from Antelope adds about 55 minutes to your trip. They are all very unique locations to see.

Things to do in Horseshoe Bend: Things to do in Horseshoe Bend: Horseshoe bend is a traveler’s dream, it offers stunning views, hikes, and gorgeous photography spots, and it’s relatively cheap to visit. Hot spots in this area are of course upper antelope canyon which is a beautiful and colorful canyon that is perfect for photo sessions. Along with Glen Canyon Dam, tourists love the views of the water from the dam, so dont miss this destination. There are also a ton more things to do in Horseshoe Bend such as hiking, relaxing at Lake Powel, learning about the history of the area, and more!

Bryce Canyon National Park- Utah

Trip duration: roughly 16-17 hours via the I-84 E.

Road Trip overview: This is roughly a 16-17 hour long road trip but may be longer or shorter depending on traffic, weather, and other related factors. For this trip, you’ll be traveling from Washington through Oregon and Idaho until you’ve reached your destination in Utah.

Things to do in Bryce Canyon: Things to do in Bryce Canyon: Bryce Canyon is beautiful and offers stunning views, that you won’t get anywhere else in the United States. For starters, you’ll want to stop and visit the Bryce amphitheater this large landmark is made up of rock spires that look like pointy long rocks, just like in the above photo. After visiting Bryce Amphitheater make sure to finish the drive along the southern scenic route and you’ll see underrated views that most travelers don’t bother visiting because they think the main attraction Bryce Amphitheater is the only thing to do. However, there are a ton of things to do in this part of Utah, such as outdoor hikes, star gazing, horseback riding, animal watching, and more!

Redwoods- California

Trip duration: 9-13 hours

Fastest route: 9-11 hours via the I-5 S

Recommended route: roughly 12-13 hours via the U.S. Route 101 S

Road Trip Overview: This Stunning Northern California Drive goes through the famous U.S. Route 101 S. This route takes you directly along the coast and through coastal cities. You get amazing views of the pacific ocean for most of the drive. You’ll start in Seattle and make your way South West to get to the U.S. 101 S. Then you’ll follow the U.S. 101 S for the rest of the way driving through Oregon until you reach the Redwoods in California.

Things to do in the Redwoods National Park: Visit the beach and tide pools. Drive through one of the many drive-thru redwoods. You can go camping, hiking, walking, biking, watch for wildlife and enjoy scenic drives through the forest.

Multnomah Falls- Oregon

Trip duration: roughly 3-4 hours via the I-5 S

Road Trip Overview: This famous waterfall is located along the Columbia River. You’ll travel on the I-5 south from Seattle until reaching Oregon and then you’ll follow the Columbia river East to reach this beautiful waterfall.

Things to do in Multnomah Falls: You can go hiking along the trails and visit several other waterfalls nearby as well. You can also visit Nearby Portland and the Columbia River.

Mount Rainier- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 2-2.5 hours via the WA-169 S and the WA-410 E.

Road trip overview: Travel through evergreen forests in western Washington to reach this huge active volcano. Mount Rainier is one of the tallest active volcanoes in the contiguous United States. It is also the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. There are tons of hikes, lakes, rivers, and wildlife to watch out for and explore.

Things to do in Mount Rainier National Park: There are tons of hikes, lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and wildlife to watch out for and explore. There are also lots of campgrounds located throughout the park for anyone wanting to brave the wilderness and camp out. 

Mount St. Helens- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 3-4 hours via the I-5 S.

Road Trip Overview: Travel south through Washington until you reach the active stratovolcano Mount St. Helens. Mount St. Helens most recently erupted in 1980 and caused a ton of destruction and clouds of ash and fallout throughout most of Washington. 

Things to do in Mount St. Helens: Go hiking, biking, zip-lining, camping, and more! If interested in volcanic geology, visit the Ape Cave lava tubes, the Trail of Two Forest lava beds, and the Lava Canyon Trail. There’s also June lake which was formed by an old lava flow. 

Olympic National Park- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 2.5-3 hours via WA-305 and the US-101 N.

Road Trip Overview: The Olympic national park is a gorgeous park featuring mountains, rainforests, and old-growth forests. The park features vast amounts of wilderness and so many different ecosystems. This park receives roughly 150 inches of rainfall a year and is one of the wettest regions of the United States. 

Things to do in Olympic National Park: You can go boating, hiking, camping, fishing, and backpacking. There are also ranger-led trips and hikes available. This is a huge and beautiful national park with so much wildlife and so many different ecosystems to watch, explore and learn about. If you love the view of the stunning coastlines then make sure to visit the Olympic Peninsula for stunning views! 

North Cascades National Park – Washington

Trip Duration: Roughly 2 hours to 2.5 hours depending on the route taken

Fastest route: Via I-5 N and WA-530 E/ State Rte 530 NE takes roughly 2.1 hours

Seattle Road Trip Overview:

Things To Do in North Cascades National Park: Take a scenic drive across the north cascade highway which gives you stunning views of the forest. Hiking is one of the most popular things you can do so make sure to stop by at the hiking detours nearby such as ladder creek falls, thunder knob trail, Diablo lake, and blue lake. There are actually a ton of hikes in this part of Washington, but those three are especially popular during the summertime.

San Juan Islands – Washington

Trip Duration: 3.5 hours keep in mind this trip includes a ferry and has tolls

Road trip overview: This unique road trip from Seattle will take you across to the San Juan islands by driving to Anacortes and hopping on the Anacortes ferry to Friday harbor. The San Juan island is home to various activities and is most notably famous for its unique archipelago environment.

Things to do on San Juan Island: When visiting the San Juan islands, you can stop at the lighthouse and stroll along the beach. Then go whale watching to see orcas up close or far, really depends where they decide to swim. There’s a scenic byway that is roughly 236 miles that you can drive through to see stunning views of the island, terrain, and wildlife. if youre are outdoorsy and enjoy hikes then make sure to visit mount constitution. if you love water sports then kayaking and wakeboarding are both popular water activities to do.

Best Road Trips From Seattle: Down the West Coast

Los Angeles- California

Trip duration: 18-27 hours depending on the route taken

Fastest route: roughly 18-19 hours via the I-5 S.

Recommended route: roughly 26-27 hours via U.S. Route 101 S.

Road Trip Overview: This is a multi-state trip and a favorite for Seattle road trips, where you’ll start in Washington and drive down the coast through Oregon and California to get to Los Angeles. The route we recommend is taking the U.S. 101 S. This route takes you directly along the coast where you see the beautiful pacific ocean for most of your trip down the coast. This route takes you through beautiful coastal cities, Redwood National Forest, and through San Francisco. Your pitstops turn into picnics and bathroom breaks by the ocean. If you would like the faster route you’ll drive straight down through Washington, Oregon, and California on the Interstate. 

Things to do in Los Angeles: LA is full of wonderful things to do and even better things to eat! LA is foodie-lover heaven! They have all types of cuisines, but the best part about LA is their commitment to vegan diets. Los Angeles will satisfy your vegan cravings , whether you love Asian cuisine, American style, or delicious vegan ice cream; you and your tummy will be happy.

Visit the Hollywood Sign, hike up to the observatory, the walk of fame, and Santa Monica. Theme parks to visit nearby are Disneyland, Universal Studios umm hello Harry Potter World !, and Six Flags. Plus, it’s Hollywood so you can visit so many famous filming locations within LA itself! Might even run into a movie star while you’re there.

San Francisco- California

Trip duration: 

Fastest route: roughly 13-14 hours via the I-5 S.

Recommended route: roughly 17-18 hours via U.S. Route 101 S.

Road Trip Overview: For this 17-18 hour long drive you’ll travel along the beautiful West Coast. You’ll travel south through Washington, Oregon, and California coastal cities until you reach the big and beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. 

Things to do in San Francisco: When you’ve arrived, you can visit the famous Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Pier 39, The Painted Ladies, Baker Beach, Lands End Lookout, and the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience. If you’re a Full House fan you can also visit the “Full House” house. You can also ride on one of the famous cable cars. There’s so much to do in San Francisco that we can’t possibly cover it all. 

Best Seattle Road Trip: Las Vegas- Nevada

Trip duration: Roughly 17-18 hours via the I-84 E. 

Road Trip Overview: This is a 17-18 hour long journey depending on traffic, road conditions, weather, etc. You will be traveling through Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada. 

Things to do in Las Vegas: Las Vegas is a fun place for all ages, doesn’t just have to be a city for adults. While most activities are geared toward adults, there are a lot of fun, kid-safe activities and a ton of outdoor activities in las vegas.

If traveling with children, you can visit the aquarium, the high roller, ride go-karts, visit Hershey’s chocolate world, do indoor skydiving, visit theme parks, top golf, and more! For adults, there’s everything for kids, plus gambling and drinking. If you’re looking for things to do in vegas besides gambling, then make sure to check this awesome guide for non-gambling activities in Las Vegas !

Best Road Trips From Seattle: Best Weekend Getaways

Vancouver- canada.

Trip duration: roughly 2.5-3.5 hours via the I-5 N.

Road Trip Overview: Travel north from Seattle until you reach the border. Here you will go through border patrol and then cross over into Canada once you are cleared. Now you’ll continue to head north until you reach bustling Vancouver , BC. This is a very diverse city with lots of good food and a lot of scenic things to see and do.

Things to do in Vancouver: Visit Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension bridge park, English Bay, and lighthouse park. There’s also a nice scenic drive on Sea to Sky highway to go on. 

Portland- Oregon

Road Trip overview: You’ll travel south through Washington until reaching Oregon. Portland is Oregon’s largest city and is filled with tons of outdoorsy sites. There are a bunch of parks, trails, and bike paths within the city. There’s also a big coffee and foodie scene. 

Things to do in Portland: Visit the Oregon Zoo, the beautiful Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, and Washington Park. There is also the Portland Saturday market filled with food and drink stalls as well as arts, crafts, and jewelry stalls.  

Seaside- Oregon

Trip duration: Roughly 3.5 hours via the I-5 S.

Road Trip overview: You’ll travel south through Washington and then head towards the ocean and keep traveling south again until you reach the coastal city of Seaside, Oregon. Seaside is a popular beach area to visit but keep in mind the waters are pretty cold.

Things to do in Seaside: Visit the famous carousel mall, have a picnic on the beach, go bike riding, hike, golfing, visit the aquarium, go kayaking, swim, and more! Seaside is definitely a small town beach location where you can relax, enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the beautiful sites of the Pacific Ocean. 

Cannon Beach- Oregon

Trip duration: roughly 4 hours via the I-5 S. 

Road Trip Overview: Cannon beach is a popular destination on the coast of Oregon. A most notable feature of this beach is the giant rock, Haystack rock just off the shore in the water. A portion of this beach called Indian beach was most famously filmed in Twilight though in the movie the location was supposed to be La Push beach which is a beach located on the coast of Washington State. 

Things to do in Cannon Beach: Visit the beach and the tide pools surrounding the beach. Go hiking and biking, have a beach picnic, have a beach bonfire, and visit nearby beach cities. 

Best Day Trips From Seattle

If you get tired of being in Seattle, even with the insane amount of things to do in Seattle , taking a small day trip is the perfect getaway for you ☺️.

Diablo Lake- Washington

Trip Duration: Roughly 2.5 hours via I-5 N and WA-530 E/State Rte 530 NE

Seattle Road Trip Overview: The popular Diablo Lake trail is immersed into the sourdough mountain; you’ll find beautiful waterfalls and be able to take pictures and witness views of the north cascades, and finally reach the turquoise blue Diablo Lake.

Things to do at Diablo Lake: This outdoorsy activity is essentially a day hike that is 7.6 miles roundtrip with various switchbacks and an elevation gain of 1400 ft. After reaching your destination, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Diablo Lake. Feel free to take a swim but be careful and swim at your own risk. Also, it’s a dangerous hike when done in the cold seasons because of the tendency of the snow to melt in spots and cause falls.

Ocean Shores- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 2.5 hours via I-5 S.

Road Trip Overview: Starting in Seattle, you’ll drive south on the I-5 and then head west to reach Ocean Shores. Ocean shores is a popular small-town beach area located along the coast of Washington. 

Things to do in Ocean Shores: Ocean shores is a drive on the beach so if you have a 4×4 or AWD car you can drive onto the beach which is perfect for sunset and sunrise on the beach. You can also go hiking, biking, kayaking, and rent mopeds. You can also visit the sand dunes, watch wildlife and have beach bonfires! Overall this small beach is perfect for a spontaneous day trip or even spending a few days and renting a vacation rental.

Long Beach – Washington

Trip Duration: Roughly 3.5 hours depending on the route you take.

The fastest and recommended route: Via I-5 S and US-101 S at 3.1 hours

Road Trip Overview: Long beach is a small town that features a beautiful long beach across the long beach peninsula. You can also drive along this beach, and we recommend driving an all-wheel drive car. Cool fact, long beach in Washington is the longest continuous beach that can be found in the United States. Also, if you love eating fresh seafood then this beach is your jam! They have a fresh harvest of clams, fish, and other sea critters.

Things To Do in Long Beach: There are a variety of things to do when visiting Long Beach, you can go wakeboarding, parasailing, canoeing, kite flying, and building sand castles. Afterward, stop and grab some delicious fresh seafood and brewed ciders and ales for a relaxing evening ☺️.

Forks- Washington

Trip duration: 3.5 hours via fastest route

Fastest and recommended route: roughly 3.5 hours via the U.S. Route 101 N and U.S. Route 101 W. 

Road Trip Overview: For this trip, you will board a ferry to Bainbridge Island. From there you will make your way to the U.S. Route 101 N, which will eventually turn into the U.S Route 101 W, which takes you the rest of the way to Forks. If this city sounds familiar that’s because it is indeed the city where Twilight famously took place, which makes it a super cool location to visit for die-hard Twilight fans.

Things to do in Forks: There are a bunch of Twilight dedicated locations that you can visit and some that you can drive by, like Bella’s house, Bella’s truck, the treaty line, Jacob Black’s house, Dr. Cullen’s parking spot, and more! You can even take a trip out to La Push beach and Ruby beach. 

Best Day Trip From Seattle: Leavenworth- Washington

Trip duration: 2.5 hours via the I-90 E

Road Trip Overview: Leavenworth is one of the most famous places to visit in the U.S. It’s a very unique Bavarian-style village located in the Cascades. It’s one of those cities that you don’t see every day and it has the darling small-town charm that everyone loves.

Honestly, one of the best reasons to live in Washington is that you can visit so many cool places!

Recommended visiting during Christmas time!!! The Christmas lights and the big Christmas tree are so nice! Also, during Oktoberfest, if you’re a beer lover, there’s also food and root beer available for non-drinkers!

Things to do in Leavenworth: Visit the nutcracker museum, a reindeer farm, fish hatcheries, go kayaking, hiking, rafting, and more! During Wintertime it’s a great place to book a cabin, enjoy the snow, go skiing, and enjoy beautiful Christmas decor.

Spokane- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 4.5-5 hours via I-90 E.

Road trip overview: Beginning in beautiful evergreen western Washington you will travel east on the interstate. It’s an interstate drive but the drive is gorgeous nonetheless. Plus, you get to see the change from green hilly Western Washington to flat and dry eastern Washington. You’ll drive through Snoqualmie Pass and Wenatchee national forest making your way to Spokane. 

Things to do in Spokane: Visit the Riverfront Park, Riverside State Park, Cat Tales Wildlife Center, Wonderland Family Fun Center, Cathedral of St. John, Huntington Park, Latah Creek, Little Spokane River Natural Area, Audubon park, and more! There is also a theme park just roughly 40 minutes away in Idaho called Silverwood that’s worth a visit for some fun! If visiting in October there’s also a Scarywood Haunted Nights event available. 

Yakima – Washington

Trip Duration: 2.1 hours via I-90 E

Road Trip From Seattle Overview: Yakima may seem like a quiet and relatively boring city to visit. it does offer a variety of cider brewing businesses, ale makers, and wine vineyards to visit. We personally love wine tasting and trying different flights of ales and the various small business in this area.

Things To Do in Yakima: They don’t call Yakima the Palm Springs of Washington for nothing (lol Washington Joke). If you love Panaderia el Sollecito for delicious and aesthetic drinks! If you love adventure then you’ll also enjoy riding an inner tube across the Yakima River or the nearby Columbia River. Yakima is also home to authentic Mexican-style food so make sure to try some of the local taco trucks and restaurants ad the Mexican food is delicious!

Perfect Weekend Trip: Tri-Cities- Washington

Trip Duration: 3-4 hours depending on the route taken

Seattle Road Trip Overview: Seattle to Tri-cities is a wild trip as it goes through the wet and temperate west region of Washington to the dry and dusty part of eastern Washington. Tri-cities is home to three cities: Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. Most people who visit usually spend their time between Richland and Kennewick.

Things To do In the Tri-Cities aka Kennewick, Richland Pasco: The Columbia River is a big attraction for this area, and tons of people visit just to swim in the river, boating, barbecue, take the kids to play on the large jungle gym, and other outdoor activities. If you love shopping tri-cities in the area to be for eastern Washington shopping as the Columbia mall holds a decent amount of shops for everyone. If you’re into music check out the Columbia River gorge for live music and shows!

Seattle Road Trips: The End!

That wraps up our post for the best road trip from Seattle! We hope you enjoyed this post and if you did please share this post via any of your favorite social media ☺️. If you’re looking for other cool things to do in the U.S.A, then make sure to read our other post!

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Quiz: Which San Diego Adventure is Right for You? 

THE BEST ROADTRIPS FROM SEATTLE (A PACKED 4-DAY ITINERARY)

Post summary : Going over tips and places to visit on your next road trip from Seattle!

Washington state is a state that you definitely need to add to your bucket list! 

Fun fact! I actually worked at a summer camp as a boat driver in Washington one summer during college. 

Unfortunately, I did not really take advantage of the beauty of this state and now am kicking myself in the butt for it. I took a few road trips to Seattle while I worked in Washington, but that’s it.

Now, I am having to plan multiple trips back to Washington because there is just too much to see.

In this article, I am going to give you my jam packed , most recent 4-day itinerary for visiting Washington! This article gives you all the details on how to go on the ultimate road trip from Seattle . 

This itinerary is a mix of both outdoor adventure and city experience. Be prepared for lots of fun and beauty!

If you can, I highly recommend visiting in the Fall. The colors are stunning. Maybe I just say that because I live in San Diego and don’t see Fall colors that often, but regardless the scenery is beautiful! 

So, let’s get to it! 

WASHINGTON ITINERARY TRIPS

My mom and I visited Washington in Fall (October) of 2020. We flew in on a Thursday night, so that we could have a full four days in Washington. 

Plan to fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International airport and pick up a rental car directly from the airport. We rented a Jeep Wrangler and I highly recommend renting something equivalent or similar. 

The weather in Washington can quickly change. We were met with all types of weather: sun, rain, high winds, muddy roads, bumpy roads and even snow. 

So, having the option to turn on all wheel drive was a must for us. 

Always be checking the weather as you may need to rearrange your trip based on the forecasted weather. Pack clothes for all weather types as well! 

Considering you will be driving through lots of remote areas, I recommend downloading your directions ahead of time or while you have service before heading out on your first adventure. 

DAY 1: EXPLORE MT. RAINIER NATIONAL PARK 

Fly into Seattle the night before your 4 days in Washington starts and grab a hotel near the airport.

If you are anything like me, you like to save as much money as you can while on vacation. I recommend heading to a local grocery store and stocking up on some food for the week. 

We personally went to Fred Meyer’s for our food and other necessities. See below for a list of the food we purchased. 

Looking for easy meals to make while camping or on vacation?

Day 1 will be jam-packed! Head out early in the morning to Mt. Rainier National Park. This is about a 2.5-hour drive. I recommend waking up early to allow for the maximum amount of time while in the park. 

Now, I have seen and backpacked through multiple National Parks in my lifetime, and Mt. Rainier has to be on the top of my list! It is stunning and a must-see when visiting!

Mt. Rainier National Park actually still has an active volcano!

Begin your morning by doing the Nisqually Vista Trail. This is a great trail for anyone! It is well paved, offers incredible views of Mt Rainier, and is great for the whole family. 

The Nisqually Vista Trail is about one-mile long and is rated easy. 

From the Nisqually Trail parking lot, head just up the street to the Paradise parking lot. From here you will have TONS of hiking options. 

(There is a visitor’s center here as well, but due to COVID it was closed)

We chose to hike to Myrtle Falls. Again, this is a fairly easy hike. From the falls, you can choose to continue on to other trails or turn around. 

We chose to turn around and head to Reflections Lake . 

Make a pit stop at Refelctions Lake before hiking up the Pinnacle Peak Trail . This trail is located directly across form Reflections Lake and I highly recommend this hike. 

The Pinnacle Peak Trail is about 3.2 miles and is strenuous with exposed parts of the trail however, when you reach the top, or the end of the maintained trail, you will be blessed with views of both Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helen!

Plan for this hike to take around 3 hours depending on how long you spend at the top. 

Tip: Bring lunch with you and eat it at the top! My favorite meal is the Chili Mac n’ Beef by Mtnhouse. 

After your hike, you will probably be tired like us haha, so start making your way towards your hotel for the night. 

If it is on your way, make a little pit stop at Narada Falls. It is a short hike to the bottom of the falls with options to continue hiking if you are up for it!

We attempted to find a good spot for sunset , but unfortunately were not able to. We were told Cougar Rock was a good spot, but I would have to disagree. 

Food options are limited near the park, but we had a delicious dinner at the cutest spot about 10 minutes from our hotel. 

Check out Paradise Village Restaraunt. I got a burger and my mom got the Salmon and they were both delicious. They also let me taste their chicken dumpling vegetable soup and it was to die for. 

For lodging arrangements, we grabbed a little studio at the *Gateway Inn for the night. It is located literally right outside the entrance to the park. It is an older place, but we felt safe and clean and it was affordable for being so close to the park!

***Our itinerary unfortunately got flipped upside down due to weather. We were actually going to do this whole itinerary in the opposite direction.

So, just be aware that some of the hotels are backtracking a little bit as we did have our trip perfectly planned out, but had to make some last minute switches. 

If you are able to find a hotel inside the park itself this may suit you better. Due to COVID all the hotels within the park were closed when we visited. 

DAY 2: MT. RAINIER TO LEAVENWORTH

Mt. Rainier National Park has so many different hikes to offer, so make sure to check out a map prior to choosing what you do!

Day two unfortunately consisted of a lot of rain for us. 🙁

Something I am continually learning is that trips don’t always go accorindg to plan. I have had to learn how to adjust the itinerary and still have a great time!

We headed up to Tipsoo Lake as this is supposed to have some epic views, but of course due to the rain we could barely even see the lake in front of us. 

We had plans to do the Fremont Fire Lookout Hike , but decided to pass for safety reasons and headed on towards our next stop. Leavenworth. 

It is about a 3hr 30 min drive from Gateway Inn (our previous nights stay) to Leavenworth. (very little service along the way)

Enjoy the rest of your day exploring Leavenworth ! Trust me you won’t want to miss this town! It is a cute little german inspired town. 

We were actually there during Oktoberfest which was quite fun to see people all dressed up! 

Spend the afternoon walking into the different shops and make sure to do some beer and brawt tasting while there! 

A few shops that I recommend visiting are: The Gingerbread house, Kris Kringle store, and the olive oil and vinegar tasting room. 

Aaannnndd if you are up for it! Get all dressed up and get your photo taken at studio 1890 . This was the perfect rainy day activity! We laughed our little booties off.

If the weather allows for it, then I recommend watching sunset form the town of Leavenworth before heading back to your hotel. 

***Because we visited Leavenworth during Oktoberfest the hotel prices skyrocketed. We chose to stay in the town of Wenatchee about 20 minutes outside of Leavenworth. 

DAY 3: HIKING IN LEAVENWORTH

On this road trip from Seattle, I was personally most excited for this day! I had seen some epic photos on Instagram of visiting the Enchantment Lakes in Leavenworth, Washington. 

We had originally planned to hike to Lake Colchuck, but a few factors had changed our decision. 

The weather forecast did not look good, the hike was rated strenuous and I was with my mom, so we decided to visit Lake Stuart instead. 

I mean, I haven’t seen Lake Colchuck, but Lake Stuart was quite beautiful and felt pretty epic to me. 

Lake Colchuck and Lake Stuart both start out at the same trailhead and split off in two different directions about 2.2 miles in. 

Lake Stuart trail is 8.7 miles long and is considered to be a moderate hike. Here is a great guide to hiking this trail.  

Also, Lake Colchuck is the more popular trail and I am sure it gets crowded. We saw a lot of people doing that hike. We only saw 3 other people when we arrived at Lake Stuart. 

One day it is a dream of mine to do the complete Enchantments thru-hike .

Some tips for visiting either Lake:

-The best times to hike this trail are from June to October due to snow. (It actually snowed on us here)

-Get to the parking lot early. We got one of the last spots and arrived at 830am

-Try to visit on a weekday. Weekends are extremely crowded

-It is a bumpy, unpaved, dirt road to the top. (I was nervous even in my Jeep Wrangler)

-Pack warm clothes as a lot of this hike is shaded and it is colder in the higher elevations

-Pay the $5 parking fee when you arrive. You will get ticketed

-Pack enough snacks and water as this is a long hike with elevation gain

Plan for this hike to take around 6 hours. After your hike, begin your 2.5 hour drive back towards Seattle. 

Sleep in Seattle! 

DAY 4: EXPLORE SEATTLE

Finish off your Seattle road trip by making a full circle and returning back to Seattle. 

Book your flight to depart at night, so that you can spend the day exploring Seattle. 

I personally love visiting the “touristy” locations when I go places, so of course we hit up all the spots. 

Begin your morning by eating a super delicious and healthy breakfast at Bacco Cafe. 

Then walk right down to the Pike’s Place Market! Enjoy looking at all the booths and the views of the water! Maybe grab a coffee to walk around with? 🙂

Once you are done, head over to the space needle. We personally bought the combo tickets for the Space Needle and the Chihuly Glass museum. 

Plan to spend about 2 hours in total visiting these places. 

We ended our time in Seattle by grabbing a delicious salad from Homegrown (recommended by multiple people) and going to Gas Works park.

FINAL THOUGHTS FROM YOUR OUTDOOR LOVING GIRL

Road tripping from Seattle is easy and I hope this article made it even easier for you to plan your next trip! 

I would love to go back and backpack the Enchantments trail in Washington one day!

Have you ever been to Washington? I’d love to know your favorite spots!

Like this itinerary? Pin it for later!

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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!

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The 10 Best Weekend Road Trips From Seattle, Washington

Posted by Arthur McMahon September 08, 2020 Updated May 21, 2024

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

One of the best things about Seattle is how the best of the Pacific Northwest is only a short drive (or ferry ride) away.

Taking a ride out of Seattle can mean anything from hopping on a ferry across the Puget Sound to skiing through the clouds on Washington’s sky-high Cascade peaks.

You can get to just about any corner of The Evergreen State on a weekend road trip from Seattle or easily cross borders into Oregon, Idaho, or even Canada. There’s an entire world of ecosystems, topographies, and towns to explore only a few hours from the city.

Below, you’ll find a list of the best Seattle road trips for your next mini-vacation or weekend getaway. Along with suggestions of things to do, you’ll also find recommended lodging and camping options.

Road Trip Planning

While the coast and the eastern half of the state are accessible year-round, the mountains in the High Cascades of Washington can be difficult and dangerous to explore in winter — some roads normally accessible during summer are closed for much of the year due to the snowpack. Skiers and snowmobilers will still be able to get to ski resorts and sno-parks, but hazardous road conditions are always possible.

Elsewhere, weather and seasonal changes are hardly a hindrance. Be sure to check the  Washington State Department of Transportation website  for the latest road, traffic, and weather conditions before you hit the road.

If you need a vehicle for your Seattle road trip, consider renting from  Escape Campervans  or  Cascade Adventure Vans . And if you’re taking a  ferry , be sure to book ahead and make appropriate accommodations for the specific vehicle you’ll bring on board.

1. Coeur d’Alene

The city of Coeur d’Alene is the Pacific Northwest’s Lake Tahoe. A beautiful waterfront bookends the adorable town with a stunning mountainscape as the backdrop. In this case, those mountains are the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

For Seattleites, Coeur d’Alene’s atmosphere is often a welcome change from the Pacific side of the region. You can laze the day away on the lake, take a stroll along the lively waterfront district, or spend your time at one of the local resorts.

There are also several ski areas on the outskirts of the city, multiple golf courses, a casino, and the  Silverwood Theme Park,  which is the largest theme and water park in the PNW. Of course,  taking a hike near Spokane is always an option too.

Lodging: There are several resorts in town. Perhaps the most iconic is the Coeur d’Alene Resort , which occupies large portion of the town’s waterfront. The Blackwell Hotel is another classy boutique option in the heart of the waterfront district.

Coeur d’Alene offers plenty of amazing vacation rentals too, like this lakeside couple’s retreat or this rustic waterfront cabin .

Camping: RV drivers can park near Coeur d’Alene’s waterfront at the large Blackwell Island RV Park . Tent campers (or those who want to park their RV outside the city) will find the Wolf Lodge Campground to be one of the best options in the area.

Distance from Seattle: 311 miles (approx. 4 hours, 45 minutes)

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

2. Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is a multi-faceted weekend destination with several different types of outdoor recreation available. Those who want plenty of civilization with their lakeside fun can stick to the southern end of the lake in the bustling and beautiful town of Chelan, which has a charming downtown Main Street and farmer’s markets every Thursday during the summer.

For a more remote retreat, take a ferry across the lake to the small town of Stehekin, which you can only reach by boat or trail. From town, you can access the Pacific Crest Trail and many other hiking trails, and there are great views of the lake — consider a helicopter tour for amazing birds-eye views.

Adventurous folks can opt to set up camp at one of the many boat-in campgrounds along the lakeshore or backpack into the Cascades. Glacier Peak reigns above all else in the area, and there are many other lesser-known summits to discover in the area.

Lodging: There are many options in Chelan, but outside of town, consider the Mountain View Lodge and Resort . If you make the trip to Steheiken, give the North Cascades Lodge a look.

Camping: You’ll find multiple campgrounds on the lake’s south shore, a couple at the northern end, and multiple boat-in campgrounds along the shoreline, like Coral Creek Campground . For a more traditional camping experience, stay at Lake Chelan State Park .

Distance from Seattle: 180 miles (approx. 3 hours)

Related Read:   9 Amazing Lake Camping Sites in Washington

3. Leavenworth

A cute town with German influences set on the Cascade Range’s eastern slopes, Leavenworth offers a unique experience hard to find elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest. There are many reasons why you would want to visit this charming town, but its lovely Germanic design what draws in most travelers. T

he town’s architecture is reminiscent of a mountainside Bavarian village. There are German beer houses and restaurants along the main strip. Monthly festivals are a cause for celebration throughout the year, especially, of course, in autumn, when Oktoberfest celebrations draw in the crowds.

There’s more to explore outside of town. The nearby Cascade range is full of hiking trails and several ski resorts lie within a short drive from the village, as do several wineries.

Lodging: The recently remodeled  Blue Elk Inn has expansive grounds and complimentary cruiser bicycles for guests. For something more lavish (and thematic) check out the  Bavarian Lodge , which features ornate decor and mountain views.

On the vacation rental front, the Black Bear Cabin offers the out-in-the-woods feel while the Bavarian-style 1227 Haus is conveniently located downtown

Camping: Adjacent to each other and within walking distance of a grocery store, the Leavenworth/Pine Village KOA and Alpine View RV Park & Campgrounds offer clean campsites and is close to town.

Distance from Seattle: 117 miles (approx. 2 hours)

Related Read:   The 10 Best Airbnbs in Leavenworth, Washington

4. Long Beach

Long Beach is a lovely oceanside getaway that has more to it than its namesake sandy shoreline. At the ends of the 28-mile beach are freshwater deltas and two outdoor recreation areas:  Cape Disappointment State Park  and  Leadbetter Point State Park .

The beach boardwalk near the heart of town serves as a launching point for the 8.5-mile coastal  Discovery Trail  that continues to Cape Disappointment. There are several lakes to enjoy along the way plus access to the ocean and Willapa Bay.

Speaking of the Bay, visitors can opt to travel a few miles north to the village of Oysterville for fresh-from-the-sea food at  Oysterville Sea Farms . Near town, the  Cranberry Museum  is a source of local agricultural history and has nearby cranberry fields (bogs) that make for an interesting and colorful afternoon stroll.

Lodging: Located as close to the ocean as any structure dare get, the Inn at Discovery Coast is a beach lover’s dream stay. 

If you’re in the market for a sweet oceanfront vacay rental, look no further than this farmhouse-themed condo .

Camping: Eagle’s Nest Resort is an amenity-rich experience with mini-golf, a clubhouse, and a game room. Those who want more of a rustic experience should look into one of the campgrounds in Cape Disappointment State Park .

Distance from Seattle: 171 miles (approx. 3 hours, 15 minutes)

Related Read:   13 Outdoorsy Things to Do on the Washington Coast

5. Mount Baker

Aside from the main road that heads to the  Mount Baker Ski Area  on the northern side of the mountain, Mount Baker is relatively remote and difficult to access. There are many accessible forest service roads during the summer, but you’ll need a capable (usually 4WD) vehicle to travel them. If you’re making a winter road trip, you’ll definitely need snow tires and AWD or 4WD.

Its remoteness makes Mount Baker one of the best Seattle road trips, especially when the city is feeling packed. It offers nearly 200 miles of snowmobile trails, multiple ski slopes, and countless hiking opportunities . Backpackers seeking solitude should head this way.

The southeastern end is also fairly accessible. Baker Lake is a great reservoir for fishing and other watersports. There are also several trails to backcountry lakes where few people roam.

Lodging: The Logs at Canyon Creek offers cozy cabin rentals on the north side of the mountain ideal for skiers. On the south side, you’ll want to take a look at the Cascade Mountain Lodge .

Camping: Surrounded by old-growth forest and the gushing whitewater of the North Fork Nooksack River, the Douglas Fir Campground is a beautiful place to spend the night on the north side of Mount Baker. Those heading to Baker Lake will enjoy Swift Creek Campground or Horseshoe Cove Campground .

Distance from Seattle: 110 miles (approx. 2 hours)

Related Read:   14 Best Airbnbs in Washington For Unique Evergreen State Getaway

6. Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is an alpine wonderland like no other, and you’ll also find it on the list of Portland’s Best Weekend Road Trips. Mount Rainier is the tallest peak in Washington state as well the Cascade Range, and there’s plenty to see here to fill more than a few weekend getaways.

Seattleites may want to work on tackling the Wonderland Trail one piece at a time, or check the trails on the list of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park one by one. Be sure to visit the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout for amazing mountain views.

Paradise Valley and Crystal Mountain Resort are the more tourist-heavy areas around the mountain. You’ll want to stick to the western and northern sides of the park to avoid crowds. That’s where you’ll find less-trafficked hikes like the Summit Lake Trail .

Be sure to check road conditions before you go — outside of summer, many of the park roads are closed due to the insane accumulation of snow on this mountain.

Lodging: You have options like the classic Paradise Inn  or the slopeside Crystal Mountain Resort — but also check out our guide to the best cabin rentals near Mount Rainier .

Camping: Mowich Lake Campground is on the bank of a serene lake 17 miles northwest of Rainier. The Dalles Campground is just as beautiful, though easier to access as it’s just off the highway on the park’s northeastern side.

Distance from Seattle:  82 miles (approx. 1 hour, 45 minutes)

Related Read:   11 Best Glamping Spots in Washington for a Natural Getaway

7. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

At Mount St. Helens, it’s all about the views, trails, and interpretive learning centers. That’s because most everything else burned when the mountain erupted in 1980. The active volcano is still home to lush forests and cascading waterfalls to discover, however.

The main highway into the monument passes popular lakes and several notable points of interest. The Mount St. Helens Forest Learning Center is a free information resource with interactive history lessons, Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center is equally informative, and the Johnston Ridge Observatory offers astounding panoramic views.

Of course, there are trails galore across the mountain. You’ll need a permit to hike above 4,800 feet, which includes the summit. You’ll also need a permit when camping in the Mt. Margaret Backcountry . Be sure to take a tour of the Ape Cave Interpretive Site during summer visits.

Lodging: Options are limited near the mountain, but consider the lovely  Anderson Lodge nearby.

Camping: You’ll find rustic lakeside camping at Merrill Lake Campground on the south end. For something with a bit more sophistication, take a look at Eco Park Resort or Silver Lake Resort, both along the main highway east of the mountain.

Distance from Seattle: 148 miles (approx. 2 hours, 30 minutes)

Related Read:   11 Magical Treehouse Rentals in Washington

8. Ocean Shores

A peaceful and quiet oceanside vacation destination, Ocean Shores is the best of the Seattle road trips on this list if all you really want to do is relax. The coastline here is a bit rough and wild, making it ideal for sightseeing, but not so much for swimming.

Ocean Shores lies between the Pacific Ocean and Washington’s North Bay. Fishing is popular in the area, and the North Bay Natural Area Preserve is a great place for birdwatching. The town offers scenic interpretive areas, a golf course, art galleries, restaurants, and more.

And Ocean Shores lies only a short drive from Olympic National Park —which on its own could be considered one of the best Seattle road trips. There are a number of long and short trails to hike in the park, but the scenic drive and viewpoints are spectacular on their own. There’s no need to hoof it on your vacation, unless you want to.

Lodging: There are many fantastic resorts and cottage rentals in Ocean Shores. Of particular note are the Judith Ann Inn and the Polynesian Resort. The latter is pet-friendly and has multi-room suites for larger groups.

Camping: If you have an RV, the Quinault Marina & RV Park is adjacent to a wildlife refuge and offers sand volleyball, fire pits, as well as marina access. Tent campers will find a clean and well-protected place to set up at Ocean City State Park .

Distance from Seattle: 132 miles (approx. 2 hours, 30 minutes)

9. Portland

Portland is the heart of the Pacific Northwest. It’s where the mighty Willamette River feeds into the state-dividing Columbia River. Mount Hood looms over the city, and you can see the snow-capped Washington peaks of Mount Adams and Mount Saint Helens on a clear day.

Related read : The Ultimate Portland to Seattle Road Trip Itinerary

Downtown has everything you could ever want in a city, and there plenty to see on the outskirts, as well. Check out the best hikes in Portland to find local attractions such as Mount Tabor, the Japanese Rose Garden, and the Riverfront Path, plus destinations outside the city like Multnomah Falls and Mount Hood (check out these incredible Mount Hood hikes too). Only a few hours from Seattle, Portland serves as a great weekend home base for exploring Oregon.

Lodging: The options are seemingly endless — but a standout is the Edgefield Hotel with its wacky and historic charm and superb amenities like a warm saltwater wading pool.

Camping: Check out the 10 best campgrounds near Portland . A few are on the outskirts of town and the rest are further out in the wilder areas.

Distance from Seattle: 174 miles (approx. 2 hours, 45 minutes)

Related Read:   12 Epic Outdoor Summer Vacation Spots in the U.S.

10. Vancouver Island

There’s a lot of variety on Vancouver island, which is probably why it’s one of the most popular Seattle road trips. If it’s your first time visiting, spend time in Victoria (an amazing spot to go whale watching) and explore the smaller town of Tofino.

It’ll take about four hours to get from Victoria to Tofino, so this road trip is best done over a week or long weekend, rather than in a 48-hour weekend window.

You can get to Vancouver Island from Seattle by plane or ferry. Most cruises and flights arrive in Victoria, where the scenic Inner Harbour overlooks the Juan de Fuca Strait. If you love flowers and plants, head to the vibrant Butchart Gardens outside the city.

Tofino is more rural. It’s on the western shore, surrounded by old-growth forest. The town is a great basecamp for adventures into Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve .

Lodging: Spring for Fairholme Manor — a historic estate with lush gardens — or enjoy the view from your own private rooftop deck at the Pied-À-Terre Harbour Penthouse .

Camping: Fort Victoria RV Park is the closest you’ll get to the capital city. For something closer to Tofino, look at Surf Grove Campground or Green Point Campground .

Distance from Seattle: 107 miles (approx. 4 hours, 30 minutes)

Explore More of the PNW:

Ultimate itinerary: the great pacific northwest road trip.

The 15 Best Day Hikes Near Seattle

12 Epic Waterfall Hikes in Washington

11 Beautiful Hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Coastal History: A Guide to the Oregon Coast’s Lighthouses and Historic Sites

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Posted by Arthur McMahon

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

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The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (25 Stops + 3 Itineraries!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary + All The Stops Along The Way

The Pacific Coast Highway is easily considered to be one of the most iconic road trip routes in the world !

It’s not hard to believe either. From the moody beaches in Washington to the spectacular natural bridges in Southern Oregon to the winding roads of Big Sur, California , there is something new to see around every bend.

Berty and I drove the entire route back in 2017, and have returned to deeply explore sections every year since then!

Because we know this route so well, we wanted to create this comprehensive guide for iconic stops and places to see along the entire length of the Pacific Coast Highway, all 1,700-ish miles between Seattle, Washington and Orange County, California !

In this power, we’ll share the best PCH stops in Washington, Oregon, and California to make your Pacific Coast Highway road trip your most epic trip yet.

Let’s get planning!

Step By Step Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Directions (Download)

Where is the pacific coast highway how long is it.

The Pacific Coast Highway has many names.

You can also recognize it by its abbreviation (PCH), and referred to as the California Coast road trip , Pacific Coast Highway road trip, Route 1, Highway 101 (through Washington and Oregon), or even just Highway 1 (in California).

All names aside, they all lead you down the same road, which is the route that parallels the Pacific Ocean and the western border of the contiguous United States.

The traditional Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) is 655 miles long. The full Pacific Coast Highway (Orange County to Seattle) is just over 1,700 miles.

We’ll be talking about the entire Pacific Coast Highway itinerary in this blog post. (Seattle to Orange County)

Pacific Coast Highway Map, Directions, & Best Times

Which direction to drive the pacific coast highway.

Where should you begin your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary? Northbound or Southbound?

There are two directions to do a Pacific Coast Highway road trip – driving south or driving north! Honestly, both are great options but being from Washington, Berty and I began in Seattle and made our way south.

If you are searching for the best weather conditions, here are pros of each direction:

• Southbound (Seattle to Orange County): Driven during spring break, you can escape the Pacific Northwest rain and enjoy the warmth of Southern California.
• Nortbound (Orange County to Seattle): Driving north will help you escape California’s hot weather in late summer and fall.

Pacific Coast Highway Start and End Points

Traditionally, the Pacific Coast Highway is considered to be the entire Highway 1 of the California Coast. This spans between Capistrano Beach is Orange County to Legget in Nortoerhn California. Highway 1 is 655.84 miles.

However, we like to think of this drive spanning three Pacific Coast states: Washington, Oregon, and California.

The traditional starting point in Washington is Seattle (with a detour through the Olympic National Park). The traditional starting point in California is San Diego .

When To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway

We also began our trip in June, but this trip is good to take any time of year.

If you decided on making it a winter road trip route , that means you’ll have a lot fewer crowds to deal with! Driving along the coast, the weather is more temperate and usually doesn’t get cold enough for snow, so you won’t run into many driving issues.

However, if you’re looking for the “windows-down, sunsets every night” kind of trip, we recommend taking this drive any time between June-September for the best chance of good weather.

Pacific Coast Highway Map

Top Tips For Driving The Pacific Coast Highway

So, how can you plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip? Here are our suggestions of things to do before your trip:

Plan Your Stops Carefully: Carefully creating an itinerary will help make reserving hotels and activies a LOT easier. However, make sure to leave just a little wiggle room for surprises! Book Accommodations In Advance: The Pacific Coast Highway is a popular road trip route. Once you know your trip dates, plan to book hotels and campgrounds ASAP. We like to split accommodations between car camping and hotels for a good mix. On a budget? Here are 20 car camping hacks to consider. Check Road Closures: Check you route for any major road closures. This actually happens a lot more often than you might think Big Sur often has landslides. Rent a Great Car (or RV!): You can rent a car and book hotels, OR you can rent a campervan and book campgrounds for a budget-friendly trip. Outdoorsy has cool recreation vehicles vans to rent – it’s like Airbnb but for RVs! Decide When To Embark: Determine when to plan your PCH trip and how many days you have. Keep scrolling to the bottom of the post for PCH itinerary examples. Use a Good Navigation App : Good navigation apps make a huge difference. Read our favorite road trip planner apps here. Get a Convertible…or a Harley! If you are driving only a small section of the PCH, rent a fun vehicle! This isn’t mandatory, but it sure is iconic to drive on the highway in one of these cool rides. Ask Great Questions: You’re in the car for a long time. Make sure to have these road trip questions ready to brighten those dull moments. Download Podcasts + Playlists : Download these road trip podcasts and personalized playlists when you have wifi. You’ll thank me later. Pack Your Car With The Essentials: Here’s a list of road trip essentials you need to be packing. Prepare To Stop Frequently: The whole point of driving the Pacific Coast Highway is to take in the sights!

How To Choose a Car For The Pacific Coast Highway

Choosing the right vehicle for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip is probably THE most important decision you will make.

Option 1: Drive Your Own Car Make sure your car has had a tune-up, and its oil changed. It’s worth it to get checked out now, than risk something going wrong mid-way through your trip.

Option 2: Rent a Regular Car Renting a car is a great option for a reliable drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. Personally, we like Avis becuase they have a great rewards program. You can find cheap options

Option 3: Rent a Campervan or RV Renting a campervan is an awesome way to experience a little bit of vanlife. Search for the best campervans at Outdoorsy . Just note, it may be a little tricky to drive a campervan one-way. You may have to return it at your starting point via I-5!

Option 4: Take The Public us (Kind of possible, but not recommended) Yes, it’s possible to cobble together transportation on local transit. You’ll find that you can get around easiest in Southern California and the central Oregon Coast. However, there will be stretches of road with no transporation avaiable, or you may have to leave the coast and venture inland to find a route. It’s cheap yes, but takes quite a bit of pre-planning.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip On A Budget

Are you hoping to plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip route on a budget ? Here are some budgeting hacks we like to use to plan a budget PCH trip:

Use The Dyrt To Find Campgrounds: The Dyrt is the largest online campground database. We use the offline campground search feature to find spots on the go (no service needed!). The Dyrt gave us a code for you, our epic reader, to try the pro membership for 30 days free!   Click here to unlock your 30-day free trial . Find Free Campsites: Road tripping around the west coast for years, we’ve learned a thing or two about finding free campsites in the USA . Our guide includes campground searching hacks, backcountry packing guides, and tips on how to find the best camping spots on the PCH. Cook Your Own Meals: Save money on the road by making your own quick & easy camping meals . Manage Money On The Road: Learn how we travel on a budget in the Pacific Northwest .

What To Pack For A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

A good Pacific Coast Highway road trip will take you through the rainy gloom of Washington, as well as the sunny beaches of California. This makes packing slighly more challenging – you’ll have to account for tons of variable weather!

Rain Jacket: You’ll need one in Washington and Oregon, especially during winter and spring. Here are our favorite rain jackets to wear in the Pacific Northwest . Light Layers: Once you reach California, it’s nice to have light, packable layers to bring on your day adventures. We like this windbreaker and this colorful fleece for easy layering. Down Jacket: Down jackets are an excellent option for extra warmth, especially when paired with a rain jacket. Get this packable one to save space in your suitcase. Sunglasses: You’ll need some, since you’ll be watchin the sunset every night! Grab this pair of inexpensive but HIGHLY rated sunglasses to knock around on your adventures. Hiking Shoes: Hiking in the PNW for over a decade, we know a thing or two about boots! Read our list on the best hiking boots , to pick the right ones for you. Walking Sandals : From walking around Huntington Pier to strolling around your campsite, walking sandals are essential to your Pacific Coast Highway packing list. Portable Phone Charger: This Goal Zero 24 is the perfect companion to charge your phone on a day trip. Camera: Here’s our guide on how to take smartphone landscape photography, or you can check out the travel photography gear as media professionals. Hiking Clothes: You’ll want to bring these highly-coveted hiking shorts , a day pack , and the 10 hiking essentials .

Here are some posts we’ve written about what to pack for certain parts of the Pacific Coast Highway:

• 5 Essentials to Bring On The Washington Coast
• The Ultimate Packing List For San Francisco
• What To Pack For A Weekend in Los Angeles

The Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops (State By State)

If you’re planning to experience the entire Pacific Coast Highway (including extending it to Oregon and Washington), you probably know that there is an insane amount of beautiful stops to take.

We’re going to break locations down state by state, to give you bite-sized chunks of information for each place.

Each state provides something unique and exciting for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, so read below for location inspiration in Washington, Oregon, and California!

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In Washington

Washington is not all rain and gloom!

While the movies portray this evergreen state in a constant shroud of clouds and moodiness (Thanks, Twilight) , its nothing farther from the truth.

Here, you can find powerful waterfalls, secret coves, and lush green forest, and amazing hikes in every corner of this beautiful state.

Keep on reading to read about some highlights along the Pacific Coast Highway in Washington!

Seattle, Washington

This is where we suggest starting your Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Seattle is a great place to stock up on all the road trip essentials , grab rental cars, and arrive by plane to stay on your journey on the Pacific Coast Highway. If you’re flying in to begin your journey, you’ll fly into Sattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Have a little bit more time on your hands? Stick around for a few days and try these unique things to do in Seattle , or take these incredible day trips from Seattle .

Fun things to do in Seattle, Washington:

• Visit Pike Place Market
• Go to the first-ever Starbucks Coffee store
• Visit The Museum of Pop Culture
• Watch the sunset at Jose Rizal Park
• See the Space Needle up close at Kerry Park
• Have a bonfire with friends at Golden Gardens Park
• Go to A Husky Football game in the University District

Read More: What To Pack For The Pacific Northwest

Port Angeles

If you are starting in Seattle or Vancouver, chances are you’ll need to take a ferry across the Puget Sound to reach the Olympic Peninsula . It’s also possible to drive around through Olympia, if you don’t want to put your car on the ferry.

From here, you will pass the cities of Sequim and Port Angeles. Before hitting to Pacific Coast Highway, we recommend taking a stop by Lake Crescent for some classic PNW vibes and maybe a quick lunch break too.

If you want to see what the lake looks like from above, test your limits and hike Mount Storm King . The 4.7-mile round trip hike gains over 2,000 feet in elevation, including scrambling up the side of a cliff with the help of a few installed ropes.

This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but your attempts will be rewarded with experiencing one of the most spectacular places to see in the Olympic Peninsula .

Stay Overnight: Book a stay at The Olympic Lodge in Port Angeles . It’s right in town, and central to other adventures like Hurricane Ridge, Salt Creek, and Lake Crescent.

Sol Duc Falls

Sol Duc Falls is located in the Olympic National Park , and along Highway 101 on your way towards the coast.

It’s a small detour before heading to the ocean. However, the detour is worth every minute! The short trail to Sol Duc Falls leads to one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Washington state.

If you are wanting a unique place to stay in the Olympic National Park, consider staying at the Sol Duc Hot Springs, a natural pool resort in the park.

Doing this, you can wake up early to visit the falls and beat the crowds!

Cape Flattery

If you’re looking for the most northwest location in the lower 48 United States, you’ve found it at Cape Flattery !

This jaw-dropping piece of coastline is owned by the Makah Tribe. It includes beautiful sea stacks just offshore and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

If you are planning your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for epic photo spots, don’t miss this place! You’ll need an entry pass ($10 per vehicle) and you can pick it up at the gas station or grocery store at Neah Bay.

Forks, Washington

La Push Beaches (First, Second, and Third)

You may know these beaches from the movie Twilight but rest assured there are no vampires in sight. (Partly because it’s werewolf territory anyway, DUH) In fact, we’ve seen some of the most incredible sunsets right here on Second Beach.

When visiting, it’s important to note that there are three beaches to choose from. First Beach provides easy and instant beach access, so it’s a popular choice for families.

Second Beach requires a hike on a short trail to reach the beach, and you can also camp on this beach. Second Beach is also the most popular option for its beautiful rock formations and vast shoreline.

Third Beach requires a longer hike and is the least visited of all the beaches.

Any of these Washington beaches you choose, don’t forget to pack these 5 beach essentials!

Read More: La Push Beach + and Beach Camping Tips

Ocean Shores, Washington

Ocean Shores is a quaint little town on the Washington Coast, just north of Grays Harbor.

Here, you will find tons of vacation rental homes, small seafood restaurants, and tons of beach activities. Berty and I came with our friends last summer and opted to rent motorbikes on the beach, eat our weight in crab, and explore the jetty!

Restaurants to try in Ocean Shores:

• Murphy’s Candy & Ice Cream Shop
• Galway Bay Irish Pub
• Ocean Beach Roasters and Bistro
• Oyhut Bay Bistro

Want more beach fun on the Washington Coast? Check out Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach !

Read More: 7 Fun Things To Do In Ocean Shores, Washington

Pierce County Area (Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Puyallup)

If you’re looking to spend a little extra for a comfortable room and some great food, spend some time exploring Gig Harbor and boating around the South Puget Sound . You will be able to spot wildlife all around you, whether it’s jellyfish or a pod of orcas!

Some of our favorite cities in Pierce County to explore: Puyallup (Washington State Fair), Tacoma, and Gig Harbor!

Mount Rainier National Park

Take your journey slightly inland to explore Mount Rainier National Park. Here, you can test your limits and backpack up to the summit (training required!) or simply take a nice stroll at the base of the mountain like on Nisqually Loop Trail .

Mount Rainier is best explored if you spend 2-3 days in the park! There are so many different areas to cover (Paradise Area and Sunrise Area are the most popular), so give yourself time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors here in the Pacific Northwest.

Most Popular Activities To Do At Mount Rainier:

• Hike the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail
• See Silver Falls
• Hike the Skyline Divide Trail
• Visit the Longmire Museum

Cape Disappointment State Park

Cape Disappointment is located in the far southwestern corner of Washington State. Here, you can discover miles of trails, play on the beaches, and maybe even spot an orca offshore!

For a memorable photo opportunity on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, take the trail down to Deadman’s Cove and capture this hidden beach at sunset!

Read More: Cape Disappointment + Deadman’s Cove

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Stops In Oregon

The Oregon Coast itself is worthy of its own road trip but lucky you – you get to see it all and more!

We’re sharing all the best stops along this part of the Pacific Coast Highway and what you can expect in this beautiful state.

Not enough time for the whole thing? Take an Oregon Coast Road Trip instead!

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a family and dog-friendly beach located 1.5 hours west of Portland. Here, you can explore the many quaint seaside shops, take a walk on the beach, and explore the many tide pools.

There are many services available here, so it’s a great stop for camping, resting, or even getting a seaside Airbnb! (By the way, y ou can get $40 off your first reservation at this link! )

Read More: Spending The Day At Cannon Beach

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda  is a popular beach on the Oregon Coast. Here, you can walk along the beach and enjoy Pacific City’s own “Haystack Rock”, or climb the nearby sand dunes to discover incredible views, coves, and rock formations!

Too busy for you? Venture just a 5-minute drive south to Bob Straub State Park, where you can walk along the less-traveled and peaceful beachfront.

The area of Oregon can be rainy and cloudy year-round, but if you’re lucky you can experience one of its gorgeous sunsets (that is if the weather cooperates!). Make sure to pack a rain jacket!

Read More:  10 Epic Adventures To Take Aroun Cape Kiwanda

God’s Thumb Hike, Lincoln City

The hike to God’s Thumb is a moderately difficult hike along the Oregon Coast. A 4.6-mile round trip hike will bring you to a curved landscape on an oceanside cliff. 

It gets its name “God’s Thumb” because it slightly resembles a thumb… but we think it kind of looks like a soft-serve ice cream swirl!

Located in Lincoln City, Oregon , this is a perfect place to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and see a beautiful area of the Oregon Coast.

Read More: Hike To God’s Thumb in Lincoln City On The Oregon Coast

Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is a perfect stop on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Here, you can experience the power of the ocean slamming and swirling into a carved-out bowl.

From the top, you can see down inside the “punchbowl”. During high tide, the waves swirl and crash around inside, but during low tide, you can walk down on the beach and explore inside.

Stay a while for a roadside picnic, to explore tide pools, or climb around on the rocks on the shore.

Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well in another one of the Oregon Coast’s amazing natural phenomena. You can experience the most dramatic sights at high tide, but beware – it’s the most dangerous time to visit too.

Similar to the Spouting Horn in Kauai , this sinkhole looks like water is just draining into a huge abyss, but it’s actually a natural rock tube that sucks and shoots water our according to the adjacent waves.

Don’t get too close to it though, it pushes and pulls water with a powerful force , meaning if you get too close you risk being swept off your feet into the hole!

This area is located just south of the Cape Perpetua Visitor’s Cente r, with lots of wheelchair accessible walkways AND walk-at-your-own-risk paths too.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is an amazing spot on the Pacific Coast Highway, and probably home to one of the best photo spots on the PCH!

For a quick side trip, take the drive up to Cape Perpetua Lookout , where you can see the Oregon Coast meet the winding highway below. It’s an incredible view – make sure to bring your camera!

This is also a great stop for some camping on the Oregon Coast, as well as exploring the many ocean features and scenic trails in the area.

Read More: 10 Epic Things To Do In Cape Perpetua Area Of The Oregon Coast

(Bonus Side Trip!) Umpqua Hot Springs + Toketee Falls

Got an extra day to spare?

Since you’re already in Oregon, consider taking a side trip east to the Cascade Mountains. The Umpqua National Forest has a lot to see, but it’s shining stars have got to be Toketee Falls and the Umpqua Hot Springs.

Both of the trails to Toketee Falls and Umpqua Hot Springs are nearby one another, short, and easy to follow.

They can be accomplished in a morning or afternoon trip. If you haven’t visited a Pacific Northwest hot springs  yet, this is the perfect chance to do it!

We would suggest that you Visit Toketee Falls first, so you can save your soak for last!

Read More: 5 Essential Tips For Soaking at Upmqua Hot Springs

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Of all the stops on the Oregon Coast, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a MUST visit. Offshore rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves make this place a magical stop on the Pacific Coast Highway.

To fully experience this area, we suggest scheduling your visit for sunset. The sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day the skies light up with beautiful colors. Don’t forget to stop at other iconic spots in the park including Secret Beach, Natural Bridges, Arch Rock, and Indian Sands Trail!

Located on the Southern Oregon Coast , Samuel H Boardman spans around 10-miles of rugged, scenic coastline. There are many hikes to choose from around Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor . Take some time to explore a few (many trails are short) , and pick your favorite spots for sunset.

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In California

Congratulations! You’ve made it to California!

This is technically the beginning of the official Pacific Coast Highway (also called Highway 1) , but we all know you’ve put in too many miles on your car and see too much epic-ness for it to be just starting.

While you’ll be encountering a lot more sunshine in this section of the road trip, the Northern California coast can be a little temperamental! Don’t put away your rain coast just yet.

California road trip stops on the Pacific Coast Highway are some of the most breathtaking and beautiful areas of the whole trip. Read on to discover where to go and what to see below in the sunshine state.

Redwood National and State Parks

If your Pacific Coast Highway road rrip is taking you southbound, your first California stop will be at the Redwood National and State Parks.

The Redwoods are known for their spectacularly tall and beautiful trees. Furthermore, this area is home to some of the tallest trees on earth!

There are several scenic drives to take here, but the prettiest Northern California drives are through the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (the scenic route) and the Avenue of The Giants at Humbolt Redwoods State Park. For a lot of stops and viewpoints of the ocean, consider stopping at Patrick’s Point State Park !

Read More: 10 Things To Do In The Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon

Wait, did we just travel through time? You’re not far off if you felt like you just stepped foot into Jurassic Park. In fact, scenes from the movie were filmed right here in Fern Canyon!

Fern Canyon Trail in the Redwoods is a very short route – just 1.1-miles to revel in the 50-foot tall fern-covered walls and lush surrounding forest. The hike is easy, but getting there is a different story. The trip requires a few creek crossings and winding, narrow dirt roads to reach the trailhead. We’ve got everything you need to know about Fern Canyon right here !

Black Sand Beach

Have you been looking at thos e famous black sand beaches in Iceland? Get a taste of the beauty (without the price of a plane ticket) and come visit a look-alike on the California Coast.

Shelter Cove is a little town located in the King Range National Conversation Area. Here, there are craggy coastlines, dramatic scenery, and a black sand beach. The waves are tall and powerful here.

Warning: The road is winding and treacherous, which can be dangerous in bad weather.

This is also an extremely out-of-the-way detour, with one route going in and out from the beach. Make sure to have a full tank of gas, and be prepared to drive on narrow roads and near tall cliff edges!

Read More:   How To Get To California’s Iconic Black Sands Beach

Point Reyes National Seashore

Love the California beach? Explore the Point Reyes National Seashore , a protected coastline of rolling pastures, historic landmarks, and even a secret docked ship!

Start your journey in the town of Inverness, where you can stock up on food, gas, and even camping gear if you choose to spend the night in one of their many campgrounds .

Some of the best things to do in Point Reyes National Seashore are visiting the historic lighthouse (make sure to pay attention to its hours of operation! ), driving down the canopy of Cypress trees , and even whale watching if you come at the right time of year!

Read More: Spending The Day At Point Reyes National Seashore

Bolinas Ridge

If you have a scheduled stop in San Francisco on your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary, make sure to make a sunset stop just north of the city , on Bolinas Ridge .

This area of golden, glimmering rolling hills is located on the edge of Mount Tamalpais State Park in Marin County, California.

Our favorite scenic road to drive is Ridgecrest Boulevard , which includes pullouts ever so often to quickly park your car and enjoy the beautiful and consistent sunsets on this piece of the California coast.

Read More: A Golden Sunset At Bolinas Ridge

Mount Tamalpais

Keep the spirit of adventure alive , even in a bustling city like San Francisco !

If you’ve got a pit stop in the Golden City, journey just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and experience Mount Tamalpais State Park for a quick break from city life.

Here, you can take many amazing trails with stunning views of big city buildings across the bay. Some of our favorite trails for city views are the East Peak Hike  (to a stone lookout tower) and the Verna Dunshee Trail. 

Going when it’s cold outside? Read our San Francisco Winter Packing List .

Read More: 10 Adventurous Things To Do Outside of San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

No trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is complete without seeing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge!

On either side of the bridge, there are several incredible viewpoints to check out. Some of the best places to view the Golden Gate Bridge are from Battery Spencer, Kirby Cove, and the North Vista Point.

Remember: The Golden Gate Bridge is a toll bridge . Motorcycles and regular cars will get through and be billed $8.00 to the address your car is registered at.

San Francisco, California

If you’ve been driving southbound on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, San Francisco will be the first large city you will encounter. 

Here, you can experience many iconic and famous landmarks. Here are some places to see while in San Francisco :

• See the sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
• Stop By The Painted Ladies
• Wander through the neighborhoods and see the beautiful Victorian-era houses

Need a place to stay in San Francisco? Click here and get $40 off your first booking on Airbnb!

Shark Fin Cove

Click here to see more amazing pictures from our visit to Shark Fin Cove.

Shark Fin Cove is a beautiful California coast beach located south of San Francisco – in Davenport, California. It’s named for its rock formation just off the shore that resembling a shark’s top fin. 

You aren’t able to see this cove from the road, which makes finding access a little difficult . There are no signs indicating the location, so you must rely on Google Maps to help guide to you the parking lot off the California Coast Highway 1.

This place provides absolutely stunning views from above AND below. Start your visit at the top and walk along the trails near the cliffs (but be careful!). Finally, climb down into the cove via a steep trail to find beach access.

On a weekday, it’s very likely you will get this beach all to yourself! 

Read More: What To Expect At California’s Shark Fin Cove

Big Sur State Park

When you think of driving down the California Coast , Big Sur is what Pacific Coast Highway dreams are made of. Sunny coastline, winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful bridges are scattered along 90 miles of this beautiful West Coast drive.

Some of the highlights on this part of the PCH include:

• Pfeiffer Beach
• McWay Falls
• Bixby Creek Bridge
• Pebble Beach
• 17-Mile Drive (Monterey/Pacific Grove)

Pro Tip: A day trip to Big Sur, California is absolutely the most quintessential activity  of any good Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Don’t miss this.

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

(Detour Off Highway 1) Yosemite National Park

While you’re in the area, might as well take a little detour to one of the greatest national parks in America!

Yosemite is home to the tallest waterfall in North America, home to giant Sequoia trees, and has more than 800 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy.

Only have 24 extra hours to spare for Yosemite? Click here for our 24-hour guide to Yosemite National Park.

Pro Tip: If you are hoping to spend a few days in the park, make camping reservations extremely early in advance.

Camping spots generally get full six months before the reservation date. A trip to Yosemite National Park requires a lot of pre-planning.

Los Angeles, California

Another major city on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip will be Los Angeles California. For many going northbound, this is a common starting point (as well as San Diego).

If you’re like us and coming to LA on a southbound Pacific Coast Highway trip, this is a fun pit stop to take a few days and recharge from all that driving.

Again, if you are looking to book a place on Airbnb, click here to get $40 off your first booking!

Here are some fun things to do in Los Angeles:

• Santa Monica Pier + the Amusement Park on the boardwalk.
• Venice Beach
• Griffith Observatory
• The Getty Museum
• Hollywood Boulevard
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Read More: How To Spend a Fun Weekend in West Hollywood, California

Orange County, California

Orange County California is just south of the city of Los Angeles. With a slower lifestyle, less traffic, and a lot more beach space, this place is a perfect getaway for sunshine lovers and surfers alike.

There are a few opportunities to camp on the coast, like RV sites in Huntington Beach and tent sites at Crystal Cove State Park. Either way, it’s definitely worth it to spend a few days in Orange County and experience all it has to offer!

Must-see spots to visit in Orange County:

• La Tour (Secret Oceanside Castle in the cliff)
• Huntington Beach (Sur City, USA)
• Newport Beach Harbor and Balboa Island
• Laguna Beach
• Here are our favorite restaurants in Orange County to try!

Looking to travel to the OC on a budget? Check out our list of free things to do in Orange County to have maximum fun, with money still left in your pocket!

Read More: 10 Amazing Outdoor Activities in Orange County, California

San Diego, California

You did it!

San Diego will be the likely the end (or the beginning!) to your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary.

However, it’s still worth visiting for a few days. There are so many amazing things to do in San Diego that this city is an excellent way to kick off or wrap up any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Don’t miss out of Torrey Pines State Reserve! This network of outdoor trails have some of the best views in the entire city. Spend some time exploring the trails during sunset for a magical stay in San Diego.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in one trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re sharing some example itineraries for a five-day trip , one-week trip , and two-week trip down the Pacific Coast Highway.

Read below to find your perfect one!

5 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Five days to drive down the Pacific Coast is absolutely doable! During these days, you have time to experience the highlights of the coast, and whet your appetite for another future trip!

• Day 1: Seattle, WA to Coos Bay, OR
• Day 2: Coos Bay OR, to Redwood National Park, CA
• Day 3: Redwood National Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 4: San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA
• Day 5: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

7 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

One week on the Pacific Coast Highway will allow you to see the most iconic locations. One week is great for travelers who want to fit in the entire trip during a school break, or only have so many days to take off of work.

A one-week Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary will allow you to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Here’s an example PCH itinerary:

• Day 1: Seattle WA, to Forks, WA
• Day 2: Forks, WA to Cape Kiwanda, OR
• Day 3: Cape Kiwanda, OR to Redwood State Park, CA
• Day 4: Redwood State Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 5: San Francisco CA, to Big Sur, CA
• Day 6: Big Sur, CA, to Orange County, CA
• Day 7: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

10 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Two-week pacific coast highway road trip itinerary.

If you have two weeks to spare, this is the ideal amount of time for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip!

Two weeks gives you ample time to see all the highlights, take some day hikes, and even some off-coast detours like Yosemite or Toketee Falls! You will be able to see everything you want and more, and not feel rushed in your process.

• Day 1: Seattle, WA to Port Angeles, WA
• Day 2: Port Angeles, to Forks, WA
• Day 3: Forks, WA to Astoria, OR
• Day 4: Astoria OR, to Cape Kiwanda, OR
• Day 5:  Cape Kiwanda OR , to Brookings, OR
• Day 6: Brooking OR, to Redwood State Park, CA
• Day 7:  Redwood State Park, CA to Mendocino, CA
• Day 8: Mendocino, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 9:  San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
• Day 10: Santa Cruz, CA to Big Sur, CA
• Day 11:  Big Sur, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
• Day 12: Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
• Day 13: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
• Day 14: End in San Diego

Some of our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Inspiration

Creating this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary was quite the workload! Lucky for us, this is the kind of work we live for, and it was fun, inspiring, and most of all helpful!

We hope this helps in your own Pacific Coast Highway road trip and makes planning a little bit easier for you.

Here are some of the pins we’ve created to share with our followers on Pinterest. Feel free to save some too for your own inspirational road trip!

Pinterest ( Find us at @themandagies )

Have you taken a pacific coast highway road trip what were some of your favorite stops, ready to plan your own pacific coast highway road trip read these helpful posts:.

8 Steps For Planning A Flawless Weekend Trip

2o Energizing Hikes In The PN W

The Essential 2017 PNW Bucket List

Want more Pacific Coast Highway road trip inspiration? Follow our curated board on Pinterest!

So excited for you guys! My hubby and I did a similar (but quicker, so we didn’t see everything) trip in the summer of 2010 (a LONG time ago!). It was amazing. There is an amazing hike in Redwood National Park (Gold Bluffs Beach Section) that leads down to this secret beach. Even in summer (August) there wasn’t anyone on the trail. We were pretty new to the “planning” travel business so didn’t really plan anything when we went, but this hike was a highlight of our trip. I’m dying to go to the Painted Hills and Hot springs so excited to see what you guys think. Have so much fun!!! We’re secretly living through both of your photographs and blogs dreaming of our move one day back to this beautiful region of the world. We love Ireland, but the PNW truly can’t be beat.

Hi Danielle! I’m so glad you like our photographs and blog! That means so much to us 🙂 I’m so intrigued about the Gold Bluffs Beach Hike in the Redwoods. Now we need to go back and do that one!!!

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Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip From Seattle

Circle the national park on this olympic peninsula road trip with a stop at cape flattery, the northwest-most point in the continental us..

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From waters teeming with wildlife, to snow-capped peaks, to rainforests, to tide pools, the Olympic Peninsula truly has it all. On this 445-mile Olympic Peninsula road trip, you’ll experience the best the area has to offer from history, to food to wildlife encounters. What are you waiting for?

Start: Seattle, Washington

Start this road trip in the beautiful Emerald City: Seattle.

The first destination of any tourist to Seattle is usually the Pike Place Market. And for good reason. Snap a picture under the iconic sign before heading into the pandemonium. Fish mongers hawk their catch on your right, bouquets upon bouquets of flowers catch your eye on the left. The air is filled with smells of every type of food imaginable. Beautiful Washington apples and Rainier cherries overflow their baskets. Artisans of all sorts line the covered hallway. The energy can be fun – but also overwhelming. When you’ve had your fill of the top floor, duck down below to the lower floors and the crowds will immediately dissipate. Poke through vinyl shops or grab a bite to eat. Don’t forget to stop at the famous gum wall where thousands of pieces of chewing gum line the walls under the market.

While there’s a good chance of experiencing Seattle’s moody weather, sunny days in the city are like none other. If you luck out, head to the Space Needle for incredible views of the city and Mt. Rainier, looming in the distance. Even if the weather is rainy, you’ll still enjoy a trip to the top.

If you’re looking for another way to enjoy a sunny day in Seattle grab a cup of coffee and head to the Washington Park Arboretum. 230 acres of trees and plants from around the world thrive under the care of the University of Washington Botanic Gardens. Miles of trails give you access to explore this beautiful, and free attraction. Particularly beautiful in the spring or fall, some notable collections include Rhododendron Glen, Azalea Way and the Japanese Garden (this is the only exhibit with a small entrance fee.) Make sure to read the plaques on the trees around you, you’ll be shocked at the monetary value of some of our shady friends.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to hit up one of the restaurants from Renee Erickson’s restaurant group, Eat Sea Creatures. Erickson has re-invented Seattle dining. From her European country-style cooking to her whimsically nautical themed décor, her restaurants are a must stop. Luckily, you can take your pick in Seattle’s Capital Hill neighborhood. Located on the same block you’ll find General Porpoise, Bateau and Bar Melusine. General Porpoise is a hot-pink donut shop featuring excellent coffee and rotating, seasonal donut fillings. Bateau is a modern steakhouse and Bar Melusine is a bright and airy French oyster bar with a beautiful marble counter and mint-green furnishings, featuring local oysters and a killer brunch.

Seattle’s diversity is part of what makes it so exciting. It’s home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, micro-sustainable farms and everything in between. Head to the International District to get a taste of this city’s varied culture. Stop in at Uwajimaya, an Asian grocery and department store. Peruse their bakery, food stalls and impressive stationary collection. Make a pilgrimage to Maneki, the oldest Japanese restaurant in Seattle, and one of the oldest in the country. Opened in 1904, this restaurant has rooms with traditional tatami (bamboo) mats.

Traveling From Seattle to the Olympic Peninsula

From Seattle, you have two choices to get to the Olympic Peninsula. Either take the Bainbridge Ferry , cutting off an hour or so of travel time, or drive south through Tacoma. The ferry is the faster, and more exciting route, but it does cost $28.60 per standard car, as well as $8.50 per person.

Rent an RV with Outdoorsy Do this road trip in an RV to stay close to nature. Or check out Destination Delivery: have an RV delivered directly to a campground or parking site to camp in style without having to get behind the wheel. www.outdoorsy.com

Make sure to read our tips on navigating Olympic National Park with an RV .

Eco-Friendly Alternate Route Take the same route but do it with a lighter environmental footprint from Hoodsport to Kalaloch Beach. Eat oysters, hike through a rainforest, watch whales and more on this fun and sustainable-travel itinerary .

Port Townsend

From Bainbridge Island, head north to the charming Victorian sea port of Port Townsend , where you can stroll the shops lining the main street. This quaint harbor town’s Victorian homes and architecture signify the wealth that once flooded into the port as goods and timber in the early 1900s. Port Townsend’s rich history can be relived in a visit to Fort Worden State Park. Built around World War II to protect the straits of Juan de Fuca and the entrance to Puget Sound, this park not only has incredible history but also has beautiful landscape and photographable features.

If you have an interest in ecology or marine life, consider visiting the Port Townsend Marine Science Center for only $5. Here you can learn about and touch the organisms that live in the waters off the Olympic Peninsula.

Then head to Sea J’s Café to fuel up. Order their famous fish and chips and sit out on the patio. Keep a close eye on the harbor, you may see some playful river otters on the docks.

Take a Whale Watching Tour With Puget Sound Express Set sail from Port Townsend with Puget Sound Express to search for whales like orcas, humpbacks or minkes.

Experience a Slice of the Olympic Culinary Loop The abundance of cideries, wineries, creameries, berry and shellfish farms and farm-to-table restaurants in Jefferson County isn’t just due to the good growing conditions. It’s because the peninsula is a place that attracts makers. Here are our favorite stops .

As you head down the highway from Port Townsend to Sequim , you may think you’ve been transported to the South of France. Along the roadside, farms exploding with purple blooms and the intoxicating scent of lavender abound. Stop in at one of the many farms, such as Purple Haze Lavender Farm to get your first taste of the herb that this part of the Peninsula is wild about. At Purple Haze you can stroll the gardens, pick your own lavender, peruse the gift shop or sample lavender ice cream, lemonade and Italian soda.

Sequim itself has a charming downtown with plenty of shops to visit (many with signature lavender themed products) and restaurants to try. Stop into our favorite, Salty Girl Seafood Co. A no frills, order-at-the-counter spot for all things local seafood, let the staff guide you to half a dozen of their favorite local oysters. Don’t forget to order a shrimp melt and a signature cocktail like the Sake Slush, a mix of cucumber vodka and sake on sno-cone-esque ice.

Stop by Hurricane Coffee Co. afterwards for a coffee or an ice cream cone. The large space is both cozy and classy and you can partake in more lavender: either in coffee or ice cream form.

Up for an unusual hike? Walk on the longest natural sand spit in the United States at Sequim’s Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for 250 species of birds. Extending five miles into the Strait of Juan De Fuca, the sea spit has grown about 15 feet per year for the past 120 years. Climb the lighthouse tower near the end of the spit for a panoramic view.

Olympic National Park Lakes, Waterfalls and Hot Springs

From Port Angeles, head west on Highway 101 for your first taste of Olympic National Park’s beauty.

Take the turnoff for Lake Crescent Lodge to explore one of the park’s most beautiful lakes. Strikingly clear due to the lack of nitrogen in the water, this crescent-shaped lake is extremely deep – 624 feet at its depths. In the evenings, the sun paints the water gold. In the mornings, mist hovers over the water. Surrounded by temperate rainforests, it’s a little slice of paradise.

Book a room or a cabin at the charming Lake Crescent Lodge to experience all of the lake’s many angles. Make sure to order a drink at the bar and enjoy the lodge’s sun room, or Adirondack chairs, right on the lake’s shore. To really get a taste for the lake’s beauty, rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the lodge. Rentals fill up quickly when the weather’s nice, so for the most solitude, get there when they open at 7 a.m. Paddle along the shoreline and look deep into the blue green water. You might even spot a nearly century-old car wreck.

Continue heading west on Highway 101 to the turn off for Sol Duc Valley. Start your tour of the Valley with a hike to Sol Duc Falls . This beautiful hike takes you 1.6 miles roundtrip through a temperate rainforest to an overlook where you can watch the beautiful falls tumble 50 feet into the slot canyon below. In the autumn rainy season and early spring runoff these falls can be spectacular as they boom beneath your feet.

After exploring, head to the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort to soak in natural mineral pools ranging from 50-degrees to 104-degrees. The resort also offers a restaurant, gift shop and lodging options.

Explore pristine beaches and the rainforest on the northwestern tip of Olympic Peninsula at Neah Bay , home to the Makah Tribe. An estimated 1,500 Makah people live in and around Neah Bay today. You can learn about Makah traditions and history at The Makah Cultural and Research Center. The center is home to 300-500 year-old artifacts that were discovered after a storm in 1969-70 hit the nearby village of Ozette, exposing hundreds of well-preserved wooden artifacts.

For a moderate hike, walk the boardwalks a half-mile to overlooks of Cape Flattery , the most northwesterly point in the Lower 48. You will need to purchase a $20 Makah Recreation Pass to pursue any activities on the Makah Indian Reservation, including parking at the Shi Shi Beach trailhead and Cape Flattery. You can buy your pass at a number of businesses, including Makah Marina, The Museum at the Makah Culture and Research Center, Washburn’s General Store, Makah Tribal Center, Makah Mini Mart and the Hobuck Beach Resort.

Olympic National Park Pacific Coast Beaches

To experience a lush forest and beautiful beach with sea stacks, hike two miles from the Makah trailhead (Makah recreation pass required) to Shi Shi Beach (inside the national park), walking through a lush rainforest before reaching beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s best to wear hiking boots as the last stretch of the forest trail can get muddy. As you exit the forest, note that the walk to the beach is quite steep with ropes to help you navigate down. From the beach, you can walk an additional 2.5 miles to Point of Arches, a magnificent stretch of rocky sea stacks. Be sure to carry a tide chart with you because high tides have stranded beach walkers .

Down the coast, stop at Rialto Beach, First Beach and Second Beach, the closest beaches to the town of Forks of Twilight fame, and near the Hoh Rain Forest . Rialto is known for it’s easy hike to Hole-in-the-Wall at low tide where you can explore sea stacks and tide pools surrounding the tunneled rock. And don’t miss Rialto Beach at sunset – perch yourself on giant sea logs and enjoy a picnic dinner as the sun melts into the ocean.

Watch the Waves at Quileute Oceanside Resort Stay in a cozy cabin or motel room on First Beach, just steps from Olympic National Park on the Pacific Ocean.

Park your RV on the Waterfront Next to Olympic National Park Stay at Quileute Oceanside Resort or Riverview RV Park in your RV to be close to beaches and the rainforest.

On your way down the peninsula’s western coast, stop at Ruby and Kalaloch beaches. Pick up a tide chart from the Kalaloch Information Station to ensure you don’t get stranded at high tide, and to know when the tide pools will be most visible. Search for brilliantly colored starfish, anemones and skittering crabs in the pools. Make sure to wear shoes so the sharp barnacles don’t cut your feet. Remember, take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints. Keep an eye out above for seabirds like osprey and bald eagles. Stay for the sunset to see the beautiful sea stacks illuminated.

Stay Waterfront at Kalaloch Lodge Kick back with a front-porch view of the Pacific Ocean at Olympic National Park’s only oceanfront lodge settled on the bluffs above Kalaloch Beach on the park’s western border. This seaside hotel is not only charming, but everything about it encourages you to get outside.

Olympic National Park Quinault Lake and Rainforest

The south shore of Lake Quinault hosts a beautiful resort with a beach, heated pool and highend restaurant. It’s the launching spot for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing and standup paddleboarding.

After you dry off, drive the 31-mile scenic loop around the lake and through the Quinault Rain Forest, stopping to get out of the car to see the world’s largest sika spruce and a creek with rushing cascades and waterfalls.

If you’re a Nirvana fan, you’ll want to make a stop in Aberdeen, Wash. Home to Kurt Cobain in his youth, the town still holds many memories of the late singer. The Aberdeen Museum of History has a walking tour, which will take you to Cobain’s childhood home, the memorial park established in his honor and other important locations from his youth.

Stroll down to the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport to see if the Lady Washington is in her home port. The tall ship is a replica of the first ship to land on the west coast of the United States. She has even appeared in movies like Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl . Today, she serves as an ambassador to the state of Washington. When she’s in port, tour the vessel or sign up for an Adventure or Evening Sail to experience a taste of history on the open seas.

End: Seattle

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21 Incredible Weekend Trips from Seattle (within 5 hours)

This guide to the best weekend trips from Seattle lists # great places you can visit within a 5 hour drive of Seattle or less. These trips are great for locals looking to get away or visitors planning an itinerary.

I lived in Seattle for 25 years (basically my entire life). I’ve taken all of these weekend trips a number of times and personally recommend them all!

However, sometimes locals overlook destinations near home because they get “used” to them. For a fresh take on my home state, I reached out to some travel blogger friends for their favorite Seattle weekend getaways.

They shared their favorite places to visit within a short drive of Seattle and what makes each place special.

Keep reading for a list of the best weekend trips from Seattle. Learn the best things to do, where to stay, and other travel tips.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Weekend Trips from Seattle Under 2 Hours Away

1. Snohomish washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 30 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 45 minutes

Recommended by: Kathy from Palm Springs Insider Guide

The secret to flying to Seattle, Washington, is slowly getting out. If you fly into Seattle Paine Field, a small airport so easy to maneuver, 30 miles from downtown Seattle, there are no crowds, no traffic, and quick access to rental cars.

This area is called Seattle NorthCountry. 

Depending on the time of day you arrive, you can either check into the Delta Everett Hotel or head straight to Snohomish, considered the antique mecca of the Northwest.

The drive to Snohomish is 12 miles through tall evergreen trees, then into farmland that provides local restaurants with fresh farm-to-table produce. 

Park your car on or near Main Street and start exploring. You will quickly discover at least two antique stores on each block.

Some of the larger stores have upstairs and provide ample space for them to accommodate 50 plus independent vendors under one roof.  

With the choices available, it is a good idea to consider what you are looking for before you begin your adventure here.

If you are not looking for antiques, it is entertaining to watch serious antique hunters carrying in their arms everything from crochet bedspreads to antique riding horses.  

Need a break? No problem. This town has many coffee shops and bakeries with lovely lounge areas to rest and revive to continue your exploration.

If you are not hungry, head down to the end of Main Street and sit on one of the benches with a view of the Snohomish River.  

🌟 Top Activity: Antique Shopping Downtown

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Vacation Rentals

2. Bainbridge Island Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 10 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1 Hour

Recommended by: Me!

One of the easiest weekend escapes from Seattle is Brainbridge Island, a short ferry ride away.

Depart from the Seattle Ferry Terminal at Pier 52 and enjoy a picturesque 35-minute journey across Puget Sound.

Immediately off the ferry, you can explore downtown with its charming boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Art enthusiasts can visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, while nature lovers relax Bloedel Reserve or hike through the trails of Grand Forest.

The main draw of Bainbridge Island is the scenic beauty, small-town charm, and vibrant arts scene. From the island, you have panoramic views of the Puget Sound, downtown Seattle and the Olympic Mountains.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring Art Galleries

3. Whidbey Island washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 35 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Tabitha from Travel Compositions

There are two ways to get to Whidbey Island from Seattle. You can drive to it coming in from the north end of the island by crossing Deception Pass bridge or take a scenic ferry ride from Mukilteo to start your trip on the south end.

Langley and Coupeville have small town charm where you’ll find boutique gift stores, cute coffee shops, and delicious restaurants with waterfront views.

Coupeville , with its picturesque historical pier, is Washington’s second oldest town. You might recognize it as the backdrop in the movie “Practical Magic”.

Penn Cove mussels grow here at the US’s largest and oldest mussel farm. Most restaurants around the island serve a bowl of this fresh shellfish, or consider visiting during the Penn Cove Musselfest for cooking demonstrations, samples, and a chowder run.

If you like adult beverages, the island has a smattering of breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Be sure to check out Skein and Tipple for a classy yarn shop speakeasy!

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy. South Whidbey State Park, Fort Ebey, and Deception Pass have miles of trails to hike.

Another fun thing to do is rent a kayak to explore ocean coves and maybe make friends with orcas or sea lions. And of course, endless beaches for strolling and combing!

Fort Casey is fun for wandering through the dark corridors and rooms, climbing ladders, and taking in the views towards the Olympic Mountains.

During your weekend trip, stay at the historic lodge, Captain Whidbey Inn with cozy rooms and elegant dining.

🌟 Top Activity: Hiking at Deception Pass State Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Captain Whidbey Inn

4. Camano Island washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 60 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Camano Island makes for an excellent weekend retreat from Seattle, with natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere.

Camano Island is a small island in Puget Sound with stunning waterfront views, hiking trails, and pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Some of the top things to do are kayaking, bird-watching, and even whale watching, depending on the season.

In addition, there is a large artistic community with local galleries showcasing the work of talented artists.

From the vibrant arts scene to outdoor adventures and moments of quiet relaxation, this island getaway provides a well-rounded weekend retreat from Seattle only one and a half hours away.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring Camano Island State Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Camping

5. Bellingham Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 90 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Annie from  Your Friend the Nomad

Just an hour and a half north of Seattle you’ll find Bellingham, a thriving outdoorsy college town known for its dozens of local breweries and charming historical neighborhoods. 

Getting to Bellingham from Seattle is as easy as driving straight north on I-5. But for a more scenic route, exit I-5 in Burlington and follow the signs towards the Chuckanuts.

As you cruise along Chuckanut drive, you’ll catch views of sparkling water and distant islands on the left, and the Chuckanut mountains on the right.

There are plenty of spots to stop along the way, but the drive itself is worth the detour. 

Once you’re in Bellingham, consider staying at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa, a luxurious hotel overlooking Bellingham Bay near the historic Fairhaven area.

The best thing to do in Bellingham is get outside! Within a 15-minute drive distance you can choose from dozens of short hikes.

Find the hidden waterfalls at Whatcom Falls Park, walk to a secluded beach at Teddy Bear Cove, walk 2.75 miles around Lake Padden, and more. For longer hikes, head to the nearby North Cascades. 

Some other things to do in Bellingham include walking along the waterfront at Boulevard Park (with a warm drink from the park’s Woods Coffee), wandering through historic Fairhaven, visiting the Saturday morning farmers market, and exploring Western Washington University’s campus. 

Food and drinks are always a good idea, too. The Old Town Cafe is a great spot for brunch and Aslan Brewing Co. is a favorite for local organic beer and good food, but there are so many other places worth trying.

🌟 Top Activity: Local farmers market

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Semiahmoo Resort

6. Tacoma washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 40 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Dr. Rachel from TheRxForTravel.com

Tacoma is located just south of Seattle and sits right on one of the many bays of Puget Sound. At less than 40 miles, you can drive, take the bus, or take an Uber/Lyft to get there within 1-2 hours.

If you are looking to stay the night, then the Marriott brand hotels are my recommendation. There’s two: Courtyard Downtown or Marriott Downtown right within Tacoma.

There are so many things to do in Tacoma, that there really isn’t a bad time to visit. It will just depend on what types of activities you like to do.

If you like the outdoors, then head to  Point Defiance Park  in the spring, summer, or fall to enjoy the many activities, trails, lookouts, and gardens available there.

For indoor and year round activities, there are plenty of museums to visit. There’s the Washington State Museum, Art Museum, Museum of Glass, Children’s Museum, LeMay Car Museum and more.

Don’t forget Tacoma is also home to Stadium High School, the filming location for the movie, “10 Things I Hate About You,” so be sure to make Tacoma one of your weekend trips from Seattle. 

🌟 Top Activity: Point Defiance Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Marriott Downtown

Seattle Weekend Getaways Within a 2-4 Hour Drive

7. Hood Canal Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 50 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2 hours

Recommended by: Dhwani from Trips Around Me

Hood Canal is a picturesque fjord nestled between the Kitsap Peninsula and Olympic Peninsula. The scenic Highway 101 on the western edge of Hood Canal is the primary route to explore this region.

To access Hood Canal, you can take the ferry ride from Seattle/Bainbridge to SR104 and then connect to Highway 101.

Alternatively, you can take the I-5 south from Seattle, weaving through Gig Harbor, Bremerton, and Poulsbo to reach Hood Canal.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find many  things to do in Hood Canal , with family-friendly hikes like Murhut Falls, Rocky Brook Falls and Staircase Rapids, or more challenging trails such as Lower Lena Lake and Big Creek Upper Loop.

The expansive Lake Cushman provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing. Scenic viewpoints like Mt.Walker and estuaries along the canal’s shores offer breathtaking vistas. Hood Canal is a haven for clamming and fishing.

For a luxurious retreat, Alderbrook Resort and Spa in Union, near the canal’s southern tip, offers a relaxing stay.

You will also find budget-friendly options through AirBnBs and state park camping grounds in the region. 

The best time to visit Hood Canal is spring to fall, although its relatively snow-free winters make it a delightful weekend getaway.

🌟 Top Activity: Clamming and Fishing

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Alderbrook Resort

8. Olympic National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 Miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3 Hours

Recommended by: Alyssa from An Apple a Plane

Olympic National Park is one of the BEST weekend trips from Seattle!  Seattle’s location in the Pacific Northwest United States makes it a prime location for outdoor adventures. 

One of the internationally known pearl gems of the region is Olympic National Park.

It is easy to visit the national park on a weekend trip.  It is just over 2 hours by car from Seattle to reach the Port Angeles entrance or 3 hours to reach the Forks entrance of the park. 

I recommend beginning your trip on the Port Angeles side, and ending your trip at the other end of the park.  

Some of the best things to do in Olympic National Park include visiting the famous Hurricane Ridge, hiking the Devil’s Punchbowl, and visiting the Hall of Mosses in Hoh Forest.  

Olympic National Park is beautiful during all seasons.  Winter brings snowy adventures, but select entrances may be closed due to high snowfall.  Spring and summer bring lush greenery.  

An  Olympic National Park one day itinerary  can help jump start your planning details! 

🌟 Top Activity: Hurricane Ridge Hiking

9. Mount Rainier National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 90 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most scenic places in Washington state. Located about 2 ½ hours from Seattle by car, the national park is an awesome weekend getaway during the summer months for lovers of nature and the outdoors. 

The park’s majestic centerpiece, Mount Rainier, dominates the skyline. Considered one of the most active and most dangerous volcanoes in the United States, Mount Rainier’s snow-capped peak is also a popular hike for those training for one of the 7 summits. 

However, the park also offers plenty of easy to moderate hikes that cater to all skill levels. One of the most acclaimed hikes in Mount Rainier,  Skyline Trail , boast breathtaking views at every turn.

The trail takes you through an alpine meadow filled with wildflowers, past waterfalls and glacier fields, and right up to the base of Mount Rainier for a jaw-dropping panoramic view.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Mount Rainier National Park offers a chance for a relaxing weekend escape and a serene break from the city life in Seattle.

Stay within the park at the cozy Paradise Inn Lodge, or book a room at Stormking Hotel, near the entrance to the park.

At Stormking Hotel , you can enjoy a relaxing dip in a private hot tub after a day of hiking and outdoor fun in the national park.

🌟 Top Activity: Hiking

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Stormking Cabin and Spa

10. Leavenworth Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 140 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

For those looking for a taste of Europe, a fun weekend trip from Seattle is to visit Leavenworth. This small town is known for its charming Bavarian architecture and is just over a 2-hour drive away.

The small town offers plenty of things to do that are perfect for filling a weekend itinerary. For instance, you can get up close and personal with magical reindeer at the local reindeer farm, which offers group tours.

Or, if you’re someone  craving a bit of wine tasting in the Pacific Northwest , a few shops provide intimate tasting experiences.

And of course, be sure to try some hearty Bavarian cuisine, whether it be a giant salted pretzel or a full meal!

In terms of when to visit, try planning your visit during the holiday season, so you can enjoy the town adorned with festive lights and partake in the European Christmas market atmosphere!

And for places to stay, check out the Post Hotel , a 4-star hotel centrally located along the town’s enchanting streets!

🌟 Top Activity: Explore the Bavarian-Themed Town

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Post Hotel

11. North Cascades National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Tammi from Wander Healthy

North Cascades National Park is a breathtaking wilderness, with rugged mountain landscapes, beautiful alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems.

You can reach the park with a  beautiful drive  north on I-5 from Seattle to State Route 20, also known as the North Cascades Highway.

The best time to visit is during the summer and early fall, as many areas are closed or inaccessible during the winter months.

Late June through September ensures access to many epic high-elevation trails and the opportunity to witness the gorgeous wildflower displays in the alpine meadows.

The park offers many activities, including hiking, climbing, biking, kayaking, camping and photography. It’s the best place in the state to view larches, which are deciduous conifers whose needles turn a dazzling golden color in the fall.

The brilliant turquoise of Diablo Lake draws kayakers, campers and photographers from all over the world, including locals.

And wildlife lovers can spot many diverse species here, including marmots, deer, black bears and bald eagles. 

For those seeking unique accommodations, the Ross Lake Resort provides a truly delightful experience with floating cabins set in absolutely stunning surroundings.

Alternatively, the Sun Mountain Lodge offers a luxurious mountain retreat with panoramic views and upscale amenities. Both require reservations far in advance.

🌟 Top Activity: Hiking and Biking

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Ross Lake Resort

12. Portland Oregon

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 175 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3 hours

Recommended by: Heather from Arbours Abroad

Heading south on I5 for about 3 hours, you’ll drive across a beautiful bridge over the Columbia River and be greeted with sights of Portland, Oregon . 

Famed for its food trucks and “hipster” culture, Portland is a foodie’s paradise and the perfect escape to a city with outdoor charm.

I recommend staying right downtown at McMenamins Crystal Hotel where you can enjoy the hot tub, sauna, and a pint from the pub after a day exploring the city.

And as an extra bonus, staying at McMenamins Crystal Hotel gives you free parking in the heart of downtown Portland. 

While there are loads of  things to do in Portland , the following are absolute musts.

Be sure to do some thrift shopping, head to the famous Powell’s City of Books, and grab some wacky, yet delicious donuts from Voodoo Donuts.

For those looking for some fresh air, visit the Columbia River Gorge for amazing hikes and river views. For an outdoor adventure in the city, you can’t go wrong with the International Rose Test Garden.

Alternatively, take a stroll along the riverfront. And don’t forget to catch an amazing sunset from Pittock Mansion with views of Mount Hood. 

Portland is great year round, but wet weather awaits if you visit in the winter.

🌟 Top Activity: Powell’s Bookstore

🏨 Recommended Hotel: McMenamins Crystal Hotel

13. Chelan Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 180 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3.5 hours

Chelan Washington is one of my favorite places in the world. I get there every opportunity I can, usually 3-5 times per year.

In the summer, Chelan is the perfect place for boating and relaxing lake days. The weather is often very sunny and warm.

In the winter, Chelan turns into a snowy paradise. There is snow tubing, cross country skiing, and beautiful views of the snowcapped mountains.

All year round, my favorite thing to do in Chelan is wine tasting at the local wineries. Around 15 years ago, all the apple orchards began converting to vineyards. Now, Chelan is one of the most popular wine regions in the Pacific Northwest.

Overall, a weekend in Chelan is perfect for spending time outside, enjoying small town life, and sipping the best wine.

🌟 Top Activity: Wine Tasting

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Campbell’s Resort

14. San Juan Islands

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3.5 hours

One of my favorite weekend getaways from Seattle are the San Juan Islands. They’re only a few hours away but feel like a whole new world with amazing ocean views, small town charm, and a laid back atmosphere.

Start your adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Anacortes, soaking in the stunning Pacific Northwest views.

Once you step foot on San Juan Island, immerse yourself in the charm of Friday Harbor, the main town on the island. Explore quirky shops, art galleries, and indulge in the freshest seafood.

Don’t miss the chance to witness orcas in their natural habitat through a whale-watching excursion or a kayaking tour.

For a more active trip, hop over to Orcas Island and hike up to the summit of Mount Constitution in Moran State Park for breathtaking panoramic views.

Whether you’re savoring local flavors or marveling at the island’s natural beauty, a weekend in the San Juan Islands offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Snug Harbor Resort

15. Vancouver, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 150 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3.5 hours

Recommended by: Karen from Forever Karen

Vancouver is a great weekend destination for its stunning scenery, diverse culture, and excellent dining options.

Driving from Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia takes almost 3 1/2 hours. You typically take Interstate 5 (I-5) North, which becomes Highway 99 once you cross the border.

While you can visit Vancouver year-round, travelers flock to the city in winter to enjoy snowboarding and skiing on Grouse, Cypress, and Seymour Mountains.

The world-class ski hills were home to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. 

If you spend a  few days in Vancouver  in the summer, you can participate in hiking, exploring Stanley Park, and savoring the outdoors.

The Grouse Grind, Mother Nature’s Stairmaster trail, tests your skill on a grueling hike to the peak of Grouse Mountain.

Staying at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel gives you easy access to tourist hot spots. You can walk to Gastown, the Harbour Centre Lookout, and the Olympic Cauldron.

From downtown, a complimentary shuttle provides transportation to the north shore, where you can visit the ever-popular Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

The park attracts locals and visitors to cross its wobbly bridge and enjoy the Treetop Adventures in summer.

In winter, the park hosts ‘Canyon Lights,’ when the attraction features thousands of twinkling lights, which you can enjoy with Christmas carols.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring Stanley Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Waterfront Hotel

Seattle Weekend Trips 4-6 Hours From The City

16. Cannon beach Oregon

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 200 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4 hours

Recommended by: Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Cannon Beach, along the northern Oregon coast, offers a charming downtown, hikes through lush coastal forests, and one of the most iconic beaches on the west coast. 

Located four hours southeast of Seattle, there’s tons of  things to do in Cannon Beach  to keep you busy for the weekend.

Most travelers start, of course, at the namesake beach itself. During low tide, you can actually walk out to the 235-foot tall Haystack Rock, an enormous basalt sea stack jutting out of the ocean and admire the tide pools and colorful sea life surrounding it.

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, consider having a campfire on the beach at sunset—there’s nothing more magical than being warmed by the campfire and watching the sun sink into the Pacific (just check to make sure there aren’t any fire restrictions in place!). 

If you’re looking to get your heart rate up, there’s several incredible hiking trails in the area to enjoy. For example, the Crescent Beach Trail in Ecola State Park takes you through a dense forest down to a secluded beach you’re likely to have all to yourself.

Alternatively, the Cape Falcon Trail, in Oswald West State Park, leads you around the rim of a dramatic cliff, offering stunning views of the surfers at Short Sand Beach below. 

During your stay, consider making the Hallmark Resort and Spa your home base. Not only is it the closest hotel to Haystack Rock, but also has some seriously awesome benefits, like warm cookies at check-in.

🌟 Top Activity: Walking the Beach to Haystack Rock

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Hallmark Resort and Spa

17. Whistler, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 220 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4 hours

Recommended by: Kimberly from The Art of Living in Turkey

One of my favorite trips while visiting my parents in Seattle was a trip up to Whistler, Canada with a couple of friends.

While you can take a bus, I definitely prefer a good old fashioned road trip. Depending on where you’re leaving from it is roughly 4 hour drive. 

We stayed at this great little bed and breakfast called  Whistler Mountain House . We had the most incredible view of the mountains from our room. The couple running it was super sweet and the breakfast was so tasty. 

As for when to visit, I think it depends on what you want to do. My friend really wanted to mountain bike so we went in the summer.

The weather was perfection. The mountain biking area is available in the summer and turns into a ski resort in the winter. 

But the other thing we did, which I only recommend to the brave at heart, was Grouse Grind. We were all fairly fit at this point and it was brutal!

Simultaneously it was stunning. It is a really steep hike up the side of this mountain. It didn’t help that kids were running past all of us as we panted and were ready to faint. 

If you’re looking for something to do/be outdoors the summer is perfect. If you wanna ski and snuggle in during the winter then you’ll enjoy that too!

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to go back before I  moved to Turkey  but it is on my list of places to revisit for sure. 

🌟 Top Activity: Skiing or Mountain Biking Depending on the Season

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Chateau Whistler

18. White Salmon Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 230 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4 hours

If you’re looking for an adventurous weekend vacation, I highly suggest White Salmon Washington. White Salmon Washington is a small town along a river of the same name.

It’s located on the southern border of the state, near Hood River Oregon and Mount Saint Helens. Due to the location, there are a ton of great outdoor activities.

The top reason to travel to White Salmon is for white water river rafting . The White Salmon River has some of the best river rafting in the state, with a mix of Class III and IV rapids.

You can even raft down the second largest commercially run waterfall in the world!

🌟 Top Activity: Whitewater Rafting

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Vacation Rental

19. Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 165 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4.5 hours

Recommended by: Jessica,  nextupadventure.com

Salt Spring Island is a beautiful Island located in the Southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia. 

You can get to Salt Spring Island in about 4 hours total time, including a ferry trip from mainland British Columbia. 

Depending on your preferred travel style, there are multiple ways to get to Salt Spring Island from Seattle including flying and getting incredible views on a float plane, driving, or a combination of ferries. 

You can fly on  Harbour Air , direct from Seattle to Vancouver, and then either fly from Vancouver to Salt Spring, or take a  ferry  from Vancouver over to Salt Spring. 

As a quicker route,  Kenmore Air  offers direct flights from Seattle to Salt Spring Island.  

Although Salt Spring is a small island, unless you stay right in the main harbour, you will likely want a car to explore the island. 

Salt Spring Island is charming all year round.  Because it is part of the PNW, it is wet and relatively warm during the winter months, and sunny and hot in the summer months! 

The island is filled with hiking trails, small locally owned businesses, delicious restaurants, a variety of ocean beaches (sandy, rocky, tidepools and sea life), as well as many artisans ,farms, and spas.  

My top 3 picks for things to do on Salt Spring are to either drive to the top of Mount Gardener to take in the views or hike the hidden gem Reginald Hill (at sunset on a sunny day), jump or paddleboard in one of the multiple lakes on the island, and visit a spa for a Scandinavian Spa experience/cold dip!

Lightwater Cove  is a luxury oceanfront sanctuary with gardens and orchards on the property. The land at Lightwater Cove is surrounded by hundreds of acres of forest trails and a marine park reserve—and many island-made foods, wine, crafts and art.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring the Rocky Beaches

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Lightwater Cove

20. Victoria, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 5 hours

Recommended by: Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

There are plenty of  fantastic things to do in Victoria  to fill a weekend or more! 

Known as Canada’s ‘Garden City’, Victoria’s natural beauty and gardens are unparalleled.  The stunning Butchart Gardens are just a half-hour drive from Victoria and are well worth the trip, even if you’re not an avid gardener.

Within the city, most of Victoria’s top attractions are located within easy walking distance.  Tour the Legislative Assembly building, visit Canada’s oldest Chinatown, and check out the Totem poles in Thunderbird Park. 

The best way to get from Seattle to Victoria is by driving there, although you’ll also need to take a ferry to cross to Victoria.

The journey will take you just under five hours. Stay at the iconic Fairmont Empress , and top off your experience with a splendid afternoon tea.

Victoria is the warmest place in Canada, but for the best weather plan to visit in the months of May through September. 

You’ll have fewer chances of rainy days, plus you’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing on those long summer days!

🌟 Top Activity: Butchart Gardens

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Empress

21. Spokane Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 280 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 5 hours

Recommended by: Laura from Hi Friends It’s Laura

Spokane is a wonderful place to plan a weekend away from  Seattle . Spokane is an easy five hour drive from Seattle in Eastern Washington, or you can take a scenic tour through the mountains and across the palouse on Amtrak.

The Historic Davenport Hotel is  the place to stay, offering a blend of mid-range luxury and historic charm, situated in the heart of downtown. 

In Spokane, walk along the Riverfront Park, to see the Spokane River cascade over the rocks at Spokane Falls.

The park offers a number of scenic viewpoints of the river, or you can take a gondola to take in the view from above.

Make a stop at the iconic Radio Flyer wagon statue, where kids (and kids at heart) can slide down the handle.

Extend your afternoon by exploring the iconic Centennial Trail for breathtaking views of the Spokane River or rent a bike to cruise the path along the river. 

Spokane has a number of wine tasting rooms, craft breweries and farm to table restaurants. Enjoy a glass of Washington pinots at Helix Wines, and dinner at Gander & Ryegrass.

The best time to visit is during spring and fall, when the weather is mild and you can enjoy all that Spokane has to offer.

🌟 Top Activity: Riverfront Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Historic Davenport

Map of these Seattle Weekend Getaways

Getting to seattle.

If you aren’t based in Seattle, you may be wondering how to get to Seattle in the first place.

The best way to get to Seattle is by plane. There are numerous international and domestic airlines that offer flights to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

If your weekend trip is to the North of the city, you can also fly into a smaller airport, Paine Field (PAE).

You can also take a bus or a train to get to Seattle from nearby cities, though these options may require a longer journey.

Seattle Driving Tips

Do i need a rental car.

I highly recommend renting a car for any of these weekend trips from Seattle. The public transportation from the city is often slow and does not have direct connections to many places on this list.

Having a rental car will also allow you to travel at your own pace and make additional stops on your way to and from the city.

Seattle Traffic

Seattle traffic is notoriously horrible. If you get stuck in traffic add 1-2 hours to the estimated drive times above.

To avoid traffic, I recommend traveling outside of rush hour on the weekdays from 7-10 am and 3-6 pm.

Traffic is also heavy on Sundays as people return from their own weekend trips. Travel early in the morning before 9 am or in the evening after 7 pm to avoid the rush.

Summary of the Best Weekend Trips from Seattle WA

What you should take away from this post is there are many amazing weekend trips to take from Seattle. There are some only one hour away such as Bainbridge or Snohomish that provide a quick and easy break from city life.

You can travel further to Whistler or Cannon Beach for a completely different atmosphere for the weekend.

Whether you are interested in art, hiking, wine tasting, relaxing on the beach, or all of those things, there’s a perfect weekend trip for you.

If you live in or around Seattle, I highly encourage you to try out as many of these weekend trips as you can!

If you’re visiting, these weekend trips are a great way to extend your vacation. Be sure to also read my guide to what to do in Seattle to maximize your time in the city.

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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17 must-see stops on a seattle to yellowstone road trip.

Seattle is the perfect starting point for many road trips, but nothing is more exciting than going on a Seattle to Yellowstone road trip. This may be the most iconic national park in the United States , so most people want to visit it at least once.

Several years ago, I had a summer wedding in South Dakota and decided to make a road trip across the country to get there. I had never driven east of Idaho before, so I couldn’t wait to start creating my itinerary. While I was excited to spend one day in the Badlands , my main excitement was the Seattle to Yellowstone drive, as I couldn’t wait to see this beautiful area.

I spent weeks planning my road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone and finding all the best places to stop. It was one of my favorite road trips from Seattle , so I wrote down all the details to share with you. Here are the places you’ll want to check out and a sample Seattle to Yellowstone road trip itinerary you can follow.

This post was first written in 2018 and was last updated in February 2023.

This post promotes travel to a national park in the traditional lands of the Eastern Shoshone, Cheyenne, and Apsaalooké (Crow) people. I make a formal land acknowledgment showing my respect and appreciation to the people of these lands. You can learn more about this on  Native Land .

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to Yellowstone National Park Road Trip

Here are some tips to help make your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip more manageable.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone

You can visit Yellowstone National Park any time throughout the year, but you should note the park does get snow in the winter. That means some roads will be closed, so you’ll want to check the official site before you plan your trip.

Summer brings beautiful weather and plenty of wildlife, but the crowds are also massive. I did go to Yellowstone in July and could still see the sites I had on my list, but I also had to wait in traffic during peak hours. You’ll also need to book your accommodation months in advance (as in the winter before).

That said, spring or fall are the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park. Accommodations will be cheaper, there won’t be as many people, and you’ll still have great weather. You can check out everything you need to know before visiting Yellowstone to help you plan.

How Long is the Drive From Seattle to Yellowstone National Park?

If you drive straight, the Seattle to Yellowstone National Park drive time will take you about 12 hours . Some people may decide to make this a long weekend getaway from Seattle , which is possible.

However, you’ll likely want to stop along the way to get food and rest. There are also plenty of fun places to see on your Seattle to Yellowstone drive, so I recommend taking about a week total for your trip.

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

What is the Distance From Seattle to Yellowstone?

One of the most common questions you probably have about this trip is how far Yellowstone is from Seattle. The distance from Seattle to Yellowstone is approximately 750 miles one way. Again, that doesn’t account for any stops you make on your Seattle to Yellowstone national park road trip, which will increase your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park distance.

How Many Days Do You Need To Visit Yellowstone National Park?

How many days you visit depends on how much extra time you have on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip. If you only have one day, you can see a portion of the park, but keep in mind that Yellowstone is huge.

It’s not possible to see all of it in only a few days, and I would say spending 4-5 full days at the park will really let you explore all the areas. Figuring out how much time you have is probably the most important step when planning a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park.

However, I know you might not have this much time, so my advice is to pick one or two areas of the park to explore for each day you have. That way, you can focus on those spots and not get stressed about trying to drive around to see everything.

What to Pack for a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

I have a complete road trip packing list to refer to, but here are some of the most essential items you’ll want to bring for your Seattle to Yellowstone drive.

• Emergency roadside kit – Throw this in the back just in case you need it.
• Water bottle – It’s easy to get dehydrated on a long drive, so always ensure you have this full.
• Polarized sunglasses – Some parts of your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip will be bright, so invest in a quality pair of sunglasses.
• Hand sanitize r – Yellowstone can get dusty depending on when you go and how dry it is.
• Blanket – Having a blanket is nice if you want to stop for an impromptu picnic.
• America the Beautiful pass – This pass covers the entrance fee for any US national park, pays for itself in just three visits, and you can visit any national park during the year.

My adventure lover’s gift guide can give you more ideas of essentials to bring.

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

17 Interesting Stops on a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Stop

You can do a Seattle to Yellowstone drive anytime throughout the year, which is why they’re such appealing destinations for a road trip. With the warm weather during summer in Seattle , you’ll happily enjoy stopping for hikes, wandering around quaint streets, and taking early morning strolls along rivers. It also makes for one of the best scenic drives in Seattle this time of year.

During the colder season, bring along the skis, book yourself into a cozy Washington cabin , and visit all the quaint villages along the way. 

Below you’ll find the best Seattle to Yellowstone road trip stops and must-see destinations for traveling along the picturesque roads. Pack your road trip essentials and let the adventure begin!

1. Lake Easton State Park

Many people choose to escape the city life of Seattle and venture to Lake Easton for a day outdoors. The state park is situated between Seattle and Ellensburg, off I-90, and won’t lead you too far off your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park route.

If you’ve got the space, and time on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, bring along some camping chairs to sit along the river, and pack your fishing rods, hiking boots, and paddleboards.

Another beautiful drive is the Seattle to Banff road trip .

One thing that you can’t miss on your road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone is Spokane Falls , which is a beautiful attraction in Spokane. Not only is it a fascinating sight, but the river holds much of the town’s history and heritage. I also love walking along the river, as there are playgrounds, people playing music, and plenty of entertainment.

If you’re feeling adventurous, a 15-minute  SkyRide  over the falls shows Spokane’s most scenic parts. Afterward, head into downtown Spokane and find a spot at one of the lively restaurants to fuel up during your drive from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park.

I love using Roadtrippers for all my road trips because they show you all the fun stops to make along the way. You can get $5 off if you sign up with my code BTR5QTP .

3. Missoula

Spend the entire day in Missoula when going from Seattle to Yellowstone Park, wandering through the streets and exploring the city life, or embarking on adventures found in and around the city. You can do a historical walking tour to learn what life was like in the early 1900s.

Visitors can stroll along the riverside walking trail, attend a winter market or farmers’ markets, explore the local distilleries, or grab a pizza overlooking the Clark Fork River . Another great option is to plan a trip to the local wineries and sample some exquisite wines.

Missoula is also the perfect place to take a slight detour and go on a road trip to Glacier National Park before heading down to Yellowstone.

4. Berkeley Pit

Berkeley Pit is one of the more unique stops on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip. This pit is an old open-pit copper mine in Butte with water so acidic it’s the same level as Coke or lemon juice. The bright green color is eerie, but it’s fun to stop here nonetheless to learn about the history and see it in person.

Stopping here on your Yellowstone road trip from Seattle is only a slight detour, so I recommend adding it to your itinerary. Admission is only $2 to go out on the viewing platform, and you can find a fun souvenir in the gift shop while you’re there.

Bozeman is known for its easy access to the beautiful outdoors, so I recommend stopping here on your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park drive. It’s the perfect destination for enjoying thrilling nature activities and world-class hiking trails. 

As well as the great outdoors, Bozeman hosts the Museum of the Rockies , which houses an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils. If dinosaurs aren’t your thing, the American Computer and Robotics Museum is a fun place to stop on your road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone.

6. Silver Gate Entrance to Yellowstone

Silver Gate is at the border of Yellowstone National Park and a dead giveaway that you’re heading in the right direction. The gate is surrounded by the Beartooth Mountain peaks, beautifully covered in alpine trees. 

The charming small town offers a good break from the drive, with outdoor recreational activities and scenic beauty. Visitors can partake in winter sports in the winter, while the summer offers incredible trout streams and mountain trails.

Make sure you have your America the Beautiful Pass ! For only one price, you can visit all the national parks over and over throughout the year. I renew mine every year.

7. Yellowstone National Park

With wildlife roaming everywhere, Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic parts of the county. The park is well worth spending at least a day, given that there are many great things to see and do in Yellowstone. This is also the main point of your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, so spend as much time as you can here.

From here, you’ll start your journey from Yellowstone to Seattle. You can decide to extend this part as long as you want to. If you only have one day in Yellowstone , you can still see famous areas such as Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Hot Springs.

However, I recommend spending a few days here if possible since the main point of driving from Seattle to Yellowstone in Wyoming is likely to explore what the area offers. I have a full 4 day Yellowstone itinerary to give you more ideas of what to do here!

A trip to Cody will leave you feeling as though you’ve stepped into the Wild West with awesome cultural activities and natural beauty. If you’re keen on exploring the Wild West during your Seattle to Wyoming road trip, a trip to Old Trail Town is in order. This attraction features a collection of 26 historic cabins.

Alternatively, you can get lost in time while driving from Seattle to Yellowstone to visit Buffalo Bill Center of the West , where five museums rest under one roof. 

9. Grand Teton National Park

If you’re an outdoor lover, you must squeeze in one day in Grand Teton National Park into your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip. This is one of the most beautiful parks in the country and is just south of Yellowstone, so you might as well stop here on the way from Yellowstone to Seattle.

For a relaxing day, head to Jenny Lake and spend time doing easy Grand Teton hikes and having a picnic. There are also many challenging, longer hikes you can do if you’re up for it, such as Cascade Canyon Trail or Hidden Falls Trail.

10. Jackson

Jackson is a delightful town in Wyoming to visit during a trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park and is made up of three ski areas and national parks. You’ll find that it’s an ideal place to spend the night, especially for those of you into skiing and adrenaline activities. In the summer, spend time exploring the town and finding local artwork like the Antler Arches of Jackson .

With endless exploration opportunities and plenty of time for play, visitors have plenty to choose from. There aren’t only sports you can enjoy, but excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.

You’ll have the chance to see the largest herd of elk and other large mammals, such as bears, moose, and bison, during this part of your Yellowstone to Seattle road trip.

11. T.A. Moulton Barn

This barn was one of my favorite stops on my Seattle to Yellowstone National Park road trip because it is so iconic. Chances are you’ve seen this picture before but didn’t know where it was from. I found out this was in the area and immediately decided to get up early to shoot sunrise photos here.

The barn is about 20 minutes north of Jackson, so get up at least an hour before sunrise to get here. You’ll likely see dozens of other photographers setting up, so make sure not to get in their way. Then all you have to do is wait to see your stunning photos!

12. Craters of the Moon

Chances are, we’re not going to get the opportunity to step on the moon anytime soon. So why not head to the next best thing when headed from Yellowstone to Seattle? This is one of the best things to do on a road trip from the Pacific Northwest .

Lava was responsible for the moon-like appearance as it slowly oozed out of the volcanoes. It consists of lava beds, tree molds, spatter cones, and cinder cones.

Combine a visit with a stop at the Volcanoes and Space Research at the Visitor Center to discover the tales of the natural formations. 

This was an unexpected stop I made when going from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle, and I’m glad I made the time. It seemed like such a random thing to look at, but I couldn’t get enough of it. There is no shade, so protect yourself from the sun if you’re here on a hot day.

13. Morley Nelson Snake River National Conservation Area

Composed of grand canyons and the Snake River, Morley Nelson offers a vast expanse of wildlife habitat. The area is home to 800 pairs of hawks, eagles, owls, and falcons. Each spring, these beautiful birds will spend more time here, mating and raising their young.

Use this opportunity to stretch out your legs and hopefully catch a few glimpses of these remarkable species. 

The capital city of Idaho, Boise, shows off a variety of adventurous activities, with things to do outdoors and a vibey downtown to enjoy. Boise also has some pretty unique attractions, like the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial and Old Idaho Penitentiary . 

Along with shopping and sightseeing, you can join  wine tours , hiking trails, and guided walks around downtown. If you love French fries, you’ll need to stop at Boise Fry Company to choose from various potatoes to make your fries and numerous dipping sauces. I was obsessed with this place and can’t wait to go back on my next trip.

There are also plenty of weekend trips from Boise if you want to extend your time here.

15. Walla Walla

Walla Walla has been gaining a lot of attention for being a fantastic holiday destination. It’s a beautiful city, but it’s the great wineries that attract people from all around the country. Some of my favorite ones include Leonetti Cellar, Valdemar Estates, and Castillo de Feliciana .

Walla Walla is also home to impressive art galleries, breweries, recreational activities, and excellent restaurants. The downtown area is a fun place to spend some time during your trip.

Yakima is a fruit-producing city that offers a wide variety of activities for families, nature enthusiasts, history lovers, and those looking to find some peace and quiet outdoors. I love the variety of things to do in Yakima that you’ll find, both for adults and kid-friendly.

The fruit grown here plays a significant role in the city’s livelihood and contributes mainly to the economy. Yakima Greenway, the Valley Museum, and the Yakima Area Arboretum are a few great places to include in your itinerary. 

There are also plenty of wineries and Washington breweries to check out if you have time on your Yellowstone to Seattle road trip.

17. Snoqualmie Pass

Sometimes I just want to return home on a road trip, but other times I feel itchy and need to stretch my legs a lot more. If that’s the case for you, stop in the Snoqualmie Pass area off I-90 to go on dozens of different hikes before you get home from your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip.

There are plenty of hikes to choose from, whether you want waterfall hikes like Twin Falls , short Washington hikes like Franklin Falls , or winter hikes like Gold Creek Pond . There are also great seasonal hikes around here, such as Snow Lake , an ideal fall hike in Washington , or even rainy day hikes in Seattle that you can do.

The Ultimate Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary

This guide will help you plan the most epic road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone through the alpine forest roads, mountainous landscapes, and spectacular national parks. Let’s explore the ultimate 5-day itinerary that you can extend to suit your liking. 

Day 1: Leave Seattle and Explore Spokane and Missoula

Spokane is a good stopping point on your Yellowstone road trip to get lunch. You can also explore the shops while you’re here or walk around to get some exercise. Check out the Riverfront Park while you’re there to get some steps in and view the beautiful river.

Missoula will be just over the halfway point of your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park drive. With an array of things to do, it’s an excellent place to spend the night. 

If you’re up for hiking, you can explore the locals’ favorite trail, Mount Sentinel “M” Trail . This hike is less than half a mile, so you’ll quickly reach the vantage point. Your reward is a view that overlooks the entire Missoula Valley and the surrounding mountains.

Come evening time, you’ll undoubtedly want the opportunity to explore the downtown area and lively city life. Check out some of the restaurants and bars in the area before turning in for the night.

Where to Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Missoula is right off the freeway, so you can quickly continue your trip (rates start at $79 on Booking.com or Hotels.com ) . This pet-friendly house sleeps up to six people (rates start at $150 per night) .

Day 2: Overnight in Cody

One of the first things you should do in Cody on your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park roadtrip is book yourself a  Cody Trolley Tour , highlighting the points of interest in the historic old town. The hour tour will take you to the Shoshone River Canyon , with experienced guides telling tales of Buffalo Bill and the Plains Indian people.

Join a  Red Canyon Wild Mustang tour , where you’ll have the opportunity to see wild horses on an American-style safari. You can also include an outdoor adventure to spy on local wildlife, like bison, elk, and mountain sheep.

If you feel like getting some exercise, you can take the guided mountain bike tour in Red Rock Canyon . You’ll also want to check out Buffalo Bill’s childhood home and the Museum of the Old West while you’re in town.

Where to Stay: Cody Legacy Inn & Suites is an affordable hotel close to Yellowstone with a Western theme (rates start at $119 per night on Booking.com or Hotels.com ) . For a vacation rental, check out this house in Cody that has three bedrooms and is by downtown (rates start at $225 per night) .

Day 3: Explore Yellowstone National Park

Driving from Seattle to Yellowstone can get tiring. Once you’ve reached Yellowstone, you can decide how many nights you’d prefer to spend here. But to make the most of your trip and see the amazing parts of the park, I’d suggest a two or three-night stay.

As I recommended earlier, pick a few sections of the park to explore on your road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, so you don’t overwhelm yourself. Maybe you really want to see the animals in Lamar Valley , or you just care about seeing Old Faithful . Make a list of what’s most important to see and plan accordingly.

If you want a break from driving, you can spend a whole day joining a  guided tour of Yellowstone National Park . The tour includes the opportunity to see several iconic parts of the park. You’ll stop at the Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and visit the Old Faithful Geyser . 

If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of bears, wolves, and wild eagles in the park.

Where to Stay: Sawtelle Mountain Resort is west of the park and has an indoor pool (rates start at $123 per night on Booking.com or Hotels.com ) . This spacious log cabin is beautifully designed and has three bedrooms and three bathrooms (rates start at $195 per night).

Day 4: Discover the Best Parts of Jackson

Jackson is a fun stopover on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip for families and adventure seekers, given that there are incredible activities all year round. Walk around town and find random art pieces or stop in a local restaurant.

If you want to have a fantastic time in Jackson, a  scenic river rafting experience  is unforgettable. The 13-mile cruise will take you through the Snake River Range, Gros Ventre Range, and the Tetons .

Alternatively, there is a wide range of hiking trails fit for all ages and experience levels. Lace-up your own boots and head out alone, or join a hiking trail through Grand Teton National Park.

If you’re a photographer, you’ll want to wake up early to catch the sunrise at T.A. Moulton Barn . This is probably the most photographed place in Wyoming, so it’s a must-see on your road trip to Yellowstone from Seattle.

Where to Stay: Mountain Modern Hotel is a plush place to stay in downtown Jackson (rates start at $180 per night on Booking.com or Hotels.com ) . This condo in downtown Jackson is a convenient place to stay during your trip (rates start at $205 per night).

Day 5: Overnight in Boise and Home to Seattle

Start the morning on the last day of your Seattle to Yellowstone itinerary by visiting the trendiest neighborhoods downtown and going on a  Boise food tour . It’s your chance to indulge and sample dishes prepared by award-winning chefs while learning about the emerging culinary experiences arising in the city. 

Next, visit the  Idaho Botanical Gardens  and walk through the native flora while looking at their spectacular outdoor garden art when coming back from Yellowstone Park to Seattle.

Finally, spend the night comfortably in Boise before ending your Yellowstone to Seattle road trip.

Where to Stay: Modern Hotel is within walking distance of many places in downtown Boise (rates start at $107 per night on Booking.com or Hotels.com ) . This modern downtown loft sleeps three people and is the heart of downtown (rates start at $108 per night).

Going on a Seattle to Yellowstone road trip was one of my favorite trips I’ve ever done, and I hope you’ll feel the same after going on your drive!

Marissa Pedersen

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

15 thoughts on “ 17 Must-See Stops on a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip ”

This is a big help! We go almost every year, but always fly and have been considering driving this summer.

The drive is a blast! I hope you get the chance to do it.

This is a trip we have been dreaming of! We may buy an RV and give this a try soon!

I hope you get a chance to! I had no idea there was so much to see along the way.

We took the kids and drove an RV down to Yellowstone years ago. Loved it. Your itinerary has me thinking it’s time to go back. Nicely written

How fun! I hope you go again soon.

thank you great info

thank you your info is great and useful

Did you stop at Shoshone Falls at all. I see that is along the way and I’m deciding on stopping or not.

I’m so glad to hear it!

I didn’t, as I wanted to get to Boise for dinner after visiting Craters of the Moon, but you could make a detour south if you have time!

Flying from the UK in August next year, to Seattle. I have used your advice on the route and where to stay, I have it all booked up!! soooo excited. Just wondered if you had any thoughts on where to stop on the way from Boise back to Seattle airport? its a 7 hour+ journey, it would be nice to stop for an hour or two.

That will be a great trip! On the drive from Boise to Seattle, we stopped at random small towns along the way, but you could stop at Pendleton and Yakima on your way back.

Seems like a nice road trip, I’m flying to Seattle September 24th and wanting to drive to Yellowstone nations park then drive back to Seattle flying out September 30th. I have 5 days , so is this doable at this time of year and any other recommendations would be appreciated. Thanks

You can do it in 5 days, but keep in mind two days will be very long driving days.

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11 Amazing Road Trip Stops Along the Seattle to Portland Drive

If you’re keen on an adventure and want to explore the Pacific Northwest, then the Seattle to Portland Drive/road trip is just the ticket. It’s a short 180-mile road trip through some incredible nature places, with plenty of stops along the way.

There’s no place quite like America’s Pacific Northwest. You’ll get to pass along some stunning seascapes, lush forests, and towering mountain ranges. From the incredible Olympic National Rainforest, Mount Rainier, Cannon Beach, Mount St Helens, and more to see along the way  – who’s feeling pumped ?

If this tickles your fancy and you’re keen on exploring the most scenic way to get from Seattle to Portland, read on to find out more.

So, without further ado, pack your cooler, put on your comfy shoes, gas up, and get ready for a great time finding things to do between Portland and Seattle.

Psst…Looking for some inspiration before you leave Seattle behind? Take a look at these awesome Seattle quotes for some inspiration!

1) Point Defiance State Park, Washington

Once you’ve got your Original Starbucks coffee, your first Seattle to Portland stop should be the Point Defiance State Park . It’s located a 45-minute drive from Seattle and just outside Washington’s third-most populous city, Tacoma.

It’s a 760-acre urban park, which includes a huge zoo and aquarium, the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, world-class beaches, trails, and gardens.

It’s the only joined zoo and aquarium in the Northwest, and most of the park’s residents are native to the Pacific Rim. Here you can explore the 5-acre Asian Forest Sanctuary and spot plenty of wildlife, including clouded leopards, Sumatran tigers, and Asian elephants.

The Arctic Tundra exhibit hosts many cold weather-loving mammals. This includes polar bears, reindeer, and musk oxen that are native to the Arctic areas of Canada and Greenland. There’s also the Pacific Seas Aquarium that houses an array of aquatic animals.

Visitors can also feel what life was like in Washington during the 1850s fur trade era at the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum. The majority of this area is covered in lush forests of cedar, douglas fir, and maple. Here you’ll find plenty of hiking trails with the snow-capped Mount Rainier and Olympus from dramatic viewpoints.

Suppose you have time on your road trip from Seattle to Portland, head to Bob’s Java Jive restaurant-turn drive-bar. The 25-by-30 foot coffee pot-shaped building is a great place to share a pint or two with the friendly locals and enjoy the atmosphere of Tacoma.

Where to Stay near Point Defiance Park: Silver Cloud Inn – Tacoma Waterfront

Located in Commencement Bay, Silver Cloud Inn provides a stunning beachfront stay, with rooms flaunting extensive views of the bay. After a day of exploring your surroundings and a stop on your scenic drive from Seattle to Portland, enjoy a large 55-inch plasma TV with WiFi to relax.

2) Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

After an hour’s drive from Seattle, you’ll come to find the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Once you arrive at the visitor center, walk through to the viewpoint of the marshy lake to spot the wildlife that calls this refuge home.

There are several trails with signs highlighting the different fauna and flora in the region. Make your way along the winding boardwalk to the wetlands until you reach a gazebo. There you’ll be spoiled with sweeping views of the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier peak. It’s a great place to look around before continuing on your trip.

Where to Stay near Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge: Best Western Plus Lacey Inn & Suites

Located a mere 10 minutes drive from the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge lies the Best Western Plus Lacey Inn & Suites. Flop back on the sofa, turn on the flat-screen TV with WiFi and stream your favorite movies. There’s also free breakfast, a heated indoor pool, and a hot tub to enjoy during your stay.

3) Olympia, Washington

Around an hour’s drive south of Starbucks’ headquarters and Nirvana’s birthplace, Seattle to Olympia drive time is well worth a visit to stretch your legs and look around – after all, it’s Washington’s capital.

Pop into the Capitol Campus, which holds the historic Governor’s Mansion. To catch some scenic views, head to Capitol Lake, connected to the campus. There are 3.5 miles of trails that hug along the lake. If you’re keen on exploring some green spaces, head for a stroll to Ellis Cove and picnic in Priest Point Park.

Step back in time and visit the Olympic Flight Museum. Discover over 20 vintage aircraft, from military trainers to an array of historic helicopters and carrier fighters from World War II.

Before heading back on the road, enjoy some delicious Italian cuisine at Pizzeria La Gitana for a quick bite to eat.

Where to Stay in Olympia: Ramada by Wyndham Olympia

Located in Olympia, Washington, the Ramada features a flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, WiFi, en suite bathrooms, and more. Wake up to a delicious complimentary breakfast, relax in the hot tub, and stock up on snacks at the mini-market onsite.

4) Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier to Portland is around two and a half hours drive. And around an hour and 40 minutes from Olympia, you’ll begin to see towering Mount Rainier in the distance. As Washington State’s highest peak, the park offers some incredible hiking routes amidst the forests and alongside rivers.

If you’re brave enough, you can climb to the 14,410-foot peak of Mount Rainier. Alternatively, you can opt for a more relaxed route, such as starting from the Sunrise Visitor Center to Sourdough Ridge.

Another fun activity in the national park is riding the scenic railroad. It’s a beautiful ride that takes visitors through the foothills and countryside on a vintage logging locomotive.

You should consider stopping at Mount Rainier National Park for at least two days, if possible. It’s an incredible place with so many things to see and do in it. Although 48 hours may not be enough, you will still be able to hit some highlights without feeling totally worn before hopping back on your ​​scenic drive from Portland to Seattle again (or visa versa). 

Where to Stay near Mount Rainier National Park: Mountain Meadows Inn

Located 6.2 miles from Mount Rainier Park in Ashford, Mountain Meadows Inn boasts cozy accommodation, ideal to come back to and relax after a busy day exploring. The stay provides flat-screen TVs and WiFi in all the rooms, a private bathroom, free toiletries, and parking is available.

Note : If this place isn’t your vibe, take a look at this list of secluded cabins in Washington State .

5) Mount St. Helens Visitor Center

Mount St. Helens’ eruption in 1980 sparked the biggest landslide ever recorded in history and spewed ash thousands of feet into the sky. Today, tourists may learn about the active stratovolcano’s massive eruptions at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center , which serves as a gateway to the mountain.

In the center, visitors can enjoy an assortment of interpretive displays, including a model of the volcano, a live feed of the current volcano’s seismicity, and more. And if you’re looking to stretch your legs a little, you can embark on a 0.6-mile trail to explore Silver Lake.

You can also visit the Learning Center in Seaquest State Park on the Spirit Lake Highway. Learn about the area’s geology and history from the aftermath of the explosion.

Where to Stay near Mount St. Helens: GuestHouse Inn & Suites

If you’re looking for a break to stop over and stay during your Seattle to Portland scenic drive, then the GuestHouse Inn & Suites may be a solid choice. It’s also a great place to stay as it’s en route between Silver Lake and Mount St. Helens Visitor Center. Each room features WiFi, a flat-screen tv, an en suite bathroom, and coffee/tea making facilities.

6) Silver Lake, Washington

Silver Lake is on your way to Mount St. Helens, about 65 miles from Portland and 123 miles to Seattle.

It’s one of the top Seattle to Portland road trip stops and makes for a great place to stop and stretch your legs. It’s a 3,000-acre, intermittent high-desert lake, where visitors can enjoy plenty of water activities such as fishing and boating. There are also camping facilities available here too.

If you’re keen on heading out for an outride or walk, there are also trails open to horseback riders, mountain bikers, and hikers.

7) Astoria, Oregon

Now it’s time for a bit of a coastal drive from Seattle to Portland. You’ll travel along US Route 30 to Astoria, a beautiful coastal town where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. This spot marks a little history, as it’s near the place where the famous explorers Lewis and Clark ended their expedition across the country in 1805.

Astoria is packed with quaint Victorian homes built for the first settlers and fur traders. The town is chock-full of boutiques, cafes, and art galleries for you to amble around and explore during your off time or to stretch those legs.

And once you’ve worked up a thirst, head to the Buy Beer Company for a bite to eat and a little guzzle of beer. It’s a brewery that serves locally caught, fresh seafood, meats, and other produce.

Where to Stay in Astoria: Norblad Hotel

Norblad Hotel is a lovely accommodation option to rest your head for the night before you continue driving from Portland to Seattle (or visa versa). The 90-year-old historic building is located a short stroll away from lovely restaurants and shops along the riverbed. It offers WiFi, free toiletries, and a private bathroom.

8) Seaside, Oregon

If you’re driving from Seattle to Portland along the coastline from Astoria, then you’ll certainly want to make a stop at this charming little resort town along the Oregon Coast.

The distance from Seattle to Seaside, Oregon is around 197 miles via the I-5 S and a mere 20-minute drive from your stay in Astoria. It’s famous for its gnarly surf breaks and the Tillamook Head Recreational Trail starting point, which ascends to Ecola State Park.

In the Ecola State Park, you’ll come to see some of the Northwest’s most incredible wildlife, from bald eagles to elk and deer, and the seasonal gray whales en route to Alaska.

Take a walk and snap some pictures at Turnaround, a commemorative statue celebrating the Lewis and Clark expedition. Relax at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Area or head out for a paddle on the waters.

Before you head off for your next adventure, stock up and indulge your sweet tooth at Seaside Candyman shop, one of the largest candy shops in the region. You can stay in Cannon Beach or Astoria and make Seaside your little stopover for the day.

9) Cannon Beach, Oregon

A 13-minute drive from Seaside and you’ll come to Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock. Here, a giant rock looms over the beach and provides beachgoers ample photo opportunities up close.

The large slab of protruding earth is also protected as part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. It also provides a home for an array of seabirds and intertidal animals, including starfish, crabs, and more.

A short hike along the shores, and you’ll come to waterfalls and caves that are found at Hug Point. There’s also the Les Shirley Park, Coaster Theater, and the Haystack Gallery to visit while you’re here.

Where to Stay in Cannon Beach: Webb’s Scenic Surf

Located in Cannon Beach, a hop, skip, and a jump away from the shores and Haystack Gallery, Webb’s Scenic Surf features stunning accommodation options. Each room has a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, free WiFi, and a private bathroom. It’s the ideal spot to relax on the terrace with a cup of coffee and watch the waves come in from the Pacific.

10) Tillamook, Oregon

A little south of Seaside and Cannon Beach is Tillamook. It’s another cute, small-town that may sound familiar to you in the context of its dairy products produced at Tillamook Creamery – yum!

Provided you aren’t lactose intolerant, the creamery may just be a good enough reason to visit Tillamook. But if that isn’t enough, make your way to Tillamook Bay, where you’ll come to find a beautiful stretch of coastline. Stretch your legs and snap some pictures of the Cape Meares Beach and Oceanside Beach – both of these are Seattle to Portland road trip-worthy sites.

Where to Stay in Tillamook: Sheltered Nook on Tillamook Bay

Sheltered Nook on Tillamook Bay is, as the name suggests, a short stroll from the bay. Each room is furnished with a flat-screen TV, a shower, tea/coffee making facilities, and a stocked kitchen. Sit out on the terrace, recharge, and enjoy the beautiful mountain or garden views before your drive into Portland.

11) Portland, Oregon

From Tillamook or Cannon Beach, you’ll need to head inland via the OR-6E and US-26 E for around an hour and a half until you reach – drum roll – Portland. As Oregon’s largest city, you’ll find its cool vibe super exciting, with plenty to see and do.

Discover the many boutiques and shops along the Saint Johns neighborhood and hit the Portland Saturday Market featuring locally made jewelry, wood making, and art. And one place you certainly want to stop by is Powell’s Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore – so large that you may just need a map to find your way through. 

Take a light stroll through Washington Park, home to Japanese Gardens and the International Rose Test Garden. And once you’ve worked up an appetite from all the driving and strolling, stop by Voodoo Doughnut for some mouth-watering pieces of sweet deliciousness.

Where to Stay in Portland: The Mark Spencer Hotel

After exploring all the top attractions between Seattle and Portland, why not spoil yourself with a well-deserved stay at The Mark Spencer Hotel. Located near Portland’s Pearl District, the boutique hotel offers a 24-hour fitness center, room service, and private parking. Each room features WiFi, a full kitchenette and cooktop stoves, coffee makers, and cable TV.

Planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest?

Take a look through a few of my other favorite articles that could help you plan your trip or provide future trip inspiration!

• Top 15 Music Festivals In Washington To Keep You Dancing All Year Long .
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Gig Harbor, Washington
• EDM FESTIVALS | The 20 Best Electronic Music Festivals in the USA
• The 21 Best Airbnb’s in Portland To Rest, Rejuvenate & Explore
• 101 Beautiful Natures Quotes To Inspire Your Next Outdoor Adventure
• The 20 Best Airbnbs in Seattle | Unique Cabins, Luxury Apartments & Cozy Studios
• The 25 Best Country Music Festivals in the U.S.A
• Top 14 Music Festivals in Oregon To Experience Before You Die
• Top 12 Glamping Oregon Sites For Your Bucket List
• Top 20 San Diego Music Festivals To Experience Before You Die
• 101 Beautiful Nature Quotes to Inspire Your Next Adventure
• TOP 50 Music Festivals in the U.S.A | US Festival Bucket List
• The 78 BEST Road Trip To Inspire Your Next Adventure
• The 90 BEST Mountain Quotes To Inspire Your Next Adventure
• 77 Fun & Inspirational BEACH Quotes & Captions
• The 50 Best Explore Quotes To Inspire Your Next Adventure

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Road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth

Are you ready for an enchanting drive from Seattle to Leavenworth, a stunning alpine destination that channels Bavarian vibes in the heart of Washington State? Whichever way you get there, you'll enjoy rugged mountain views, wild rivers and some charming towns that each have their own tales to tell.

It's a scenic 340-mile road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth, with the route past Rimrock Lake, Narada Falls and Mt Rainier National Park taking 6 hours 45 minutes to drive. Or travel via North Cascades National Park to visit Hamilton, Winthrop and Chelan.

Whether you're looking forward to scenic views and relaxation, or ready to hit some serious hiking trails, a road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth makes the perfect weekend break or even a longer getaway. Keep on reading to find out what's waiting to be discovered on this inland adventure.

How far is Leavenworth from Seattle, and how long will the road trip take?

The longer of our two routes takes you to Mt Rainier National Park: a beautiful location that's well worth the extra 45 minutes' drive. This picturesque trip from Seattle to Leavenworth covers around 340 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes.

Alternatively, head north via North Cascades National Park Route for a splendid 315-mile drive which requires close to 6 hours to complete.

Even though this is a relatively short road trip, we recommend taking at least 3-4 days to stop at the picturesque small towns of Washington and admire some of America's most breathtaking scenery.

Best road trip route from Seattle to Leavenworth

While both routes serve as gateways to nature's grandeur, each provides a unique tableau of the Pacific Northwest's charm. Your ultimate decision will hinge upon which natural backdrop resonates with your wanderlust spirit.

The Mount Rainier National Park Route immerses travelers in the verdant expanses of central Washington State's wild forests. At its heart lies Mount Rainier, a towering stratovolcano and the crowning jewel of the Cascade Range, accompanied by neighboring volcanoes.

As you travel this route, you'll be greeted with panoramas of blooming wildflower meadows and the tranquility of meandering rivers. You'll also visit Washington State's agricultural heartland, with the fertile valleys around Yakima and Wenatchee adding a gustatory dimension to your journey.

The North Cascades National Park Route also travels through stunning mountain landscapes, but first you'll skirt the coast of Puget Sound and Skagit Bay before heading inland through the rugged terrain of the Northern Cascades.

Along this route, hiking enthusiasts are in for a treat. The North Cascades National Park beckons with its soaring mountain peaks, frozen glaciers, and cascading waterfalls – a paradise for those keen to tread amidst nature's raw beauty.

If you have a little more time on your hands, we strongly recommend expanding out and driving on the Cascade Loop . Even if you cannot complete the entire loop, you will take back unforgettable memories of the gorgeous landscape back home with you.

How to drive from Seattle to Leavenworth

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Seattle and Leavenworth. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

Mount Rainier National Park Route

🚗 340 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 45 minutes

Go slow and see more as you follow this itinerary, stopping at the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls, taking in the mountain views at Enumclaw and visiting Hanford Reach National Monument on the way.

Kick off your adventure in the bustling city of Seattle, then head southeast on Interstate 90 (I-90). Soon, you'll turn onto WA-18, which leads you directly to the majestic Snoqualmie Falls.

You will soon reach Enumclaw. From here, head east towards picturesque Greenwater. Look out for glimpses of the White River through the trees as you make your way along this scenic state road.

After Greenwater, the road swings southwards, still following the White River. If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a right turn and ascend into the mountains on Forest Service Roads which take you to the panoramic Sun Top Lookout.

Vast landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see here, but signage is limited so it's wise to use a map or GPS for this part of the route.

As you make your way to the city of Yakima you'll pass beautiful Rimrock Lake. There's a stunning view of the lake's pristine waters from the road, but you'll find several pullovers if you want to stop for a photograph.

Once you reach Yakima, take some time to immerse yourself in local history at the Yakima Valley Museum, then join WA-24 which takes you to the Hanford Reach National Monument, where you can uncover the mysteries of the region's past.

You will soon head towards Quincy, where you can explore the Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area. The route then continues northward to Wenatchee, hugging the Columbia River almost all the way.

Turn onto the highway towards Leavenworth to complete your drive, stopping along the way at the Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village, which opens up a window into the lives of the region's early settlers and indigenous peoples.

North Cascades National Park Route

This route starts by heading north on I-5 toward the historic town of Mount Vernon. Here, you can treat yourself to a show or a tour at the Lincoln Theater, a beacon of cultural heritage in the region.

Continue on the super-scenic North Cascades Highway to Hamilton, a quaint town that's perfect for a rest stop or a stroll. The road further then takes you deeper into the stunning wilderness to Marblemount, a prelude to the untouched beauty that lies ahead.

As you progress, the town of Newhalem emerges as a gateway to the rugged landscapes of the North Cascades National Park. You'll find the North Cascades Visitor Center here so stop off for more information on hiking trails and ways to explore the national park.

Next, you'll reach the serene waters of the Ross Lake National Recreational Area, before continuing eastward to Winthrop, where the Methow Trails offer more great opportunities for hiking.

You will soon reach Pateros, looking out over the Columbia River, then join US-97, which hugs the river as it runs southwards towards Chelan.

Stop for a delightful meal in Chelan, then delve into nature at the Beebe Springs Natural Area before continuing west to Sunnyslope, where you'll find the green oasis of the Ohme Gardens.

Before you complete your trip in Leavenworth, pull up to admire the rocky spires of Peshastin Pinnacles State Park, which invite climbers and nature enthusiasts alike for one final adventure.

Best places to stop between Seattle and Leavenworth

Even though this is just a short road trip, we think you'll definitely want to plan for some overnight stops to spend more time admiring the unforgettable views and following the stunning trails this amazing drive offers. Here are a few of our top picks.

Admire the beautiful scenery surrounding Yakima

Located just under 4 hours from Seattle, Yakima serves as the ideal midway halt on the Mt Rainier National Park Route. As you drive through Washington State, this city reflects the region's agricultural heritage, with apples taking center stage.

One of the town's highlights is the Yakima Valley Museum, which delves insightfully into the valley's rich natural and cultural history. Or for those looking to bask in nature, the expansive Yakima Area Arboretum is a testament to the region's rich biodiversity.

For a quirky detour, hop onto a Yakima Valley Trolley. These trolleys, proudly listed in the National Registry for their historical significance, take you on a whimsical journey through time, along tracks that have been echoing with stories for over 115 years.

When it's time to retire for the night, Ledgestone Hotel extends a warm welcome. Boasting a home-like ambiance, every room here offers a separate living space, ensuring you never feel confined.

The hotel's proximity to downtown Yakima means you can head out to explore its gastronomic delights or hunt for local market treasures. But for those who'd rather whip up a quick meal, the rooms also come equipped with a kitchenette, complete with all essentials.

Moreover, the Yakima River's mesmerizing charm is just a stone's throw away, so you can enjoy a serene stroll at the end of a busy day on the road. Sunrise Rotary Park, which is part of the Yakima River Greenway, is almost on your doorstep too.

Take in the Old West charm of Winthrop

This beacon of Old West charm is nestled amidst the grandeur of the North Cascades mountain range. Located around 3 hours and 50 minutes from Seattle, Winthrop offers travelers taking the North Cascades National Park Route the perfect combination of captivating vistas and adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures.

Named after adventurer and author, Theodore Winthrop, the town wears its passion for outdoor recreation on its sleeve. Whether you're an avid hiker, mountain biker, or simply an enthusiast of nature's raw beauty, this town has something to satiate your wanderlust.

It's the ideal backdrop for pursuits ranging from horseback riding and hunting to fishing and mountain climbing. You'll be perfectly placed to explore North Cascades National Park too.

Beyond the unforgettable landscapes, what truly sets Winthrop apart is its evocative nod to the American Old West, with the town's architecture transporting you to a bygone era.

If you're looking for some more laid-back relaxation, head to Three Fingered Jack's Saloon, Washington's oldest legal saloon. A quirky nugget to relish as you explore the town: it owes its unique name to the adventurer and author, Theodore Winthrop.

When the day's adventures wind down, the chalet-like charm of the Mt Gardner Inn beckons . From the comfort of your balcony or the serene terrasse, you might be greeted by the sights of deer, birds, or other local wildlife.

For snow enthusiasts, the inn ensures you're slope-ready, offering ski passes right on the premises. And when you're ready to step out, both the town's historic treasures and nature's wonders are just a stone's throw away.

Where to stay when you reach Leavenworth

Leavenworth is an enchanting alpine-style city, nestled amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. As you wander its streets, it's easy to forget that you're in Washington and not a quaint Bavarian town.

Interestingly, Leavenworth's transformation into a Bavarian wonderland was a deliberate initiative in the 1960s designed to bolster tourism. Evidently, it succeeded marvelously, since today the village's distinct style and grand mountain views draw visitors all year round.

Take a leisurely walk along the Wenatchee River through the lush forest of the Waterfront Park for the chance to sight beavers, deer, osprey, and eagles in their natural habitat.

Or a quirky detour, make your way to the Nutcracker Museum, where thousands of nutcrackers from around the world reside — some are centuries old.

Just a stone's throw away from the heart of the village lies the luxurious Storybook Riverside Inn . Serenely situated by the Wenatchee River, this beautiful inn offers the perfect blend of historic charm, modern comfort, and unparalleled scenic beauty. For those seeking a culinary experience under the stars, the inn boasts an outdoor dining area nestled amidst gorgeous gardens.

Every room at the Storybook Riverside Inn is a window to nature's masterpiece: expect breathtaking views of the mountains and the gently flowing river from your private balcony or patio. And for those chilly evenings, select rooms come equipped with cozy fireplaces to enhance the atmosphere.

Things to see on a road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth

Whether you're looking forward to lacing up your hiking boots or setting up your camera for the perfect panoramic shot, there's plenty to enjoy when you take a scenic road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth.

• Snoqualmie Falls - This 268-foot waterfall is one of Washington's most popular scenic attractions, offering breathtaking views from its observation deck.
• Enumclaw - Located at the gateway to Mount Rainier National Park, this charming city is known for its vibrant arts community and unique local shops.
• Greenwater - A serene hamlet situated in the forested landscape near the White River, providing an ideal spot for nature lovers.
• Sun Top Lookout - With panoramic views of Mount Rainier, this viewpoint in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest makes for a stunning detour.
• Sunrise Lookout and Visitor Center - The highest point is accessible by car in Mount Rainier National Park, offering striking mountain views and informative exhibits in the visitor center.
• Mount Rainier National Park - Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the slopes of the active stratovolcano Mount Rainier - the park is known for its lush forests, subalpine meadows, and various recreational activities.
• Narada Falls - Easily accessible via a short trail, this multi-tiered waterfall in Mount Rainier National Park is a super-scenic stop, cascading beautifully over a cliff.
• Rimrock Lake - A picturesque reservoir in the Wenatchee National Forest, perfect for boating, fishing, and camping.
• Yakima Valley Museum - This cultural institution aims to preserve the rich history of the Yakima Valley, featuring exhibits on local heritage, culture, and the fruit industry.
• Hanford Reach National Monument - This unique stretch of the Columbia River is home to rare plant and animal species, and you can also see the remnants of the Hanford nuclear site.
• Wild Horse Monument - Overlooking the Columbia River, this impressive art installation consists of metal sculptures of horses on a ridge, symbolizing the wild horses that once roamed the region.
• Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area - A vast natural reserve known for its diverse habitats, including lakes, wetlands, and shrub steppe, attracting a variety of wildlife and birds.
• Wenatchee - Located on the west bank of the Columbia River, this lively city is often referred to as the "Apple Capital of the World" for its abundant orchards.

• Lincoln Theater - This historic theater in the heart of Mount Vernon is known for its stunning architecture and a diverse lineup of performances, films, and community events.
• Skagit Valley Tulip Fields - A vibrant sea of tulips blooms here every spring, drawing visitors from all over to marvel at the breathtaking colors and patterns in the Skagit Valley.
• Hamilton - Known for its rustic charm and natural beauty, this small town is set against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains.
• Marblemount - Another quaint town you'll pass along the route, Marblemount is as a gateway to the North Cascades, offering picturesque views and ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
• Newhalem - A tiny company town within the North Cascades National Park, known for its rich history and the nearby Skagit River Hydroelectric Project.
• North Cascades National Park - With its steep mountains, dense forests and shimmering alpine lakes, this vast expanse of rugged beauty is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
• Ross Lake National Recreation Area - Nestled within the North Cascades, this area is renowned for the azure Ross Lake, outdoor activities, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
• Methow Trails - In and around Winthrop you'll find an extensive trail system with year-round recreational activities, from cross-country skiing in winter to hiking and biking in summer.
• Twisp - Known as the "heart of the Methow Valley," this artistic town is a blend of local arts, great food, and scenic beauty.
• Pateros - A waterfront town on the confluence of the Columbia and Methow Rivers, renowned for its annual Apple Pie Jamboree and picturesque surroundings.
• Beebe Springs Natural Area - This serene nature reserve in Chelan features a variety of habitats, walking trails, and viewpoints overlooking the Columbia River.
• Watson's Alpenhorn Cafe - You'll feel transported to Switzerland when you visit this cozy cafe, known for its Swiss-inspired dishes and the unique playing of the Alpenhorn, a traditional mountain instrument.
• Ohme Gardens - A nine-acre alpine garden in Sunnyslope which is situated on a rocky bluff above Wenatchee, offering panoramic views, winding pathways, and tranquil pools.

Both Routes

• Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village - Catch a glimpse into the past when you visit this museum, which includes historical artifacts and a recreated pioneer village showcasing early settler life.
• Peshastin Pinnacles State Park - An iconic state park renowned for its sandstone slabs and spires, offering rock climbing opportunities and trails with sweeping views of the Wenatchee Valley.

Best time to go on a road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth

Leavenworth and its surrounding wonders are destinations that can be enjoyed throughout the year, but your experience will undoubtedly differ based on the season in which you choose to embark on your journey.

Setting off in winter presents some challenges. If you opt for the Mt Rainier National Park Route, you might encounter snow-related road closures leading to and around Mt Rainier National Park, and even the other roads in central Washington could prove slippery. The park does remain open via the Nisqually and Carbon River entrances.

We don't recommend attempting the North Cascade National Park Route in winter. The North Cascades Highway, which makes up a significant portion of this route, usually closes from November to May due to heavy snow. But for the adventurous soul, the park itself remains open, albeit with limited services.

Summer trips, on the other hand, can be the perfect getaway from the city heat, with temperatures reaching a comfortable 80 degrees. July and August are also the driest months to visit Leavenworth - there's a reason those forested slopes look so lush and green throughout the year!

If you're traveling via Mt Rainier National Park, then the spectacular Mt Rainier Wildflower Festival in July and August is a sight to behold, and by October, you can experience the Yakima Valley Fresh Hop Ale Festival. Travelers on the North Cascades National Park Route can also enjoy the vibes at Winthrop Rhythm and Blues Festival in July.

There's still a chance of snow if you travel in early spring, with average temperatures peaking at a chilly 50 degrees in March, but things are warming up by May and the North Cascades Highway will be opening up for travel again.

If you favor the cooler, colorful fall season, time your drive to Leavenworth to see September's vibrant Autumn Leaf Festival. And if you're arriving in Leavenworth in October you'll find that beer gardens and festive events come alive to celebrate Oktoberfest, under the beautiful backdrop of changing leaves.

Temperatures in the North Cascades and Leavenworth region tend to hover between 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the fall, offering a delightful balance for both outdoor activities and cozy relaxation.

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7+ Best Family Road Trips and Getaways From Seattle

S eattle is one of my favorite family travel destinations. This beautiful Pacific Northwest city offers fun activities, unique museums, and a gorgeous landscape.

It’s so different from my home in New England, which makes it a really interesting place to explore and see. Known as the Emerald City, Seattle always showcases its natural beauty with green everywhere.

There are so many fantastic things to do right in the city of Seattle with kids . However, if you are there for an extended trip, you may want to venture beyond the Space Needle and the city limits. There are also some great family road trips from Seattle – both within the United States and outside the US borders.

We generally recommend a four-day Seattle itinerary . However, if you want to add on any of these road trips from Seattle, you’ll probably want to add some additional days to your trip. You can choose to stay in Seattle or for longer road trips, switch hotels for more convenience.

When flying into Seattle, you’ll probably want to rent a car at the airport to take you to your hotel. That way, you’ll be able to drive around wherever and whenever you want. You will likely pay for parking at your hotel, so be sure to budget for that.

Otherwise, you could take a cab or ride-share to your Seattle hotel and then rent a car for a day or two in the city. Zip Cars may also be available and are a great option for a road trip—especially a short one.

Remember that you’ll need your passport if you travel to Canada. Be sure to apply well in advance.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located about 2 1/2 hours west of Seattle. It covers almost a million acres and includes mountains, rainforests, hiking trails, and coastlines.

Olympic National Park offers many activities for families. These include hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and viewing wildlife native to Washington State.

Several visitors and ranger stations are located throughout the park. While you could definitely take a day trip to Olympic National Park from Seattle, you may want to stay overnight.

Several lodging options are offered. The park offers several campsites and campsites associated with a few of the park lodges.

There are also a few lodges and resorts in the park. These include the following:

• Kalaloch Lodge
• Lake Crescent Lodge
• Log Cabin Resort
• Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

For more information and reservations, visit the Olympic National Park website .

Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls, located in Snoqualmie, Washington, was always one of my favorite places to visit when I lived in the Seattle suburbs. It’s a short drive, about a 30-minute drive west of Seattle, and is worth the trip.

There, you’ll find a 268-foot waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in the US ), a gift shop, a small park, and the Salish Lodge . Parking is free, as is access to the viewing platform, which is a short walk away.

You could easily visit Snoqualmie Falls for an afternoon. It isn’t a long drive, and you probably won’t spend too much time there.

However, if you want to do something special, the Salish Lodge is a luxurious resort and spa overlooking the falls. It’s somewhere I’ve always wanted to stay – it looks like such a unique spot. If you do book the lodge, you could probably just spend the night. It’s also one of the best weekend getaways from the city.

Learn more about Snoqualmie Falls on their website and see reviews of the Salish Lodge .

Everett, Washington , is located about 40 minutes north of Seattle on Puget Sound. There, you’ll find  Funko HQ , the international headquarters of Funko, a company offering pop culture collectibles. One of our best day trips during our vacation was  to Funko HQ.

If your kids enjoy collecting Funko Pops, you’ll want to drive up to Everett. It’s an easy road trip for the morning or afternoon. Funko HQ is typically closed on Mondays, so you’ll want to check on the store hours before heading up.

Funko HQ is a really fun place to visit, even if you aren’t looking for any specific collectibles. There are many different life-sized Funko figures in themed rooms, including Disney, Harry Potter, and Marvel. You can also design your own Funko Pop for a completely unique souvenir of your trip.

Expect to spend about 30-60 minutes at Funko HQ. Beyond the shop, there aren’t any other facilities for tourists.

Mukilteo is a small seaside town along Puget Sound, about 30 minutes from Downtown Seattle. If you plan a trip to Everett, Mukilteo is one of the best places to stop.

There are a few points of interest in the town, including the Boeing Future of Flight Museum and Boeing Factory Tour. During our visit, we stopped for a tour, but it was sold out for the day. You’ll want to plan ahead and make advance reservations for a tour. It includes a lot of walking, so you’ll want to ensure you have comfortable walking shoes .

If the weather is nice, you may also want to stop at the Mukilteo Lighthouse Park. Find a spot in the vast parking lot and walk along the water’s edge to the lighthouse. You’ll want to check operating hours before visiting.

Even if the lighthouse isn’t open to visitors, it’s still nice to see the sites along the Sound. You can also watch the ferryboats leaving the terminal and enjoy sitting in the waterfront park.

A delicious seafood restaurant, Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing, is adjacent to the park. You can eat in the restaurant or visit the takeout windows to get food outdoors while watching the boats.

San Juan Islands

Despite the similar-sounding name, the San Juan Islands are not in Puerto Rico. Instead, they are located in the northwest of Seattle. You can access the islands by ferry, plane, or private boat.

Most guests take the Washington State Ferry, which departs from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. It’s about 2-3 hours from Seattle, and reservations are recommended. There are vehicle ferries if you choose to take your car.

The total ferry ride is a little over an hour. Because of that, and the ride time to Anacortes, we’d recommend staying at least a few days in the San Juan Islands.

Three islands are served by ferry service. These include San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. These three offer different types of activities, so you’ll want to research in advance to ensure you stay in the location with the best activities for your family.

The San Juan Islands Visitor’s Bureau website is the best spot to start research and decide where to stay. You can also see things to do in the San Juan Islands here .

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is one of my favorite cities in North America. The biggest city in British Columbia offers everything—mountains, green space, and an urban environment.

It’s located a little more than two and a half hours north of Seattle (although you’ll also want to account for the time it takes to cross the Canadian border). I think it’s one of the best road trips from Seattle.

I’d recommend spending at least a few days in Vancouver. There’s so much to see, you’ll want more than a day. When we visited, we’d usually spend a long weekend and then head back down to Seattle. Three days is a good amount of time there unless you have specific things you want to do.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is Stanley Park. This urban park offers a botanical garden, hiking, beaches, sports, a train, an aquarium, and much more. Depending on your interests, you could definitely spend more than an afternoon there. It’s located right in the city, so it’s very convenient.

Other popular attractions in Vancouver include Granville Island, Grouse Mountain, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. It gets chilly on top of Grouse Mountain, even in the summer, so be prepared.

In my opinion, the best time to visit Vancouver is in the summer. But, if you are a skier, you may want to visit during winter. There are other places to visit, including North Vancouver Island .

If you are staying in Vancouver, some of the most popular hotels are:

• Loden Hotel
• L’Hermitage Hotel
• OPUS Vancouver

Another Canadian option is Victoria BC with kids .

Mt. Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier is one of the most identifiable elements of the greater Seattle landscape along the Cascade Mountain range. This gorgeous mountain, also an active volcano, can be seen from Seattle on a clear day (which doesn’t happen as much as I’d like).

To get a closer look and explore nature in the Seattle area, consider visiting Mount Rainier National Park, which is less than two hours away from the city. The park is accessible via roads open from May to October and offers many fun outdoor activities for families. It’s one of the beautiful Washington State National Parks .

It does get busy in the peak summer months, so you’ll want to arrive early and visit on a weekday, if possible. Family activities include hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. More adventurous camps/hikes are available that require a permit and aren’t great for families.

The park has three drive-in campgrounds and one campground for tents. Two of these are available for advance reservation. If you’d prefer not to camp, you could visit the National Park for a day trip from Seattle.

Nearby Drives

In addition to these longer day trips listed above, there are a few fun Seattle suburbs that you can visit in just a few hours. If you have a car on your trip, you can combine a visit to several of these locations.

Take a quick drive past Bellevue, Washington, into Redmond, the home of Microsoft. While Redmond is a small town without too much to do, it’s still fun to see all of the buildings on the Microsoft campus. It’s pretty impressive.

Drive to nearby Ballard, Washington, about twenty-five minutes from the city center, to visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (generally known as the Ballard Locks). Entry to the visitor center and viewing the locks is free; however, parking is not.

The Ballard Locks are located where the saltwater of Puget Sound meets the freshwater of Lake Washington and Lake Union. The US Army Core of Engineers created them to manage the different water levels. It’s a fun area to walk around and a unique experience if you haven’t seen locks before.

Another fun place to visit with kids is Fremont. It’s a small town with shops and restaurants. As you drive through, see the Fremont Troll, a stone sculpture that lurks under the George Washington Memorial Bridge on N. 36th Street.

Other Popular Destinations

There are plenty of other popular road trip destinations in Seattle and the surrounding area. These include Leavenworth (a Bavarian village – see things to do in Leavenworth here), Vancouver Island, Long Beach, Whidbey Island, and North Cascades National Park.

Hotels in Seattle

Whether you plan to stay a few nights in the city and then venture to a new location or keep your home base in Seattle, there are plenty of great hotels in Seattle for your vacation. While it’s a small city, you’ll want to consider which area you want to stay in.

When we visited Seattle with our family, we chose to stay at Hotel FIVE—Staypineapple Seattle . This unique boutique hotel is centrally located, so we could walk to both Pike Place Market and Seattle Center .

We booked our trip through JetBlue Vacation, and while several great hotel options were available, Hotel FIVE looked best for our plans and budget.

There are other family hotel options in Seattle as well. Some of the most popular Seattle hotels include:

• The Four Seasons Seattle
• Inn at the Market
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco
• Grand Hyatt Seattle

The post 7+ Best Family Road Trips and Getaways From Seattle appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

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Oregon , Road Trip Itineraries , United States , Washington

11 amazing stops on a seattle to cannon beach road trip.

The Pacific Northwest has a vibe of its own, doesn’t it? One moment you’re walking around Seattle’s urban hustle, and before you know it, you’re cruising on a highway that promises the perfect blend of sea, sand, and surf at Cannon Beach, Oregon. Haystack Rock, those Pacific waves – it’s not your typical beach scene, which is why everyone should do a Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip at least once in their lives.

Last summer, I went on a drive from Seattle to Cannon Beach after thinking about it for years, and all I could think after I got back was why I put it off for so long. I had so much fun on this trip, stopping at all the random places along the way and exploring my home state and Oregon in new ways. There were so many photographic moments, and relaxing at the beach was the perfect vacation I needed.

Heading to Cannon Beach from Seattle isn’t just about the beach vibes, though. It’s about the voyage, the detours, and the “did we just miss our exit?” moments (that happens at least once a trip for me, even though I’ve been a professional travel blogger for eight years!).

If you’re thinking about going on your own trip, I’ll break down the best pit stops on this route and give you a sample two-day Cannon Beach itinerary based on my own experience. Whether you’re in it for the views or just need a solid break from city life, this drive has something for you.

Extend your drive with a Portland to Los Angeles road trip .

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to Cannon Beach Drive

Before jumping into the fantastic stops and sights of a Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip, you’ll need some helpful tips for making the most of the drive. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about this trip.

Can You Drive from Seattle to Cannon Beach in a Day?

Absolutely, you can. The drive along the Pacific Coast takes around four hours , whether you go along Highway 101 or Interstate 5. That said, this is the quickest route, which doesn’t take into account pit stops, which I definitely recommend.

If you want to make the most of the drive, turn it into a fun road trip where you can stop to take some terrific shots for your Instagram (here are some of the best road trip captions ), put your favorite playlist on, and make some memories. This way, you can turn the drive into a two or three-day adventure.

Continue on for a Seattle to Los Angeles road trip itinerary .

How Far is the Drive From Seattle to Cannon Beach?

The Seattle to Cannon Beach drive is around 200 miles if you go along the I-5 and US-101. However, if you make stops at popular destinations like Forks, the famed setting of Twilight, or the volcanoes at Mount Saint Helens or Mount Rainier National Park. With these detours, the drive can become up to 400 or even 500 miles—the more, the merrier!

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Cannon Beach?

Cannon Beach is a picturesque spot year-round, with its stunning coastline, the iconic Haystack Rock, and a large stretch of beach. That said, I recommend visiting in the summer , where you can bask in the sunshine, go hiking in Ecola State Park, or simply enjoy the vistas.

Seattle to Cannon Beach Road Trip Map

 11 Brilliant Stops on a Seattle to Cannon Beach Road Trip

The magnificent thing about the Seattle to Cannon Beach drive is how many fun stops there are along the way. I should note that this list is not intended to be a checklist of all the places you should stop, but rather some of the best attractions in the general direction when heading south to Oregon.

While I have a sample Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip itinerary at the end of this article, it’s up to you to decide which direction you want to go and how many stops you want to make.

Here are some of my top recommended destinations.

1. Olympic National Park, WA

The next exceptional stop on this road trip from Seattle to Cannon Beach is Olympic National Park – and here’s why. It’s a beautiful national park with its snow-capped peaks, vast, deep blue lakes, and verdant forests.

Then, there’s the picturesque coastline, which is dotted with beaches. Ruby Beach is among the most popular choices for beachcombing and tide pooling, and it is a top spot to enjoy a perfect sunset.

You can also enjoy hiking, whether that’s finding waterfalls at Sol Duc Falls or just walking along one of the park’s many loop trails.

Its scenery highlights why Washington is such a fantastic state to visit. However, planning where to go in the park may feel overwhelming for you. If this is the case, I recommend booking this Olympic National Park day tour for a seamless experience.

Note: If you’re looking for a more direct route on your drive from Seattle to Cannon Beach, you might want to skip the first two stops. However, the Olympic Peninsula is one of my favorite areas in the state, so I highly recommend spending a day here if time allows.

Looking for other road trip ideas? You’ll love the drive from Seattle to Glacier National Park , or go on a long Las Vegas road trip from Seattle .

2. Forks, WA

One delightful stop along the drive is the city of Forks in Washington. It’s located on the Olympic Peninsula and is a charming place to be. Forks is famous for being the setting of the Twilight film series; however, it’s perfectly safe here – don’t worry about vampires biting you.

Moreover, this city is surrounded by natural beauty, whether that’s the moss-covered Hoh Rainforest , the glorious Olympic National Park, or the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary .

Forks is also a brilliant place to understand the area’s past. At the Forks Timber Museum , you can learn about the history of the local logging trade since the 1870s.

More interested in the history of indigenous people? Check out the Makah Museum , which houses over 500-year-old artifacts from the Ozette Archaeological Site.

Want to go north? Take a fun road trip from Vancouver to Seattle .

3. Tacoma, WA

Another brilliant city on the way is Tacoma, on the banks of Puget Sound. This port city is only 30 miles southwest of Seattle, which makes it a great place to stop.

What makes Tacoma even better is how vibrant the city is, with its interesting museum district, stunning surroundings, and exciting local cuisine. For art lovers, visit the Museum of Glass for some of the best local glass art or the Tacoma Art Museum for European Impressionism, contemporary local work, and Japanese prints.

If you love learning all about transportation, pay a visit to America’s Car Museum to see everything from sports cars to antique automobiles. Additionally, get a Museum of Flight admission ticket and spend a few hours enlightening yourself about the history of aviation.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

Another scenic drive is the Seattle to Banff road trip .

4. Mount Rainier National Park, WA

Next on the list for your Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip, we’ve got the idyllic Mount Rainier National Park, which really is worth visiting. If you follow me on Instagram , you’ll constantly see me here in the summer and fall months.

It features an iconic part of the Washington landscape, Mount Rainier, which stands over 14,410 feet tall. This active volcano is a spectacular sight and is definitely a must-see when visiting Washington.

Plus, it’s a terrific park to visit year-round, whether you’re looking to walk through vivid wildflower meadows in the spring or find fall foliage at Paradise in the fall. The park is full of dozens of hikes, waterfalls waiting to be explored, and more. With so much to do, this is the ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Driving with an infant? Here are some tips for a road trip with a baby .

5. Olympia, WA

As the capital of Washington State, Olympia is another magnificent city to visit along this road trip to Cannon Beach from Seattle. Whether you’re visiting the Washington State Capitol, grabbing a bite at the Olympia Farmers Market , or walking through Percival Landing Park near the waterfront, it’s an idyllic place to be.

If you’re traveling with kids, I recommend checking out the Hands On Children’s Museum, which has tons of interactive displays, an outdoor playing space, and a food court for when they get hungry ( P.S.: Check out these road trip snacks for kids to avoid any tantrums). The Puget Sound Estuarium is also a brilliant place to learn more about the Sound’s marine life.

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

6. Mount Saint Helens, WA

Another iconic part of Washington is Mount Saint Helens, a volcano famous for its 1980 eruption. Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument stretches over 110,000 acres and is a brilliant place to go hiking.

It’s within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which is also a terrific spot for outdoor explorers. Two brilliant places to visit in this park are the Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center and the Forest Learning Center , which delve into the eruption and its aftermath.

Top tip : For a fascinating look into the area’s history, take this all-inclusive small-group tour of Mount Saint Helens .

7. Aberdeen, WA

Next up, we’ve got Aberdeen, commonly known as the “gateway to the Olympic Peninsula,” and a charming city. It’s also famous for being the birthplace of Kurt Cobain, the late, renowned vocalist of Nirvana.

The Kurt Cobain Memorial Park is a brilliant insight into the influence the city had on him and his lyrics. It’s surrounded by nature, from Bottle Beach State Park and its migratory birds to the stunning Lake Aberdeen.

Prefer to dive into some culture? Check out the Aberdeen Art Center to see some fantastic local artwork, or take an art class. Keen to try out some local wine? Visit Westport Winery , Greys Harbor County’s first wine farm.

You can also head out on a drive from Portland to San Francisco at this point.

 8. Astoria, OR

Next up, we’ve got our first stop in Oregon, the historic city of Astoria. It’s a charming place on the Oregon Coast, with its waterfront views, proximity to several state parks, and cultural offerings. You’ll find some delightful places to visit if you want to take a pit stop here.

The Oregon Film Museum is a fun way to explore the history of movies in Oregon. Did you know that The Goonies was set in Astoria? Yes, this museum covers many movies shot in Oregon, including One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Free Willy .

Another delightful option on your Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip is the Astoria Sunday Market , open from May 9 until October 10, which has live music, tasty treats, and local arts and crafts.

If you’re in the mood for beer and pizza, I highly recommend Fort George Brewery ; I go here every single time I visit Astoria, and I don’t feel bad for not trying somewhere new because it’s that good.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

If you’re looking for a shorter drive, you can end here and just do a Seattle to Portland road trip .

9. Fort Stevens State Park, OR

Just 15 minutes (9 miles) from Astoria is the majestic Fort Stevens State Park which is worth seeing when driving from Seattle to Cannon Beach. This 4,300-acre park offers over 480 campsites, more than 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a historic shipwreck.

What’s more, it’s also home to a Civil War fort from 1865, which brings many history buffs to the park. This fort was used by soldiers in the Battle of Chantilly, the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II.

Additionally, the 2.5-mile loop trail around Coffenbury Lake is a fantastic way to get some fresh air and a tranquil driving break.

Another fun drive is the road trip from Seattle to Crater Lake National Park .

10. Seaside, OR

The final stop before reaching Cannon Beach is the coastal town of Seaside. Yes, it’s literally the perfect description for the town, as this is the perfect beach town with its promenade, the Seaside Carousel Mall , and festive energy.

Looking for some fun things to do with kids? Check out the Seaside Aquarium , one of the West Coast’s oldest aquariums. Here, you can find all kinds of marine life, such as eels, octopuses, stingrays, crabs, starfish, and more. Plus, they take conservation seriously by helping beached whales and stranded mammals along the Oregon Coast.

Further, Seaside plays an important role in American history, as it was the final stop on Lewis and Clark’s expedition on the West Coast. The town even hosts an annual event to commemorate their efforts – the Lewis and Clark Salt Makers Return. A reenactment and other lectures, demonstrations, and workshops are held.

11. Cannon Beach, OR

The road trip ends in Cannon Beach, after hundreds of miles along the Pacific Coast. It’s a fun city with its long shores, a bustling downtown of boutiques and art galleries, and an exciting brewery scene.

For lovers of craft beer and good food, check out Pelican Brewing . It has all the usual suspects, like IPAs, stouts, lagers, experimental fruit ales, and even non-alcoholic hop-flavored drinks.

Plus, with the city’s great outdoors, it’s also well worth it to venture outside. There are many things to do, whether beach-hopping, tide-pooling, wildlife viewing, hiking, or even surfing.

Ready for more? You’ll love going on a drive to San Francisco from Seattle or even a Seattle to San Diego drive .

Seattle to Cannon Beach Itinerary: 2 Days

You might feel more organized now that you have all the spots to visit. If you’re not sure how to do it, check out this itinerary. Let’s get into it!

Day 1 

We start off the Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip in Seattle, where you’ll head down the I-5 for 32 miles before reaching Tacoma . Now, this itinerary will require you to be a bit more selective when choosing pitstops, but this city is a cultural hotspot along this road trip.

Next, you’ll drive for roughly 60 miles before getting to Mount Rainier National Park . Here, you can take a short hike in the park or enjoy a scenic drive and enjoy the incredible beauty. The last stretch of day one involves driving another 68 miles until you reach the enchanting city of Olympia.

A brilliant way to end the day is by wandering through Percival Landing Park and the waterfront before enjoying some delicious seafood at Olympia Oyster House .

Where to Stay: Get some rest at DoubleTree Olympia , with its comfy beds, relaxing wooden finishes, and air-conditioned rooms. (rates start at $144 per night)

Start day two with a delicious breakfast at Martin Way Diner , with French toast, biscuits and gravy, or a short stack of pancakes. Now that you’ve fueled up both your stomach and your car, you’ll go for around 40 miles before arriving at Aberdeen , the birthplace of Kurt Cobain. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, as the next portion of the road trip is over 70 miles long.

The next stop, Astoria , comes after passing over the Astoria-Megler Bridge, a truly stunning piece of architecture over the Columbia River. This is a fantastic place to stop for lunch, with many cafés, fish and chip shops, and Japanese restaurants.

Then, on your last stretch of the trip, there are optional stops at Fort Stevens State Park and Seaside. Fort Stevens State Park is the best stop to learn some new road trip fun facts , and Seaside is a beach lover’s delight.

Seaside is only 9 miles from Cannon Beach, and it’s a cute last stop.

Where to Stay: End the trip in style by staying at a classy Cannon Beach property, such as the Surfsand Resort . It’s right on the beach, with free Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant. (rates start at $299 per night)

Now it’s time to get planning your Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

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Seattle Mariners Get Swept For Second Time on Road Trip Against Los Angeles Dodgers

Teren kowatsch | aug 22, 2024.

• Seattle Mariners
• Los Angeles Dodgers

The worst case scenario has happened. The Seattle Mariners wrapped up a nine-game road trip with an 8-4 loss against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday. It was the second time the Mariners got swept in their last three series. They went 1-8 on the road trip.

The loss dropped Seattle to 64-64 on the season and kept it five games behind the Houston Astros for the top spot in the American League West. The Mariners trailed the Astros by one game going into the road trip.

"Rough trip. It has not been a good trip for us for a number of reasons," Seattle manager Scott Servais said in a postgame interview Wednesday. "Certainly in the playoff race — you don't want to go out and basically lay an egg on a road trip. And that's what happened. ... Got a day off (Thursday). Going to talk to the team here. We need to get away from it for a day we really do. Our guys are grinding, trying to get this turned around. Sometimes you just got to back off and walk away. Come back home Friday night at our place. It'll be good to be back home and hopefully we can get it going again."

Seattle , as has been the case for a lot of its recent away games, struck first. Dominic Canzone brought home Randy Arozarena with an RBI sacrifice fly in the top of the second.

Mookie Betts put Los Angeles up with a two-run double in the bottom of the third. Will Smith bolstered the Dodgers' lead to 3-1 in the bottom of the fourth with an RBI sac fly of his own.

Los Angeles blew the game wide open in the fifth. Freddie Freeman had an RBI single, former Mariner Teoscar Hernandez had an RBI single and Max Muncy cleared the bases with a three-run double.

Clear the bases, Max! pic.twitter.com/jTUDIypy4i — Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 22, 2024

By the end of the fifth inning — the Dodgers led 8-1. They were the last runs of the game for Los Angeles but they were all the team needed. The Dodgers got to Seattle starter Logan Gilbert. The Mariners ace went just 4.2 innings pitched and allowed eight runs (six earned) off seven hits. Gilbert threw 100 pitches.

Seattle still had a couple opportunities to chip away at Los Angeles' lead with a third of the game remaining. The Mariners left the bases loaded in the top of the sixth after scoring another run when Dylan Moore was walked with the bases loaded. Arozarena scored in the top of the eighth on a force out (Seattle ended up leaving two on base and one in scoring position).

Mitch Haniger accounted for Seattle's fourth and final run of the game with a lead-off solo homer to center field in the top of the ninth. The Mariners were retired in order after Haniger's home run. They left nine runners on base and went 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position for the game.

Seattle has 34 games left in the season. That's it. The possibility of the Mariners missing the postseason is becoming closer and closer to reality. There's no more leash left to give and there's no way around it. If Seattle doesn't start winning — its season is done. And another year that started so promising will get flushed down the toilet.

The Mariners are playing for their season. Time to start showing it.

Seattle will be back at home for the first of a three-game series against the San Francisco Giants 7:10 p.m. PT on Friday. Luis Castlilo will get the start.

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TEREN KOWATSCH

There's no 'magic answer' to Mariners' woes

Seattle heads home after disastrous 1-8 road trip.

Kyle Glaser

LOS ANGELES -- The only positive thing the Mariners can say about their road trip is that it’s now mercifully over.

The club concluded its nightmare nine-game trip with an 8-4 loss to the Dodgers on Wednesday night at Dodger Stadium. The Mariners went 1-8 on the trip and reside five games behind the Astros for first place in the American League West, having dropped to 64-64 -- the first time they haven’t had a record above .500 since April 24.

They lost blowouts and close games , squandered both early leads and late-inning ones , set new lows for offensive futility and saw their normally dominant rotation falter. They lost in every way possible, and now return to Seattle for a six-game homestand at their lowest point.

"It's not been a good trip for us for a number of reasons,” manager Scott Servais said. “Certainly in the playoff race, you don't want to go out and basically lay an egg on a road trip. And that's what happened."

The Mariners were outscored 52-26 against the Tigers, Pirates and Dodgers. Their offense hit just .184 (the third-worst average among MLB teams in that span) and scored three runs or fewer in seven of the nine games. Their pitching staff, with struggles by starters and relievers alike, posted a 5.09 ERA (fourth worst in that span). Their 1-8 record and -26 run differential since Aug. 13 are both last in the Majors, as well.

They began their road trip tied for first place in the AL West. Now, they’re out of playoff position entirely.

"I wish I had the magic answer to what we need to do to fix it,” said outfielder Mitch Haniger, who homered in the ninth inning. “But I think it's a little more complex than that. At the end of the day, it's just each guy individually needs to continue to come in every day, stay positive, work hard and prepare to win."

Any hope the Mariners would finish their trip on a high note on Wednesday evaporated quickly in the simmering heat of Chavez Ravine.

Seattle shot out to a brief 1-0 lead on a Dominic Canzone sacrifice fly in the second, but the Dodgers quickly erased it against Mariners ace Logan Gilbert.

A two-out error by shortstop Leo Rivas in the third opened the door for the Dodgers. After Kevin Kiermaier reached on Rivas’ bobbled grounder up the middle, Shohei Ohtani walked and Mookie Betts drilled a two-run double into the left-field corner to give the Dodgers a 2-1 lead.

Will Smith's sacrifice fly in the fourth on a great catch by Luke Raley in center field extended the Dodgers' lead to 3-1, and L.A. poured it on in the fifth to chase Gilbert from the game.

Gilbert surrendered two quick runs in the frame and loaded the bases before being pulled in favor of reliever Trent Thornton. On Thornton’s first pitch of the game, Max Muncy hit a bases-clearing double down the right-field line to make it 8-1 Dodgers and turn the game into a rout.

Gilbert lasted just 4 2/3 innings, surrendered seven hits and eight runs (six earned), walked two and struck out seven. He also threw three wild pitches.

The eight runs were tied for the most allowed in a start this season by Gilbert, who entered the day with 20 quality starts -- the most in the Majors.

“Just didn't really execute the way I wanted,” Gilbert said. “Got into a lot of deep counts, stuff like that.”

The only tangible fight the Mariners showed came from Randy Arozarena.

It began in the second inning when Arozarena hit a screaming liner down the left-field line that hooked just foul of the pole at the last second. On the next pitch, Dodgers starter Jack Flaherty threw a 91 mph sinker that hit Arozarena right above his front hip.

Arozarena, who was a teammate of Flaherty's when the two were in the Cardinals' Minor League system, stood at home plate staring right-hander down for a few seconds before slowly walking to first base.

When they faced off again an inning later, Flaherty got Arozarena to fly out to right with runners on second and third. After Flaherty said something to Arozarena while the ball was in the air, Arozarena stopped running halfway down the line, put his hands up and started yelling at Flaherty, who yelled back as he walked off the mound toward the third-base dugout.

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Both benches emptied, but the teams remained separated and no one was ejected.

"Randy is a very fiery competitor,” Servais said. “I love that about him, and their guy is a fiery pitcher."

In the end, not even a little spark from Arozarena could get the Mariners untracked. Now, they return home trying desperately to save their season before it’s too late.

"The talent in there is still the same talent we've had all year, and we put good stretches together,” Servais said. “So I feel very confident we will again. It's just tough to go through the road trip we just went through. We have to bounce back. That's the bottom line."