Epic Places to Visit on a Pacific Northwest Road Trip

mazda miata mx5 road trip

Want to head on an epic Pacific Northwest road trip?

Look no further! I’ve rounded up the most incredible things to do and see on a Pacific Northwest road trip. If you’re in the mood for scenic drives, gorgeous nature, and vibrant towns, you’re in the right place.

I’ve spent plenty of summers in the Pacific Northwest because it is just so dang dreamy! The views are beyond gorgeous and you really can’t beat that summer weather.

For those unfamiliar, the Pacific Northwest – or Cascadia as it’s sometimes called – is a portion of the country that’s bordered by both the Pacific Ocean and Cascade Mountains. It refers to the states of Washington and Oregon but also sometimes includes parts of Northern California, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho. And of note- sometimes people include British Columbia, Canada in the Pacific Northwest as well.

For the sake of this article, I’m referring to Oregon, Washington, and up to Vancouver.

How to Use This Pacific Northwest Road Trip Guide

Beautiful Rowena Crest along the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.

First, let me just explain my experiences with the Pacific Northwest.

My first visit to the Pacific Northwest was on a Mazda press trip (a trip where Mazda invited a bunch of bloggers and me to document a road trip experience in their newest Miata). I got to ride around in a dreamy convertible exploring the area. It felt too good to be true! On that trip, I was paired up with another blogger and the two of us made our way from Eugene to Portland on day 1, and then Portland to Seattle on day 2.

We were given free rein on where to go and what destinations to see. After researching a ton before arriving, I had a map comprised of all of the things I wanted to do and places I wanted to see around the Pacific Northwest region. We were also given a list of ideas for things to do on our Pacific Northwest road trip that Mazda had created. After combining that list with my own, I realized two days was not nearly enough for all the adventures I had planned on doing!

Since that trip, I’ve explored a lot of different areas in Washington and have realized that in order to create the most epic Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary, you should be able to pick from a ton of incredible options! So, I’ve come up with a bunch of areas and places that you can piece together.

The Logistics of Piecing Together Your Pacific Northwest Road Trip

The bridge at Cook’s Chasm in Oregon

Logistically, I’m listing spots from south to north. You’ll see that the southernmost point is Crater Lakes National Park and the northernmost point is Vancouver. 

However, you can easily customize your own trip by choosing what sounds good to you. 

Want to start in Eugene and make your way up the Oregon Coast until you reach Portland? Great! Prefer to start in Portland? That’s great too! Prefer to fly into Seattle and stay in Washington? Fantastic!

I’d recommend reading through the entire post one time, making notes of which places you want to visit. Then, you can toggle “on” or “off” places based on your preferences. 

OR if you want the decisions made for you, I have a section at the very end of this post with my recommendations for a 2-day, 3-day, 4-day, 5-day, 6-day, and week-long Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary.

So, without further ado, here’s a choose-your-own-adventure Pacific Northwest road trip guide for you to cruise around this part of North America in your car!

(P.S. Don’t worry if you really only have a few days, you can still explore a ton! On that very first two-day road trip from Eugene to Seattle that I did with Mazda, we saw so much and had the best time!)

Epic Places to Visit on Your Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Without further ado, here’s your choose-your-own-adventure Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary builder!

You can look through all of your options and then narrow them down using these filters. Alternatively, if you already know where you want to go, you can narrow them down right now!

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Areas


Oregon Coast (Southern Portion)

Haceta Head Beach
2019 miata road trip
Yaquina Bay Bridge
A charming store front in Mapleton, Oregon

The Oregon Coast is so dreamy! You can fly into Eugene and drive up the coast to see some incredible things. Here are remarkable places to stop at on the Oregon Coast, from south to north.

  • Cascades Raptor Center– This center has over 50 birds and 30 different bird species! It opens at 10am, so only include this if time permits!
  • The Dunes Cafe– This spot is perfect for breakfast.
  • Sea Lion Caves– This paid tourist attraction takes you down into caves where you can see the sea lions in their natural habitat.
  • Heceta Head Beach and Lighthouse– Stop here for stunning views and a pretty lighthouse.
  • Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint– As you’d guess, this offers a scenic view.
  • Thor’s Well– This is a stunning rock formation that creates an epic water hole/drain at high tide.
  • Chubby’s– I need to do a shout out to Chubby’s because they have THE BEST burger that I’ve ever had… ever.
  • Yaquina Head Lighthouse & Marine Garden– This pretty lighthouse is along the coast next to the Yaquina Head Marine Garden.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: You can either choose to head to Portland or stay on the Oregon Coast tonight and continue exploring more of the coast tomorrow!

Oregon Coast (Northern Portion)

Cannon Beach
Cape Meares

Whether you stayed the night on the coast and are continuing your way north or are starting your day from Portland, here are some great stops to see:

  • Octopus Tree– A massive roughly 300-year-old tree that looks like an octopus.
  • Cape Meares– This is a gorgeous viewpoint 200 feet above the ocean.
  • Tillamook Creamery– Stop by this fun farmer-owned dairy co-op.
  • Twin Rocks– Photographers will love capturing these ancient 100-foot-high rocks on Rockaway Beach.
  • Cannon Beach– If you’re not familiar with this famous spot, it’s a stunning beach with sandy shores. It’s also the site of Haystack Rock, so don’t miss this notable landmark!
  • Camp 18 Restaurant– Stop here for some delicious, giant cinnamon rolls!

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: You can either continue up the coast or head to Portland from here. If you drive into Portland, don’t miss the beautiful wineries in the Willamette Valley!

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park

Located in Oregon, this national park houses Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States (1,943 ft!) and one of the most pristine lakes on Earth. Here are some great things to do:

  • Drive the Rim Drive- This 33-mile loop road offers stunning views of Crater Lake and the surrounding mountains. There are several pullouts along the way where you can stop to take photos and admire the scenery.
  • Hike to Cleetwood Cove– This strenuous 2.1-mile hike takes you down to the shore of Crater Lake. The views from the bottom are incredible, and you can even go for a swim in the lake if you’re feeling adventurous. The hike takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, so allow about 2 hours for this.
  • Boat tour of Crater Lake- This is a great way to see the lake up close and learn about its history. There are several different boat tours available, so you can choose one that fits your interests.
  • Wizard Island- This volcanic island in the middle of Crater Lake is a popular destination for hikers and boaters. Several trails lead to the top of the island, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake.
  • Crater Lake Lodge- This historic lodge is located on the rim of Crater Lake and offers stunning views of the lake. The lodge has a variety of dining options, as well as a gift shop and a museum. You can consider staying overnight or simply enjoying a meal with a view here.
  • Stargazing- Crater Lake is one of the darkest places in the United States, making it a great place to go stargazing. With little light pollution, you’ll be able to see the Milky Way and other constellations in all their glory.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: Start your Pacific Northwest road trip from Crater Lake National Park and then head to Bend.

Bend

Farewell Bend Park
Sahalie Falls

If you head to Central Oregon, at the foot of the Cascades, you’ll find this sweet little mountain town. Bend is known for its outdoor activities and unspoiled beauty, with an abundance of rivers, mountains, trails, lakes, and more. You can immerse yourself in nature, visit art galleries, eat locally sourced foods, get pampered at a spa, or enjoy the Bend Ale Trail, the longest beer route in the West. Here are some of the best things to experience in Bend:

  • Hike to Tumalo Falls– This moderate 2-mile out-and-back hike takes you to a beautiful 97-foot waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great option for all skill levels. Looking for an even shorter hike? It only takes 1 mile roundtrip to reach the beautiful upper viewpoint.
  • Lava River Cave- This lava tube cave is one of the longest and best-preserved lava tubes in the world. You need a reservation, which you can get here. You’ll get to see amazing formations like stalactites and stalagmites. It takes about 1.5 hours to tour the mile-long tube.
  • Lava Butte- Drive to Lava Butte, a cinder cone that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can hike to the top or take a narrated tour on the Lava Butte Tram.
  • The Old Mill District- Explore this historic district, home to shops, restaurants, and breweries. You can also rent a bike or surrey and ride along the Deschutes River.
  • Whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River- This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and get your adrenaline pumping.
  • Deschutes Brewery– This popular brewery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning beers.
  • The Tower Theatre- Catch a show at this historic theater, which hosts a variety of performances, including music, comedy, and theater.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: Make your way northwest to Portland from here; it’s about 3-3.5 hours away. Alternatively, Eugene is 2.5 hours away and Newport (on the coast) is 3.5 hours away.

Portland

Sunrise at Joseph Wood Hill Park
Kimpton Monaco Portland
Outside of the Hotel Monaco which is now the Royal Sonesta

Portland is a bike-friendly, environmentally-conscious city with hip coffee shops, art galleries, craft breweries, and live music venues. You’ll find tasty food, with the city known for its fresh seafood, delicious donuts, food carts/food trucks, and an abundance of patio dining. We stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Portland and loved it. Portland also offers easy access to nature. Here are some of the best things to do in Portland on your Pacific Northwest road trip:

  • Willamette Valley- Check out Domaine Serene Winery or any of the wineries in the area- there are so many!! Once you’re in this area, you’re in Oregon’s wine country!
  • Willamette Falls- It’s actually the second-largest waterfall in the US by water volume!
  • Northwest Saint Johns Bridge- A classic Portland bridge.
  • Oregon City Municipal Elevator- One of four municipal elevators in the world! It connects two neighborhoods together.
  • Forest Park- Offers a great view of the bridge.
  • Portland Japanese Garden- A gorgeous oriental garden.
  • International Rose Test Garden- Did you know that Portland’s climate makes it ideal for growing roses? This garden has over 10,000 rose bushes, best seen from May to September.
  • Downtown Portland- For a taste of all that Portland has to offer! Check out their many offerings such as malls and boutiques for shopping, breweries for a sample of great beer, restaurants for fantastic food options, and even awesome ice cream!
  • Voodoo Donuts- The perfect breakfast spot, but it’s open 24-7, so stop by whenever. They are famous for their eclectic donuts!
  • Candy Basket Shorthill Taffy- This cute shop has a giant chocolate waterfall and is located in Portland.
  • Urban Farmer Portland- A great spot for dinner.
  • Joseph Wood Hill Park- This park has the best sunrise view over Portland!

Columbia River Gorge

Latourell Falls
Rowena Crest
Multnomah Falls
Trillium Lake

Nature lovers and photographers will enjoy exploring the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This is a gorgeous part of Oregon known for its epic views and waterfalls. Here you can bike, hike, camp, and fish. The Historic Columbia River Highway was built through the Columbia River Gorge and is a scenic highway between Troutdale and The Dalles.

  • Multnomah Falls- This iconic Oregon waterfall is known for the stunning view from the bridge in front of it. It’s only 0.2 miles to reach the scenic footbridge or 2.4 miles round trip to the top of the falls.
  • Latourell Falls- This is a smaller (and less crowded) waterfall in the same area as Multnomah Falls. The loop takes about 2.4 miles round trip to complete, though you can almost see the first set of falls from the parking lot!
  • Oneonta Gorge trail- A rugged 5.6-mile out-and-back trail that requires wading through a creek to access stunning waterfall views. Allow 3.5 hours for this trail.
  • Rowena Crest Viewpoint- Rowena Crest offers a tremendous view of the bend in the road and a stunning overlook over this part of Oregon.
  • Trillium Lake- A simply stunning lake with a view of Mount Hood, a huge, beautiful mountain next to Portland.
  • Hood River- This is a city named after a small portion of the Columbia River with beautiful views of Mount Hood.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: Choose to return to Portland or continue north to Mount Rainier or Seattle. You can also stay at Timberline Lodge which is one of the most popular hotels in the area!

Epic Stops from Portland to Seattle

mazda miata mx5 road trip
Roadside views as we drove from Portland to Oregon
Mount Saint Helens

As you drive from Portland to Seattle, there are several remarkable stops along the way. So grab some Voodoo donuts, pack up the car, and check out these spots!

  • Lake Sacajawea Park Japanese Gardens- A beautiful park with Japanese elements and a man-made island.
  • Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument- There are some fantastic hiking spots here.
  • Cliff Droppers- For lunch, it’s a burger restaurant located right in Mt. Rainier National Park.
  • Ohanapecosh Hot Springs- An easy, one-mile trail that features hot springs along the way.
  • Grove of the Patriarchs Trail- Gives you a gorgeous view of some of the oldest trees in Washington.
  • Skookum Falls Viewpoint- Gives you a great view of the 250-foot Snookum Falls.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: Before you reach the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail, you have the option to stop in Mount Rainier National Park or continue north to Seattle. The Steven’s Canyon entrance is just before Grove of the Patriarchs, while the White River entrance is about 25 minutes north.

Mount Rainier National Park 

A shot I got of Mount Rainier from a hot-air balloon
Entering Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park will give you great close-up views of- you guessed it- Mount Ranier. It’s an incredibly beautiful park full of fantastic hiking and scenic views. Here are some of the best things to do here:

  • Sunrise Visitor Center- You’ll get gorgeous views of Rainer from the visitor’s center!
  • Take a scenic drive- There are several scenic drives in Mount Rainier National Park, including Paradise Road, Sunrise Road, and Nisqually Vista Road. These drives offer stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and valleys.
  • Salmon and trout fishing- These are the most popular types of fishing to do here. 
  • Hiking- There are over 260 miles of hiking trails in Mount Rainier National Park, from easy strolls to challenging day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Skyline Trail, the Paradise Valley Trail, and the Muir Snowfield Trail.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Idea: If you’re planning on exploring Mount Rainer, it’s worth it to stay in the park or in the surrounding area. If camping is your style, there are 3 main campgrounds and over 450 campsites, ranging from RV parks to backcountry campsites. If you’d rather not camp, check out Paradise Inn, which has been designated as one of the “Great Lodges of the West.”

Seattle

Downtown views from Kerry Park
Pike Place Market
Starbucks Reserve

Seattle is a beautiful city in the Pacific Northwest, known for its natural beauty, coffee culture, and tech industry. Located on Puget Sound, mountains and evergreen forests surround this city. Downtown Seattle is famous for Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, the Space Needle, and for being headquarters for Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks. Here are some of the best things to check out when in Seattle:

  • Pike Place Market- A public waterfront farmer’s market that is way more than your average farmer’s market. Go here for fresh flowers, produce, and so much more. My favorite things here are the fresh donuts from Daily Dozen and delicious Turkish food from Turkish Delight. And don’t miss the famous fish toss at the Pike Place Fish Market!
  • Starbucks- Go to the original Starbucks, located at Pike Place. Better yet, check out the impressive Starbucks Reserve. It’s a huge Starbucks that serves up way more food than your normal Starbucks. They roast rare Starbucks Reserve coffees on-site, have a specialty beverage menu, display eight different coffee-prep methods, offer coffee flights, and so much more! We loved the Starbucks Reserve so much that we visited twice on our most recent trip to Seattle.
  • Smith Tower Observation Deck- For an incredible view over Seattle.
  • Seattle Great Wheel- This Ferris wheel overlooks the city and the Puget Sound.
  • Gum Wall- A famous Seattle wall/tunnel near Pike Place that is quite literally covered in gum.
  • Troll’s Knoll Park- There is an 18-foot-tall sculpted troll underneath Interstate 5!
  • Dick’s Drive-In- A drive-in burger joint that’s been around since 1954.
  • Space Needle- Don’t forget to visit the iconic Space Needle for fantastic views of the city.
  • Museum of Pop Culture- Also called MoPOP, this museum is a must-visit if you’re a fan of Pop culture.
  • Point Wilson Lighthouse- Venture up north for a quaint town with a gorgeous lighthouse.
  • Kerry Park- If you’ve got a zoom lens, Kerry Park offers incredible views of Seattle! On a clear day, you can even see Mount Rainier in the distance. We got this photo using my 24-120mm lens at full zoom. You can see what else is in my camera bag here!

Snoqualmie

washington state waterfalls
Snoqualmie Falls
Rattlesnake Lake
Historic Snoqualmie Depot

Hello, charming small town, just 30-40 minutes away from Seattle! Home to an epic waterfall, quaint town square, and neat train history, this is a great place to stop on your Pacific Northwest road trip. You could knock out a lot of things in just a few hours here. Here are the best things to do in Snoqualmie and the surrounding area:

  • Snoqualmie Falls- These falls are massive and beautiful. They’re also handicap accessible, with an overlook that is pretty easy to get to from the parking lot. We’ve visited these falls three times now, we love them that much!
  • Salish Lodge & Spa- Located next to Snoqualmie Falls, spend a night in the quaint Salish Lodge or just stop in for dinner or a spa visit.
  • Historic Downtown Snoqualmie- This charming area is home to shops, restaurants, wine tastings, a local brewery, and plenty more. Grabbing a cone at Snoqualmie Ice Cream is a must!
  • Historic Snoqualmie Depot- Learn all about Washington’s train history at this beautiful train museum. You can buy tickets to a scenic train ride between North Bend and Snoqualmie Falls. Get visitor information here.
  • Rattlesnake Lake- You can either park and walk to the lake or go hiking here. There’s a 4-mile round-trip hike that gives you views of the Cedar River watershed, Mount Si, Mount Washington, Rattlesnake Lake, and Chester Morse Lake. (PS. When the wind is still, there is a magnificent mirror lake effect early in the morning, usually before 8am). 

Olympic National Park

Hoh Rainforest
Ruby Beach

Roughly 2.5 to 3 hours away from Seattle, Olympic National Park is an awesome place to explore Washington’s wilderness. You’ll find it in the northwestern corner of Washington by Port Angeles in the Olympic Peninsula.

  • Lake Crescent- 18 miles west of Port Angeles, you’ll find this deep, glacially carved lake. 
  • Marymere Falls and Sol Duc Falls- Two incredible waterfalls for awesome photos!
  • Hurricane Ridge- The most easily accessed mountain in Olympic National Park. (FYI, access to this mountain is temporarily closed due to the fire that happened at the Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge, also known as the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. Check this page often for information on when it will reopen.)
  • Hoh Rainforest- A breathtaking temperate rainforest in the US. Walking the Hall of Mosses Trailhead is one of the best things to do here. The 1.1-mile loop gives you dramatic views of ancient moss-covered trees and towering evergreens… go early to avoid the crowds!

Leavenworth 

Charming downtown Leavenworth
Jumping into Colchuck Lake
The views from our Post Hotel balcony

Leavenworth is the most beautiful Bavarian town you’ll find in the USA! Roughly 2 hours away from Seattle, visit Leavenworth if you’re in the mood for some small-town charm. Beyond exploring Leavenworth, you can do some epic hikes here as well! I have a detailed article on things to do in Leavenworth, but here’s a snapshot of my favorites:

  • Explore Downtown Leavenworth- There are so many charming Bavarian-style shops here! Grab a pretzel at Rhein Haus, shop for Christmas all year round at Kris Kringl, visit the Nutcracker Museum, and so much more!
  • Colchuck Lake- The strenuous 8.7-mile round-trip hike to Colchuck Lake is worth it for the views! Leave about 5 hours for this activity and bring plenty of water… we definitely miscalculated how much water we’d need. Be prepared to hike with an elevation gain of 2,342 ft… your calves will be burning! But the view of the blue Colchuck Lake among a mountain backdrop is beyond gorgeous! We even jumped in, but only for a second because that glacier water is FREEZING!
  • Post Hotel- This adults-only hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for luxury. Not only do balcony views feature incredible views of the Wenatchee River, but this hotel immerses you in a spa experience. You can access the spa- complete with saltwater hydrotherapy pools, steam baths, saunas, plunge pools, and more- whenever you want. The eucalyptus room was my favorite! Guests walk around in their plush robes and slippers and can enjoy a European-style breakfast and lunch during their stay. The architecture fits into the adorable Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth and the interiors feel like you’re in a Restoration Hardware catalog.

North Cascades National Park 

Diablo Lake
Mount Shuksan in North Cascades National Park

Located about three hours away from Seattle, here you can hike, camp, and basically enjoy all that nature has to offer.

  • North Cascades Highway- Take a scenic drive on the only paved road in the park. Stunning views of mountains, lakes, and forests surround you. There are many pullouts along the road where you can stop for photos or simply enjoy the scenery.
  • Diablo Lake – Stop at this overlook for incredible views! Diablo Lake is an amazing, vibrant blue lake that has trails all around it.
  • Hike the Maple Pass Loop- This moderate 7.2-mile hike lets you enjoy forests, waterfalls, a beautiful alpine lake, and panoramic views of the park. The views from the top are incredible!
  • Hike to Desolation Peak- This challenging 9.4-mile hike is only for experienced hikers, but if you can swing it, the views from the top are breathtaking. Desolation Peak was once used as a fire lookout tower, so as you can imagine, the views from the summit extend for miles in every direction.

The San Juan Islands

Cattle Point Lighthouse
Ferry to the San Juan Islands

In the mood to see and listen to orcas? The San Juan Islands are famous for it! This archipelago is situated in the Salish Sea, between Washington and Vancouver Island. The largest islands are San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island.

The San Juan Islands are a popular tourist destination, known for their stunning natural beauty (towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine beaches!) and mild climate (average temperatures range from 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 70 degrees in the summer).

There are a few ways to get to the islands:

From Seattle, you can drive roughly 2 hours to Anacortes, Washington. From there, board a Washington State Ferry to get to the San Juan Islands.

*Out-of-Service Routes: Unavailable for 2023 is the San Juan Clipper direct service from Seattle to Friday Harbor.*

Seasonally, the Puget Sound Express runs between Port Townsend and Friday Harbor. 

In addition, you can get to the Islands on a private boat or by small plane from Seattle, Everett, Bellingham, and some other cities.

You can learn more about how to get to the islands here!

Here are the best things to do in and around the San Juan Islands:

  • Whale watching- The San Juan Islands are a great place to see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life. There are many whale-watching tours available from Anacortes, Friday Harbor, and other ports in the area.
  • Hiking and biking- Popular hikes include Mount Constitution on Orcas Island, Lime Kiln Point State Park on San Juan Island, and Moran State Park on Lopez Island. Some popular bike trails include the San Juan Island Outfitters Trail on San Juan Island, the Lopez Island Loop on Lopez Island, and the Roche Harbor Loop on Orcas Island.
  • Water activities- The San Juan Islands are home to clear waters and abundant marine life, making them a great place to go kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Some popular spots for snorkeling and scuba diving include Lime Kiln Point State Park on San Juan Island, Friday Harbor Marine Park on San Juan Island, and Turtleback Mountain on Lopez Island. 
  • Visiting the towns- The San Juan Islands have several charming towns, each with its unique character. Some popular towns to visit include Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, Eastsound on Orcas Island, and Lopez Village on Lopez Island.

Vancouver

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Siwash Rock in Stanley Park
Lynn Creek Suspension Bridge

If you want to expand your itinerary to include Canada, Vancouver is just under 3 hours from Seattle! Here are the top things to do in Vancouver:

  • Stanley Park- This large park is an iconic Vancouver park and a must-visit! It has a beautiful seawall, gardens, beaches, and plenty of wildlife.
  • Capilano Suspension Bridge- While it costs $50 USD per person, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has more to do than just the bridge in its 30-acre park! There’s also their Treetops Adventure, where you cross 7 suspended footbridges 110 feet up in the air, and their Cliffwalk, which extends out towards the Capilano River on a few narrow bridges with only 16 anchor points in the cliff supporting them!
  • Lynn Creek Suspension Bridge- If you’re on a budget and don’t want to shell out money for the Capilano Suspension Bridge, the one in Lynn Creek is free! It’s smaller but still very fun to cross. Continue the hike to Twin Falls while you’re here! It was easy enough to do with a baby in tow.
  • Gastown- This historic district is known for its cobblestone streets, old-fashioned shops, and steam clock. It’s got a very fun atmosphere.
  • Grouse Mountain- This mountain offers stunning views of the city and surrounding area. In the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding. In the summer, you can hike, bike, or take the Skyride to the top.

As you can see, there is no shortage of beauty and incredible areas in the Pacific Northwest. I hope this is a great jumping-off point for you as you plan your Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary!

If you want a pre-planned Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary where you can see as much as possible, here are my recommendations.

My Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary Recommendations for Trips of Varying Lengths

1 and 2-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itineraries

1-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary

  • Choose one area of this itinerary. (If you’re flying, the easiest options are Seattle, Portland, Bend, or Vancouver)

2-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Oregon Coast (from Portland)

  • Day 1: Southern Part of the Oregon’s Coast
  • Day 2: Northern Part of the Oregon Coast

2-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Portland Area (from Portland)

  • Day 1: Portland to the coast and back or explore Portland
  • Day 2: Portland along the Columbia River Gorge and back

2-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Seattle Area (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Explore Seattle and Snoqualmie
  • Day 2: Explore Leavenworth, Mount Rainier, or Olympic National Park

3-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itineraries

3- Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Portland to Seattle

  • Day 1: Portland to the coast and back
  • Day 2: Portland along the Columbia River and back
  • Day 3: Portland up to Seattle

3- Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Explore Oregon (from Eugene)

  • Day 1: Eugene to Crater Lakes National Park
  • Day 2: Crater Lakes National Park to Bend
  • Day 3: Spend the day in Bend before heading back to Eugene

3-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Seattle Area (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle and Snoqualmie
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Leavenworth or more time in Rainier before heading back to Seattle

3-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Washington National Parks (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle to Olympic National Park
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park and back to Seattle

4-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itineraries

4-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Portland to Seattle

  • Day 1: Portland to the coast and back
  • Day 2: Portland along the Columbia River and back
  • Day 3: Portland up to Seattle, including Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 4: Morning in Rainier, then continue north to explore Seattle

4-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Oregon (from Eugene to Portland)

  • Day 1: Eugene to Crater Lake National Park
  • Day 2: Bend
  • Day 3: Bend, head north, stay at Timberline Lodge
  • Day 4: Columbia River Gorge to Portland

4-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Seattle Area (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle and Snoqualmie
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park and Leavenworth
  • Day 4: Leavenworth to Seattle

4-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Washington National Parks (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle to Olympic National Park
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: North Cascades National Park
  • Day 4: North Cascades National Park and back to Seattle

5-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itineraries

5-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Portland to Seattle

  • Day 1: Portland to the coast and back
  • Day 2: Portland along the Columbia River and back
  • Day 3: Start heading north from Portland to Seattle, stop in Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park to Seattle
  • Day 5: Explore Snoqualmie and Seattle

5-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Oregon (from Eugene to Portland)

  • Day 1: Eugene to Crater Lake National Park
  • Day 2: Bend
  • Day 3: Bend, head north, stay at Timberline Lodge
  • Day 4: Columbia River Gorge to Portland
  • Day 5: Portland to the northern part of the Oregon Coast and back

5-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Seattle Area (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle and Snoqualmie
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park and Leavenworth
  • Day 4: Leavenworth
  • Day 5: Leavenworth to Seattle

5-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Washington National Parks (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle to Olympic National Park
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 4: North Cascades National Park
  • Day 5: North Cascades National Park to Seattle

6-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itineraries

6-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Eugene to Seattle

  • Day 1: Eugene to Oregon’s southern coast
  • Day 2: Oregon’s northern coast to Portland
  • Day 3: Portland along the Columbia River and back
  • Day 4: Start heading north from Portland to Seattle, stop in Rainier
  • Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park then head north to Seattle
  • Day 6: Snoqualmie and Seattle

6-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Eugene to Seattle, Option 2

  • Day 1: Eugene to Crater Lake National Park
  • Day 2: Bend
  • Day 3: Bend, head north, stay at Timberline Lodge
  • Day 4: Columbia River Gorge to Portland
  • Day 5: Portland to Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 6: Morning in Mount Rainier National Park, then head to Seattle

6-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Portland to Vancouver, BC

  • Day 1: Explore Portland
  • Day 2: Portland to Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park to Snoqualmie to Seattle
  • Day 4: Seattle to Anacortes, ferry to San Juan Islands
  • Day 5: Anacortes to Vancouver
  • Day 6: Explore Vancouver

6-Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Washington National Parks (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle to Olympic National Park
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 4: Leavenworth (or additional time in Rainier or North Cascades, instead)
  • Day 5: North Cascades National Park
  • Day 6: North Cascades National Park to Seattle

1-Week Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itineraries

1-Week Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Eugene to Seattle

  • Day 1: Eugene to Oregon’s southern coast
  • Day 2: Oregon’s northern coast to Portland
  • Day 3: Portland along the Columbia River and back
  • Day 4: Start heading north from Portland to Seattle, stop in Rainier
  • Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park then head north to Seattle
  • Day 6: Snoqualmie and Seattle
  • Day 7: Day trip to Olympic National Park

1-Week Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Eugene to Seattle, Option 2

  • Day 1: Eugene to Crater Lake National Park
  • Day 2: Bend
  • Day 3: Bend, head north, stay at Timberline Lodge
  • Day 4: Columbia River Gorge to Portland
  • Day 5: Portland to Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 6: Morning in Mount Rainier National Park, then head to Seattle
  • Day 7: Explore Seattle

1-Week Pacific Northwest Itinerary: From Portland to Vancouver, BC

  • Day 1: Explore Portland
  • Day 2: Columbia River Gorge
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park to Snoqualmie to Seattle
  • Day 5: Seattle to Anacortes, ferry to San Juan Islands
  • Day 6: Anacortes to Vancouver
  • Day 7: Explore Vancouver

1-Week Pacific Northwest Itinerary: Washington National Parks (from Seattle)

  • Day 1: Seattle to Olympic National Park
  • Day 2: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Day 4: Leavenworth
  • Day 5: Leavenworth
  • Day 6: North Cascades National Park
  • Day 7: North Cascades National Park to Seattle

In conclusion…

You’ll find so much beauty everywhere you look. On the drive to the coast, pine trees appear and envelop your senses. Along the coast the fog rolls in, temperatures drop (for us, coastal temperatures were 60 degrees when it was 99 inland!) and you can see the beach through the dense clouds.

When you get to Portland, you’ll find a walkable city with great restaurants and hotels.

When you head to Washington, the terrain becomes mountainous and there are notably fewer places to stop for local eats- but this is mainly due to driving inland. Cut through Mt. Rainier National Park for some stunning views.

Of course, note that you can cut a day out, switch up the order, just go from Portland to Seattle, etc. I hope this itinerary gives you plenty of things to do and places to see on your road trip!

If you have more time in Seattle and Washington State, check out these posts:

Safe travels,

Jasmine

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Jasmine Alley

Jasmine Alley

I'm a Dallas-based, full-time travel blogger with a serious case of wanderlust! Through my website and Instagram, I hope to help others plan picture-perfect trips to the most beautiful places in the world! When I travel, I like to emphasize nature, hidden gems, and unique places.
Jasmine Alley

Jasmine Alley

I'm a Dallas-based, full-time travel blogger with a serious case of wanderlust! Through my website and Instagram, I hope to help others plan picture-perfect trips to the most beautiful places in the world! When I travel, I like to emphasize nature, hidden gems, and unique places.

4 Responses

  1. So many great recommendations on here – I loved taking this trip together and definitely need to make a return visit to squeeze in all the things we didn’t get to this time! Thanks for being the best Miata driving buddy ever 🙂

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Hi, I’m Jasmine! I’m a nature-obsessed, beauty-finding, Jesus-loving dreamer with a serious case of wanderlust. I love to create photo-worthy travel content and hope to fill your travel plans with incredible beauty and breathtaking views! Thanks for following along on my adventures!

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