7 Day Road Trip Ideas: Exploring the Best of the Pacific Northwest
Are you planning a road trip and looking for an adventure through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States? Look no further than the Pacific Northwest. This region is full of scenic coastal views, mountain ranges, and sprawling forests that are perfect for a road trip. Here are some ideas for exploring the best of the Pacific Northwest over seven days.
Day 1: Seattle, Washington
Start your adventure in the Emerald City, Seattle. Take a stroll through the famous Pike Place Market, enjoy stunning views of the city skyline from the Space Needle, and visit the Museum of Pop Culture. In the evening, check out some of the city’s world-renowned restaurants and breweries.
Day 2: Olympic National Park, Washington
Drive west to explore Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park boasts an incredibly diverse landscape of mountains, lakes, rainforests, and coastlines. Enjoy hiking through the Hoh Rain Forest, visiting Lake Crescent, and taking a dip in the Sol Duc Hot Springs.
Day 3: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, Oregon
Travel south to Cannon Beach in Oregon, known for its picturesque coastline and famous Haystack Rock. Enjoy beach walks, galleries, and cafés. Be sure to stop for a fresh seafood lunch while watching the waves roll in.
Day 4: Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Drive along the Columbia River Gorge, a breathtaking canyon full of waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Make sure to visit Multnomah Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in the state, and take a scenic drive on the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Day 5: Bend and Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
Head inland to Bend, Oregon, known for its outdoor recreation and stunning views of Mount Bachelor. Visit Smith Rock State Park for world-class rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Drive north to Mount Rainier National Park, home to the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range. Enjoy hiking through alpine meadows, glaciers, and forests. Make sure to check out Paradise, a popular hiking and picnic destination on the south side of the mountain.
Day 7: San Juan Islands, Washington
End your adventure with a ferry ride to the San Juan Islands, a beautiful archipelago on the northwestern coast of Washington. Enjoy kayaking, whale watching, and exploring charming island towns.
In conclusion, the Pacific Northwest offers a wide range of landscapes and attractions that are perfect for a week-long road trip. By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to explore the best of the region, from the city lights of Seattle to the stunning natural beauty of Olympic National Park, all while enjoying delicious food and local culture.
