US Route 101 is one of the most historic highways in America. Stretching from Los Angeles, California north to the heart of Olympia, Washington, travelers are sure to see some of the most beautiful sites along the Pacific Coast Highway. With over 1,500 miles to explore, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone.
There is an abundance of activities along the west coast while cruising the historic Route 101. This guide highlights some must-see locations and ideal places to stay during your El Camino Real road trip through California, Oregon, and Washington states.
A Brief History
The historic route was one of America’s first national highways, completed in 1926. It was designed to facilitate travel along the west coast from San Diego all the way to Olympia, Washington; currently, the southern terminus is situated in Los Angeles, California. Although parts of the highway have been supplanted by Interstate 5 and other modern roads, Route 101 continues to be a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Its cultural imprint is reflected in songs, films, and even video games.
3 Most Exciting Places to Go
- Avenue of the Giants: Northern California – The aptly named Avenue of the Giants is a two-lane road winding through a majestic forest of Coast Redwoods. Although it is now designated as California State Route 254, the Avenue of the Giants is a historical segment of US Route 101, running parallel to the modern 101. The drive offers stunning views of the historic redwoods alongside the picturesque Eel River. Numerous spots along the route allow for resting, picnicking, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or swimming.
- Ecola State Park: Cannon Beach, OR – Located just off 101, Ecola Beach is a must-visit while traversing the Oregon coastline. This renowned park offers breathtaking views of nine miles of coastline, abandoned lighthouses, forests, coves, and more. Historically, Lewis and Clark traded with Native Americans for whale blubber in what is now Ecola State Park. Clark described the view as, “…the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed.” The park features miles of trails to explore, and a trip to the top of Tillamook Head rewards visitors with stunning vistas; lucky observers may even spot migrating whales.
- Olympic Peninsula Loop: Northwest Washington – This 330-mile loop is ranked as one of National Geographic’s Drives of a Lifetime. Merging into the loop of 101, visitors are soon immersed in the unique landscapes of northwestern Washington. It’s worthwhile to stop for a hike in the Hoh Rainforest, where towering hemlocks reach heights of 300 feet, or grab binoculars to view the diverse flora and fauna at the national wildlife refuge near Grays Harbor. To fully enjoy the Olympic Peninsula Loop, allocate ample time for overnight camping and hiking, ideally a week or more.
3 Best Places to Stay
Here are three top RV parks that offer beautiful stops for a few hours or a couple of days while traveling along Route 101.
- Redwoods RV Resort: Crescent City, CA – Redwoods RV Resort is conveniently located along US Route 101, providing all modern amenities that RV travelers need, including full utility hookups, laundry, and shower facilities on spacious RV pads. The park also features Wi-Fi, camping supplies, a pet park, and even a dog washing area, all while being close to Redwood National Park, the Pacific coast, and several nearby attractions.
- Tillamook Bay Center RV Park: Tillamook, OR – The quaint town of Tillamook, situated just off 101, serves as an excellent stopping point for sightseeing. The RV park offers creature comforts such as full utility hookups, laundry, shower facilities, free cable, and Wi-Fi access. Each site features picnic areas, with fire pits available throughout the campground. Tillamook Bay Center RV Park is perfect for exploring the Oregon coast, including Ecola State Park and the Tillamook Forest Center. For those who prefer an indoor activity, the Tillamook Cheese Factory offers fascinating tours.
- Forks 101 RV Park: Forks, WA – Experience the charm of Forks, even if you are unfamiliar with Twilight. Forks 101 RV Park is a small establishment offering full hookups, a shower, and laundry facilities, as well as free Wi-Fi. The park includes recreational facilities, a business center, picnic areas, grills, and on-site management. Conveniently located near grocery and hardware stores, Forks 101 is an ideal base for exploring Olympic National Park and Forest, along with nearby rainforests and beaches. For Twilight enthusiasts, the town offers various tours.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of any road trip is the journey itself. Whether choosing to explore the entire 1,500-mile stretch of Route 101 or just specific portions, thorough research of the areas you’re visiting can lead to detailed guidance on local attractions and accommodations, allowing adventure to be your compass.
